Colombia with a Thousand Faces
From the Tatacoa Desert to the mysterious tombs of Tierradentro, a journey to the heart of pre-Columbian civilizations.
Duration
15 days
From
€2,670/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Jul, Aug, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
A lover of nature, culture, history, archaeology and adventures off the beaten path, Colombie is a land of exception. Twice the size of France, bathed by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, dotted with dozens of national parks showcasing its mountain ranges, volcanoes, equatorial forests, deserts and coastlines with such rich and varied ecosystems, Colombie has everything of an explorer's paradise.
Two weeks of travel provide an overview of the country's multiple facets and the incredible variety of landscapes and ways of life that a lifetime would not be enough to exhaust.
With a past of violence definitively behind it, and the extreme warmth and kindness of a population eager to restore the image of their beautiful country and willing to go the extra mile to please you, don't wait any longer, Colombie opens its arms to you for a colorful journey through still-preserved lands!
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Visit to Bogota
To immerse ourselves without further delay in typical and authentic Colombia, nothing beats a market. The one we're visiting this morning, the Paloquemao market is one of the largest and most lively fruit and vegetable markets in the country. Numerous discoveries, surprises and encounters ahead. And tastings of course!
Overlooking the city and the altiplano, in the heart of the Andes mountain range, Monserrate peaks at over 3100 meters altitude. In addition to breathtaking panoramic views, we discover its basilica with neo-colonial architecture.
Finally, we set off to discover Bogota's historic center: the Candelaria. It's on foot that we explore its small brightly colored streets and admire its pretty houses flanked by carved wooden balconies. During our wanderings we won't miss passing by Bolivar Square and Plaza del Chorro, which reveal to us beautiful buildings with colonial architecture.
The Tatacoa Desert
Private transfer to the airport for our domestic flight to Neiva. Upon arrival, welcome and transfer to our hotel.
A few dozen kilometers north of the city is the Tatacoa Desert which we will explore by mototaxis. More than a real desert, it is a dry tropical forest that presents quite surprising landscapes made of candelabra, cacti and sandy formations of different colors. We explore the red desert of Cuzco and the white desert of Los Hoyos where we can cool off in a natural pool.
In the evening, a new extraordinary experience as we will visit the astronomical observatory which benefits from the perfect darkness of the desert.
The Avocado and its Pre-Columbian Tombs
Private transfer to the Tierradentro region, in the department of Cauca, renowned for its magnificent wild landscapes but especially for its archaeological park, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which constitutes one of the most important reservoirs of pre-Columbian culture.
The Aguacate (2000 m) is a pre-Columbian funerary site accessible via a relatively steep climb of one and a half hours from San Andrés de Pisimbalá. The views along the way and at the summit are spectacular! Most of the tombs have been looted by guaqueros and only a few still bear traces of original decoration. The site nevertheless exudes a mystical aura enhanced by the extraordinary panorama. Descent back to the Tierradentro park.
Approximately 3 hours of hiking
Tierradentro Archaeological Park
A half-day is dedicated to discovering the Tierradentro archaeological park accompanied by a local guide. UNESCO-listed, the site combines historical interest and magnificent landscapes. We visit the archaeological and ethnographic museums before embarking on a lovely hike towards the Alto de Segovia and Alto del Duende and then the Tablón site, scattered with hypogées and human statues.
Approximately 2h30 of hiking
Another mysterious site in Tierradentro: a strange natural pyramid with very steep slopes that dominates the immense valley beautifully, near the village of Inza. Several tunnels are carved into its flanks. By whom, when and why? Place of worship, refuge, …? The mystery remains!
San Agustin Archaeological Park
This morning we resume our journey by private vehicle to San Agustín.
Once settled at our hotel, we spend the afternoon discovering a true archaeological marvel, Colombia's flagship site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the San Agustín archaeological park. After visiting the museum, it is in the heart of lush vegetation that gigantic statues, sacred tombs and other ceremonial sites are revealed.
Horse riding and coffee farm
The morning is dedicated to a horseback ride in the San Agustin region, accompanied by a local guide. Another way to discover the beauty of the places and its landscapes: colorful statues at Pelota, Magdalena River canyon from the breathtaking viewpoint of Chaquira, greenery and calm accompany us throughout the ride.
In San Agustin, we are in the heart of the first coffee region in Colombie. We discover everything about the manufacturing process by visiting a coffee-producing farm: harvesting, roasting, … and of course tasting!
Popayán, the White City
We head to Popayán, capital of the Cauca department. Nicknamed the White City, Popayán is full of major attractions: the most beautiful colonial city in the country (debate is open!), the religious heart of Colombie (the Holy Week processions are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), a renowned culinary center, … the city has many charms.
We set out without further ado to discover the city on foot with our guide: San Francisco Cloister, churches, colonial monuments (including the Plazuela Hotel), theater, park, … the sites are countless. For a panoramic view of the city, a stop at Morro del Tulcán, a pre-Hispanic Indian pyramid, is a must.
Puracé National Natural Park
Popayán → Puracé National Park
A few tens of kilometers southeast of Popayán, the Puracé National Natural Park reveals in all its splendor the magnificent landscapes typical of páramo, amid lakes, volcanoes and other mountains that conceal numerous hot springs and waterfalls. A refreshing and invigorating nature day!
Puracé National Park → Popayán
Return to Popayán in late afternoon and night in the same hotel.
Route to Cali
Today we hit the road to the city of Cali, a major hub of salsa, celebration and entertainment renowned for the beauty of its women, but also rich in historical sites.
We embark on a discovery of the city, which we first observe from the panoramic viewpoint of Cristo Rey before immersing ourselves in its Historic Center.
Finally, we cannot miss visiting salsa schools and even have the opportunity to take a salsa classat one of the city's best schools, multiple times world champion, Swing Latino.
Haciendas and Sugar Cane
A day to better understand History, that of colonial times and the culture of sugar cane. About 1 hour northeast of Cali, the haciendas El Paraíso and Piedechinche are true History museums. We immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the era, its architecture, its arts, the birth of the sugar-making tradition.
Return to Cali in late afternoon and night in the same hotel.
Cartagena, jewel of the Caribbean coast
A change of scenery. A domestic flight takes us to Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. Airport welcome and transfer to our hotel.
A major city and gateway to the Spanish empire in South America, a major hub for the slave trade and the transit of Aztec and Inca gold en route to Spain, bordered by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and the lush vegetation of the interior, Cartagena fascinates visitors for many reasons. We spend several hours strolling through its colorful historic streets where colonial architecture abounds. The neighborhoods of San Diego and Santo Domingo are naturally on our itinerary, with Plaza de los Coches, Plaza de la Aduana, Bolívar Park, the Gold Museum, Plaza de Santa Teresa, Plaza de Santo Domingo, the city walls and las Bóvedas.
Palenque or the history of slavery
Cartagena → Palenque de San Basilio
Today it's the history of slavery that we're going to discover in greater depth, by traveling about sixty kilometers inland, to a very particular village: Palenque de San Basilio. Founded by African king Benkos Biohó, a fighter for emancipation, it is one of the very first villages in Latin America to have obtained its freedom, in the early 18th century. Famous boxers were born there.
Local customs and gastronomy, traditional dances, history of slavery, during this rich day we get a glimpse of Afro-Caribbean culture.
Palenque de San Basilio → Cartagena
Return to Cartagena.
Coconut Workshop in La Boquilla
The village of La Boquilla is an Afro-Colombian cultural blend whose inhabitants have been striving for generations to preserve their cultural specificities and traditions. Very dynamic, various original projects are undertaken there. One of them is the DAMARTES project (Ladies and Mothers of Art), an association of women who manufacture jewelry, vases and other accessories in coconut, thus becoming the first women in the village to generate their own income.
In a very simple but convivial setting, we participate in a workshop where we manufacture an object made of coconut, while listening to the fascinating stories of these energetic and committed women.
Return to the city in early afternoon and the rest of the day is free to stroll as we wish.
Have a good trip!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Domestic and international flights
- Meals not mentioned (budget 3 to 15 € per meal per person)
- Personal expenses
- Non-specified sites entries included in the program
- Entrance fees to national parks, individual tourism taxes (airports in San Andrés, Leticia, Nuqui, Bahía Solano, La Macarena and Cartagena pier)
- Medical and repatriation insurance
- Tips
- VAT for Colombians and residents in Colombia
- Everything that is not mentioned in the inclusions
Included
- The accommodations mentioned or similar according to availability
- Private and air-conditioned ground transportation
- The boat trips mentioned
- Breakfasts (not guaranteed if early departure from the hotel)
- The services of local professional English-speaking guides (subject to availability)
- The activities mentioned and site entries
- Our 24/7 assistance
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Colombia for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Colombia, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay and must have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without a visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in Colombia.
Currently, this exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days upon entry to the country. An extension of an additional 90 days can generally be requested on-site with Colombian immigration services (Migración Colombia), up to a maximum of 180 days per calendar year.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the country (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Immigration registration
Upon arrival in Colombia, travelers must present themselves to Migración Colombia controls. A migration control form may be provided to fill out before or during the flight, or may be available in digital format depending on the entry point.
Information generally required includes:
passport information
flight details and entry point
address of your first accommodation in Colombia
It is recommended to keep the entry stamp or document provided by immigration to present when leaving the country.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccinations are mandatory to enter Colombia from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are strongly recommended depending on the regions you visit:
vaccination against yellow fever is recommended for stays in tropical areas (the Amazon, Llanos, certain coasts) and may be required when departing for other countries,
vaccinations against hepatitis A and typhoid are advised.
It is recommended to consult a doctor or an international vaccination center before departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the country may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Concerned travelers should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Colombia in their country of residence.
We strongly recommend that you have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage before participating in our trips.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To purchase insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend purchasing one of these plans.
If you choose to purchase one of these formulas, the policy detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
For a stay in Colombia, a valid passport for the entire planned duration is required. Proof of departure from the country may be requested at boarding. Visa exemption periods vary depending on your nationality. Before booking, consult the Colombian consular authorities to find out the rules applicable to your situation.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, budget between 140 and 240 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Colombia remains affordable compared to its premium Andean neighbours.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and leave with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Central Andes
Explorer of Colombia's many faces, based in Carthagène
Colombia is a country that constantly surprises. Each region has its own atmosphere, its own pace, its own light… and it's often this diversity that leaves the strongest impression on travelers.
— Caroline
