Colombia Active

Head out on a half-day trek in La Periquera Ecological Park, situated near the charming town of Villa de Leyva. Spanning approximately 250 acres, this natural sanctuary boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Head down well-marked trails with your private guide, all while marveling at impressive rock formations, crystalline streams, colorful birds and butterflies, and lush greenery. Finally, spend time admiring the park’s crown jewel, the magnificent La Periquera waterfall.

Fly to Armenia, in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region. Many Colombians consider this region the heart and soul of their country; here, rural life continues as it has for centuries, based on harvesting coffee, plantains, and other fruits. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel, a countryside hacienda.

Head to the La Vieja River, where you will set out to experience the coffee region from a unique perspective. Cruise downstream on a bamboo raft, looking for wildlife along the riverbanks. This area is especially abundant in bird life. Afterward see coffee country from the sky during a zip line adventure in Caracolies, flying over coffee fields and between plantation trees.

Drive into the Cocora Valley, part of Los Nevados National Park and one of the few natural habitats of the magnificent Wax Palm, the national symbol of Colombia. Stop to sample some rich Colombian coffee in Filandia, a traditional pueblo filled with brightly painted houses. Here you will learn about the culture and people of the region and how small villages like Filandia form the backbone of rural agricultural life.

Continue further into the valley, passing through rolling mountain scenery. The area has been declared a natural monument to protect the Wax Palms, and is full of lush vegetation. Enter Salento, a picturesque town ringed by distant snowcapped mountains and boasting fine houses with a traditional architectural style. Finish your tour with another taste of local coffee at Café Jesus Martin, where you will learn the art of decorating latte foam.

Fly over the rolling hills of coffee country out to Santa Marta, the oldest town in Colombia. The small city boasts a privileged location, neighboring the Sierra Nevada and Tayrona National Park and the popular fishing village of Taganga. The beaches are clean and wide, and the town has a relaxed, Caribbean feeling. Transfer into Tayrona National Park, an idyllic coastal nature preserve with pristine Caribbean beaches backed by jungle-clad mountains.

Enjoy this day visit to Tayronaka Archaeological Park, which provides a unique insight into the ancient civilizations that existed before the arrival of the Spanish. With your private guide, learn about how they connect to the indigenous communities of modern Colombia. The day begins with a 15-minute boat ride to the nearly 2,000-year-old ruins. From here, wander through the museum brimming with artifacts, then have a hearty lunch consisting of tasty traditional cuisines, surrounded by lush gardens. After lunch, you’ll go on a gentle tubing trip down the river while searching for local wildlife and birdlife, and potentially, snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Enjoy a scenic private transfer to the historic walled city of Cartagena. Founded in 1533, Cartagena was once the primary Caribbean port for Spanish explorers, who would store plundered riches in the city. Due to this activity, the city was a frequent target for attacks by pirates and buccaneers, including England’s Sir Francis Drake. After Drake’s attack in 1586, the city’s famous walls and fortifications were constructed (over the course of 200 years), and still stand today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Walk the captivating city of Cartagena with your local guide. The city has a colorful history of piracy and treasure, and combines fascinating elements of African, indigenous, and European cultures, creating a unique atmosphere unlike any other city in the world. Your tour will take you through the old town under the Puerta Del Reloj (Clock tower gate), an iconic symbol of Cartagena, into the Plaza de los Coches. Your guide will share the city’s fascinating history and legends with you as you continue into the Plaza San Pedro Claver and Plaza Bolivar, ending with a visit to the San Felipe Fortress.

Relax and explore the city at your leisure, or let us arrange another excursion in the area, such as a boat trip to the Rosario Islands or a salsa lesson with a local teacher.

Today you will say goodbye to your local guide and head to the airport for your flight home or to your next destination.