Your Trip at a Glance
A 12-day Colombian adventure, from soaring mountains to lush jungles and pristine seas. Begin in Bogotá, exploring colorful murals, Monserrate’s panoramic views, and the historic streets of La Candelaria. Next, discover Caño Cristales, the “most beautiful river in the world,” staying in a secluded lodge surrounded by savanna, jungle, and river landscapes.
Head to San Gil, Colombia’s adventure capital, for thrilling activities and views of the Chicamocha Canyon. Conclude in Tayrona National Park, hiking to golden beaches, swimming in turquoise waters, and connecting with the rich heritage of the ancient Tayrona civilization. This unforgettable trip offers adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery at every turn.
Today marks the beginning of your magnificent Colombian adventure! Upon landing in Bogota, you will be warmly greeted and escorted to your centrally located hotel. We will ensure a smooth check in and answer any questions you may have. Take the evening to unwind at your leisure, preparing for the adventures to come.
After enjoying a delightful breakfast at your hotel, meet your private guide for a day of discovery in Bogotá. Begin your journey with a scenic cable car ride up to Monserrate, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. From the summit, take in sweeping views of Bogotá’s cityscape framed by the Andes Mountains while hymns echo from the historic Sanctuary of Monserrate.
Descending from Monserrate, continue to the vibrant heart of the city, La Candelaria. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, lined with colorful colonial buildings and murals. Sample local street foods like arepas and empanadas, and visit the district’s beautifully preserved cathedrals and vast plazas. Don’t miss the celebrated graffiti art that reflects the city’s creative spirit and political past.
Conclude your tour at the bustling Paloquemao Market, a sensory delight. Explore stalls brimming with exotic fruits, aromatic coffee, and artisanal chocolates while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Today, take a short flight from Bogotá to La Macarena, the gateway to one of Colombia’s most stunning ecosystems – where the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and the Orinoco Savanna converge. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and escorted to a canoe for a scenic ride to your lodge. Keep an eye out for vibrant bird species, playful monkeys, and other wildlife along the riverbanks. After settling in, embark on a hike to El Mirador, a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramas of the region. Continue to Caño Cristalitos, where you can swim in its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush landscapes. As the day winds down, return to the lodge by canoe and trail, where you can relax, spot monkeys in the treetops, and enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars.
Start your day with an energizing breakfast before heading on a canoe & 4×4 journey deep into the Serranía de la Macarena National Natural Park. Hike to the breathtaking Caño Cristales, the “River of Five Colors,” where the vivid hues of the endemic plant Macarenia Clavigera, crystal-clear waters, and ancient rock formations create a natural masterpiece.
Spend the day hiking to cascading waterfalls, swimming in pristine pools, and enjoying a scenic picnic lunch surrounded by the park’s lush biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you explore this remarkable ecosystem.
In the evening, return to your lodge to relax with a delicious dinner. The night comes alive with live music inspired by the traditions of the region’s indigenous communities. If luck is on your side, you may even spot pink river dolphins splashing and playing nearby, a perfect end to an extraordinary day.
Awake to the serene sounds of this incredible tropical ecosystem as you prepare for an early morning canoe ride. Watch the sunrise paint the sky over the river, creating a magical start to your day, and keep an eye out for playful pink river dolphins. After this unforgettable experience, return to your lodge to gather your belongings and savor a final moment in this unique environment.
Later, take a flight back to Bogotá, where you’ll spend the evening resting in a comfortable hotel. Use this time to recharge and enjoy a quiet night in the capital as you prepare for the thrills awaiting you in Colombia’s “Adventure Capital,” San Gil, tomorrow.
After breakfast, take a flight to San Gil, where your luxury accommodation awaits in the heart of this stunning tropical Andean ecosystem. Located north of Bogotá, San Gil is surrounded by a blend of lush Andean forests, riparian river habitats, and the dramatic landscapes of the Chicamocha Canyon.
Upon arrival, unwind and take in the serene beauty of your surroundings. Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll through San Gil’s charming historic center, with its cobblestone streets and vibrant local atmosphere. Visit the Parque Natural El Gallineral, a tranquil riverside park known for its towering trees draped in Spanish moss and shaded pathways.
Start your day with an exhilarating white-water rafting experience on the Río Fonce, perfect for beginners and intermediates looking for a fun yet manageable challenge. For thrill-seekers, the Río Suárez offers more intense rapids, guaranteeing an adrenaline-filled adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes. As you navigate the rushing waters, enjoy stunning views of the surrounding tropical Andean environment.
In the afternoon, venture to Cueva de la Vaca, a fascinating cave system adorned with striking stalactites and stalagmites. Guided by experts, explore the cool, dimly lit caverns while marveling at the natural formations that have taken thousands of years to form. This peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience offers a perfect balance to the morning’s excitement.
Today, prepare for an unforgettable adventure at one of the world’s largest canyons, Chicamocha Canyon! Start with a breathtaking cable car ride, offering panoramic views of the canyon’s stunning landscapes and the winding Chicamocha River below. Once you reach the top, enjoy lunch, explore the area’s unique offerings, including large sculptures, a water park, and trails with opportunities to bike ride or 4×4. For those seeking even more excitement, soar above the canyon with a paragliding experience. After a day exploring, return to your accommodations to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure to Colombia’s most iconic national park.
Fly to Santa Marta, your gateway to the breathtaking Tayrona National Park, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast where the jungle meets the sea. This stunning natural haven features turquoise waters, golden sands, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. On land, keep an eye out for monkeys, toucans, sloths, armadillos, and other incredible wildlife.
Named after the ancient Tayrona civilization, the park remains deeply connected to its indigenous roots. Today, indigenous communities continue to inhabit the area, and the park closes three times a year to honor their cultural practices and allow the ecosystem to rejuvenate.
Check into your luxurious lodge, nestled in the heart of the jungle. Surrounded by the soothing sounds of wildlife, the earthy aroma of the forest, and breathtaking views, take time to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead – hiking, snorkeling, and immersing yourself in the park’s rich biodiversity and culture.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your lodge featuring local fruits and flavors before setting off on a guided hike through Tayrona’s lush jungle trails. As you journey through this vibrant ecosystem, your guide will help you spot fascinating wildlife that call the jungle home. The hike leads you to pristine beaches, where you can relax and take a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the shore, surrounded by the soothing sound of waves and the breathtaking scenery of golden sands and dramatic rock formations. In the afternoon, join your guide for a snorkeling excursion, carefully exploring the coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. Discover an underwater world of colorful fish, coral formations, and perhaps even sea turtles and dolphins, making this day an unforgettable blend of adventure and tranquility.
Spend a memorable day exploring the wonders of Tayrona National Park. Begin your adventure with a surf lesson at one of the nearby beaches or horseback ride along the scenic jungle trails leading to pristine beaches. For a cultural experience, visit Pueblito, an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Tayrona civilization. The hike to Pueblito is moderately challenging but rewards you with incredible views and historical insights.
After your day of exploration, return to your hotel to relax. Swing in a hammock or take a refreshing dip in the pool while soaking in the tranquil surroundings. As the evening sets in, savor a delicious dinner and enjoy stargazing under the clear Caribbean sky.
Savor a relaxed morning with a delicious breakfast at your lodge, taking one last dip in the pool or revisiting your favorite beach to soak in the tranquil surroundings. When you’re ready, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Bogotá, where you’ll connect to your international journey home.
As you head home, reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced in Colombia: the vibrant streets and rich history of Bogotá, the surreal beauty of Caño Cristales, the adrenaline-packed adventures of San Gil, and the serene connection to nature and culture in Tayrona National Park. Each destination has left its mark, creating unforgettable memories to carry with you long after you’ve returned home.
I had such a great time with View! I went on this adventure with my parents and sister, feeling slightly intimidated by the idea of the hike.
Adrian was extremely helpful, always available to answer our questions and share his local perspective. He was so friendly and made us feel comfortable and well-prepared throughout the trip. Read more
We had an outstanding adventure thanks to View Signature Travels. The communication prior to our trip was very helpful for setting up hotels, day excursions from Cusco and knowing what to expect on the Inca Trail. Read more
We took this trip as a group of 7 friends celebrating our passing 50; it was an amazing trip from an experiential perspective starting from the moment we booked until the time it ended. Read more
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