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Colombia: An Extensive Expedition Through Nature, Landscapes, and Vibrant Cities

For years, traveling to Colombia was considered unimaginable, as the influence of the mafia dominated the region, and drug cartels deterred tourists from exploring one of the most beautiful countries in the world. In our journey to Colombia, we focus on the southern part of the country and the enigmatic culture of San Agustin. We continue to Cali, experiencing the world of salsa, enjoying the beautiful markets of the Popayan region. Moving on to the city of Medellin and the Coffee Valley, we encounter palm trees swaying in the strong winds and savor strong, high-quality black coffee. We stroll through the crowded streets of Medellin and delve into the northern part of the country with Santa Marta and the beautiful Cartagena.


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  • This is a mere example of a highly successful trip organized by Aujo Travel which may serve as a basis for a tailor made itinerary for either independent or organized tour groups.


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 Our Suggested Itinerary - Explore a past Aujo Travel trip for your next adventure

Day 1 I Bogota, Colombia

Upon landing in the Colombian capital, we will embark on an initial panoramic tour of the fascinating city and check into our hotel for accommodation and dinner.


Day 2 I Bogota and its Sites

This morning, we will explore the Colombian capital and its surroundings: Bogota, the capital situated at an altitude of 2,640 meters above sea level, bordered by the Andes Mountains to the east and the Bogota River to the west. After breakfast, we will embark on an initial city tour, ascending by cable car to Monserrate Hill, offering a breathtaking view of the city. We will continue to the Gold Museum, considered one of the most beautiful and fascinating museums in the world, enjoying the impressive collection of pre-Hispanic golden art. We will stroll through the picturesque streets of the city center and conclude the day in the special Candelaria quarter, where we will visit the charming colonial city square, Bolivar Square, the cathedral, and other sites according to available time. After the city tours, we will transfer to the airport for a flight to Neiva in the southern part of Colombia, landing in the city and moving on to San Agustin for accommodation and dinner.


Day 3 I Bogota - Archaeological Site of San Agustin

Today, we will explore the hidden archaeological park of San Agustin, wandering among sculptures dating back over a thousand years and trying to understand the fascinating pre-Inca culture of the region. We will explore the unique burial systems in the area and hear captivating stories about tomb raiders and archaeologists exposed to the site only in the twentieth century. We will try to grasp the meaning of the sculptures located in the peculiar location at the heart of the stunning nature between the two sides of the Magdalena River, the river that crosses Colombia from south to north. After visiting the archaeological site, we will continue our journey through the impressive canyon landscape of the Magdalena River and be impressed by the mighty water flow in the beautiful channel. Accommodation and dinner in San Agustin.


Day 4 | San Agustin - Popayan

This morning, we will continue to explore the surroundings of the city of San Agustin. The beginning of our tour will be at the Mortiño waterfall, where we will take a short walk and then proceed to the impressive archaeological site of Alto de los Ídolos, containing many sculptures marking important burial sites. We will continue on a scenic mountain road, passing through the Pan-American Highway, crossing mountains rising to an altitude of 3,000 meters, and arriving at the colonial town of Popayan, also known as the "White City." Upon arrival, we will embark on an introductory tour of the beautiful city, visiting the colonial square, Bolivar Square, the cathedral, and other sites as time permits. Accommodation and dinner in Popayan.


Day 5 I Popayan - Cali

This morning, we will tour Popayan, a colonial student town founded in the 16th century. We will explore the religious and cultural center of the city, visiting the numerous churches scattered throughout the city, as well as temples and monasteries. After the urban tour, we will head north to the city of Cali, the capital of the Cauca Valley, another important colonial city known primarily for its salsa and Latin entertainment. After settling in the city, we will visit one of the many salsa clubs scattered throughout the city to enjoy the unique atmosphere. Accommodation and dinner in Cali.


Day 6 I Cali - Coffee Valley - Salento

This morning, we will continue to explore the colonial city of Santiago de Cali and proceed on the mountainous road to the coffee region of Colombia. On our way north, we will stop in the small town of Buga, a small but important religious pilgrimage center in Colombia. After the tour of the town, we will continue to Salento, built on the ridge of a mountain surrounded by tea plantations, wild nature, and flowing streams. Beautiful Salento is considered one of the most authentic and beautiful towns in Colombia. From here, we will continue to the Cocora Valley, also known as the "Coffee Valley," a beautiful natural reserve in the Quindio region, part of the Central Andes mountain range, at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level. Accommodation and dinner in Salento.


Day 7 I Coffee Valley - Salento

A wonderful day ahead of us! This morning, we will visit one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Colombia: the Cocora Valley, located within the Los Nevados National Park. We will admire the towering wax palm trees and embark on walking and horseback riding routes in the impressive mountainous landscape. Afternoon visits to the beautiful natural reserve will be followed by a visit to one of the excellent Colombian coffee plantations, where we will taste the high-quality coffee renowned worldwide. If time allows, we may also visit one of the many hot springs scattered in the marvelous volcanic region before returning for accommodation and dinner in Salento.


Day 8 I Salento - Medellin

An extended day of travel awaits us. This morning, we will rise early and depart on a long journey through the Andes Mountains to the fascinating city of Medellin. Upon arrival, we will visit one of the beautiful villages in the region: Pueblito Paisa, representing the unique mountain villages overlooking the captivating city of Medellin, stretching across valleys and hills. The city will be our next stop on our journey through Colombia. We will admire the interesting sculptures of Fernando Botero and hear stories about the drug cartel that once dominated the city but has now transformed into one of the most modern cities on the continent, earning the nickname "Eternal Spring City" due to its pleasant climate. After arriving in the city, we will embark on a tour of the beautiful city, observing its intriguing sculptures and listening to stories about the drug cartel of the city. Accommodation and dinner in Medellin.


Day 9 I Medellin - Piedra del Peñol

This morning, we will depart from the city to continue our afternoon tours: we will travel to the central Andean mountain range, where we will get to know the unique Piedra del Peñol. We will climb the long staircase (about 600 steps) to the top of the mysterious rock protruding from the middle of the terrain, offering a spectacular view of islands that, until forty years ago, were grazing areas and due to the immense sugar dam built in the area, beautiful Guatape reservoirs were created. We will explore these picturesque reservoirs with a boat trip. After the tour, we will return to Medellin to continue our fascinating city tour. In the evening, we will head to Lleras Park, the nightlife center of the city, where young people gather for entertainment, especially on weekends. Accommodation and dinner in Medellin.


Day 10 | Medellin - Santa Marta

This morning, we will wake up early and take a flight to Santa Marta, one of the oldest and most beautiful colonial cities on the Caribbean coast. Upon arrival, we will explore the historic quarter of the city, a charming introduction to the ancient city of Cartagena, where we will visit in the coming days and visit the house where the South American liberator, Simon Bolivar, found his national freedom. From here, we will continue to the beach town of Aracataca, where we will settle in for the upcoming Carnival celebrations. Overnight stay and dinner.


Day 11 | Carnival in Aracataca

This morning, we will witness the Carnival parade, a dazzling spectacle of colors, Colombian cumbia dances, salsa, and various vibrant Caribbean dances that sweep through the streets of the city. Impressive repertoire of traditional African tribal dances preserved for centuries makes this carnival one of the leading events in Latin America. UNESCO recognizes the Aracataca Carnival as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity. Today is dedicated to the "Battle of Flowers," the most important event of the carnival led by the Carnival Queen. It is a traditional parade of giant platforms adorned with flowers in magnificent artistic creations. Accompanied by music bands, dancers, masquerade groups, and firecrackers, it promises a rich and diverse experience. Overnight stay in Aracataca.


Day 12 | Aracataca - Cartagena

This morning, we will enjoy another fantastic day of Carnival celebrations. On this day, the Carnival participants parade through the streets wearing various costumes, masks, and the contagious cumbia music, undoubtedly making the experience unforgettable. After the Carnival festivities, we will leave Aracataca and travel along the Caribbean coast to the beautiful city of Cartagena, where we will continue our marvelous journey in beautiful Colombia. Overnight stay and dinner in Cartagena.


Day 13 | Beautiful Cartagena

Today, we dedicate our exploration to the pearl of the Caribbean coast and the most beautiful city in Colombia, considered the entrance gate of the Spaniards to South America. In the morning, we will stroll through the colonial center surrounded by the city wall, full of legendary streets and alleys, beautiful squares, colorful houses, flower-adorned balconies, and romance. The amazing city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, served as inspiration for Colombia's great writer, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Nobel Prize winner in literature. The city is rich in impressive colonial buildings, museums, churches, parks, excellent restaurants, and typical Caribbean nightlife. As part of the tour, we will climb to San Felipe's fortress, the grand fort built to defend the city from sea attacks and considered one of the most impressive and important fortresses in South America. Overnight stay and dinner in Cartagena.


Day 14 | Rosario Islands

A day of fun on the Caribbean beach: we will sail to the Rosario Islands chain, off the coast of Cartagena. This island chain is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and is about 30 km from the shore. The islands boast white sandy beaches, coconut palms, and inviting clear waters. The area is a national park, and we will take the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the warmth and sun. Afterward, we will return to the Cartagena area to visit the Totumo Volcano, whose mud has therapeutic properties similar to the mud of the Dead Sea. We will return to Cartagena for a final city tour before sunset and then head out for a farewell dinner in Colombia.


Days 15-16 | Cartagena - Bogota

This morning, we will leave Cartagena and take a flight to Bogota, connecting to our return flight.


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