Colombia: A Private Boutique Eastern Andes and Beach Adventure

Upon your arrival at El Dorado International Airport, our dedicated representative and private driver will warmly welcome you. They will accompany you on the approximately 45-minute drive to your hotel.  Depending on your arrival time, we can arrange a dinner reservation at one of Bogota’s renowned restaurants.  Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, enthralls visitors with its invigorating climate, a rich tapestry of history, and infectious energy. Nestled at an altitude of 2,585 meters (8,530 feet) above sea level, in the Eastern Hills, the city offers something for every traveler.  Overnight at B.O.G. Hotel.

Dive into the heart of Bogotá, starting with a hearty breakfast and a transfer to the bustling Paloquemao Market. Here, vibrant displays of local fruits, exotic delicacies, and Colombian crafts immerse you in the city’s rural culture.  Following this sensory experience, delve into Colombia’s rich past at the renowned Gold Museum.  Housing over 56,000 pieces of pre-Hispanic gold and artifacts; it offers a captivating window into the artistry and heritage of the country’s major pre-Columbian cultures.  The afternoon unfolds with a walking tour through La Candelaria, Bogotá’s historic district.  Marvel at the architectural tapestry, where Spanish Colonial grandeur blends seamlessly with Baroque flourishes and Art Deco details. Explore Bolívar Square, the city’s vibrant heart, and witness key government buildings like the Palace of Justice, Colombia Congress, and the Primate Cathedral.  A highlight of the tour is the Botero Museum, showcasing an impressive collection by Fernando Botero, Colombia’s renowned artist known for his distinctive “oversized” style.  The museum also boasts masterpieces by globally acclaimed artists such as Dalí, Monet, and Van Gogh, offering a truly enriching artistic experience.  Overnight at B.O.G. Hotel.

During this day trip, we will explore the high Andean forest and paramo, which are the predominant ecosystems of the Chingaza National Park and its surrounding buffer zones, showcasing one of the most stunning neotropical landscapes and serving as the habitat for the Andean Bear, the sole bear species in South America. Guided by our local experts who have tracked the bear’s path in advance, we will venture into the National Park or buffer areas situated between 2,700 – 3,100 meters above sea level / 8,800 – 10,200 feet.  In this chilly, high-altitude environment, you will have the chance to witness a diverse array of bird species, including the captivating Blue-throated Starfrontlet (almost endemic) and Amethyst-throated Sunangel hummingbirds, the vocal Brown-breasted Parakeet (endemic), the diminutive Rufous Conebill (nearly endemic), the striking Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, the elusive Rufous Antpitta, Green-and-black Fruiteater, among others. Our expedition will also include an exciting quest to spot the Andean Bear or Spectacled Bear, the vulnerable bear species unique to South America.  Lunch is served at the Park, followed by an afternoon visit to the ‘Hummingbird Observatory’ nestled high in the mountains of the town of La Calera. This sanctuary, brimming with vibrant flowers, serves as a haven for these enchanting winged creatures, revered as winged messengers in indigenous cultures. Colombia boasts a rich diversity of hummingbirds, with over 160 species calling it home, and visitors to this observatory can marvel at up to 18 different species in this breathtaking setting.  Overnight at B.O.G. Hotel.

This day starts with an early departure to Zipaquirá, home to the remarkable Salt Cathedral. Carved within an active salt mine, this underground Roman Catholic church is a marvel of Colombian engineering, revered as a “Jewel of Modern Architecture.” Explore the mining tunnels, chapels, and grand Basilica on an enlightening walking tour.  In the afternoon, journey to the captivating town of Villa de Leyva, a designated National Monument and Heritage Site.  This colonial gem transports you to a bygone era, seamlessly blending history, architecture, culture, and nature.  Villa de Leyva’s charm, cool year-round weather, and delightful eateries make it a favorite escape for Bogotanians seeking a break from city life. Overnight at Casa Terra.

An early morning departure takes you to the captivating La Candelaria Desert. Hike through this unique landscape, with a stop at the mystical “El Patio de Brujas,” an ancient astronomical observatory, which adds a touch of intrigue to your day.  In the afternoon, transfer to Ráquira, known as Boyacá’s most colorful town.  Vibrant houses and an abundance of ceramic crafts create a lively and artistic atmosphere.  Overnight at Casa Terra.

We start our day in Villa de Leyva with a visit to the Terracota House, the world’s largest ceramic piece, crafted entirely from clay by a local artist.  Next, embark on a scenic bike ride (10 miles) along Villa de Leyva’s dirt roads, offering contrasting desert landscapes. Explore the Paleontological Research Center, home to a 110-million-year-old kronosaurus fossil and other ancient relics from the region’s coastal past. Continue to Villa de Leyva’s desert area for a beautiful view of the blue lakes before returning to town. Prefer a van tour or more hiking?  We can adjust the itinerary to include other areas! Overnight at Casa Terra.  

On a scenic 4-hour drive, witness Colombia’s diverse countryside unfold as we travel to Barichara.  Watch the vegetation, temperature, architecture, and cultural nuances change as you enter Santander, a region known for its rivers, valleys, and rugged terrain.  Santander’s diverse topography is a haven for adventure seekers, offering rafting and mountain biking activities.  Upon arrival in Barichara, check into your hotel and embark on a tour of this charming village.  One of Colombia’s 17 Heritage Towns, Barichara is celebrated for its well-preserved history, culture, and traditional architecture.  Built using local terracotta-colored soil, Barichara showcases traditional construction methods like “bahareque” (bamboo and adobe) and “tapia pisada” (walls compacted with clay).  This afternoon stroll unveils the town’s unique character and rich history.  Overnight at Casa Barichara.

Barichara and Guane are connected by one of the Lengerke trails, a historic 6 km (3.75 miles) cobbled pathway originally constructed by the Guane indigenous people and later restored in 1864, this trail provides a scenic route for hikers to traverse between Barichara and Guane. The hiking experience along this trail is gentle and suitable for all levels of hikers, offering breathtaking views of the valley and an authentic glimpse into Colombian rural living. Returning to Barichara, explore a traditional paper factory.  Learn the fascinating process of crafting paper from fique, a cactus-like plant native to the Andes.  Overnight at Casa Barichara.

Early morning, depart on a private van transfer that takes you to Bucaramanga airport (83 miles 3.5 hours) for a 1 hour flight to Bogota.  After checking in for your flight to Bogota, you’ll have some time. You can use this opportunity to grab a pre-flight lunch at the airport or relax before your connecting 1.5 hr flight to Santa Marta.  Finally, paradise awaits!  A private van will transport you directly to your beachfront hotel (51 km, 1 hour).  The rest of the afternoon is yours to savor – unwind on pristine sands, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the vibrant coastal town.  The choice is yours! Overnight at Villa Playa Tayrona.

Tayrona National Park enthralls visitors with its perfect blend: lush rainforests meet pristine Caribbean beaches, embraced by turquoise waters. No wonder it’s Colombia’s most popular park!   The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal range, rises dramatically from sea level to nearly 5,800 meters (19,000 ft) at Colón Peak, creating a unique spectrum of microclimates.  This morning, traverse a fascinating network of jungles, mangroves, rivers, and beaches, leading you to La Piscinita, one of Tayrona’s popular swimming spots. For the adventurous, extend the hike towards Cabo San Juan, arguably Tayrona’s most photogenic location.  Exploring Tayrona’s beaches, it’s easy to understand why Discovery Channel dubbed them some of the world’s most beautiful. Imagine: stunning sandy beaches adorned with smooth, rocky formations emerge from jungle-clad hills, cascading dramatically into the sea. A true tropical paradise awaits exploration on foot.  Overnight at Villa Playa Tayrona.

The day is free to relax on the pristine beaches, or perhaps explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, including areas you haven’t yet discovered.  Overnight at Villa Playa Tayrona.  

After soaking up the last rays of Caribbean sunshine, a private car will whisk you comfortably from your hotel lobby directly to Santa Marta Airport (1 hour).  There, you’ll board your flight back to Bogota (included), ready to return home, heart full of Colombian memories.