Colombia Holidays
Bogota, the Amazon, Medellin and the delights of Cartagena & Tayrona National Park
17 Night Itinerary from £4,632
Calima Tour
Explore Colombia's magnificent colonial and natural history on our comprehensive itinerary
Select your preferred departure date
Tour Route
- Bogota - 3 Nights
- The Colombian Amazon - 3 Nights
- Medellin - 4 Nights
- Cartagena - 3 Nights
- Tayrona National Park - 4 Nights
- Return to the UK - 0 Nights
Travel Highlights
- A comprehensive and varied itinerary from the Andes to the Caribbean coast
- Explore the vibrant capital Bogota with our local expert guide
- Visit the incredible underground salt cathedral at Zipaquira
- Explore the Colombian Amazon by canoe and on foot with expert local naturalist guides
- Be inspired in Medellin with stunning vistas, a visit to a flower farm and fascinating history
- Uncover the architecture and colonial past of Cartagena, with stories of pirates, gold and invasions
- Stay in an eco lodge in Tayrona National Park, with its wild beaches, local communities and coastal forests
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of route, duration, flights, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Bogota - 3 Nights
Day 1 - Fly to Bogota
Day 2 - Guided city tour
Day 3 - Zipaquira & Underground Salt Cathedral
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Tuesday, 03 August 2021
Fly to Bogota
Depart the UK on early morning flight to Bogota, arriving in the evening. On arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your chosen hotel for 3 nights on a bed and breakfast basis. This is also the opportunity for our guide to provide you with expert local advice, explain your programme and answer any questions you may have. Bogota is a vibrant capital steeped in history, with colonial churches and squares, surrounded by the peaks of the Andes.
Wednesday, 04 August 2021
Guided city tour
Today, our guide will take you on a half-day tour of Bogota. We firstly drive through the colonial neighbourhood of La Candelaria, stopping at Plaza de Bolivar, the main square and heart of Bogota. We also visit the library of Luis Angel Arango, the Cathedral, Congress Palace, Cardinal's Palace, colonial churches of El Sagrario and San Agustin, the House of Independence, the Palace of Justice and the City Hall.
We continue to the famous Gold Museum, which houses the world greatest collection of pre-hispanic Indian gold crafts and visit the Fernando Botero Museum which contains around 120 pieces of paintings and sculptures of this famous contemporary Colombian artist.
Thursday, 05 August 2021
Zipaquira & Underground Salt Cathedral
Today enjoy a fascinating half-day tour to Zipaquira famous for its salt mine and underground salt cathedral.The cathedral was carved inside an active salt mine formed 250 million years ago, under the Halite Mountains. Here you will find 14 small chapels that represent the Stations of the Cross and Jesus Christ's crucifixion. Afterwards continue to explore the town which was founded on 1600 and still conserves its colonial heritage.
Cite Hotel Bogota
Bogota - First Boutique
Cite Hotel is situated very close to the Virrey and Calle 85 and is located in the business and entertainment centre of Bogota, overlooking Virrey Park. The rooms of Hotel Cite have wooden floors and large windows with park views. They are all equipped with air conditioning, cable TV with DVD player, minibar and safe. The hotel's gourmet French Bistro is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Room service is also available. Guests can make use of the free gym access, located within walking distance from the hotel. Chico is a great choice for travellers interested in nightlife, restaurants and gourmet food.
The Colombian Amazon - 3 Nights
Day 4 - Travel to the Amazon rainforest
Day 5 - Exploring the rainforest
Day 6 - Exploring the rainforest by canoe
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 06 August 2021
Travel to the Amazon rainforest
This morning, take a domestic flight from Bogota to Leticia. On arrival, enjoy a tour of Leticia, the capital of the department of Amazonas and Colombia's southernmost point. We visit Orellana Park, the market, the Botanical gardens and Santander Park, where the main attraction are thousands of parrots and other species of migratory birds that gather here.
We then transfer by boat to Calanoa Jungle Lodge for a 3-night stay on a full board basis. You will stay in a bungalow constructed using traditional techniques and materials, with each having a woven palm roof and minimal walls to improve air circulation. The cabins are built on stilts connected by raised wooden walkways, with an observation platform for watching birds and monkeys.
rest of the day is at leisure and take in the sounds and unique atmosphere of the jungle.
Saturday, 07 August 2021
Exploring the rainforest
Calanoa Jungle Lodge has a wide range of optional activities to enjoy, from visiting local communities, guided walks in the rainforest, fishing and birdwatching.
Sunday, 08 August 2021
Exploring the rainforest by canoe
Today enjoy a guided canoe adventure through Matamatá creek, plus a choice of optional walking tours in the rainforest with local guides.
Calanoa Lodge
The Amazon - Tourist Lodge
Calanoa Jungle Lodge offers sustainable accommodation in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. The chalets have been constructed using traditional techniques and materials, with each having a woven palm roof and minimal walls to improve air circulation. They are built on stilts connected by raised wooden walkways, with an observation platform for watching birds and monkeys. Each chalet has its own bathroom and mosquito nets.
The central pavilion has a large communal dining table with views of the river, with hammocks and seats for relaxation. The food is a fusion of local Amazonian dishes and Brazilian, Colombian and Peruvian cuisine.
There are many activities available, including walks in the rainforest, meeting local villagers, canoeing and kayaking, fishing and explorations by night.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Medellin - 4 Nights
Day 7 - Travel to Medellin
Day 8 - City tour of Medellin
Day 9 - Santa Helena flower tour
Day 10 - Guatape And Peñol
- Full Description
Monday, 09 August 2021
Travel to Medellin
This morning we return by boat to Leticia and fly to Medellin arriving in the evening, you will be met by one of our representatives and taken to the Intercontinental Hotel for a 4-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Rest of the day at leisure.
Tuesday, 10 August 2021
City tour of Medellin
Our guided tour takes you to the most important touristic sights of the “City of Eternal Spring”. Explore downtown Medellín and the historical centre. Listen to local musicians and the traditional “Guasca” music while visiting the Parque Berrío. Stroll through the hustle and bustle of downtown Medellin to the famous Botero Plaza with an exhibition of the Colombian artist Fernando Botero, whose sculptures have become a landmark of the city.
Take the Metro Cable up to Santo Domingo, which was once a notorious area of gang violence in Medellín. The cable car was constructed to make the inner city more accessible to people from the outskirts. While enjoying the spectacular view you learn more about the transformation of Medellín from one of the most dangerous cities in the world into a fascinating melting pot of cultures with possibly the friendliest and warmest people in the world.
Wednesday, 11 August 2021
Santa Helena flower tour
Medellin is rightly famous for the rich variety of horticulture in the towns and villages that surround the city. The best, most colourful is Santa Helena where we visit on a half-day tour. Here, you will meet a Silletero (flower farmer) who will show you how flowers are farmed, talk about the history and techniques of flower growing including roses, carnations and beautiful orchids.
Thursday, 12 August 2021
Guatape And Peñol
Today enjoy a full day (including lunch) guided tour to the spectacular Peñol Boulder, a 200-meter-high monolith can be climbed through a staircase of 740 steps. Enjoy breath-taking views over the stunning Eastern Highlands of Antioquia full of green mountains and blue lakes. We continue to the village of Guatapé, famous for its church and its beautiful, colourful paintings that decorate the houses of the village. We explore the lake on a boat ride and take time to stroll and relax.
Cartagena - 3 Nights
Day 11 - Fly to Cartagena
Day 12 - City tour of Cartagena
Day 13 - At leisure in Cartagena
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 13 August 2021
Fly to Cartagena
Today we take a domestic flight to Cartagena, transferring to our hotel located in the historical district for a 3-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Cartagena de Indias, with its beautiful walled-city, is one of the most historically important cities in the Caribbean. Founded by the Spanish in 1533 as a port from which to export the gold found in the New World back to Spain, it came under near-constant attack from pirates and marauders, and was taken a number of times including by Sir Francis Drake. This necessitated the building of the defensive walls which still surround the colonial city, as well as a number of forts all around the bay. The largest of these, the San Felipe Fort, towers over the city and can still be visited for beautiful views over the historical skyline and the bay.
The walled city has been completely restored to its former glory, with monuments in leafy squares, cobbled streets, colourful houses with exotic flowers draped from wooden balconies. Many town houses have been converted into boutique hotels.
Saturday, 14 August 2021
City tour of Cartagena
Today enjoy a half-day guided tour of Cartagena visiting Bocagrande, a modern residential district and the Convent of La Popa, built at the beginning of the XVII century on the hill of the same name. From here a beautiful view of the city and the bay can be admired. We continue to San Felipe's Fort, built in the XVII century to protect the city. After a careful look to the construction, continue to the walled colonial city and stop at the handicraft stores of Las Bovedas. We walk along the streets admiring the old houses and beautiful balconies and visit the Convent of San Pedro Claver.
Sunday, 15 August 2021
At leisure in Cartagena
Today is free for you to explore Cartagena at your own pace. Our local guides can offer additional optional excursions, depending on your interests.
Casa del Curato
Cartagena - Tourist Hotel
The Casa del Curato is a simple hotel, lovingly restored from a colonial townhouse within the walled city. The rooms are small but comfortable, each with air conditioning and private facilities, mostly looking into the central courtyard. Two suites have balconies looking out onto the street, and one looks over the swimming pool and the rear courtyard.
Hotel Agua
Cartagena - First Hotel
Hotel AGUA a typical colonial house dating back to the XVII century,has been completely renovated and conditioned with excellent modern facilities and personalised service that will make guests feel like a home away from home. This luxury boutique hotel has only 6 rooms each decorated differently always with luxury amenities, king size or twin beds, private bathroom and bath. The Hotel has a small pool and relaxing area on the rooftop and the communal areas are very pleasant and peaceful ideal for reading or enjoying the sounds of soulful latin american music in the background. Agua has an excellent location walking distance from many art galleries and excellent restaurants. It also has a sister Hotel Agua Baru where one can spend the day relaxing by the beach or even spend a few nights combined with your stay in Cartagena.
La Passion Hotel
Cartagena - Luxury Boutique
This luxury boutique hotel located in the old colonial part of Cartagena is more than a hotel, La Passion is a whole concept of services, where the greatest luxury is making you feel at home. French owner Thierry and his colombian wife will personally look after you during your stay making each and every guest feel unique with their personalise service. From the moment you enter La Passion is like taking you back in time, the hotel is maintains its old features of an old colonial house with a modern twist including modern art and certain artefacts the owners have collected during their travels in Africa & Asia. There is a stunning roof terrace from where you can admire the colonial city wiles having a delicious organic breakfast. There is a small outdoor pool ideal to relax and refresh yourself during the hottest times of the day. Each room is spacious and many have their own private balcony from where you can watch the world go by or even have your breakfast served wiles you enjoy the beauty of this fascinating colonial city.
Tayrona National Park - 4 Nights
Day 14 - Travel to Tayrona National Park
Day 15 - Treks, horse riding and local communities
Day 16 - Exploring the National Park
Day 17 - Last day in Tayrona National Park
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 16 August 2021
Travel to Tayrona National Park
Depart Cartagena on a private transfer by road to Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean Sea. This area of Colombia, with a beautiful protected coastline of stunning white sandy beaches and coastal forest in the foothills of Sierra Nevada Santa Marta. There are many trails into the mountains leading to archeological sites from the Tayrona civilisation. We stay for 4-nights at an eco lodge on a bed and breakfast basis in a typical cabaña in the style of Tayrona culture.
Tuesday, 17 August 2021
Treks, horse riding and local communities
Depending on your interests, take a locally arranged tour exploring the national park. Perhaps horse riding around the Arrecifes area, mountain biking or a full day walking tour to Pueblito. You can visit a local Kogui family, walk to the natural swimming pools observing the flora and fauna in the area. Or relax on Canaveral beach.
Wednesday, 18 August 2021
Tayrona National Park
Explore Tayrona National Park in the company of an expert local guide..
Thursday, 19 August 2021
Last day in Tayrona National Park
Today is your last day in Tayrona National Park and a chance to relax on Canaveral Beach prior to your journey home.
Ecohabs Lodge
Tayrona National Park - Tourist Lodge
Located within Tayrona National Park, set on a hill overlooking the sea, the Ecohabs are wooden bungalows on stilts built to resemble the indigenous settlements of the area. The small but comfortable wood-panelled room have traditional thatched roofs, and seating area underneath with hammocks. Each bungalow has its own private facilities,
It is just a short walk from the restaurant (excellent seafood) and beach, and there is a spa. There are many activities on offer including trekking, horse riding and visits to local communities.
Return to the UK - 0 Nights
Day 18 - Return to the UK
Day 19 - Arrive back in the UK
- Full Description
Friday, 20 August 2021
Return to the UK
Transfer to Santa Marta airport and take a domestic flight to Bogota for your onward overnight international flight to the UK.
Saturday, 21 August 2021
Arrive in the UK
Arrive back in the UK in the morning.
Price Guidelines
| Season | Low Season | High Season | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Dates | 1 Jan - 30 June, 6 Sept - 17 Dec | 1 July - 5 Sep, 18 Dec - 31 Dec | ||
| Room Arrangement | Tourist | First | Tourist | First |
| Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £4,632 | £5,877 | £5,220 | £6,746 |
Prices are a guideline and per person. Please request a quote for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- 19 Days / 17 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Three internal flights
- Accommodation and meals as shown on the itinerary
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides
- Prices are per person
- Prices for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve, Easter on request
Client Testimonials
Speak with a Specialist
Travel Enquiries
Contact an Advisor
Stay in touch
Infuse your travels, with inspiration from our monthly newsletter.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE - 31 JULY
WEBINARS with Experts, Our Service above has sign-up and recording of previous webinars. Next: Mexico 4 Aug at 16.30; Brazil 12 Aug at 16.30; India 2 Sept at 11.00; To Register Email travel@veloso.com
CURRENT TRAVEL STATUS - COUNTRIES OPEN
VELOSO TOURS ATOL5153 LICENCE PROMPTLY RENEWED by the CAA on 19July21
NEW HOLIDAYS - BOOK NOW - 2021 offers a window of opportunity for travel at promotional prices. Now is the time to plan your next trip in 2021/22/23.
TRAVEL INSURANCE with COVID-19 cover: AllClear, CedarTree, StaySure, CampbellIrvine, BattleFace