Colombia Active Culture
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Colombia has fast become recognised as one of the most culturally fascinating and biologically diverse countries in all the Americas. This exploration of Colombian nature and culture combines its two major modern cities with two of its most classic, colonial villages, as well as the great natural landscapes that surround them. Discover lands filled with waterfalls and sacred lagoons, páramo and deep river canyons, where time has stood still and longstanding communities and traditions have ...
Colombia has fast become recognised as one of the most culturally fascinating and biologically diverse countries in all the Americas. This exploration of Colombian nature and culture combines its two major modern cities with two of its most classic, colonial villages, as well as the great natural landscapes that surround them. Discover lands filled with waterfalls and sacred lagoons, páramo and deep river canyons, where time has stood still and longstanding communities and traditions have endured.
The journey begins with the miracle of Medellin, by far the country's most innovative and progressive city, set in a long valley against a stunning backdrop of two Andean mountain ridges. Exploring by cable car and metro, as well as the famous outdoor escalators, you'll delve deep into the heart of the city's creative underbelly and discover the vibrant street life and street art, including the work of world-renowned artist Botero.
Travelling north into Colombia's Andean heartland, you then travel back in time to the whitewashed and clay-tile-roofed Spanish colonial towns of Barichara and Villa de Leyva. Home to some of the country's greatest artisans, here you will take part in creative workshops and learn the skills and traditions of these rural communities. Surrounded by sleepy Andean farmland, deep river canyons, and rare highland nature, here you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of these lands, as you hike to glacial lakes and canyon waterfalls and discover the unique ecosystem of paramo.
This great Colombian adventure ends with a walking tour of the capital, the vibrant economical and artistic hub of this little-explored South American gem.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Admire the ancient colonial buildings and cobblestoned streets of the prettiest towns in Colombia
- Hike through the forests, farmlands, canyons and páramo of the Colombian Andes
- Partake in workshops, learning the traditions and talents of rural communities
- Learn about local culture in Medellin, the “City of the Eternal Spring”
- Discover the charm, passion and warm hospitality of the Colombian people
- Tour the capital’s historic centre and grand colonial buildings
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE MEDELLIN
Day 1 ARRIVE MEDELLIN
Upon arrival into Colombia’s second largest city, Medellin, you head straight to the hotel to settle in and unwind from the journey. Kick-starting the trip in true Colombian fashion, this evening will be spent sampling some of Medellin’s best ‘fondas’, traditional bars and eateries typically decorated in colourful furniture and eccentric ornaments. A fitting introduction to this fun-loving nation.
Day 2 MEDELLIN
Day 2 MEDELLIN
Explore Paisa culture and history in a full day’s tour of Medellin today, from political graffiti in the hilly social development neighbourhoods to the work of one of the city’s most famous residents, sculptor and artist Fernando Botero. Medellin is the perfect place to learn about Colombians’ hardworking and creative spirit. You will tour Botero’s larger-than-life statues, the poignant House of Memory Museum and one of the city’s most important markets. Experience some of the area’s unique regional cuisine for your lunch as you are taken to one of our favourite handpicked restaurants, to round off your Medellin experience.
Day 3 MEDELLIN - BARICHARA
Day 3 MEDELLIN - BARICHARA
After breakfast catch your flight to one of Colombia’s prettiest towns, Barichara. Soar high above Chicamocha Canyon as you travel by cable car, enjoy spectacular views from your lunchspot, and soak up the stunning surrounding scenery of this rugged Andean landscape, before enjoying some free time in this peaceful cobblestoned, colonial town.
Day 4 BARICHARA
Day 4 BARICHARA
A trip outside of town this morning takes you on a nature hike to the dramatic Juan Curí Waterfall to cool off in its mountain waters. Back in town this afternoon, you can enjoy wandering the cobbled streets, so beautiful they have been the shooting location and set of many a Spanish-speaking film and telenovela. Here, you’ll learn the stories of their well-preserved, colonial buildings and the influences of both indigenous and Spanish colonial construction, as well as the secret political messages of the way local homes are painted. The day finishes inside a private home learning to paint with coloured earth collected from all over the province in a mud painting workshop, hosted by a friendly Barichara family.
Day 5 BARICHARA - VILLA DE LEYVA
Day 5 BARICHARA - VILLA DE LEYVA
Traversing Santander’s picturesque farmland and mountains on one of the prettiest alpine roads in Colombia you make your way to Villa de Leyva today. Driving through the meandering network of roads etched into the striking Andean mountains, valleys and rivers that make up Colombia’s heartland, hike into this living painting to explore Santa Sofia and the Gachantiva Waterfalls. You then have the rest of the day at leisure to independently explore this historic town’s medieval-looking square, classic churches and peaceful colonial backstreets.
Day 6 VILLA DE LEYVA
Day 6 VILLA DE LEYVA
Following an energising breakfast, today you embark on a full-day, guided trek through Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, allowing you to explore the mountainous landscapes of the Colombian Andes whilst admiring the varied plant species and wildlife found at these high altitudes. The natural park is blessed with enchanting lagoons and glacial lakes which not only provide water to the surrounding towns but have historically been of great importance to original native inhabitants, revered as the birthplace of the goddess Bachué.
Day 7 VILLA DE LEYVA - BOGOTA
Day 7 VILLA DE LEYVA - BOGOTA
A morning wool-spinning and weaving workshop by local campesino women provides you with a glimpse into one of the area’s most authentic artisan trades. Here, you’ll learn of the traditional wool weaving skills used and their importance for the local communities, culturally as much as economically. Departing Villa de Leyva, an afternoon transfer then takes you to the capital of Bogota, where you spend your final night. Arriving in the early evening, there will be some time to enjoy the city’s cultural offerings, not least of which is savouring a Colombian delicacy in one of the country’s best restaurants.
Day 8 DEPART BOGOTA
Day 8 DEPART BOGOTA
This great journey concludes with a morning walking tour of Bogota’s historic centre, La Candelaria. Bogota is steeped in history, having been the home of South American liberator Simon Bolívar, as well as many legends and great artists like immortal novelist Gabriel Garcia Marquez and other cultural icons of this southern continent. Throughout the day, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Colombia and the huge historical importance of this capital city. A private transfer then takes you to the airport for your onward flight home.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Hotel De La Opera, Bogota
Located in the historic centre, La Candelaria, most of the city’s major sites, museums and architectural highlights are within walking distance. Housed in a colonial building, the hotel and surrounding area is full of history, close to where Simon Bolivar is said to have escaped an assassination attempt. Split over two buildings, part of the property’s colonial past is evident, with rooms encircling the Spanish-style courtyards. Views across the other red-tile-roofed, historic buildings of the area can be enjoyed from the upper floors. Inside the accommodation however, the 42 rooms move into the modern era with laminated flooring and contemporary, Italian-made, wood furniture. Rooms also feature high ceilings and some have private balconies. Facilities at this four-star hotel include a small gym and an indoor swimming pool and spa. Also boasting two restaurants and a bar, guests do not need to leave the hotel for dinner.
Park 10 Hotel, Medellin
Located in the trendy Poblado neighbourhood, the sophisticated Hotel Park 10 is well placed in the city’s upmarket district with a plethora of restaurants, bars and shops on its doorstep. The elegant décor throughout the hotel showcases luxurious dark-wood furniture and fine finishes. Accommodation is spacious and includes classic-style furniture and modern amenities. When you don’t feel like leaving the hotel for something to eat, you can choose from two restaurants serving local and international cuisine (including some excellent seafood dishes). Facilities include a small gym and a spa. The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed making for an enjoyable stay at this five-star option.
Casa Terra, Villa De Leyva
This boutique property houses just nine rooms, allowing for spacious living quarters and an attentive service. The décor mixes colonial features such as tiled flooring, whitewashed walls and terracotta roofs with rural Colombian life including barn-style window coverings and wood-beam balconies and ceiling support. Furniture throughout the hotel is modern and stylish with excellent amenities. A location roughly three blocks from the main plaza means that lack of a restaurant isn’t an issue. Breakfast is served in the peaceful gardens which also make a great spot for some downtime. Loungers and seating can be found dotted around the grounds to enjoy the hot midday sun in addition to an outdoor fireplace for use during the chillier altitude evenings. A beautiful country estate with the perfect location and wonderful service make Hotel Casa Terra the perfect option combining character, convenience and comfort.
Casa Barichara, Barichara
Located above the historic centre overlooking the town and surrounding scenery, a highlight of the property is undoubtedly the incredible views. In keeping with the colonial heritage of the city, the hotel building has a Mediterranean villa feel with whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs and tiled flooring. Accommodation is spacious, bright and airy and with only six rooms, service is warm and personable. Facilities include an outdoor pool to cool off in the strong midday sun and communal dining and living spaces including a library. The property also has a country house available for groups of up to eight. A wonderful breakfast is served in the mornings and although the hotel doesn’t feature a restaurant, numerous local eateries can be found a short stroll from the hotel. Please note that getting back to the hotel involves an uphill walk. Lounging areas and hammocks can be found dotted around the grounds.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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