Essence of Colombia

(10 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena

This private luxury tour of Colombia includes fascinating cultural touring in three of Colombia's most exciting cities: Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena.

Begin in Bogota, the lively, high-altitude capital of Colombia. During private touring with an expert guide and driver, visit the city's most interesting museums and historic neighborhoods. See spectacular ancient gold artifacts at the impressive Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) and work by famed Colombian artist Fernando Botero at the Botero Museum. In the colonial-era La Candelaria district, walk the cobblestone backstreets, and see the ornate interiors of the Church of Santa Clara. Also see important landmarks surrounding Bolivar Square, such as the National Capitol, the Palace of Justice and the Primary Cathedral of Bogota. Visit colorful Paloquemao Market to learn about Colombian produce and sample delicious local fruit and other foods. Also, if desired, ride a cable car or tram up Monserrate, a mountain towering above the city center, for expansive views and a visit to the pilgrimage church on top. One day, enjoy a private excursion to the Salt Cathedral, a church carved into the tunnels of an underground salt mine outside the town of Zipaquira. Other options include seeing buildings adorned with elaborate graffiti; browsing the boutiques of the affluent Zona Rosa neighborhood; and visiting Quinta de Bolivar, the former house and gardens of Simon Bolivar. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can also arrange private cooking classes, guided hikes in the hills outside Bogota and tickets to performances at the renowned Teatro Colon.

Continue to Medellin, the second-largest city in Colombia. During private touring, delve into the city's colorful history, and learn about its transformation over recent decades. Visit the Antioquia Museum, which has exhibits ranging from pre-Columbian artifacts to modern art, and walk among dozens of chubby sculptures by Medellin-native Fernando Botero in the plaza in front. Journey by municipal cable car into the hills to take in unique views of the rooftops of the city and see interesting contemporary architecture, such as the Biblioteca Espana (Spain Library). If desired, also ride the elevated metro train for a glimpse into city life and impressive views of Medellin and the green hills surrounding it. Other touring options include visiting the Park of Lights, the Botanical Garden, Arvi Park nature preserve and sites related to notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar, and seeing other monuments and sculptures significant to the city's history.

One day, take a private excursion to the countryside outside Medellin to visit the mountain community of Santa Elena, the Penol reservoir and the colorful village of Guatape. Alternatively, enjoy a private excursion to a nearby coffee farm to learn how local farmers produce some of the world's finest coffee, and experience the aromas and flavors during a private coffee tasting.

Conclude in Cartagena, a historic port on the Caribbean Sea and Colombia's most beautiful city. During a private walking tour of the walled Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—stroll through picturesque cobblestone streets where colorful colonial buildings are draped with bougainvillea. Walk through Plaza Bolivar, a leafy square surrounded by colonial architecture, and perhaps catch sight of Palenquera women wearing vibrant clothing and balancing bowls of fruit on their heads. Visit the colonial-era Church and Monastery of San Pedro Claver, and, if desired, see the Palace of the Inquisition, an attractive building with a grisly past. One day, venture with your private guide and driver to the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the mammoth fortress that protected Cartagena from invaders; visit Convento de la Popa, a monastery on the highest point in the city, for panoramas over Cartagena and the harbor; and perhaps explore local neighborhoods, such as Getsemani and Bocagrande. Also enjoy time to shop for local designs, crafts and fashions at upscale boutiques. One morning, enjoy a private cooking class or continue private touring according to your interests. One evening, if desired, enjoy a private salsa class. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can also arrange additional activities, such as a private food tour, rum and chocolate tasting or canoe ride through mangroves; an excursion to the Cartagena Botanical Garden; and a private yacht excursion to the nearby Rosario Islands.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

• Private touring with your own personal guides and drivers
• Preferred rooms in the very best luxury hotels
• Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations from our travel specialists
• Itineraries that are customized according to your interests and schedule
• Artisans of Leisure upgrades and amenities
• A seamless travel experience, including all logistics, skipping lines during touring whenever possible, restaurant and spa reservations, performance tickets, private airport transfers, internal transportation, VIP and fast-track airport assistance in many destinations
• Around-the-clock support in each destination during your trip
• Unique, insider travel experiences and access to the Artisans of Leisure network of experts around the world