Classic Colombia - 16 days

Classic Colombia - 16 days

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16 Days From

$4345

Classic Colombia - 16 days

16 Days Starting in Bogota and ending in Cartagena

Visiting: Bogota, San Agustin, Popayan, Armenia, Santa Marta, Mompos, Cartagena

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

2053/CCOL

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 20

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:

English
From: $4345

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 16-day journey through Colombia, exploring its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Begin in Bogota with a guided tour of the capital's historic sites and the renowned Gold Museum. Venture to San Agustin to marvel at ancient statues in the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park. Discover the lush Coffee Triangle, learning about coffee production in Armenia, and hike among towering wax palms in the Cocora Valley. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cartagena's Old Town and the serene beauty of Tayrona National Park. Visit the birthplace of Gabriel Garcia Marquez in Aracataca and enjoy a wildlife-rich boat trip along the Magdalena River in Mompos. With seamless domestic flights and comfortable accommodations, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Colombia's diverse wonders.

Highlights

  • Bogota - Take in the highlights of Colombia’s capital city on a guided tour.

  • San Agustin - Visit the UNESCO Listed San Agustin Archaeological Park with its fascinating statues.

  • Tayrona National Park – Follow tropical trails through this dazzling national park, once home to the Tayrona Indians.

  • Cartagena - Stroll around the beautiful Old Town and soak up the atmosphere of Colombia's most captivating coastal town.

  • The Coffee Triangle – Learn about coffee farming at a local ranch in Armenia.

  • Mompos - Take a boat trip along the Magdalena River, spotting wildlife along the riverbanks.

  • Aracataca - Learn about the famous Latin American writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez who was born in the town.

  • Cocora Valley – Take a hike in the home of Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm, the tallest variety of palm tree in the world.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Bogota

Location: Bogota

Saturday. Hola Colombia! Upon arrival at Bogota airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon we embark on a guided tour through the city's cobbled streets, passing through the fascinating colonial area of Candelaria with its fine historical buildings, including churches and the presidential palace. Then we visit the Botero museum where we see the art and sculptures of Colombia’s most famous artist. Our final stop is the city's famous Gold Museum which houses more than 50,000 pieces of gold.





Please note: we recommend booking flights to arrive into Bogota before midday, in order to join the city tour which usually starts at approximately 2pm. Pre tour accommodation can be arranged upon request.

Day 2: Bogota

Location: Bogota

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is free to spend at leisure or there are some optional excursions in and around Bogota on offer including a visit to the picturesque La Sabana countryside to the centuries-old Zipaquira salt mine - which lies 200 meters beneath the earth and houses the salt cathedral whose pillars and walls are made from the gleaming salt from the mines. The excursion continues to the Guatavita Lagoon, where there is a hike to the crater-lake‘s rim for amazing views of the surroundings.

Day 3: San Agustin

Location: San Agustin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bogota - San Agustin. After breakfast we’re transferred to the airport for a quick one-hour flight to Neiva. We then continue our journey with a 4-hour drive through emerald green hills and coffee plantations until we reach the town of San Agustin. This pretty little town, which was once the neutral ground used to trade and worship by Magdalena and Cauca indigenous cultures, is our base for the next three nights. The town is home to attractive colonial houses and churches, cobbled streets and shady plazas.

Day 4: San Agustin

Location: San Agustin

Meals Included: Breakfast

We spend our day exploring the remarkable San Agustin archaeological park, which is home to over 100 statues, some of which date back to 3,300 BC. Alongside the statues are the burial houses which were used to make human sacrifices and offerings to the gods. We spend some time marveling at the beauty of the countryside and have the opportunity to hike into the surrounding area, to the Fuente de Lavapatas, a fountain set on a bed of carved rocks in the creek.

Day 5: San Agustin

Location: San Agustin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we enjoy an excursion to the Magdalena Canyon passing through sugar plantations and steep gorges. We have time to explore the canyon and see the huge figures caved into the rocks of the canyons walls, with some free-standing stones sculpted into animals while the river crashes below us.

Day 6: Popayan

Location: Popayan

Meals Included: Breakfast

San Agustin - Popayan. This morning finds us driving through rugged hills until we descend to the university town of Popayan, a stately colonial town often referred to as the ‘White City’ due to the abundance of white-walled buildings and cathedral in the centre. The city was founded in 1537 by the Spanish Conquistador Sebastian de Belalcazar and played an important role in colonial times as a rest stop for the miners transporting the gold between Lima, Quito and Cartagena before it was sent to Spain. In March 1983 an earthquake shook the city, caving in the cathedral roof which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people, and despite other earthquakes since then the city has maintained its charm and character. We spend the night at leisure.

Day 7-9: Armenia

Location: Armenia

Meals Included: Breakfast

Popayan - Armenia. From Popayan it's a 5-hour drive to the heart of the coffee region where we spend three days relaxing and walking along the trails of colourful flora, fauna and fresh coffee. On arrival there is a guided tour of a local farm where we gain insight into the regions agriculture and learn about fruit and coffee production including the picking, de-pulping, washing, drying and roasting of the beans.





Day 8 will be spent driving to the traditional village of Salento, where we have free time to wander through the streets and admire the houses adorned with balconies bursting with flowers, and sit back and bask in the view of the Cordillera Central mountain range emerging from behind the buildings. The afternoon finds us heading east of Salento to the beautiful nature reserve of Valle de la Cocora, home of Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm which grows over 3000m. We follow the well market path to the top of the valley for views of mountains’ foothills.





On the last day in the region there is an optional visit to the Botanical Gardens at Calarca and follow the series of natural trails, passing tropical flowers until we reach the insect museum and enclosed butterfly garden. Alternatively, there is the option to explore the surrounding areas on a horse-riding excursion.

Day 10-11: Santa Marta

Location: Santa Marta

Meals Included: Breakfast

Armenia - Santa Marta. Flying via Bogota we arrive at the oldest city in Colombia and the first one settled by the Spanish, Santa Marta, which is our base for the next two nights. The city has an important historical centre and a beautiful old town, and it is most famous for being the birthplace of the great liberator Simon Bolivar. We spend the rest of the evening at leisure exploring the city.





On day 11 we embark on an excursion to the beautiful Tayrona National Park, which was once home to the indigenous Tayrona Indians and has some of the best coastline on the continent. Tayrona is perfect for a spot of escapism. We have the day here to follow the tree-covered trails through the tropical forest, with monkeys swinging above our heads, until we reach the secluded beaches where roads and cars have no access. You can snorkel in the reefs, visit some of the local villages in the nearby mountains or hike through the dense rainforest, stumbling across ancient pre-Columbian ruins reclaimed by the jungle.

Day 12-13: Mompos

Location: Mompos

Meals Included: Breakfast

Santa Marta - Mompos. We board our bus this morning and make our way to the provincial town of Aracataca, the famous birth place of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, one of Latin America’s most famous writers. Born in the town in 1927, his family home is now a museum and we take some time to follow in the footsteps of this iconic writer.





Our afternoon journey continues past banana and palm oil plantations until we reach the 16th century town of Mompos. Situated on the eastern banks of the Magdalena River the town resembles something out of one of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s novels, with the whitewashed colonial mansions and buildings which were once home to Spanish merchants, who used the town as a stopping off point on the trade route to Cartagena. The rest of the day is at leisure.





On day 13 we embark on a boat trip along the banks of the wildlife-rich Magdalena River, which is home to cormorants, white heron and iguanas. Our last night in Mompos is at leisure.

Day 14: Cartagena

Location: Cartagena

Meals Included: Breakfast

Mompos - Cartagena. Today we travel back to the Caribbean coast and the famous city of Cartagena. Our final destination, is one of the most interesting colonial towns on the continent. On arrival we have the rest of the day to wander the streets of the city and soak up the mix of Caribbean and African influences. There are several interesting sites to see such as Castillo San Felipe and the fortress on San Lazaro hill. Beneath this fortress is a maze of tunnels and there are still cannons in place along the battlements. Also worthwhile is a trip up La Popa hill to visit the colourful convent with great views over the city. The Boca Grande area of Cartagena is where Colombians come for their beach holidays and it is full of shops, nightclubs and bars. Near Cartagena is the Volcan de Lodo El Totumo, a mud volcano where you can relax and wallow in the mud, which is believed to be a good treatment for the skin.

Day 15: Cartagena

Location: Cartagena

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our morning is spent walking through the streets of the Caribbean’s most romantic colonial city. Founded in 1533, this city quickly became the main Spanish port in the Caribbean, and a prime target for pirates when native treasure was stored in the city while waiting to be shipped back to Spain. In a bid to protect their loot the Spanish constructed walls around the city which still encircle the town. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Make your way to the old town square to watch some of the Cumbia dance performances or sit in one of the cafes lining the walkway to sip on a drink and look out onto the sea.

Day 16: Cartagena

Location: Cartagena

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sunday. Transfer to Cartagena airport for your onward flight or consider extending your stay to relax by the coast. We can book post tour accommodation upon request.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3 star

  • 15 breakfasts

    Enjoy 15 breakfasts during your stay.

  • 15 nights 3 star hotels

    Stay for 15 nights in 3-star hotels.

  • Domestic flights: Bogota to Neiva and Armenia to Santa Marta

    Domestic flights from Bogota to Neiva and Armenia to Santa Marta are included.

  • Bogota airport arrival transfer on day 1 and Cartagena airport departure transfer on day 16

    Transfers from Bogota airport on arrival and to Cartagena airport on departure are included.

  • Bogota: city tour and Gold Museum

    A guided city tour of Bogota and a visit to the Gold Museum are included.

  • San Agustín: Archaeological Park and Magadelena Valley excursions

    Excursions to San Agustín Archaeological Park and Magadelena Valley are included.

  • Coffee region: tour of coffee farm, Salento and Cocora Valley

    Tour of a coffee farm, Salento, and Cocora Valley in the coffee region is included.

  • Tayrona: visit to the national park

    A visit to Tayrona National Park is included.

  • Aracataca: Marquez museum

    Visit the Marquez museum in Aracataca.

  • Mompos: boat trip

    A boat trip in Mompos is included.

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What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included.

  • Tipping – an entirely personal gesture

    Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.

  • Items of a personal nature, additional meals and drinks

    Items of a personal nature, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

Age Policy

Minimum age 12. If booking a family please contact GH to request/check triple rooms / rooms next to each other before confirming the bookingThere is no maximum age. Those 70 or over will be required to fill out a tour suitability tour.  

Accommodation

Experience a blend of comfort and charm with stays at Hotel Casa Deco in Bogota, Akawanka Lodge in San Agustin, Hotel La Plazuela in Popayan, La Casa Amarilla in Mompos, and Hotel 3 Banderas in Cartagena. Each offers unique amenities like Italian furniture, WiFi, and stunning terraces or gardens, ensuring a delightful stay throughout your Colombian adventure.

Mode of Transport

Travel seamlessly across Colombia with domestic flights from Bogota to Neiva and Armenia to Santa Marta, complemented by airport transfers on arrival and departure days. Enjoy scenic drives through lush landscapes and comfortable transportation for all excursions, ensuring a hassle-free journey from start to finish.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes domestic flights from Bogota to Neiva and Armenia to Santa Marta, as well as airport transfers on arrival and departure days. There are also scenic drives through lush landscapes and comfortable transportation for all excursions.

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay in a blend of comfort and charm at 3-star hotels such as Hotel Casa Deco in Bogota, Akawanka Lodge in San Agustin, Hotel La Plazuela in Popayan, La Casa Amarilla in Mompos, and Hotel 3 Banderas in Cartagena. These hotels offer unique amenities like Italian furniture, WiFi, and stunning terraces or gardens.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 15 breakfasts during your stay.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by an experienced tour leader with the services of local guides.

  • What activities are included in the Coffee Triangle region?

    In the Coffee Triangle region, you will have a guided tour of a local coffee farm where you will learn about coffee production, including the picking, de-pulping, washing, drying, and roasting of the beans. You will also visit the traditional village of Salento and the Valle de la Cocora.

  • What can I expect to see in Tayrona National Park?

    In Tayrona National Park, you can follow tree-covered trails through the tropical forest, with monkeys swinging above, until you reach secluded beaches. You can also snorkel in the reefs, visit local villages in the nearby mountains, or hike through the dense rainforest to discover ancient pre-Columbian ruins.

  • What is the significance of the town of Aracataca on the tour?

    Aracataca is the birthplace of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, one of Latin America's most famous writers. His family home is now a museum, and you will have the opportunity to explore it and learn more about his life and works.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Prices last published on 07-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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