Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Real travelers love South America. Andean peaks, Amazonian Rainforest, Patagonian Glaciers, Incan ruins, colonial Towns, white-sand Beaches & vertiginous Nightlife: the wonders of South America set the stage for incredible adventures. It is as though the continent was built for travel; a place that excites, thrills, challenges & infuriates 

The word is out: as far as off-the-beaten-path destinations go, Colombia is an absolute experience. Twice the size of France and with a diversity of Landscapes & Cultures that would be hard to find even in countries 5 times its size, Colombia should by all rights be one of the world's top travel destinations. You just come prepared to be charmed…

Arrive in the vibrant Capital city of Bogota - Colombia's beating heart, cradled by chilly Andean peaks & steeped in sophisticated urban cool.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Bogota El Dorado International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort, transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the morning / afternoon is at leisure to relax or independent exploration or optional activities (we shall be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements). 

Sprawling, high-altitude multi-cultural Bogota is a city with a perfect mix of traditional & modern styles, where past & present come together & people from all over the country, converge.

Bogota was founded in 1538 & still retains its historical charm. The neighborhood of La Candelaria, the heart & historical epicenter of the city, features colonial-era landmarks like the neo-classical performance hall Teatro Colon & some magnificent & impressive Churches. Particularly worth a visit are Iglesia de la Tercera & the 17^th century Iglesia de San Francisco, Bogota's oldest surviving Church with its extravagant pews & a steady trickle of praying pilgrims, where your eye is immediately drawn to the gilded, U-shaped altarpiece, the largest & most elaborate of its kind in the Capital. Both these Churches offer an incredible glimpse into the artistic & architectural contrasts of the colonial Churches.

Walking down narrow, cobblestoned streets of La Candelaria, you will find great colonial Mansions as well as a unique Bohemian atmosphere in the legendary Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo, a spot every tourist has to visit.  It is home to popular Museums including the Museo Botero, showcasing a significant Collection of Modern & Impressionist art, including 123 pieces by Fernando Botero himself.

Bogota's most famous & one of the most fascinating in South America, is the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) displaying more than 55,000 gold artefacts from Colombia’s indigenous pre-Hispanic cultures & you can learn how these pieces were created & their significance.

National Museum of Colombia is the largest & oldest in the Capital, exhibiting a wide range of Artwork, anthropological & ethnical Artefacts, historical Documents, indigenous cultural pieces & frequently holding temporary exhibitions showcasing both national & international Collections.

Other important Museums are the Museum of Modern Art of Bogota (MAMBO), the Maloka Interactive Center.

Downtown, you will find the Plaza de Bolívar, the Primatial Cathedral & the neo-classical Casa de Narino named for Antonio Narino, a colonial figure with ideas of independence & who secretly translated France's human-rights laws into Spanish - & went to jail for it, a couple of times. President of Colombia lives & works here. No permission is needed to watch the Changing of the Presidential Guard ceremony - best seen from the east side – that is held at 3:30pm Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays.

Bogota features colorful modern buildings & authentic colonial roof tiles, that are a true historical treasure from the colonial era. Thanks to this fusion of the past & present, the city is an ideal holiday location with History, Entertainment, delicious Cuisine, Culture, Business & much more.

In Bogota’s commercial areas, one can find the best shops for Clothes, Shoes, Accessories, Jewelry, Technology, Antiques, Handicrafts & whatever else you are looking for.

The city is also very green thanks to its Parks & the Hills that extend along its eastern boundary, dwarfed by their 2 highest points, Monserrate & Guadalupe.

The mountaintop el Cerro Monserrate is an iconic symbol of the city, located 3,152 meters, above sea level & offers by far, the best view of the city's landscape. Visitors can make their way to the top on foot, by train or by cable car. Once at the top, you can visit the beautiful Church, buy some handicraft souvenirs at the small market, or simply take in the amazing view.

Get to know one of Bogota’s Parks from many, such as the National Park, 93^rd Street Park, or Simon Bolívar Park. Play sports, take a stroll, contemplate nature, or just sit & read a book.

Locals enjoy the landscape - the sea of green that makes up the Andes Mountain Range, rising up in the east - that would be nearly impossible to find in any other large city.

In this melting pot of Colombia, all the cultures from different regions of the country have a place, from the cuisine of the Coffee Triangle to the exhilaration & joy of the Caribbean, or the artisanal heritage of Boyaca & the Valle de Cauca Festival.

If you happen to be visiting on a Sunday, the traditional Flea Market in nearby town of Usaquen could be a good experience to explore. You can find unique pieces of handicrafts, art & souvenirs to buy & appreciate the architectural beauty of the town, which became part of Bogota in the 1950s.

Bogota’s cuisine is also worth sampling & the city offers an extensive selection of local & foreign foods that are widely recognized as some of the best in Latin America.

Bogota's nightlife includes areas of different styles & atmospheres, to suit anyone's tastes: Discos, Bars, Pubs, Craft Breweries & Clubs where entertainment & dancing comes first. Many options to go out & party or "rumbear". Although there are Bars & Clubs throughout the city, the Zona Rosa is the most ’happening’ place.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby & embark proceed for a 6 hour sightseeing tour.

Walk through the cobblestoned neighborhood of La Candelaria, the heart & historical epicenter of the city, featuring colonial-era landmarks like the neo-classical performance hall Teatro Colon & some magnificent & impressive Churches. Particularly worth a visit are Iglesia de la Tercera & the 17^th century Iglesia de San Francisco, Bogota's oldest surviving Church with its extravagant pews & a steady trickle of praying pilgrims, where your eye is immediately drawn to the gilded, U-shaped altarpiece, the largest & most elaborate of its kind in the Capital. Both these Churches offer an incredible glimpse into the artistic & architectural contrasts of the colonial Churches.

Walking down narrow, cobblestoned streets, you will see great colonial Mansions as well as a unique Bohemian atmosphere in the legendary Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo, a spot every tourist has to visit.  It is home to popular Museums including Museo Botero, showcasing a significant Collection of Modern & Impressionist Art by Fernando Botero. He was internationally renowned for his Works using different artistic mediums - Painting, Drawing & Sculpture & his Works are exhibited globally.

Even if you have never heard of Fernando Botero, you will probably recognize some of his highly distinctive paintings of oversized (chubby) characters, including dodgy Dictators, fleet-footed Dancers, Dogs & Birds. Colombia’s most famous Artist was also a prolific Sculptor & his curvaceous bronze Statues display equally generous girth.

The Museum, which belongs to the Banco de la Republica de Colombia, was founded in 2000 when Botero donated more than 123 of his own works, along with 85 from his personal collection of other Artists' work - a haul that includes pieces by Picasso, Monet, Matisse & Klimt. The Painter curated the Museum himself.

Among his Paintings, look out for a parody of Di Vinci’s Mona Lisa (1978), the wonderfully intimate Pareja Bailando (1987) & the haunting studies of Colombia’s drug-cartel violence in the 1980s & '90s.

Spend time in Museo Botero admiring the accomplishments of the Artist before proceeding next door to the historic Casa de la Moneda de Colombia, a Museum showcasing the evolution of Currency.

The Spanish learned minting techniques from the Muslims, who ruled the Iberian Peninsula for almost 800 years & who had established the first Mints in Toledo & Leon in the 11^th century.

After the conquest of America, the Hispanic Monarchy used the gold & silver from the New World to finance its wars & maintain commercial relations with other European & Asian Kingdoms. Consequently, the colonial societies that were emerging in the conquered territories required Coins for the development of their economic activities.

The Santafe de Bogota Mint was established in 1620 by Spanish military engineer Alonso Turrillo de Yebra, as a private Institution authorized by the King, to mint gold & silver that would circulate in the New Kingdom of Granada (colonial name of the territory that approximately coincided with the current Republic of Colombia) & in other Hispanic Kingdoms. Gold was very valuable for the local economy & for the finances of the Monarchy and gradually, the Granada become the main producer of Gold Coins for the entire Spanish Empire. The precious metals were melted & alloyed for later minting into Coins.

Indigenous enslaved people were forced to work in the Mines to satisfy the need for gold for the Crown & the Conquerors (Robber barons in modern times) to be used as a currency in the in newly founded cities. The search for this metal motivated numerous expeditions of Conquerors who, aspiring to enrich themselves & elevate their social status, set out from the colonial cities of Europe & traveled through inhospitable regions overseas, looking for gold deposits & treasures, such as those of the legendary city of El Dorado & pillaged most of the ‘civilised’ world in Asia, Africa, Americas.

The Museum traces the evolution from pre-Columbian barter exchanges of Pots & Pans & lead chronologically to misshapen Coins, the introduction of a centralized Bank in 1880, finally leading up to making cute tree art on the current 500 Peso Coin in the late 1990s in the Coleccion Numismatica section.

The other section Coleccion de Arte, Banco de la Republica's permanent Art Collection, features 800 pieces by 250 different Artists spread over 16 Exhibition Halls reached via elaborate staircases within the same Museum complex. The Collection has been reorganized into 5 periods spanning from the 15^th century to modern day, each separately curated. Most of it sticks with modern splashes of oils by Colombian Artists, including a giant figurative Paintings by Luis Caballero (1943 - 95) on the 1^st floor.

A bit at odds with the rest are the Displays focusing on 17^th - 18^th century religious objects, including 2 extraordinary Custodias (monstrances). The largest was made of 4902 gram of pure Gold encrusted with 1485 Emeralds, 1 Sapphire, 13 Rubies, 28 Diamonds, 168 Amethysts, 1 Topaz, 62 Pearls. But who is counting?

Spend an interesting hour here before proceeding to next door Museo del Oro (Gold Museum), established in 1939 when Banco de la Republica de Colombia began protecting artifacts that pre-dated Colonialism. Bogota's most famous & one of the most fascinating in South America, displaying more than 55,000 gold artefacts from Colombia’s indigenous pre-Hispanic cultures & you can learn how these pieces were created & their significance.

The Collection is laid out in logical, thematic rooms on 3 floors. 2^nd floor exhibits break down findings by region, with descriptions of how pieces were used. There are lots of mixed animals rendered in gold (eg jaguar-frog, human-eagle); note the female figurines indicating how women of the Zenu tribe in the pre-Columbian north played important roles in worship.

The 3^rd floor 'Offering' room exhibits explain how gold was used in Ceremonies & Rituals. Some of the displayed Tunjos (gold offerings, usually figurines depicting various aspects of social life) were thrown into the Laguna de Guatavita; the most famous one, found near the town of Pasca in 1969, is the unlabeled gold boat called the Balsa Muisca. It is uncertain how old it is, as generally only gold pieces that include other materials can be carbon dated.

After spending an hour, continue walking to Plaza de Bolívar which encompasses (The Primate Cathedral, The House of Narino, The Lievano Palace & The Palace of Justice).

Last stop will be at Monserrate. The mountaintop el Cerro Monserrate is an iconic symbol of the city, located 3,152 meters, above sea level & offers by far, the best view of the city's landscape. Visitors can make their way to the top on foot, by train or by cable car. Once at the top, you can visit the beautiful Church, buy some handicraft souvenirs at the small market, or simply take in the amazing view.

Finally, it is time to go home.

Back to the hotel & balance of the day is at leisure to relax, independent exploration or for Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.30 am & drive to the nearby town of Zipaquira, passing through the savanna area called Sabana de Bogota.

It is a montane savannah in the Eastern Ranges of the Colombian Andes, encompassing deep Canyons cut by the Chicamocha River & its tributaries. The savannah, located in the southwestern part of the Altiplano Cundiboyacense in the center of Colombia, is spread over an area of 4,251.6 square kilometres & at an average altitude of 2,650 metres. Beyond the Canyons, the Cordillera Oriental culminates in the towering Mount Cocuy (Sierra Nevada del Cocuy), which rises to 18,022 feet.

Arrive at the small, traditional town of Zipaquira in central Colombia, famous for its salt mines & for its sub-terranean Salt Cathedral, built inside the network of monumental Chambers & Tunnels that were left behind when commercial mining operations ceased. Just outside near the Entrance, is a monument to Miners.

Zipaquira has long been known for its salt reserves that the pre-Colombian society mined since the 5^th century BC. The town was named the 'City of Whites' by the Spanish & ironically, the salt was later used to finance Simon Bolivar’s & Narino's Independence campaigns.

There is also a small Archaeological Museum that has Collections of pre-Columbian artifacts. Then, there is the Casa del Nobel Gabriel García Marquez, a Cultural Center in a building where the Author studied in the 1940s.

The town's main attraction obviously, is the Cathedral, initially created by the Miners as an underground Sanctuary built within the Tunnels of a Salt Mine 200 metres below in a halite mountain, for themselves to pray. The Cathedral is a true testimony to the Miners' faith in a higher power & one of the most notable achievements in a truly unique concept of Colombian architecture.

The Catedral de Sal de Zipaquira (Salt Cathedral) is considered one of the country's most notable architectural & artistic achievements & remains one of the most visited tourist & religious sites in all of Colombia. It is especially busy during Easter, with thousands attending services marking the Crucifixion & Resurrection of Christ. Although the Cathedral is a religious structure, non-Catholics will still appreciate visiting the site because it explores Colombian culture & history, 200 meters underground.

It is a Roman Catholic Church like no others & the story of the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral is certainly one of persistence. The original Cathedral was carved out of an active salt mine beginning in 1950 & was inaugurated in 1954. But it lasted for 36 years only, as the original Mine was increasingly considered as unstable & the authorities, worried about its structural soundness, decided to shut it down.

This, however, did not deter the town of Zipaquira. In 1991, only a year after shuttering the old Cathedral, work began on a new Church, some 200 feet below in another Mine (with the largest deposit of rock salt in the world). The construction required 250,000 tons of rock salt to be extracted from the Tunnel to implement the design.

Inaugurated in 1995, the new one is is roughly 75 meters long & 25 meters high, with the biggest underground Cross in the entire world, carved out of rock salt, into the back wall. The massive Cathedral with Walkways, can theoretically accommodate 10,000 people. Smaller Naves dug out around the main Chamber illustrate the life of Christ from birth to crucifixion. Known as “The Stations of the Cross”, the Naves chronicle Jesus’ last journey.

It takes about 2 - 3 hours to tour the Cathedral. The ‘guided’ walk takes you on the journey in chronological order. Each station has a different Cross carved out of rock salt & Kneeling Platforms. Essentially, each Station is a small Chapel & you will see a symbolic representation of events from Jesus' last journey before his Crucifixion.

At the end of the walk, you will come to the main Dome & the 3 Naves that are inter-connected by a gigantic crack, which symbolises the birth & death of Christ.

While clearly devoted to Catholicism, the Salt “Cathedral” is not in fact, recognized by the Church & consequently, has no official status. But, this doesn’t stop the 3,000 + Pilgrims coming to the Cathedral on most Sundays, from praising the glory of both God & his mineral-ensconced home.

Finally, the visit concludes & you will be transferred back to the hotel by 02.00 pm.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Next, head to the economic & cultural epicenter of the famed Eje Cafetero (Coffee Region) & fly to Pereira in the mountainous, coffee-growing region of western Colombia, part of the territory designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the "Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia".

Morning in time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep & transferred to Terminal ? - Bogota El Dorado International Airport for your flight to Pereira.

Arrive in Pereira, an excellent base for Tourists to learn about the coffee culture as well as enjoying the freshest Arabica beans as they explore the traditional towns where vibrant colourful wooden houses with balconies full of flowers, sit alongside forests containing the world’s tallest Palm trees, unique to the area, & of course, picturesque Plantations dedicated to the cultivation of world-class coffee beans.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Pereira Matecana International Airport, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort, transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’. Failing, we will proceed for the sightseeing & Check-in later.

Hardworking Pereira is not your typical tourist destination. In fact, it is not really a tourist destination at all. Almost all visitors to Pereira come for one thing - to do business, primarily. Founded in 1863, it is the Capital of the province of Risaralda & the economic powerhouse of the Zona Cafetera - a hot commercial center most noted for its throbbing nightlife.

Pereira doesn't offer much in the way of attractions, but if you want to experience a fast-paced yet friendly Colombian city away from the gringo trail & with a good dining scene, it certainly fits the bill.

The city (also called Antioquia), is the result of colonization, whereby its inhabitants retain features of the culture of the carriers, like kindness & entrepreneurship.

The main Plaza, Bolívar Square, has a Statue of Independence hero Simon Bolívar, nude, on horseback. The 19^th century Cathedral of Our Lady of Poverty has an intricate latticework roof. Cesar Gaviria Trujillo Viaduct is a cable-stayed bridge over the Otun River. The Pereira Art Museum hosts visiting exhibits. There are many open-air Swimming Pools & recreational Parks.

Between Mountains, Valleys & Coffee, Pereira is also part of the territory designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the "Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia".

Pereira is also the gateway to Parque Ucumarí & Santuario Otun Quimbaya, a pair of top Nature Reserves & features many open-air relaxing Thermal Springs at Santa Rosa & San Vicente.

In the city & in its vicinity are many options to explore. Visitors can discover Culture, relax in Hot Springs, visit wildlife-filled Nature Reserves.

Pereira in the mountainous, coffee-growing region of western Colombia, is known for mild Arabica Beans. Mountains planted with Coffee & Bananas and Valleys where Bamboos & Sugarcane crops can be seen around the city.

If there is one thing that keeps Colombia running, it is Coffee. Colombia’s tropical climate with high altitudes & plenty of moisture & the unique properties of its volcanic soil makes it ideal for growing those lovely little beans with a flavour that helps to wake up the world.

A trip to Colombia's Coffee region wouldn't be complete without a trip to a local Plantation, where you can discover the secrets of Coffee - what it takes to grow the perfect coffee beans & transform them to Colombia's world famous Coffee.

Find out what all the fuss is about by exploring the Zona Cafetera. Spread within the lush hillsides around Pereira (alongwith Manizales & Armenia, collectively known as the Coffee Triangle) are the family-run Fincas (Farms) & Plantations growing Colombia’s magic bean, Arabica. Colombia’s 500,000 Cafeteros (coffee farmers), symbolized for decades by the fictional but iconic Juan Valdez, make the country the 2^nd largest exporter of Coffee in the world.

Colombia is concentrated in the fertile Valleys of this region, for what is called the "coffee zone". Traveling through these generous & prosperous Valleys, one can observe endless picturesque Coffee Plantations & their colorful wooden houses with balconies full of flowers.

Pereira is the economic epicenter of the famed Eje Cafetero (Coffee Region) & is an excellent base for learning about Colombia’s favorite drink, some of the finest Coffee on earth. Tourists are invited to learn about coffee culture as well as enjoying the freshest Arabica beans.

In time, drive next door, to the town of Santa Rosa de Cabal on the western slopes of the Andean Cordillera Central. It is a commercial & manufacturing centre for the fertile agricultural & pastoral hinterland. It is famous for Silkworm Farms & Coffee Plantations, in the vicinity.

There is no place in the world greater for sampling a world-beating cup of Coffee than in the Coffee district, where the bean grows. While a journey along the Coffee Route takes in many incredible cities, nothing beats the experience of relaxing on a traditional Coffee Farm.

Stop at a traditional Coffee Plantation where you will learn the complete production process - from plucking beans (everything is still picked by hand) amid highland scenery, to the final output of a steaming cup of fresh Coffee.

Here you can learn about this famous crop, pick your own Coffee beans & inhale their delicious aroma before they are roasted. Understanding the way the fruit is selected & how farmers utilize the experience they have garnered through the generations, is living proof that Coffee in Colombia is more than just a crop.

You can look around & discover how they use other plants such as Pineapples, Bananas & Berries to keep the ground totally organic & free from pesticides. They will even let you taste the fresh, ‘straight from the plant’ Coffee.

Coffee tasting is, of course, the highlight of any trip to a Colombian Coffee Farm. The country’s growers like to pamper their visitors with a variety of types of Coffee to try & enjoy explaining the different textures, origins, aromas & finishes. From the first mouthful, you will feel like a connoisseur - savoring the best Coffee you have ever tasted.

The Coffee Cultural Landscape, as its name describes, is a lush landscape full of Coffee Plantations. An Expert from the beautiful specialty Plantation will guide Visitors through the fields & explain the complete process of Coffee growing, from Planting, selective manual Harvesting & Pulping.  Then, you will have the opportunity to Roast grains of special Coffee on a wood stove in the kitchen of a typical peasant house, which will provide an authentic Coffee experience as you enjoy a perfect cup of Coffee.

During the walking tour, you will come across several stations with viewpoints made of bamboo, from where visitors can appreciate the beautiful landscape & natural environment of the place while enjoying a cup of Coffee. Finally, you will see the innovative process of drying the Beans & adding to the Mill. Many Farms will facilitate Coffee tastings & teach participants how to distinguish between flavors, notes & origins.

The tour ends & you hop in the vehicle to dive back to the hotel by 1.00 pm.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby at 08.30 am & embark on a full day (7- 8 hour) excursion to explore the neighboring town.

Enroute, stop at Valle del Cocora the known for its surreal, striking landscapes pegged with the slender, towering Wax Palm trees. "Cocora" was the name of a Quimbayan Princess, daughter of the local Chief Acaime & means "star of water".

The narrow paved road to the Valley winds through an area dominated by Cattle & Dairy Farms. While the driver dodges horse-driven carts laden with galvanized-metal milk cans, Visitors are transfixed by the incredible number of Palm trees punctuating the pasture land & the surrounding emerald-green hillsides. Their long, skinny trunks look like giant Fourth of July sparklers topped with blazes of palm fronds.

Cocora Valley is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park, located in the Cordillera Central of the Colombian Andes, on the upper reaches of the Quindio River, at an altitude between 1,800 - 2,400 metres. It encompasses Volcanoes, Lakes & of course, the Coffee region.

This rugged landscape was formed by volcanic activity & later sculpted by huge masses of Glaciers. At their maximum extension, these Glaciers covered an area of 860 sq km. The Glaciers began to recede 14,000 years ago & according to a 2013 study by the Colombian Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology & Environmental Studies, they will completely disappear by 2030.

The Park is the heart of the Coffee region. The rivers that descend from snowy peaks & their moors irrigate the agricultural lands & nourish the aqueducts of the cities, towns & footpaths of the center of the country. The Park's hydrographic networks supply water to over 2,000,000 Coffee growers in the region & most of the Rice & Cotton crops in the region.

The prevailing westerly winds from the Pacific Ocean are stopped by the Andean mountains, creating a humid environment favorable to the growth of cloud forests at higher altitudes but it rains almost daily.

The Valle Del Cocora Cloud Forest is one of the most stunning things you will see in your life. The landscape is super green with so many tall Palm trees that you wouldn’t know where to look first. To top it all off, the sky is full of clouds that make the view even more magical.

It is also famous as the main location where the national tree of Colombia, the almost 60 metres high Quindio Wax Palm & a wide variety of other Flora & Fauna (some endangered), on steep grassy hills all over the Valley, all protected under the Park's national status, can be found.

To prevent exploitation of the Wax Palm & the threat against the endemic species dependent on this tree, mainly due to the celebrations of Palm Sunday, the Federal Government of Belisario Betancur proposed the creation of a Nature & Wildlife Sanctuary and the preservation of the Palm tree as the national symbol of Colombia. Even though it is quite crowded with tourists, you can still find amazing quiet corners with endless views of the tall Palm trees.

There is no question the Cocora Valley has an enchanting quality, but peering out from atop the mountain, we can’t help but notice many fallen trees scattered on the hillsides.

According to a recent media report, more than half the Palms will die by 2029 as they reach the end of their life cycle. Even though the trees are protected by law, deforestation of other endemic vegetation to make way for cattle grazing remains one of the major threats to the future of the Quindio Wax Palms. When their seeds drop to the ground, they get eaten by grazing cows, which means no new Palms can take hold to replace the current crop of aging specimens, which have survived nearly 2 centuries & grown as high as 130 feet.

Noteworthy birds include Blue-crowned Motmot, Yellow-eared parrot, Fuertes's Parrot, rufous-fronted Parakeet, Andean Condor, Brown-banded Antpitta & Ruddy Duck. In addition, the Bearded Helmet Crest Hummingbird is endemic to the region. Some of the noteworthy mammals include the mountain Tapir, spectacled Bear, northern Pudu, Oncilla, Cougar & white-eared Opossum.

You will see herds of wild horses roaming around freely - even cute & majestic baby horses with their mothers! (but the moms can get a bit aggressive if you get too close to the babies, so be careful).

Hiking in the Valley is practically a rite of passage for travelers in Colombia these days. The spectacular Trail takes in Cloud Forest, Jungle, Farmland & the tallest Palm trees in the world. There are many Vendors at the entrance + lots of great Restaurants you can eat in once you are done with your tour.

Once we arrive at the Valley, you will be met by a specialized official Eco-guide from the Park, who will introduce you to the Nature Reserve. Commence the tour after enjoying a Welcome Cocktail (canelazo) with our compliments.

Walking though the Park, visitors are able to appreciate the bio-diversity of Fauna & Flora as you pass through the ecological path of the tallest Wax Palm in the world that is designated as the national flagship tree.

Preserving Wax Palms for future generations has become an urgent priority for the local villagers who make a living from Tourism in the Valley.

We have also included a ritual practiced by local villagers, descendants of the original Aborigines who supposedly planted the first trees & worshiped same. You will learn about their history & end the 10 minute Ceremony with planting a seedling.

After enjoying lunch comprising of authentic local cuisine consisting of as an example, local rainbow trout served with deep-fried plantains the size of a human head, head out to the fields for a tree-planting ritual.

The local person will be carrying a foot-high tree sapling with 3 green fronds emerging from a short stem. You will be surprised to find out that this diminutive plant, which bears no resemblance to its sky-scraping ancestors, is already 3 years old.

The Ceremony begins with the Gardener stripping away the protective casing around the sapling & asking the visitors to scoop the soil with their bare hands & raising it above their heads, with the Gardener chanting “we lift up this Palmita as an offering to you, Pachamama,” he begins, closing his eyes to offer a brief prayer. “We bestow upon you the gift of a long, fruitful life that extends way beyond our own. Give it strength to grow”.

Together, everyone drops to their knees to place the sapling in a small hole, packing the loose dirt around the delicate stem. The Master will motion participants to turn their hands upward toward the sun, to draw energy from the source & direct it to the tiny tree. After dousing it with water, the ritual comes to a close. “You came as guests,” the Master says. “But you will leave as ambassadors for our region & the Planet.”

We should hope that our small contribution toward re-populating the Wax Palms will ensure future travelers will fall under the Cocora Valley’s spell for many generations to come. It may take more than a miracle to save the guardians of Colombia’s Coffee-growing region, but it is definitely worth the effort to preserve the magic of this real-life encanto.

And then, it is time to move on & drive to Salento, a colorful town with typical colonial-style architecture.

One of the oldest in Quindio, Salento is an Andean town, west of Bogota, famous for its numerous colourful colonial era white-washed buildings, punctuated with colorful window frames, doors & balconies and for its Coffee Estates amidst a verdant scenery. Beautiful Salento is a town of many colors & stories, backed by one of the most mesmerizing landscapes.

One of the most popular is that it was established because of the Quindio Pass that crossed from Popayan over to Bogota. When Simon Bolivar, a South American icon of Independence movements in the region, crossed over the Andes mountain trails in 1830, he ordered the Pass to be improved. This was done by the ‘prisoners of war’ who were allowed to build houses & settle on the land.

Another story is that the town acquired its colorful look from a German couple who traveled here as tourists around 20 years ago, fell in love with the town, settled & integrated with the community. They convinced the locals to paint their houses in attractive colours to draw more tourists to the town. True or false, no one knows.

Set amidst gorgeous green mountains this small & unique countryside town survives on Coffee production, Trout farming & tourists drawn by its quaint streets, typical paisa architecture & its proximity to the spectacular Valle de Cocora.

A fanciful town, part of the Coffee Cultural Landscape, home to a large number of Coffee Farms & Plantations, artisanal Craftspeople & great food.

The town has a lively center & colorful houses with matching flowers, plants & painted ornaments. There is also a small party scene to be found here if you look in the right places, with cute Cafes hosting live music events with DJs.

Plaza de Bolivar is a place where you can absorb the authentic Salento way of life. The lively Square sits at the center of the town, surrounded by the Church & beautiful trees & many Restaurants & other amenities like ATMs. On weekends, the local ‘flea’ market is held in here. A great place to shop for some local handicrafts & watch the older men with their traditional sombreros & ponchos playing music & chatting with each other.

The busy pedestrianized Calle Real lined with 2 story white washed houses with the ‘standard’ brightly coloured doors & windows, is the most famous street. To see the beauty of the doorways, it is suggested to visit early as the Shops & Houses open their doors by 9.00 am & the colors won’t be as visible.

Spend an hour, soaking up the warm village culture, admiring the ‘rainbow’ colored European style picturesque colonial era streets with houses & shops & artisan workshops making interesting handicrafts which make for good souvenirs to bring home.

You could even head for the local Pool Bar, where you will find the men of the village sipping Coffee & playing Pool - a great insight into the culture of Salento! Or, or enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Coffee at one of the cute Cafes where expert Baristas show off their talent for latte art. Cafe Jesus Martín, is known for some of the best Coffee in Colombia.

Then, walk to a colourful Staircase of nearly 300 Steps that lead to Mirador de Salento (viewpoint) a hillside to enjoy the best panoramic views of Salento & the surrounding countryside. It is a steep climb up but you will be rewarded with stunning views over the small town, the green mountains & nature. Visiting at Sunset is even more spectacular, although this is also the busiest time.

And finally, the excursion comes to an end & you will be transferred back to the hotel in Pereira.

Reach the hotel by 05.30 pm.

Balance of the day is at leisure to relax or for independent exploration or just relax.

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep who will transfer you to Terminal ?- Pareira Matecana International Airport for your flight to Cartagena.

You can’t visit Colombia without a stop in UNESCO World Heritage listed Cartagena.

Arrive in colourful Cartagena, a beautiful Port city nestled in the Caribbean coastline, now becoming known as Colombia’s hidden jewel.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Cartagena Rafael Nunez International Airport, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort, transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’. Failing, we will proceed for the sightseeing & Check-in later.

Balance of the afternoon is at leisure to relax or for independent exploration.

Framed by a beautiful bay, Cartagena de Indias, nicknamed ‘a jewel of universal heritage’ is located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, has a long & fascinating history.  

Founded in 1533 by Spanish Conquistadors, Cartagena is known for its colonial architecture, protected by one of the most strong & lengthy centuries-old city walls in South America.

To defend itself from imperial powers battling it out in the Colonies & frequent pirate attacks, Cartagena was enclosed in a protective Wall in the 1600s. The Wall was continually repaired & expanded over the next nearly 200 years. Today, the13 km Wall still stands, encompassing colorful colonial-era buildings, an array of Museums, Bars, Restaurants in the neighborhood of San Diego collectively called the Old Town.

The enclosed Old Town boasts some of the best colonial architecture in South America. Nearby, the hip neighborhood of Getsemani pulses with life, while placid Cartagena Bay shimmers as the sun sets behind the city skyline. With a burgeoning culinary scene & a lively Caribbean vibe, Cartagena is quickly becoming one of the region’s favorite cities.

The secrets of history within its walled city, on its balconies & in the narrow stone walkways served as inspiration for author Gabriel García Marquez, who in 1982, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

One of the most beautiful, well-preserved cities in the Americas, Cartagena was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, joining Havana & San Juan, as an essential link in the route to the West Indies. UNESCO also singled out the City as being “an eminent example of the military architecture of the 16^th, 17^th, 18^th centuries, the most extensive of the New World & one of the most complete”.

Cartagena brings together the charm of colonial architecture, the excitement of a vivid Night-life, fascinating cultural Festivals & lush Landscapes, to bring you the perfect vacation experience.

Cartagena is a compact city & ideal for walking, especially outside the hottest hours of the tropical day. Morning is a great time to explore & an evening walk along Cartagena’s 16^th century Walls will showcase many aspects of the city’s beauty - the warm Caribbean Sea, ancient Churches, atmospheric Plazas, a magnificent 17^th century Castle & multi-coloured colonial Mansions & popular monuments dedicated to India Catalina, los Zapatos Viejos & los Pegasos. Then, there are a few Museums including a very interesting Naval Museum.

There are a wide variety of walking tours offered in Cartagena, with specialized tours focusing on History, Food, Culture, Street Art, Pirates, Ghosts & more. A romantic way to explore is to take a ride around the colonial city in a classic horse-drawn carriage.

The tropical weather in Cartagena is very pleasant, temperature throughout the year is 27°C on average. The city’s Beaches beckon, inviting everyone to unwind & enjoy in the refreshing breeze & warm waters of the sea.

Evening, meet the Tour-guide at around 07.00 pm & proceed for a short ‘orientation’ panoramic night tour, through the festive & joyful city, aboard one of the traditional typical buses painted with bright colors called "Chiva"

Once on the Chiva, get ready to have a blast! The brightly painted Buses are iconic to Cartegena & it is a ‘must have’ experience for visitors. The colorful Chiva with blaring Latin Music will carry you & fellow participants along the streets of Cartagena, passing by the main landmarks like Torre del Reloj, Los Pegasos dock, Getsemani, Manga, Castillo de San Felipe. You will get a better understanding of the different areas of the city to help your orientation for the rest of your stay.

 As the bus snakes its way around Cartagena, through historic neighborhoods, Bocagrande & Castillo Grande neighborhood before stopping at the infamous Castillo San Felipe de Barajas - but on this ride, you are not here for just any tour - you are here to have a dance party!

You will stop for a 10 minute photo beak at Los Zapatos Viejos (Old Shoes Monument). Located at the base of San Felipe Castle, the Old Shoes Monument is a giant sculpture of a pair of old boots. A popular spot for a selfie, the monument was created by Hector Lombana Pineres in response to the poem “Mi Ciudad Nativa” by local poet (& one of South America’s most respected writers) Luis Carlos Lopez. You will also see the Cartagena sign located right on the beach, in the neighborhood of Marbella on the Avenida Santander. It is positioned so the sun sets almost directly behind it.

The Bus drives on & stops at one of the local Clubs in Getsemani (Entrance Fee included) & you can party with the locals & fellow travelers alike. Night Clubs are popular throughout the walled city & Getsemani can be a lot of fun!

You will stay for an hour before being transferred back to the Hotel.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.30 am in the Lobby & embark on 4 hour sightseeing “Walking” & “Driving” tour of the city.

Drive through the residential neighborhoods of Bocagrande, Castillogrande & Manga.

Bocagrande is an upmarket area popular for its long, sandy beaches backed by palm-lined promenades. There are several Casinos, along with an eclectic dining scene that includes beach Snack Bars, stylish Japanese & Colombian Restaurants, global fast-food chains & mellow Cafe Terraces. Smart Boutiques sell local & international fashion, while Plaza Bocagrande is an upscale Mall with sea views.

Castillogrande is the luxury residential area in Cartagena where modern buildings overlooking the Bay or Tierra Bomba Island with large apartments stand out. It is a peninsula that goes into the Bay with a pedestrian boardwalk on the north side & has calm water beaches on the south side.

The drive to Cima de la Popa, located 3 km outside the old city walls, on a 150 metres high Hill, is via a zigzagging access road that skirts one of the city’s dicier neighborhoods. The views from highest point in Cartagena are outstanding.

The Spaniards who discovered the Hill in 1510 never imagined seeing a huge Galley protruding from the sea, so they called it Cerro de la Galera & the top, "La Popa de la Galera".

Later, the ancient people of Cartagena also called it Cerro de la Cruz because of the Cross that crowns it. On its summit, is a beautiful Church & a colonial Convent of the Order of Augustinian Recollects built between 1606 - 1611. The cloister of the Popa Convent is one of the most beautiful in the colonial city of Cartagena & in all of Colombia.

Arrive at the Cima de la Popa, founded by Augustine Fathers in 1607. It was initially just a small wooden Chapel, but when the Hill was fortified 2 centuries later, it was replaced by a stouter construction. The Convent's name literally means the 'Convent of the Stern,' after the Hill's similarity to a ship's back end.

It seems that during the colonial years, there was a clandestine Shrine on top of the Hill, where Indians & African slaves worshiped a deity called " Buziriaco " or "Goat Urí" who had the appearance of a goat.

Legend has it that then Brother Alonso de la Cruz Paredes of the religious of the Order of Augustinian Recollects, who was isolated in the desert of Raquira received in a dream the order of the Virgin Mary to build a Monastery at the highest place in a coastal city. This is how the Monk traveled to Cartagena & he carried out the ordered mission to build Cerro de la Popa.

Upon his arrival on the City, he snatched the goat Busirachus & threw him down the hill. Since then, the site has been known as Salto del Cabron & its Cult was replaced by that of the venerated image of the Virgen de la Candelaria, a Painting of colonial origin that represents the black virgin & who is today the Patroness of Cartagena de Indias.

It is believed that the construction of the Popa & the Convent took much longer than expected due to the continuous sabotage of Busiraco in the form of thunder, lightning, rain & gales. In colonial times & until the abolition of Slavery, black Africans established in the city & its surroundings had permission to celebrate the festivities of the Virgin of Candelaria where they demonstrated their celebrations & where the musical rhythm of cumbia, emerged.

The Popa Convent was no longer inhabited by the Augustinian Recollects from 1822 - 1963 due to the confiscation ordered by the civil authorities. After that time, the Friars were able to recover their Convent, which has always been the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Candelaria & a beautiful image of La Virgen de la Candelaria, highly venerated by the Catholics of Cartagena, is found in the golden Altarpiece of the Chapel. Pope John Paul II canonically crowned the Virgin on Sunday, July 6, 1986 during his Apostolic Visit to the city.

There is a charming flower-filled Patio & also a chilling Statue of a speared Padre Alonso García de Paredes, a Priest who was killed along with 5 Spanish soldiers while trying to convert indigenous peoples to Christianity.

Spend 30 minutes here before continuing on to the imposing Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the most important military engineering work of Spain in America which protected the city from pirate attacks.

The original edifice was quite small. It was Sir Francis Drake’s attack of 1586 - the British Pirate pillaged the town for some 50 days - that focused the attention of the Spanish Crown, which then embarked on an unprecedented mission to bolster the city’s defenses.

The most important Port (& the most heavily fortified city in the New World), Cartagena was the nexus for the Spanish Flotillas that transported gold & silver via Havana to Spain.

The greatest Fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their Colonies, the Castle still dominates an entire section of Cartagena's cityscape. It was commissioned in 1630 & construction began in 1657 at the summit of the 40 metres high San Lazaro Hill.

In 1762, an extensive enlargement was undertaken, which resulted in the entire Hill being covered with this powerful bastion, built with coral mined from the region’s reefs, Cartagena became impregnable.

It was truly impregnable & was never conquered despite numerous attempts to storm it. The Spaniards sought to fend off British attacks & in 1657 they finished building this Fortress, thus taking control of the only access point to the city from the mainland.

A complex system of labyrinthine, rather ghoulish Tunnels, designed by famed Engineer Antonio de Arevalo connected strategic points to allow provisions to be distributed & to facilitate evacuation. One of the architectural accomplishments was that the Tunnels were constructed so that any noise reverberated all the way along them, making it possible to hear the slightest sound of an approaching enemy's feet & also making internal communication easy.

Some of the lit Tunnels are open to public - an eerie walk not to be missed. Wander through the Tunnels to discover the interior of the “guardian of Cartagena” on a self-guided audio tour (available in English).

The tour ends & you are transferred back to the hotel by 01.00 pm.

Balance of the day free for independent exploration or for Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Fancy a slice of tropical Paradise while you are here ? Sunshine & white sand Beaches? Crystal clear turquoise waters ? Pina Coladas, Margaritas, or Mojitos with a side of Caribbean sea views?

On the last day, step back from the buzz of the city into a new world of glistening waters & sand sweeping between your toes. Travel to an idyllic Island on the Caribbean coast to recharge & reminisce in between swimming in the turquoise waters.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & embark on am excursion to visit the famous Corales Islas del Rosario, a highlight of Colombia’s Caribbean Coast, famous for their vibrant Marine life, pristine white Beaches & sun-soaked beach Resorts.

Close to the city, the Islands provide a nice contrast to the heat & fast pace of Cartagena. The cool breezes, beautiful nature, picturesque landscape & laid-back attitude here, make it the perfect getaway.

You will be transferred to Bodeguita Pier, where you will board a (shared) Speedboat & proceed to the beautiful Island chain, enroute catching a panoramic view of the Bay of Cartagena, Bocachica, Forts of San Fernando & San Jose

You will arrive at in about 60 minutes. The Boat ride to the Islands is pretty calm with minimal bouncing, in the morning. However, returning in the afternoon, the sea currents often make the ride bumpy.

Balance of the morning is free to do as you wish (no services are included here, all Optionals are to be paid directly).

A cluster of 28 tiny idyllic coral Islands, some with barely more than a few square yards area, dotted offshore of Cartagena, this Archipelago sits atop the world’s 3^rd largest Barrier Reef & makes up Islas del Rosario y San Bernardo Corals National Park, one of the most important of the 46 Natural Parks of Colombia.

Originally settled by Fisherman, the Islands are fairly undeveloped. While many are uninhabited, Isla Grande & Isla del Rosario are the main & most developed Islands. There is a small community, with a handful of Hotels, Eco-lodges & private homes scatted around on the various Islands surrounded by coral reefs, where the color of the sea is an incredible combination of cerulean & turquoise. You can even see tiny little Houses on their own private Islets.

There are large inland Lagoons, perfect for Swimming in the unbelievably blue waters. Water sports are popular. You can grab a Kayak to explore the Caribbean Sea or journey through the Mangroves before Snorkeling coral reefs or grabbing a Rod to go Sport Fishing. The Beach also offers Hammocks & Cocktails. Whether you fancy learning to dive or are already an expert, you will certainly enjoy Scuba Diving in the protected waters here, amongst well-preserved Coral Reefs & even a submerged Airplane, to explore.

By the way, there is a popular myth, propped up by lots of Tour-guides, that this Plane once belonged to Pablo Escobar & it went down in the Islands while running drugs.

Another variation claims that the Escobar Plane used for drug trafficking, was among many seized by the Colombian government & they sank some, off the coast.  

Speaking of Escobar myths related to the Islands, there is another story that Escobar had a giant Mansion on the Rosario Island, where he would have massive parties and live the good life. It was later converted into a big, swanky hotel named Casa Blanca, after his death, which was later shut down by the authorities due to its environmental impact. The abandoned ruins can be seen.

True or false, no idea. But, even some larger publications like Business Insider & The Daily Mail have published articles repeating them. Even Discovery Channel did a story.

The brackish water lake at the heart of Isla Grande is home to the surreal spectacle of phosphorescent Plankton, which, on a dark, star-free night, glow & oscillate with every touch of the water. Swimming in the lake at night while watching tiny green lights dance around, is one of the most memorable experiences, visitors can have on the Islands.

If time permits, you can even sail on the Catamaran, briefly stopping to see some of the other Islands like Isla del Encanto, Isla del Sol, San Pedro Majagua, Luxury Island etc. Isla del Pirata is one of the smallest but one of the prettiest.

Although some of the Islands are rocky or surrounded by Mangroves, many are home to picture-perfect Caribbean Beaches, with white sand, sparkling blue waters, a few Palm trees & not much else.

The delicious Seafood available is about as fresh as any you are likely to find in Colombia. And it is so plentiful, you may even see Fisherman anchoring their Boats alongside yours to sell you fresh-out-of-the-sea Lobster or Shellfish.

And finally, it is time to go home. Hop on the Boat by 03.00 pm & sail back to the city.

Reach the hotel by 04.30 pm.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent explorations or for Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & arrange).

Alas, like all good things, the wonderful experience comes to an end & it is time to say say Au Revoir.

Check-out of the hotel by 11: 00 am (if the departure time is later in the late evening, we will request the hotel to allow the usage of the facilities & to leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

Andean Peaks, Amazonian Rainforest, Patagonian Glaciers, Incan ruins, colonial Towns, white-sand Beaches & vertiginous Nightlife: the wonders of South America set the stage for incredible adventures. History & a unique experience amidst an idyllic scenery are just the beginning. Whether its lounging on the Beach on a hot sunny day, eating your away around the Latin cuisine or learning about the rich & intense history, you are experiencing a little piece of Paradise.

Without a 5* tourism magnet - no Machu Picchu, no Iguazu Falls, no Patagonia - Colombia works harder for its money &   that begins & ends with the people, who ensure you leave with a different impression than the one you landed with.

But, we sure hope that after this experience, you may want to discover a little bit more on your next visit visit.

“Travel is like knowledge. The more you see the more you know you have not seen” - Mark Hertsgaard

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Terminal? - Cartagena Rafael Nunez international Airport for your onward journey.  B

.

***        End of Services      ***