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Colombia Close-Up: Coffee, Culture & Coastlines
From Bogotá's backstreets to Rosario's reefs – 11 days of pure Colombian spirit
Overview
The lowdown
From high-altitude Bogotá to the Caribbean coast, this eleven-day journey through Colombia is all about culture and contrasts. Sip strong café tinto, wander cobbled streets painted with murals and ride cable cars up to sky-high city views. Step underground into the glowing Salt Cathedral, then drop into Medellín’s eternal spring where rooftops glow at sunset and resilience sings through Comuna 13’s art-lined streets. Climb Guatapé for sweeping lake views, then trade mountains for sea breezes as Cartagena’s cobblestones, plazas and salsa rhythms sweep you up. One day you’re exploring fortresses and monasteries, the next you’re barefoot on white sand, hammock swaying between snorkels and seafood feasts in the Rosario Islands. It’s cities, stories, coastlines and colour all rolled into one trip – vibrant, varied and unforgettable. Colombia isn’t a trip you tick off – it’s a country you feel, a country that stays with you long after you leave.
Highlights
The best bits
Boutique Stays, Unbeatable Locations
Sleep in hand-picked four-star hotels – comfy, stylish and smack in the middle of it all. Cafés, streets and sights are steps away. Slumming it? Not on this trip.
Itinerary
The day to day
Day 1
Hello Bogotá
Day 2
Bogotá's Cultural Core
Day 3
Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
Day 4
Bogotá to Medellín
Day 5
Guatapé & El Peñol Rock
Day 6
Medellín Transformation Tour
Day 7
Medellín to Cartagena
Day 8
Fortresses & Old Town Flair
Day 9
Rosario Islands Beach Escape
Day 10
Free Day in Cartagena – Make It Yours
Day 11
Departure Day
Host
The experts
ARRIVAL's Local Legends
We’ve teamed up with the legends on the ground – the local fixers, guides, and magic-makers who make sure your trip runs smoother than a cold beer on a hot day. Think private hosts, behind-the-scenes logistics wizards, and all-round good sorts who bring the place to life while keeping things seamless in the background.
Accommodation
The quarters
Modern comfort meets mountain air in Bogotá’s chic north. Spacious suites with skyline views make it easy to relax, while cafés, parks and murals are just a stroll away – your city launchpad with a view.
Hotel Salvio Curio Collection by Hilton (Bogotá)
Carrera 12, Bogotá, CO
Boutique meets boho in leafy El Poblado. Rooftop cocktails, wellness vibes and luxe touches make it the perfect spot to recharge between city streets, cable cars and colourful barrios.
Hotel Selvario 36 (Medellín)
Carrera 36, Medellín, Med...
Colonial charm with a modern gloss. Lounge by the pool, toast the sunset from the rooftop terrace and step out to wander the walled city – where every street corner hums with colour and rhythm.
Hotel Nacar Curio Collection by Hilton (Cartagena)
Calle Del Curato, Cartage...
Activities
The fun stuff
Step into Bogotá’s colourful heart on a guided walk through cobbled streets, murals and colonial corners. Explore the Gold and Botero Museums, then ride the cable car to Monserrate for sweeping city views.
Bogotá City Tour (La Candelaria, Museums, Monserrate)
Bogotá, CO
Go 180 meters underground into a surreal cathedral carved from salt. Wander glowing tunnels and sacred spaces, guided by a local who brings the cathedral’s history and magic to life.
Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral Tour
Parque De La Sal, Zipaqui...
Conquer the 220m-high El Peñol for breathtaking views over Guatapé, with a lakeside lunch as your reward.
El Peñol Excursion
El Peñol, Peñol, CO
Cruise Guatapé’s shimmering waters, where emerald hills, colourful islands and hidden coves make every turn feel like a postcard.
Guatapé Reservoir Cruise
Guatapé, Guatapé, CO
Ride the Metrocable over hillside barrios, meet locals who lived the story and follow street art that maps the city’s phoenix-like transformation. Expect music, murals and snack stops along the way.
Medellín Transformation Tour
Medellín, Medellin, CO
Step through Cartagena’s history with an expert local guide – colonial forts, churches and the walled city’s narrow streets come alive with stories and Caribbean charm.
Cartagena City Tour
Cartagena Province, CO
Swap cobblestones for turquoise waters. Snorkel coral reefs, laze on white-sand beaches and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch on Majagua Island – a full-day escape from city life.
Rosario Islands Boat Trip
Rosario Islands, Bolivar,...
Fine Print
The small stuff
Cancel 65+ days out for a 70% refund. Within 64 days, we’ve locked in logistics, so no refund can be offered. Thanks for understanding – it keeps things running smooth for everyone.