“To travel is to live” – Hans Christian Andersen
Colombia awaits you!
Your itinerary
Bogotá
Four Seasons Casa Medina
The beautiful Four Seasons Casa Medina was the creative vision of Santiago Medina Mejia, a Paris-educated artist and architect from Medellin. He salvaged local architectural treasures, such as stone columns and hand-carved wooden doors from two recently demolished colonial convents, to create was declared a monument by the country’s Ministry of Culture in the 1980s.
The hotel features 62 rooms and suites, where beamed ceilings and aged leather accents coupled with fresh, contemporary touches making them a sophisticated blend of old and new.
The hotel has two restaurants; the lively La Bodega that focuses on tapas and Colombian coffee, and Castanyoles Raciones y Tapas, where guests chave the option to dine in the beautiful glass atrium with Spanish tiles, living walls and drop lights.
There is also a gym and a spa with treatment rooms, relaxation room and steam room.
Hike at Chingaza National Park
Get ready for a day out of the city to discover the beautiful countryside close to Bogota.
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to Chingaza National Park to begin your hike - the drive takes around 1.5 hours each way. The virgin Andean forests, tundras and moorland ecosystems, which are havens for majestic fauna and flora, such as frailejones are the perfect setting for a beautiful hike. The National Park is the natural habitat of rare species such as the spectacled bears, deer, paramo tapirs, pumas and Andean condors, if you're lucky you can spot them as you wander these beautiful landscapes. Your hike today will take between 2 and 4 hours, based on your activity levels and interests. Please wear sturdy shoes for walking and a rain jacket - it can rain and feel chilly, and the conditions can change quickly.
Paloquemao market
Early in the morning you will experience the excitement of the largest market of Bogota. Discover Paloquemao and its vast and colourful array of fruits, vegetables and flowers. This is where chefs and locals come to shop for some of the best ingredients in the city. Step off the tourist trail and meet friendly vendors, learn about traditional cuisine and enjoy tasting exotic fruits from Colombia’s most remote regions.
History and politics tour
Walk through the winding streets of La Candelaria and surrounding neighbourhoods with your local expert, who will offer fascinating stories behind the cobblestone streets, houses, plazas and cathedrals of this neighbourhood. Passing by government buildings, the iconic Plaza Bolivar, and the city centre's impactful street art, get insight into Colombia’s difficult past and the recent political and economic revival as told through the stories of the murals.
Colombian Amazon
A driver and English-speaking host will be waiting at the airport to accompany you to your lodge.
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Calanoa Amazonas
The Calanoa Jungle Lodge is nestled into the rich, lush jungle of the Colombian Rainforest. This lodge is a unique space situated on 50 hectares of private jungle on the Calanoa Natural Reserve in the heart of the Amazon forest. Despite feeling like you’re in the middle of nowhere the lodge is surprisingly easy to access with many activities and expert guides on offer.
This pretty boutique property has only seven intimate cabins, all designed to be completely intune with their surroundings. There are three riverfront cabins which feature two floors, a private bathroom and a private deck overlooking the Amazon River. The junior suite has wonderful river views and is designed to feel like a typical boat that would float down the Amazon river. The master cabin has three levels, an internal garden, a private bathroom and a large deck overlooking the jungle.The tree cabin features two separate one level suites, each with a private bathroom and a queen size bed. The treetop views will make you feel as if you're suspended in the middle of the forest, waking up surrounded by birds, butterflies, and monkeys.
Tikuna indigenous community
After breakfast, visit the indigenous community Tikuna. Meet members of the community and learn about their daily life and dependence on the river and jungle.
Take a hike through the Calanoa Natural Reserve to the Matamata creek, on the limit of the Amacayacu National Park. Along the way you will be able to catch a glance of exotic fauna and walk on pathways with medicinal plants. If the water level allows it, return to the Eco lodge navigating the canopy of the forest through the Amazon river in a canoe.
Calanoa: Mocagua
Spend the morning visiting the Mocagua island, where you will admire their artwork and the murals that have been painted to adorn their homes. Hike through the traditional fields and the forest of the southern part of the Amacayacu Park.
At sunset, go in search of the world-famous pink dolphin. Calanoa has a unique spot where dolphin watching is extra special! Enjoy an Amazonian sunset on the river.
Los Llanos
This transfer takes approximately three hours, with 1,5 hours on unpaved roads. You will have a Spanish-speaking driver.
Savanna Orinoquia Lodge
Nestled on the banks of the Cravo Sur river and surrounded by nature is the Savanna Orino Lodge. A rustic style lodge in-keeping with its tranquil surroundings.
The lodge offers several private bungalows dotted around the grounds with views out over the river and surrounding wilderness.
The lodge takes pride in its dining choices and focuses on healthy, organic and local dishes served daily in the restaurant. Wellness is another important focus here and there’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy yoga on the deck watching the sunrise or during the evenings when the temperature has cooled.
Your stay here includes a broad variety of different activities.
Horseback riding - Spend the afternoon riding with a local llanero cowboy. Experience the essence of the llanero riding culture and explore the most inaccessible and natural parts of the reserve. This two-hour experience includes the horse, guide, hydration, helmet and rain poncho.
Birdwatching - Head out in the morning with your local guide. Spanish speaking guide.
River wildlife expedition - On-board a bongo, a traditional canoe, silently explore the Cravo Sur to catch better sightings of animals and birds without disturbing them.
the expedition lasts up to four hours but it can be split into two shorter two-hour experiences.
Nature walks - You can enjoy a four-hour nature walk, or split it into two shorter two-hour walks.
Bonfire - Enjoy a bonfire by the river during the amazing llanero sunset.
Barichara
- A driver and English-speaking host will be waiting at the airport to accompany guests to the hotel. Approx 4 hour drive
Casa Yahri
A beautiful private villa in the charming hilltop town of Barichara. Bright bouganvilla, authentic terracotta tiling, Colombian prints and wonderful views. Enjoy authentic Colombian living in luxury with your beautiful outdoor swimming pool and attentive local housekeeping.
Barichara Chronicles
- Private tour
Explore the picturesque streets of Barichara as your expert guide recounts the curious and fascinating stories of this traditional Colombian town. Furthermore, meet fascinating locals along the way who have lived in this beautiful town since birth.
Traditional food tasting
Along with a local chef try the top-pick of Barichara's traditional food and discover an infinite variety of flavours. Step off the tourist trail and meet friendly locals. Your chef will give you interesting facts about Santander's cuisine and how the culture has influenced food through time.
From Farm to Table
- Approx 3 hours
Alongside a local expert you will get to visit small local farms who produce goats cheese, avocados, local tamales, pineapples and many other delicious products depending on what’s in season at the time of your visit. You’ll learn about the farming practices in these remote hills, learn about the way of life of the farmers and their families and finish with a tasty lunch at a boho chic restaurant that sources all its ingredients from local producers.
- Private transfer approx 4 hours
Cartagena
Ananda Boutique Hotel
Ananda is an ancient Sanskrit word that means a state of deep satisfaction and happiness, and and a stay at this boutique hotel in the heart of Cartagena is sure to evoke such feelings.
The building dates from the 1700s and stone walls and archways and beautiful tiled floors give it plenty of old-world charm. There are 23 bright and spacious rooms, most of which look out over the courtyard. Dark wooden ceiling beams and furniture are complimented by crisp white linens and flashes of colour from the fabrics and furnishings. Some of the larger suites comes with private terraces overlooking the street.
Enjoy contemporary cuisine in the sophisticated restaurant, or choose to enjoy the warm Colombian evenings and dine on the terrace. There is an outdoor pool as well as a rooftop terrace with a Jacuzzi and day beds perfect for relaxing and enjoying a drink while gazing out across the rooftops.
You're ideally situated to explore the city, within walking distance of the main sights, galleries and restaurants. Just a few blocks from Santo Domingo Square, this is the perfect bolthole from which to discover this beautiful place.
Getsemani like a local
Head to the vibrant barrio of Getsemani, one of the most colourful and artistic neighbourhoods in Cartagena. Still a part of the historic walled city, this area has been less influenced by urban development experienced in other areas of the city, ensuring that the local ways of life and typical traditions still remain preserved. You'll explore the the colourful streets and experience this barrio just like the locals, as you come to better understand the social resistance visible in elements such as Getsemani's street art.
Caribbean cooking class
A local chef will teach you how to make some of Cartagena's most typical dishes such as ceviche, seafood soup in coconut milk and white wine, coconut rice, plantain chips and a few other Colombian secrets. The menu can be designed based on your preferences. The classes take place at a private house in the old city.
NOTE: Menu can be adapted for cooking with children. Please let us know of any dietary requirements or allergies.
Tayrona Region
Approx 5 hours
Reserva One Love
Reserva One Love is nestled on the banks of the Magdalena River within 80 hectares of tropical rainforest. This is the perfect place to switch off and enjoy the flora and fauna of the Sierra Nevada region of northern Colombia.
There are five circular cabanas with thatched palapa roofs. Rooms feature large beds with mosquito nets, air conditioning and fans and a separate bathroom with outdoor shower. Outside each cabana there is a small cold water Jacuzzi and hammocks. In the rooms and throughout the reserve, you’ll find colourful handicrafts made by the local indigenous tribes, including the Kogi, Arahuacos, Kankuamos and Wiwa tribes.
Beautiful gardens surround the property where herbs, vegetables and fruit are grown and used in the kitchen to create delicious and beautifully presented food – this really is one of the highlights of a stay at One Love. The main lounge area is where you will enjoy your meals and is a lovely place to relax with birds flitting through the trees and a fire pit which is lit at night. It is a short walk to the cabanas and the pathways are lit by torches.
A short walk brings you down to the sandy river bank where sun loungers can be set up and you can lay back and relax, take a dip in the water and listen to the sounds of howler monkeys in the distance. Tubing and boat trips along the river can be arranged, as well as day trips to nearby Tayrona National Park.
Don Diego river safari
- Option to kayak or river tube
Take a private transfer to the Don Diego river. After a 15-minute trek up a lush mountain, you will arrive at the river bank from where you will float down a crystalline river all the way down to the ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds, howler monkeys and small caymans which are harmless and very shy.
Tayrona's secret bays
- Private tour - includes snorkelling equipment and picnic lunch
Depart from Santa Marta aboard your private yacht and discover the real white sand beaches of Tayrona National Park. Together with an English-speaking host, you will skip the crowds and discover deserted bays such as Cinto, Chengue and Neguanje. Your yacht will be equipped with snorkel equipment to swim with the marine life, plus stocked with a picnic lunch and fresh juice. Request our Snacks and Drinks menu to find your selection of wines, beers, liquors, and snacks when you board the boat. Please note that the tide can be a little rough when approaching the bays, but once passed the waters it's very calm.
- End at Santa Marta international airport
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
- Private transfer approx 2-3 hours
Casa Oropéndola
High up in the cloud forest in a private house with your own chef and host, how you choose to spend your time is up to you. There are lots of hikes that start from the house, fantastic birdwatching opportunities and horse riding. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included and you can join the chef in the kitchen if you want to pick up some Colombian cooking tips. Casa Oropéndola's terrace overlooks the forest, the town of Sierra Nevada and the ocean and the sunsets here are epic.
Bogotá
Four Seasons Casa Medina
The beautiful Four Seasons Casa Medina was the creative vision of Santiago Medina Mejia, a Paris-educated artist and architect from Medellin. He salvaged local architectural treasures, such as stone columns and hand-carved wooden doors from two recently demolished colonial convents, to create was declared a monument by the country’s Ministry of Culture in the 1980s.
The hotel features 62 rooms and suites, where beamed ceilings and aged leather accents coupled with fresh, contemporary touches making them a sophisticated blend of old and new.
The hotel has two restaurants; the lively La Bodega that focuses on tapas and Colombian coffee, and Castanyoles Raciones y Tapas, where guests chave the option to dine in the beautiful glass atrium with Spanish tiles, living walls and drop lights.
There is also a gym and a spa with treatment rooms, relaxation room and steam room.
Schedule at a glance
Get in touch with Jennifer
Discovering beautiful Colombia!
To finalise your trip we'll need to take a deposit so that we can secure your bookings. Final balance for the trip will usually be due ten weeks before travel to ensure that everything is ready and paid up before your arrival. We will confirm this with you before you make your booking.
If you have any questions or would like to confirm your trip
Print Your Itinerary
Why book with Jacada?
Our travel designers are constantly travelling to keep up-to-date on places and hotels, meet the guides, and scout out new experiences.
A personal concierge before and during your trip, alongside a 24-hour helpline when you're travelling.
Special perks and surprises along the way. Our insider knowledge also means we can swing upgrades, VIP access and last-minute availability.
About your Travel Designer
Latin America has always ignited my curiosity. Past adventures have allowed me to brave the Pacific waters swimming with white-tip reef sharks in the Galápagos; sleep under canvas in a remote Mayan village in the Guatemalan jungle, take the unforgettable trek along the Inca Trail to the ruins of Machu Picchu Citadel, cross the Drakes Passage to reach Antarctica and spot whales, penguins and Albatross.
Your Itinerary
Schedule at a glance
Get in touch with Jennifer
By phone on +1 646-844-4082
To finalise your trip we'll need to take a deposit so that we can secure your bookings. Final balance for the trip will usually be due ten weeks before travel to ensure that everything is ready and paid up before your arrival. We will confirm this with you before you make your booking.
Why Book with Jacada?
Our travel designers are constantly travelling to keep up-to-date on places and hotels, meet the guides, and scout out new experiences.
A personal concierge before and during your trip, alongside a 24-hour helpline when you're travelling.
Special perks and surprises along the way. Our insider knowledge also means we can swing upgrades, VIP access and last-minute availability.
About your Travel Designer
Latin America has always ignited my curiosity. Past adventures have allowed me to brave the Pacific waters swimming with white-tip reef sharks in the Galápagos; sleep under canvas in a remote Mayan village in the Guatemalan jungle, take the unforgettable trek along the Inca Trail to the ruins of Machu Picchu Citadel, cross the Drakes Passage to reach Antarctica and spot whales, penguins and Albatross.