Upon arrival in Bogotá, we’ll be picked up at the airport and transferred to our hotel located in the charming colonial district of La Candelaria (private transfer by Spanish-speaking driver). After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to relax or begin exploring at your own pace. As Colombia’s vibrant capital, Bogotá was founded in 1538 by Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada and has since evolved into the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country, playing a central role in Colombia’s independence and modern development.

Overnight: Hotel Casa Deco (Standard Room), Bogota (1 night)

We awaken in Bogotá and join our English-speaking guide for a private tour exploring the city’s highlights. We ascend Monserrate, a sacred mountain and pilgrimage site since the 17th century, for sweeping views of the capital. We wander the cobbled streets of La Candelaria, Bogotá’s colonial heart, and visit either the Gold Museum, with its unrivaled collection of over 55,000 pre-Hispanic treasures, or the whimsical Botero Museum. After a lunch of traditional Colombian cuisine, we return to our hotel.

After some time to relax, we are picked up at our hotel for our private transfer to Villa de Layva. On the way, we stop at the remarkable Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá (unguided visit), carved 180 meters underground from a former salt mine and hailed as Colombia’s “First Wonder.” This awe-inspiring monument of faith and engineering dazzles with its illuminated chambers and towering crosses.

By evening, we arrive in the colonial gem of Villa de Leyva, founded in 1572 and known for its vast cobblestone plaza and timeless whitewashed streets. The evening is ours to enjoy at leisure in this beautifully preserved town.

Overnight: Hotel Campanario de la Villa (Standard Double), Villa de Leyva (1 night) (B, L)

This morning, we set out on a walking tour of Villa de Leyva with English-speaking guide, one of Colombia’s best-preserved colonial towns. We stroll across the vast Plaza Mayor, one of the largest cobblestone squares in South America, framed by whitewashed buildings and centuries-old churches such as the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, founded in 1604. Along the way, we admire the timeless streets and courtyards that make this town a National Monument.

After lunch, we check out and embark on a scenic five-hour drive to Barichara (with Spanish-speaking drive), often described as Colombia’s most beautiful village. Its golden sandstone architecture and peaceful cobblestone lanes exude a sense of frozen-in-time charm.

By evening, we arrive and settle into our hotel, with free time to wander Barichara’s tranquil streets at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Hicasua (Standard Room), Barichara (2 nights) (B)

After breakfast, we embark on a moderate 6-kilometer guided hike along the Camino Real, a stone-paved trail originally built by the Guane people and later expanded in the colonial era, with English-speaking guide. This historic path winds through rolling hills and spectacular landscapes as we make our way to the quiet village of Guane, known for its archaeological museum and timeless charm. From here, we return to Barichara by vehicle. For those not interested in hiking, we can also arrange other optional activities (at additional cost).

In the afternoon, we explore Barichara on a walking guided city tour. Founded in 1705, this colonial gem enchants with its golden sandstone buildings, whitewashed walls, and flower-filled balconies, all preserved as part of Colombia’s National Heritage.

The evening is free to enjoy Barichara at our own pace, whether strolling its cobblestone streets or relaxing at our hotel. (B)

After breakfast and check-out, we head to Chicamocha Park for a thrilling cable car ride over the breathtaking Chicamocha Canyon, one of Colombia’s most iconic natural landmarks and a symbol of the country’s dramatic Andean landscapes (Spanish-speaking driver, unguided). Spanning the vast canyon, the ride offers stunning views of rugged cliffs, winding rivers, and lush scenery below – a truly unforgettable experience.

Once across the canyon, our driver meets us for the transfer to Bucaramanga airport for our flight to Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city and a hub of innovation, culture, and history. Upon arrival, we check in and enjoy the evening at leisure. You may want to take the time to experience some of Medellin’s vibrant restaurants.

Overnight: Diez Hotel, Medellin (3 nights) (B)

After breakfast, we explore Comuna 3 – Manrique, a neighborhood known for its vibrant murals and cultural heritage. Once marginalized, it is now a hub of artistic expression, highlighted by the Macro Mural, one of Latin America’s largest, spanning 35,000 square meters. Be guided through its streets to see firsthand Medellin’s incredible transformation.

Next, we visit Plaza Botero, an open-air museum featuring 23 larger-than-life bronze sculptures by Fernando Botero, celebrating his iconic style and Medellín’s dedication to art. The day concludes with a scenic descent on the Metro Cable, offering panoramic views of the city, before transferring back to the hotel with the rest of the day free. (B)

After breakfast, we enjoy a full day at leisure in Medellín, taking time to explore the city at our own pace. Or, pre-book the following optional tour via Bestway (contact for pricing).

OPTIONAL: El Peñol Panoramas & Guatapé Village Colours
Visit the towering El Peñol rock, a massive granite monolith offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and lush countryside. From here, we continue to the charming village of Guatapé, renowned for its brightly painted zócalos depicting local history and culture, winding streets, and vibrant waterfront—an iconic example of Colombia’s colourful heritage. (B)

After breakfast at our hotel in Medellín, we check out and transfer to the airport for our flight to Pereira (Spanish-speaking driver). From there, we’ll drive about an hour to the historic coffee village of Salento (Spanish-speaking driver), one of Colombia’s oldest settlements in the Quindío region, renowned for its role in the country’s coffee culture. After checking in, the afternoon is at leisure to explore the village’s traditional wooden balconies and tiled rooftops, visit artisan shops and coffee farms, or stroll through the central plaza to experience the rhythms of local life and the legacy of Colombia’s coffee-growing heritage.

Overnight: Hotel Salento Real, Salento (2 nights) (B)

After breakfast, we embark on a moderate morning hike with English-speaking guide through the breathtaking Cocora Valley, a UNESCO-recognized natural treasure in Colombia, famous for its soaring wax palms—the tallest in the world—which tower over misty hills and cloud forests. Alternate activities available for those no interested in hiking, please inquire. In the afternoon, we visit a traditional coffee finca, where we experience the full journey of Colombia’s iconic coffee: smelling the freshest roasted beans, learning the art of coffee tasting, and gaining insight into cultivation and harvesting techniques that have sustained the region’s communities for generations. We return to our hotel in the evening, with time to relax and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences. (B)

We enjoy a final breakfast in Salento before checking out and meeting our private Spanish-speaking driver for the transfer to the airport in Pereira. From here, we take a domestic flight across the country to Santa Marta, a city of immense historical and cultural importance as the first Spanish settlement in Colombia and the gateway to the sacred ancestral lands of the Sierra Nevada.

Upon arrival, a private Spanish-speaking driver will meet us for the transfer into the historic center. After checking into the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure. You might choose to stroll through the colonial streets as they come alive in the evening or find a spot near the marina to watch the sunset over the water.

Overnight: Hotel AC by Marriott, Santa Marta (1 night) (B)

After breakfast, we enjoy a free morning in Santa Marta to explore the local markets or visit the gold museum. You may also choose an optional visit to the indigenous village of Mulkwakungui to learn about the traditions of the Kogui people (contact Bestway for more details & cost).

OPTIONAL: Indigenous village of Mulkwakungul
This immersive cultural journey takes us into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to Mulkwakungui, a Kogui settlement that serves as a powerful symbol of peace and community resilience. Accompanied by a private guide, we explore how this region has transformed from a site of conflict into a harmonious landscape where indigenous Kogui, Arhuaco, and local farmers live and educate their children together. The experience begins with a mindful crossing of a mountain stream before an intimate encounter with a Mamo (spiritual leader), where we learn about ancestral traditions, ceremonial architecture, and the sacred significance of local crops like cotton and cocoa. After a relaxed local lunch in the nearby village of Quebrada del Sol, we conclude the day with a deeper understanding of the "Elder Brothers'" connection to the Earth before continuing our journey to the coastal wilderness of Tayrona National Park.
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Following check-out, our private Spanish-speaking driver takes us on a scenic coastal drive to Tayrona National Park. As one of Colombia’s most iconic natural treasures, Tayrona is a stunning meeting point of dense tropical jungle and pristine Caribbean beaches, revered for its deep spiritual significance to the region’s indigenous groups and its incredible biodiversity. Visitors are drawn here for the chance to disconnect in a landscape where wild, boulder-strewn coastlines remain largely untouched.

We check into the EcoHabs, unique accommodations inspired by ancient Tayrona architecture that offer a seamless blend of comfort and nature. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax by the sea or wander the forest trails, with the option to enjoy a fresh, a la carte dinner at the EcoHabs restaurant as the sun sets (at additional cost).

Overnight: EcoHabs, Tayrona National Park (2 nights) (B)

After breakfast, enjoy the day at leisure to explore spectacular Tayrona National Park. Sample some of the various hiking trails through the tropical rainforest or along the coast to beaches further afield, with the chance to spot exotic wildlife. La Piscina, great for swimming and snorkeling, is accessible by a moderate hike, while the trail to Cabo San Juan ends at one of the park’s most picturesque beaches. (B)

We are met this morning by our Spanish-speaking driver for our transfer to Mompox, one of Colombia’s best preserved colonial towns. En route, we stop at the port of Pueblo Viejo, where we will have experience a special Colombian treasure—a visit to one of the region’s three remaining traditional stilt villages, Nueva Venecia. We will embark on a motorized boat (chalupa) with a private English-speaking guide, with the chance to observe locals and wildlife as we make our way across the waters. In Nueva Venecia, we explore this unique village, see a cultural performance, and are treated to a regional lunch. We continue on to Mompox with our Spanish-speaking driver. Our evening is free.

After breakfast, Enjoy the day at leisure to explore spectacular Tayrona National Park. Sample some of the various hiking trails through the tropical rainforest or along the coast to beaches further afield, with the chance to spot exotic wildlife. La Piscina, great for swimming and snorkeling, is accessible by a moderate hike, while trail to Cabo San Juan ends at one of the park’s most picturesque beaches.

Overnight: Hotel San Rafael, Mompox (2 nights) (B, L)

After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on a walking tour of Mompox (entrance included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved colonial character. Wandering along cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses and wrought-iron balconies, we visit historic churches, plazas, and artisan workshops while learning about the town’s role as a vital Magdalena River port and its contribution to Colombia’s independence. In the afternoon, we venture beyond the town by private boat to the Ciénaga de Pijiño, navigating its tranquil mangrove channels in search of birdlife, reptiles, and other native species, with insightful commentary from our guide. As we return, the day concludes with a memorable sunset over the Magdalena River, before arriving back at the hotel for an evening at leisure. (B)

Enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure in Mompox, taking in the quiet rhythm of this historic riverside town. We then check out and begin our private transfer to Cartagena de Indias, a journey of approximately 5.5 hours with a Spanish-speaking driver. Upon arrival, we check in to our hotel in the walled colonial old town, where colourful facades and lively plazas set the scene. The evening is at leisure to explore at our own pace—perhaps dining at one of the many excellent local restaurants or strolling through the atmospheric streets as music and warm Caribbean breezes fill the air.

Overnight: Hotel Nacar by Hilton, Cartagena (B)

Discover the best of Cartagena, one of Latin America’s most historically significant port cities, serving as a key hub of Spanish colonial trade and defense, and today stands as a UNESCO-listed showcase of well-preserved architecture and Caribbean culture. Our first stop is the hilltop Convent of La Popa, offering sweeping panoramic views over the city and coastline. We then continue to the impressive San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, the largest Spanish-built stronghold in South America, where we explore its tunnels and learn about its strategic role and the legacy of Don Blas de Lezo. The tour concludes in the historic center, where we stroll through lively streets and plazas as our guide shares stories of Cartagena’s colonial past, including tales of pirates and trade. We return to the hotel afterward, with the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Our day is free to discover the flavours and experiences of this iconic coastal city, or arrange an optional add-on tour through Bestway, such as island hopping to the Rosario Islands, a hands-on cooking class with a market visit to explore Colombian flavours, a guided rum tasting experience, or lively salsa classes. Contact Bestway for further information, or to pre-book. (B)

After breakfast, we check out from our hotel at the appropriate time, and are transferred to the airport for our departure flight. Or, perhaps you want to continue your Bestway adventure with add-ons in Ecuador and the Galapagos, or Peru — Contact Bestway for details! (B)