Colombia – Land of Diversity, Culture, and Natural Wonders.

DEPARTURE FROM CHICAGO

Upon arrival in Bogotá, we travel to the “white town,” Villa de Leyva. This town, founded in 1572, is built in classic Spanish style with whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and terracotta roofs. We stay overnight in Villa de Leyva.

Colombia – Land of Diversity, Culture, and Natural Wonders.

VILLA DE LEYVA

Today, we begin exploring Villa de Leyva. Here, we find the largest plaza in Colombia, covering 14,000 square meters, surrounded by beautiful colonial white houses—an ideal spot for an evening stroll.

Afterward, we head to the town of Zipaquirá, famous for its underground salt cathedral located 180 meters below ground in a salt mine. This mine has been active since the 19th century, and the salt cathedral is considered one of Colombia’s wonders.

BOGOTA

Today, we tour Bogotá, visiting various palaces, Bolívar Square, and the cathedral. Later, we take a funicular up Monserrate Hill (3,152 meters above sea level), which offers an incredible view of Bogotá.

At the top, there is a 17th-century monastery and a neo-Gothic chapel with a famous colonial statue of Christ Falling Under the Cross. In one corner of the chapel, we see a statue of the Black Madonna in a golden dress, holding Jesus in her arms.

BOGOTA - PEREIRA - SALENTO

After breakfast, we fly from Bogotá to Pereira. We then travel to the town of Salento, considered one of the most beautiful in Colombia. Colorful houses with carved wooden balconies, cheerful locals in cowboy hats, shops selling local crafts, and small, charming cafés scented with freshly ground coffee will leave a lasting impression. At Bolívar Square, we can try natural juice made from local fruits such as lulo or visit the viewpoint to look out over the town. Overnight at the hotel.

VALLE DEL COCORA VALLEY

After breakfast, we travel by jeep to talle del Cocora Valley, located in the Central Andes Cordillera. Beautiful views unfold before us. The valley is covered with the national tree of Colombia—the wax palm, which can reach up to 70 meters in height. The wax palms are currently protected. We will take a short hike through the valley.

Overnight at the hotel.

MEDELLIN - GUATAPE

Early in the morning, we fly from Pereira to Medellín to see the famous El Peñol rock, an iconic symbol of Guatapé. During the climb to the top, we will marvel at the unforgettable views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Next, we take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Guatapé, known for the colorful frescoes on the facades of houses. We will explore unique sculptures and decorations that tell the stories of the local community.

In the evening, we enjoy a walk along the pier.

We tour the city associated with Pablo Escobar, the leader of the Medellín drug cartel. In the afternoon, we explore the city center, including San Antonio Square, Las Esculturas Park, the cathedral, the former bullfighting arena, and the financial heart of the city.

We also visit the Comuna 13 neighborhood, once considered the “cradle of Pablo Escobar” and one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the world. In the evening, we have a flight from Medellín to Santa María, followed by check-in at the hotel.

TAYRANA NATIONAL PARK

Today, we travel to Tayrona National Park. In this park, we find the lost city built by the Tayrona people—Pueblito. We will be amazed by the nature of this place and the mirror-like Cabo San Juan beach.

CARTAGENA

Today, we visit Cartagena, often called the “Pearl of the Caribbean.” It’s a free day to relax and enjoy the charm of the city at your own pace.

CARTAGENA

Today, we begin our tour of Cartagena. We visit the Torre del Reloj and Paseo de los Dulces. We then enter the San Pedro de Claver Monastery. Later, we walk to Simón Bolívar Square, where bullfights take place in the past. We see the cathedral and the Inquisition Museum, located in a colonial building with a distinctive coral stone entrance, as well as the fortified San Felipe de Barajas Castle, which protects the city from pirate attacks.

ROSARIO ISLANDS

After breakfast, we take a boat to the Rosario Islands archipelago. Here, we find beautiful beaches with fine sand and clear, blue water. The local coral reefs are home to countless species of fish, dolphins, seahorses, and majestic turtles. We will relax on one of the islands. The beauty of the landscape invites relaxation, but for the more active, there are water sports available. Those interested can have lunch at a local restaurant—the local specialties include coconut rice and fried fish. In the afternoon, we return to the hotel in Cartagena for an overnight stay.

CARTAGENA

After breakfast, there is free time until the transfer to the airport and the return flight home.

If Colombia has stolen your hearts, we invite you to join more trips with Rek Travel Adventure.

How about Thailand this time?