The Secret Heart of Colombia

Day 1: Arrival in Bogota

Welcome to Colombia. Upon arrival at El Dorado International Airport (BOG), you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Bogotá’s atmospheric historic district. Situated at 2,650 metres above sea level, Bogotá is Colombia’s sophisticated highland capital—a city where colonial elegance meets contemporary creativity. Backed by dramatic Andean peaks, the city is renowned for its museums, gastronomy, and rich cultural identity. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and acclimatise.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Casa Deco, Bogota or similar
🍽️ Meals: None

Day 2: Bogota sightseeing

Today enjoy a full-day exploration of Colombia’s capital, travelling through centuries of history and modern local life. Begin at the bustling Paloquemao Market, one of Bogotá’s most vibrant traditional markets, where colourful displays of tropical fruits, flowers, vegetables and local produce offer a sensory introduction to Colombia. Continue to Monserrate Hill, ascending by cable car for panoramic views over the sprawling city and surrounding Andean plateau. Explore the celebrated Gold Museum, and the area of La Candelaria, the beating heart of Bogota. Overnight: Hotel Casa Deco or similar

Note – the activities in Bogota may change order depending on weather and local traffic etc.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Casa Deco, Bogota or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Welcome Dinner

Day 3: Bogota – Zipaquirá – Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral & Lake Guatavita (Overall approx. driving time 5.5 hours)

Travel north of Bogotá into the Andean countryside for a day of culture, mythology, and remarkable landscapes. First visit the extraordinary Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, a monumental underground church carved deep within a former salt mine, some 120 metres below ground. This unique architectural masterpiece is one of Colombia’s most impressive landmarks. After lunch, continue to the sacred Lake Guatavita at approximately 3,100 metres altitude. Surrounded by misty mountain forest, the lake was central to Muisca ceremonial traditions and inspired the legend of El Dorado, the mythical city of gold. Here, we take a walk on a well-maintained path involving steps to the crater. The walk can take around 1.5 – 2 hours.  Return to Bogotá in the late afternoon.

Note – Anyone not wishing to do the walk to lagoon Guatavita can wait in the village. This will be without the local guide.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Casa Deco or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Bogota – Honda (Approx. driving time today is 5 hours)

Depart Bogotá and descend from the cooler Andean climate into the warm tropical lowlands of the Magdalena Valley. After approximately five hours by road, arrive in historic Honda, once Colombia’s most important inland river port. Known as the “City of Bridges,” Honda flourished during the golden age of river navigation. Enjoy a guided walking tour through cobbled lanes, elegant colonial houses, plazas, and riverside quarters while learning about the vital role of the Magdalena River in shaping Colombia’s history.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Belle Epoque or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

 Day 5: Honda to Quindío – The Coffee Region (Approx. overall driving time is 7 hours)

An early start for today’s wonderfully scenic journey crosses the Central Cordillera, one of the Andean Mountain ranges, en route to Colombia’s lush Coffee Region. Firstly, we pass by the haunting ghost town of Armero, tragically buried by volcanic mudslide some 40 years ago. We gradually ascend the foothills of the colossus of Volcano El Ruiz up to around 4000 metres, where an otherworldly landscape will be revealed. Hopefully we will have superb clear views, but even with the mist swirling, the drive is epic.  We then descend into Quindío, heart of Colombia’s coffee country and part of the UNESCO-listed Coffee Cultural Landscape. Rolling green hills, traditional fincas, bamboo groves and mild spring-like weather define this enchanting region. If time allows, we make a stop at a natural thermal spring, so have your swimming costume at hand today. Later in the day we arrive at our base for the next 2 nights.

🛏️ Overnight: Delirio Campestre or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: Cacao & Nature in Quindío (Approx. overall driving time today is 3 hours)

This morning, visit a local finca to discover the fascinating world of Colombian cacao. Learn about cultivation, varieties, fermentation, drying, and artisanal grinding before preparing your own authentic hot chocolate. The grounds of the finca are also home to a variety of birdlife including humming birds. Later explore the Botanical Garden of Quindío, walking through cloud forest habitats before entering the enchanting butterfly house, home to more than 1,500 butterflies from native species. A delightful day of flavours and biodiversity.

Note – the Finca Cacao excursion may be shared with other guests

🛏️ Overnight: Delirio Campestre or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Quindio to Manizales (Approx. driving time today is 3 hours)

Today we travel through the heart of the Coffee Triangle to Manizales, dramatically perched across steep Andean hillsides. Known for its elegant coffee culture and proximity to volcanoes and cloud forests, Manizales offers a more elevated mountain atmosphere. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided coffee experience at a traditional working finca. Walk through plantations, learn about harvesting methods, bean selection, roasting and brewing techniques—from bean to cup. The rest of the day will be at leisure to enjoy the grounds of the delightful finca.

Note – the coffee experience excursion may be shared with other guests  

🛏️ Overnight, Hacienda El Rosario or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8: Hacienda and Plantain Traditions

A relaxing morning where you can immerse yourself in the heart of the coffee region, and enjoy a relaxed morning at the hacienda. In the afternoon, join a lively culinary workshop dedicated to one of Colombia’s most beloved staples: the plantain. Learn to prepare classic sweet and savoury dishes such as crispy patacones and caramelised maduros, then enjoy your creations.

🛏️ Overnight: Hacienda El Rosario or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: Manizales to Salamina (Approx. overall driving time is 3 hours)

Travel along picturesque mountain roads to the heritage town of Salamina, one of Colombia’s most charming colonial gems. Known as the City of Parks, Salamina is famed for elegant architecture, carved wooden balconies, peaceful plazas and mountain scenery. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic centre, visiting the main square, cathedral, and beautifully preserved streetscape.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Boutique La Leyenda 1860 or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Samaria Valley Wax Palm Forest (Approx. overall driving time today is 3 hours)

Today experience one of Colombia’s most remarkable natural treasures. Travel by classic Willys Jeep into the high Andes, passing rural farms and mountain viewpoints before reaching San Félix village. Continue to the spectacular Samaria Valley, home to one of the world’s most important forests of towering Wax Palms, Colombia’s national tree. Rising up to 60 metres, these extraordinary palms create a truly unforgettable landscape. Enjoy a traditional lunch surrounded by mountain serenity before returning to Salamina

Note – The walking here is easy for all abilities as the Wax Palms are accessible by jeep. Once at the viewing point there are different walking options. Anyone not wanting to walk and just enjoy the superb views, can remain at the restaurant and viewing area.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Boutique La Leyenda or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11: Salaman – Aguadas – Támesis (Overall driving time today is approx. 6 hours)

Travel through the rugged uplands of Caldas and Antioquia to Aguadas, famous for artisanal hat weaving traditions. Visit workshops where the iconic Aguadeño Hat is crafted from Iraca palm fibres, meet local artisans, and explore the National Hat Museum. Continue onward to Támesis, a hidden gem of Antioquia surrounded by lush valleys, waterfalls and ancient cultural heritage.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Vegas del Rio or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12: Flowers, Coffee and Sugar Cane (Overall driving time today is approx. 1.5 hours)

We start the day with a visit to the archaeological museum “Museo Cártama” to get a first idea of Támesis’s ancestral history. Afterwards, we embark on a gentle, beautiful walk through the Ruta de las Flores, passing colourful rural gardens with a stop at Café OMCE, a community project with breathtaking views of the Cauca Valley. After a tasty coffee and snack, we continue to the suspension bridge over the river Rio Frío. We enjoy the natural surrounding and a picnic lunch before walking back to the village, or optionally we can drive back. In the afternoon we visit a Trapiche to see the traditional artisanal production of panela (raw cane sugar) before returning to Támesis where the rest of the day is at leisure.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Vegas Del Rio or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch

Day 13: Waterfalls and ancient petroglyphs (Overall driving time is approx. 3.5 hours)

After breakfast, depart by vehicle into the rolling green mountains of southwestern Antioquia, travelling through coffee-growing countryside, forested hillsides, and rural farming communities. We enjoy an ascent to the remarkable Alto del Burro Viewpoint, one of the finest panoramic viewpoints in the region. From this elevated vantage point, enjoy breathtaking views stretching across the dramatic landscapes of Antioquia’s southwest — an endless patchwork of valleys, rivers, steep mountains, coffee plantations, and distant cloud-covered peaks.

On clear days, the scenery is particularly spectacular, offering an appreciation of the immense natural beauty and geographic diversity that characterise this part of Colombia. The peaceful mountain atmosphere and fresh air make this an ideal location for photography and quiet contemplation. Continuing deeper into the countryside, arrive at the refreshing natural paradise of Rio Frío. Hidden among tropical vegetation and forested landscapes, Rio Frío is known for its pristine natural pools, clear flowing waters, and small cascading waterfalls that create a tranquil setting surrounded by nature. A picnic lunch will be served in this idyllic setting, allowing time to fully appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings before returning towards Támesis.

After time to rest, the late afternoon is dedicated to discovering the fascinating archaeological heritage of the region through the renowned Petroglyphs Route. Visit the peaceful Piedra Botanical Garden, located within walking distance from the hotel. Surrounded by lush vegetation, this site introduces the area’s archaeological and ecological significance while providing a gentle start to the afternoon exploration. The journey then continues by vehicle through the scenic countryside to the remarkable La Piedra del Pirú, one of the region’s most impressive petroglyph sites. Here, carefully carved symbols and figures can still be seen etched into the stone surfaces, preserving the mysterious artistic legacy of the indigenous peoples of the Cartama Valley.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Vegas Del Rio or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 14: Tamesis to Medellin via Jerico ( overall driving time today is 4 hours)

Travel towards Medellín with a stop in the beautiful heritage town of Jericó. Visit the botanical gardens, enjoy coffee in the main plaza, and ascend to the Cristo Redentor viewpoint for magnificent canyon views. Continue to Medellín, Colombia’s celebrated City of Eternal Spring, renowned for innovation, culture and its remarkable social transformation, our final stop on this alluring journey through the heart of Colombia.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Lettera or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 15: Medellin

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Lettera or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Departure from Medellin

In accordance with your onward flight, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Perhaps consider taking one of our exciting extensions as detailed below.

🛏️ Overnight: N/A
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

🧩 Available Extensions

COLOMBIA EXTENSION – CARIBBEAN COAST DISCOVERY

Tayrona National Park and Cartagena – Nature, History & Caribbean Elegance

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Style: Nature, Culture & Coastal Exploration
Region: Colombian Caribbean Coast

Day 1 | Arrival in Santa Marta – Gateway to the Caribbean – overall driving 1.5 hours today

Arrival in Santa Marta, Colombia’s oldest surviving city and gateway to the Caribbean coast. Nestled between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the sea, the region offers a dramatic natural setting where jungle, beaches, and peaks converge.

A scenic transfer takes you along the coastal road to your accommodation near Tayrona National Park, where tropical surroundings and ocean breezes set the tone for the days ahead.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Yachay or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

 Day 2 | Tayrona National Park – Jungle Meets the Sea

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Tayrona National Park, where lush rainforest descends into white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Begin your guided hike through tropical forest trails, passing secluded beaches and archaeological remnants of ancient indigenous civilizations.

The route leads to Cabo San Juan, one of Colombia’s most iconic beaches, where you can relax, swim, and enjoy the natural beauty of this protected paradise. Depending on time and your physical fitness there are different beaches to stop and enjoy.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Yachay or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Note – The hike is around 1.5 hours, easy to intermediate with some ascent and descent with some steps and it is hot. Most abilities can do this at a slow place. Alternatively, for anyone not wanting to walk, can either stay at the lodge or enjoy Playa Canaveral an easy 10-minute walk. 

Day 3 | Tayrona National Park – Day at Leisure

A full day to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Caribbean coast at your own pace. Relax in a hammock surrounded by nature, walk along nearby beaches, birdwatch, or simply unwind to the sounds of the jungle and ocean.

This is a day dedicated to rest, reflection, and immersion in the natural environment.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel Yachay or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 | Tayrona NP – Cartagena – The Jewel of the Indies – driving time today 5 hours

Travel along the scenic Caribbean coastline towards Cartagena de Indias, passing through Barranquilla. The journey reveals changing landscapes of coastal plains, fishing villages, and tropical scenery.

Arrival in Cartagena introduces a city of romance and history, where colourful colonial buildings, flower-filled balconies, and cobbled streets create an unforgettable atmosphere.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel 3 Banderas or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 | Cartagena – Colonial Heritage Discovery

Discover Cartagena’s rich colonial legacy on a guided city tour. Begin at the Convent of La Popa, located on the city’s highest hill, offering panoramic views over the Caribbean coastline.

Continue to the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, one of the most important military structures in South America. Explore its tunnels, ramparts, and strategic viewpoints that once defended the city from pirate invasions.

The tour continues through the historic centre, visiting plazas, churches, and the iconic “Old Shoes” monument, before walking along the UNESCO-listed city walls that define Cartagena’s charm. After the excursion, your afternoon is at leisure.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel 3 Banderas or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 | Cartagena – Leisure Day in the Walled City

A day at leisure to enjoy Cartagena’s magical atmosphere. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with bougainvillaea-covered balconies, browse artisan shops and emerald boutiques, or relax in elegant cafés and rooftop terraces. In the evening, enjoy a sunset walk along the city walls as the Caribbean sky transforms into shades of orange and pink, one of the most iconic experiences in Colombia.

🛏️ Overnight: Hotel 3 Banderas or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 | Departure – End of Services

Private transfer from your hotel to Cartagena International Airport for your onward journey. Cartagena is a well-served international airport for flights to Europe and North America.

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

COLOMBIA EXTENSION – LOS LLANOS SAFARI EXPERIENCE

Wildlife, Horse Riding & Llanero Culture

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Region: Los Llanos (Eastern Plains of Colombia)
Style: Wildlife Safari, Cultural Immersion & Soft Adventure
Accommodation: Rural eco-lodges, village hotel & nature finca stays

Day 1 | Arrival in Los Llanos – Introduction to the Savannah – Approx driving time is 30 minutes

Flight from Medellín (via Bogotá) to Yopal, gateway to the vast plains of Los Llanos. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your eco-lodge surrounded by tropical savannah landscapes.

Los Llanos is a region of endless horizons, where wetlands and grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see. Known for its cowboys (Llaneros), rich biodiversity, and dramatic sunsets, it offers a completely different side of Colombia. In the afternoon, enjoy a horseback riding experience at a traditional ranch. Ride through palm groves, gallery forests, open savannahs, and small rivers while observing wildlife such as birds of prey, monkeys, and capybaras. The experience concludes with a spectacular Llanos sunset before returning to the ranch.

🛏️ Overnight: Casa Cumbres or similar

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 | Wildlife Safari – Heart of the Llanos

After breakfast, set out on a full-day 4×4 wildlife safari through a vast private nature reserve. This is one of the most biodiverse regions in Colombia, where wetlands and savannahs host an impressive variety of wildlife.

Throughout the day, observe capybaras, caimans, deer, monkeys, turtles, and a rich diversity of birdlife including herons, spoonbills, and Orinoco geese. With a lot of luck, tracks of elusive species such as jaguars,  or anacondas may be spotted,  but sightings are rare,  and most certainly can never be guaranteed.  Enjoy a traditional countryside lunch at a rural farmhouse, with time to relax in hammocks surrounded by open landscapes and vast skies. This afternoon, continue the safari deeper into the reserve as wildlife becomes more active. The journey ends in the small village of San Luis de Palenque, where a simple yet authentic overnight stay offers a glimpse into rural Llanero life.

🛏️ Overnight: Simple village hotel

🍽️ Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 | Finca La Candelilla – Culture & Nature Immersion – Approx. driving time is 45 mins

Travel to Finca La Candelilla, a remote and atmospheric working farm located along the Pauto River. Hosted by a traditional Llanero family, this experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with the region’s culture, history, and natural environment. Explore the finca’s diverse ecosystems where howler monkeys, iguanas, caimans, and tropical birds thrive. Walk through mango orchards, cacao trees, and lush vegetation while learning about self-sustained rural life. Visit a small on-site museum showcasing indigenous artifacts and local heritage, offering insight into the ancestral history of the region. The experience is deeply personal, guided by the family who has dedicated their lives to preserving Llanos traditions. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch by the river, followed by time to relax in this peaceful natural setting. In the afternoon, return to Yopal as the sun sets over the endless plains.

🛏️ Overnight: Casa Cumbres or similar

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – 5 | Departure – Return to Bogotá

After breakfast, transfer to Yopal Airport for your return flight to Bogotá, for onward connections, marking the end of your Los Llanos extension. An additional night at an airport hotel is included if required with shared shuttle transfer.

 Overnight: Airport hotel Aloft or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

COLOMBIA EXTENSION – PACIFIC COAST ADVENTURE

Nuquí – The Wild Heart of the Colombian Pacific

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Region: Chocó Pacific Coast
Style: Nature, Wildlife & Remote Eco-Adventure
Season Highlight: Humpback Whale Watching (July–October)

 Day 1 | Arrival in Nuquí – Into the Pacific Wilderness

Flight from Medellín to Nuquí marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey into one of Colombia’s most isolated regions. Upon arrival, a scenic speedboat transfer along the jungle coastline brings you to your eco-lodge, surrounded by dense rainforest and the Pacific Ocean. After lunch, settle into your surroundings and meet your local guides to plan the upcoming activities. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Eco-lodge (Nuquí area) – La Kuka or similar – comfortable rustic nature lodge.  No A/C – Electricity is solar powered and no hot water – private bathrooms
🍽️ Meals: Full Board

Day 2 | Termales Village & Whale Watching Adventure – subject to season

Wake up to the sounds of waves and tropical birds before setting out on a scenic coastal walk to the village of Termales. The journey takes you along remote beaches, through small streams, and past traditional fishing communities using handcrafted canoes. In Termales, experience local life and optionally visit natural hot springs (entrance not included) nestled in the rainforest. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s relaxed Pacific culture. In the afternoon, embark on a whale watching excursion by speedboat (seasonal), where humpback whales can often be seen breaching and interacting with their calves in the warm Pacific waters.

Return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Overnight: Eco-lodge (Nuquí area) – La Kuka or similar – comfortable rustic nature lodge.  No A/C – Electricity is solar powered and no hot water – private bathrooms
🍽️ Meals: Full Board

Day 3 | Cascada del Amor & Pacific Relaxation

After breakfast, enjoy a guided excursion to the Cascada del Amor, a hidden waterfall deep within the rainforest. The trail follows the coastline and jungle paths, offering opportunities to observe tropical flora and birdlife along the way. Enjoy time at the waterfall before returning to the lodge for lunch.

The afternoon is free for relaxation or optional activities such as:

• Surfing in Pacific waves
• Kayaking along the coastline
• Snorkelling in natural pools
• Hammock relaxation overlooking the ocean

Overnight: Eco-lodge (Nuquí area) – La Kuka or similar – comfortable rustic nature lodge.  No A/C – Electricity is solar powered and no hot water – private bathrooms
🍽️ Meals: Full Board

Day 4 | Day at Leisure – Immersion in Nature

A full day dedicated to rest and personal exploration. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the Pacific Coast. Guests may choose to relax at the lodge, walk along the endless black-sand beaches, or participate in optional eco-activities offered on site. The region’s tranquillity, biodiversity, and isolation create an ideal setting for reflection and relaxation.

Overnight: Eco-lodge (Nuquí area) – La Kuka or similar – comfortable rustic nature lodge.  No A/C – Electricity is solar powered and no hot water – private bathrooms
🍽️ Meals: Full Board

Day 5 – 6 | Departure – Return to Medellín

After breakfast, transfer by speedboat back to Nuquí town, followed by your return flight to Medellín. The extension includes a night in Medellin tonight before departure on the next day.

This marks the end of your immersive Pacific Coast experience, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Colombia’s most untouched natural paradise.

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

COLOMBIA EXTENSION – ARCHAEOLOGY, SALSA & SOUTHERN

6 Days / 5 Nights | Cali – Popayán – San Agustín

Day 1 – Arrival in Cali | Salsa Capital of Colombia

Fly from Medellin to Cali. Arrival in Cali, a lively tropical city situated in the Cauca Valley and widely regarded as the world capital of salsa. Set at approximately 1,000 metres above sea level, Cali blends warm Caribbean-influenced energy with modern urban life and colonial heritage. After arrival at Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided city tour exploring Cali’s historic centre, including its colonial architecture, key viewpoints, and cultural landmarks such as the monument of Sebastián de Belalcázar and the iconic “Cat of Tejada” along the Río Cali. The experience concludes with a salsa dance class, offering an energetic introduction to the city’s most famous cultural expression.

Overnight: Hotel LeClerc or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 2 – Cali to Popayán | The White City of the Andes – Approx. driving time 3.5 hours

After breakfast, depart south through the scenic Cauca Valley toward Popayán, a journey through fertile landscapes framed by Andean mountains. Popayán, known as “La Ciudad Blanca” for its whitewashed colonial architecture, is one of Colombia’s most beautifully preserved historical cities. Founded in 1537, it has long been a centre of religion, literature, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, enjoy a walking tour through its elegant historic centre, visiting churches, plazas, and colonial streets that reflect centuries of cultural heritage. The city’s calm atmosphere and refined architecture offer a striking contrast to Cali’s vibrant energy.

Overnight: La Plazuela or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 – Silk Traditions of Timbío & Journey to San Agustín – Approx. driving time 5hrs

This morning is dedicated to a cultural excursion to the rural town of Timbío, where you will discover the traditional silk production process. Guided by local women artisans, you will learn about the cultivation of mulberry trees, silkworm breeding, and the transformation of raw silk into finished textiles. A local snack and visit to the artisan workshop complete this immersive experience. In the afternoon, continue your journey into the Andean highlands toward San Agustín. The route crosses dramatic mountain scenery and the upper Magdalena Valley, offering changing landscapes and a sense of deepening remoteness. San Agustín, located at approximately 1,730 metres above sea level, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Colombia’s most important archaeological destination. Nestled in a lush green valley, it offers a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere shaped by its ancient past.

Overnight: Akawanka or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 – Archaeological Landscapes of San Agustín

Today is dedicated to exploring the extraordinary archaeological heritage surrounding San Agustín. The journey begins with the narrow natural gorge of the Magdalena River, followed by visits to nearby sites such as Obando, where ancient burial structures and museum collections provide insight into early Andean civilizations. Continue to Alto de los Ídolos and Alto de las Piedras, two significant archaeological complexes featuring funerary statues, monolithic figures, and ceremonial sites attributed to the San Agustín culture. The day also includes a visit to the spectacular Mortiño Waterfall, cascading nearly 200 metres through lush mountain scenery. This immersive excursion offers a deep understanding of the region’s spiritual and artistic legacy.

Overnight: Akawanka or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 – San Agustín Archaeological Park

In the morning, visit the UNESCO-listed San Agustín Archaeological Park, the most important site of its kind in Colombia. The park features the ceremonial Mesitas complex and the enigmatic Fuente de Lavapatas, a sacred carved stone ritual site believed to have been used for ceremonial water worship. You will also visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artefacts and stone sculptures that reflect the spiritual beliefs of the ancient San Agustín culture. The afternoon is free to relax in the village, enjoy the surrounding nature, or explore independently.

Overnight: Akawanka or similar
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

Note – The walking today is around 1.5-hour total, relatively easy, but need to be able to navigate ascent and descend and steps.

Day 6 – 7 – Departure from Pitalito – Approx, driving time 1 hour

After breakfast, transfer through the scenic Andean landscape to Pitalito Airport for your flight to Bogotá, marking the end of your southern Colombia archaeological journey. The extension includes a final night at an airport hotel close to Bogota Airport if required with shared shuttle transfer.

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast