The Soul of Colombia

Hola and welcome to Colombia! Your adventure begins in Bogota with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. If you arrive early, you can join your leader for an orientation walk at 3 pm and explore the city’s highlights. Browse the Usaquen Flea Market, visit the Botero Museum or ride the cable car up to Monserrate for sweeping city views. Tonight, meet your fellow travellers over a local beer and a game of tejo – Colombia’s famous national sport – before heading out for an optional group dinner to sample traditional Colombian cuisine.

• It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

After breakfast, travel towards Rio Claro. Today involves a longer drive, so it’s the perfect chance to relax with a book or your favourite playlist. On the way, stop in Honda – known as the ‘City of Bridges’ for the many bridges connecting the town across the Magdalena River. Stretch your legs, soak up the local atmosphere and enjoy lunch before continuing to Rio Claro, a beautiful nature reserve filled with crystal-clear rivers, lush rainforest and waterfalls. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation and unwind surrounded by nature ahead of tomorrow’s adventures.

• Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

This morning, head out on a walk along the Ecological Trail through lush rainforest scenery to El Marmol (Marble Beach), where you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the river. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Rio Claro your own way. You might choose to raft through rainforest rapids, glide along canyon walls on a zipline or venture into caves carved by the El Bornego River. Tonight, maybe sit down to a traditional Colombian dinner like hearty sancocho stew or a classic churrasco steak.

Today, travel to Guatape – a charming Andean town famous for its brightly coloured houses and decorative bas-reliefs. On arrival, climb the winding staircase of El Penol, a massive 65-million-year-old rock once considered sacred by the indigenous Tahami people. At the top, enjoy panoramic views over the lakes and surrounding countryside before returning to town for a free afternoon. Maybe stroll along the cobbled streets of Calle del Recuerdo, visit nearby San Rafael or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant recommended by your leader.

• Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours

Today, travel to Medellin – the vibrant capital of Antioquia, often called the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ thanks to its pleasant climate and famous Flower Festival. Once you arrive, join your leader for an orientation walk to get familiar with the city. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the Botanical Garden, ride the cable car to Parque Arvi for a scenic hike or relax at a local cafe. This evening, ask your leader for the best local spots to try arepas – Colombia’s beloved corn cakes filled with meat, cheese or vegetables.

• Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Enjoy a full free day to experience Medellin however you like. You might visit the Museo de Antioquia to admire Botero’s famous artwork, join a walking tour through the historic downtown or explore colourful Comuna 13 – a neighbourhood celebrated for its vibrant street art and inspiring transformation. You could also take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s history and culture. Tonight, maybe gather with your fellow travellers for a final night out at one of Medellin’s lively salsa bars and celebrate an unforgettable adventure together.

As there are no activities planned, your trip comes to an end today. If you’d like to spend more time in Medellin just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.