Colombia: Bogotá - Cartagena - Medellín

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Athens / Thessaloniki – Bogotá

Departure via a stopover and arrival in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our English-speaking representative and be transferred to our hotel to check in and rest.

Day 2: Bogotá (city tour and Monserrate)

After breakfast, we’ll set out on a tour of Bogotá’s historic center, starting with a walking tour of Bolívar Square in the heart of the city and the surrounding streets, where we’ll admire impressive buildings such as the National Capitol and the historic House of the Comuneros, The Comuneros were rebels from New Granada (present-day Colombia) who rose up against the heavy taxes and authoritarian policies of the Spanish colonial administration. The revolution began in 1781 and was one of the first significant resistance movements against colonial rule in the region.

Next, we’ll pass by the Casa de Nariño (House of Nariño), which is the seat of the Presidency of the Republic of Colombia, the Santa Clara Church Museum, and the Gold Museum, which houses approximately 34,000 gold artifacts from various pre-Hispanic cultures. The route will continue from the city, located 2,600 meters above sea level, to the 3,152-meter-high sanctuary where the Christ of Monserrate is venerated. From there, we’ll enjoy the best panoramic view of Bogotá, perfect for taking unforgettable photos. Overnight stay.

Note: Visits to Monserrate take place Monday through Saturday, as on Sundays it is open only by request, due to the difficulty of visiting the sanctuary because of the large number of pilgrims.

Day 3: Bogotá – Zipaquirá

Breakfast and departure for Zipaquirá, 49 km north of Bogotá, crossing the Bogotá Savannah, a fertile Andean plateau at an elevation of 2,600 m, known for its flower, potato, and grain crops. The region was the cradle of the Muisca civilization, an important indigenous people of Colombia. In Zipaquirá, we will visit the impressive Salt Cathedral, a unique underground monument built inside old salt mines, approximately 180 meters below ground. Along the way, we’ll see the 14 Stations of the Cross, impressive galleries, and the central hall with its enormous 16-meter-tall cross, illuminated in shades of blue and purple. The cathedral combines religious faith with art and the geological history of the region, making it one of the country’s most important attractions. After our visit, we’ll return to Bogotá.

Day 4: Bogotá–Medellín

Breakfast, then departure for the airport for our domestic flight to Medellín, the “City of Eternal Spring” and the country’s second-largest city, which was “discovered” on March 2, 1616, by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Herrera Campuzano and named San Lorenzo de Aburra. In 1675, the name was changed to Villa de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Medellín. Arrival and transfer to the hotel for the night.

Day 5: Medellín (city tour)

After breakfast, we’ll begin our tour of Medellín, exploring the city’s history and modern character. We’ll visit the cosmopolitan El Poblado neighborhood, with its luxury hotels, shopping centers, and restaurants, as well as Nuitibara Hill, home to the traditional village of Pueblito Paisa, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Next, we’ll explore the Botanical Garden, the interactive science park Explora, the Parque de los Deseos, and the unique Barefoot Park, while also admiring the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral. The tour concludes at Botero Square, where 23 distinctive bronze sculptures by the famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero are on display. During the tour, we’ll also have the opportunity to experience the city’s modern metro system. After the tour, we’ll return to the hotel to rest.

Day 6: Medellín – El Peñol – Guatapé

Breakfast and departure for a full-day excursion to eastern Antioquia, with stops in the towns of Marinilla and El Peñol. We’ll learn about the history of the old town, which was flooded in the 1970s to build the hydroelectric dam, and visit its reconstruction, featuring traditional houses, squares, and churches. Next, as an optional activity ($8), we’ll visit the impressive La Piedra del Peñol rock formation, approximately 220 meters high, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the stunning lake and the surrounding landscape. The excursion concludes in the picturesque town of Guatapé, known for its colorful houses and elaborate zócalos—relief decorations depicting local traditions and the daily life of the residents. Return to Medellín and overnight stay.

Day 7: Medellín–Cartagena

After breakfast, free time until our domestic flight to Cartagena. Arrival and transfer to the hotel to check in and spend the night.

Day 8: Cartagena – City Tour

After breakfast, we’ll begin our tour of Cartagena, the historic Caribbean city founded by the Spanish in 1533. We’ll explore the modern Bocagrande neighborhood, with its impressive skyscrapers and waterfront, as well as the historic center with its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, churches, and picturesque squares. Next, we’ll visit the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Castle, an important fortress of the city, associated with Admiral Blas de Lesso’s heroic defense against the English in 1741. The fortifications of Cartagena and its historic center have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. The tour concludes with a visit to the Emerald Museum, where we’ll learn about the history and crafting of the famous Colombian emeralds. In the evening, enjoy a stroll through the picturesque alleys of the old town, with its lively bars and Caribbean music, or a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride. Overnight in Cartagena.

Day 9: Cartagena – Rosario Islands National Park

Today’s itinerary is dedicated to the Rosario National Park, a natural reserve comprising 31 islands located 45 km from Cartagena, where we can choose one of the two islands we recommend: San Pedro de Majagua and Isla del Encanto. We’ll have the chance to enjoy the beaches with their coral-sand shores and the rich marine life on the reefs—ideal conditions for relaxing or for optional activities such as diving, snorkeling, nature walks, tours of the mangrove forests, or simply relaxing on the beach.

We’ll have lunch on both islands. Return by speedboat to Cartagena for the night.

Days 10–11: Cartagena – Return Flight

Breakfast, followed by free time until the scheduled transfer to the airport for our return flight, arriving the following day.