Colombia

THE COLORS OF SOUTH AMERICA: COLOMBIA

July 26 – August 3, 2024

Day 1 – July 26: Arrival in Bogotá

For the group arriving from Peru, the flight is on April 11th. For the group departing from Bulgaria – the flight is on April 10th, 2024.

Arrival in Bogotá and check-in at the hotel. Time for rest and first impressions of the capital of Colombia. Depending on the arrival time – a walk around Bogotá.

The capital of Colombia, Bogotá, is located in the heart of the country at 2,640 meters above sea level. This makes it the third-highest capital city in the world, after La Paz, Bolivia, and Quito, Ecuador. The city was founded more than five centuries ago on a plateau on the eastern side of the Andes mountain range. The name Bogotá comes from the ancient indigenous tribes that inhabited these lands before the arrival of the Spanish. In 1538, the first European, Gonzalo Jiménez, set foot on what is now Colombian territory and founded the city of Santa Fe, which later became known as Bogotá.

Day 2 – July 27: Bogotá

A walk around Bogotá – one of the most beautiful experiences of the day will be taking the cable car to Montserrate Peak and the "Nuestro Señor Caído" sanctuary ("Jesus Christ on the Cross"), from where we will enjoy a stunning view of the metropolis. Free time with the option to walk around the central area of the beautiful city of Bogotá, visit "Plaza de Bolívar" and the government buildings, the colonial center, the Museum of the famous artist and creator Botero, the old town "La Candelaria," the churches "San Francisco" and "Holy Trinity." Visit the famous Gold Museum with over 30,000 gold artifacts that testify to the rich culture of the pre-colonial period. Overnight stay in Bogotá.

Day 3 – July 28: Medellín

On this day, we will take a domestic flight to the city of Medellín. The city is located in the northwest part of Colombia at an altitude of 1,538 meters in the Andes. Only an hour and a half from the bustling Medellín is a paradise called Guatapé Lake.

Medellín is the second-largest city in Colombia, known for its beautiful mountains and delicious food. The city is full of parks adorned with exquisite orchids, tropical birds, and many other natural and architectural attractions.

Day 4 – July 29: Medellín

A tour of Medellín, during which, in 4-6 hours, we will have the opportunity to get a personal impression of the city. We will visit the center, take a trip to the "Santo Domingo Savio" library, where we will enjoy panoramic views of the city. The walk will end at "El Pueblito Paisa," where life in colonial Colombia is recreated. You will also see colonial churches, squares, and Botero sculptures throughout the center of Medellín.

Day 5 – July 30: Visit to Guatapé and Peñol

This day will bring us an impressive excursion to Guatapé, where we will see the other side of Colombia. The town of Guatapé is located 90 minutes by car from Medellín and is famous for its colorful buildings and charming cobbled streets. We will climb the 740 steps of the famous "Piedra del Peñol" rock for amazing views of the surrounding lakes and hills of Guatapé. We will take a walk in the town, which is known as one of the most charming towns in Colombia. Overnight in Medellín.

Day 6 – July 31: Cartagena

From Medellín, we will take a domestic flight to the lively Caribbean port city of Cartagena.

The city is located in the northern part of the country on the coast of the Caribbean Sea and was the first Spanish colony in South America, founded in 1533. Because of this, Cartagena was an important trading and port center where Spanish conquistadors exported gold. The city is famous for its rich cultural and historical past, vibrant colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, the charming Rosario Islands, a bustling nightlife, and its fiestas.

Unlike Bogotá and Medellín, in Cartagena, we will immerse ourselves in an incredible tropical atmosphere. Due to its location on the Caribbean coast and the high temperatures, life here moves at a slower pace.
Cartagena de Indias is one of the most impressive urban centers in Latin America, exuding a Caribbean atmosphere and bearing witness to Spanish colonial history. Surrounded by high protective walls built to defend against pirates, Cartagena invites you to stroll along its city walls, fortifications, colorful houses adorned with flower pots, and Spanish colonial roofs. Visit the old town and its main buildings such as the La Popa Monastery and San Felipe Castle.

Day 7 – August 1: Islas del Rosario

Optional boat ride and day excursion to the Islas del Rosario with diving and snorkeling – additional charge, or a free day for relaxation at the all-inclusive hotel in Cartagena.

Day 8 – August 2: Cartagena

Free day - beach.

Day 9 – August 3

Departure for Bulgaria.

There is an option for a flight via Panama with an additional overnight stay in Panama and a visit to the Panama Canal.

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