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Jewels of Colombia

Jewels of Colombia

9 days Bogotá to Cartagena

 

 
Colombia is a country filled with diversity: from green hills, waterfalls, ravines, rainforest, volcanoes, and deserts to white sandy beaches and turquoise waters on the Caribbean coast. The biodiversity haven boasts exotic fauna and flora, the world’s highest palm trees, and some of the best coffee. Discover its extraordinary culture as you learn about ancient civilizations and the country’s mystic past. Appreciate cities’ historical architecture that creates a colonial and vibrant charm or explore the dreamy little villages that are nestled in the mountains and that are just as photogenic.
 

All this. Included.

 

Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 24 guests in South and Central America, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours.

 

We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides with complimentary headsets to hear every word, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach.

 

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1. ARRIVE IN BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA – Welcome to Bogotá!

 

 


Day 2. BOGOTÁ


The Green Metropolis

Bogotá is located in the center of Colombia at an altitude of 2,640m (8,660ft.) above sea level. The vibrant capital is surrounded by the Andes Mountains and blends a rich history, colonial beauty, colorful street art, beautiful architecture, and exquisite gastronomy. Your city tour includes the famous Paloquemao food market where you’ll appreciate the beautiful and aromatic flower market. Enter the marketplace and browse the rows and stalls filled with fruits, vegetables, herbs, fish, seafood, and meats for a tasting of local fare. Take the cable car up Monserrate Hill for spectacular views, visit the Gold Museum, and more. This evening, celebrate your Bogotá adventure with dinner at a local restaurant.
 
Breakfast & Dinner
 
TASTES & TRADITIONS Taste different fruits, fruit juice, or typical salty snacks like tamal, lechona, and pan de bono con avena. Stroll to discover traditional kitchenware like wooden spoons, molinillos (a wooden grinder), pataconera (a hand-operated machine to toast plantains), and totumo (a container made with the jícaro fruit’s shell).
 
CULTURAL TREASURES After a short drive to Monserrate Hill, take the cable car up to top, at an altitude of 3,048m (10,000ft.). Spend time here, visiting the iconic church and appreciating the unparalleled views over Colombia’s capital. Continue to “La Candelaria”, a historical enclave in downtown Bogotá. Walk along the cobblestone streets and enjoy the district’s blend of beautiful buildings, Spanish colonial architecture, and baroque churches that contrast with modern graffiti, cafés, and contemporary museums. In “Plaza Bolívar”, the main square, see the Cathedral and the Liévano Palace. Visit the popular Gold Museum that contains over 34,000 gold pieces and countless bone, stone, ceramic, and textile artifacts that belonged to some 13 Pre-Hispanic societies.
 

Day 3. BOGOTÁ–PEREIRA (COFFEE TRIANGLE AREA)

 

 
Colombia’s Coffee Triangle
PEREIRA Fly to Pereira in the heart of the Coffee Triangle of Colombia, the third-largest producer of coffee in the world. It is a territory with a special natural charm, impressive green landscapes and a model of agricultural exploitation that coexists and takes care of the environment, which has led it to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 as “Coffee Cultural Landscape.” Upon arrival, travel to the small town Calarcá and travel by Jeep to a coffee hacienda. Then, travel to your hotel for a free evening.
 
Breakfast/Lunch
 
CULTURAL GEMS The coffee axis is a region of central Colombia that occupies three distinct departments, which are respectively represented by the capital cities of Manizales, Pereira, and Armenia. These three departments make up the “Coffee Triangle” that runs along a line from north to south following the central mountain range and the snow-capped peaks of the Nevados Natural Park, on the eastern flank of the three. Colombia is concentrated in the fertile valleys of this region, for what is called the “coffee zone.” Explore these generous and prosperous valleys rich with endless coffee plantations and vibrantly hued wooden houses with balconies of wood and flowers, which make it a very picturesque landscape. Join the hacienda owners for lunch. Be invited to try the typical food of the region while learning about their lifestyle before strolling through the coffee plantations. Learn everything there is to know about coffee: the seed planting, bean picking, roasting, and coffee tasting. Stroll the plantations with the local experts to discover the production process secrets and learn about the fine art of coffee tasting.
 

 

Day 4. PEREIRA (COFFEE TRIANGLE AREA). EXCURSION TO COCORA VALLEY, SALENTO–FILANDIA

 

 
Palms & Parrots
Drive through the region of Quindío to Cocora Valley with your Local Guide, where you will find Colombia’s national tree, the Palma de Cera (wax palm)—the highest palm trees in the world. Continue to Salento, the region’s oldest village. Stroll the small shops amid vibrant balconies before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Later, discover Filandia’s quaint streets and richly hued architecture, in the town known for handicrafts, innovative gastronomy, and stunning lush views.
 
BreakfastLunch
 

Day 5. PEREIRA (COFFEE TRIANGLE AREA)–MEDELLÍN

 

 
City Of Everlasting Spring

 

Fly to Medellín, the second-largest and most progressive city in Colombia. Cradled in the Aburra Valley, Medellín is one of the most beautiful in South America and is dubbed the “City of Everlasting Spring” due to its mild, year-round climate. The afternoon is free for optional excursions or free time to explore this vibrant city before dinner at a local restaurant.
 
 
Breakfast/Dinner
 
 
EXPLORE MORE in Medellín by visiting one of the many shops or galleries, visit the Museo Casa de la Memoria, or chat with a friendly paisa, or local.
 
 
FASHION, HISTORY & ART Medellín is also known as ‘The City of Eternal Spring’ for its pleasant climate and moderate temperatures. Take a cable car up and appreciate the stunning views of the lush valley surrounded by beautiful peaks. Medellín has had a remarkable turnaround and is one of the country’s most important cities for business, politics, fashion, and nightlife. Explore the historical center, appreciate the vibrant graffiti and art by Fernando Botero, try local street food, or head to the city’s outskirts and immerse in nature.
 
 

Day 6. MEDELLÍN

 

 

 
 
Sizeable Sculptures & Street Art

 

Explore Medellín and get an insight into the city’s history. Start your tour at the top of Nutibara Hill. Pueblito Paisa is a quaint village with a fountain, cobblestone streets, a church, and small shops. From here, enjoy the spectacular 360º views over the city. Then, continue your tour to the old quarter and visit the famous Botero Square—home to the voluptuous sculptures by famed artist Fernando Botero. Browse the exhibitions of the Antioquia Museum in Botero Plaza, then take the cable car up to San Javier and take the electric stairways to the graffiti-rich Comuna 13 district.

 

 
Breakfast/Lunch
 
 
TRANSFORMATIVE ART A must-see sight in Medellín is the legendary Cumuna 13 district. Once considered the most dangerous city in the world—besieged by violent drug cartels, Medellín is now a mecca for street artists whose graffiti helped changed the atmosphere through positive social reform after clashes between the government and the cartels. Join a social leader in Cumuna 13 to peruse the passionate murals and hear the history of how this vibrant enclave in Medellín was transformed into a positive culture of graffiti, hip hop, and a popular tourist destination.
 
 
ART & ARTISTRY Stroll Botero Square, named for the famed sculptures of Fernando Botero. Here, gaze upon the larger-than-life sculptures recognized for their oversized depictions of lovably rotund figures of people and animals for which the celebrated Colombian artist is known.
 
 

Day 7. MEDELLÍN –CARTAGENA

 

 

 
Caribbean Vibes

 

Fly to Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in well-preserved colonial architecture. Upon arrival, your private guided tour includes a visit to the Monastery of La Popa. Built on a hillside at the beginning of the 17th century, it features panoramic views of the city, its beaches, and the bay. Next, tour San Felipe Fort, built to protect the city from pirates as well as the British and French. Later, head into the walled colonial city and see the brightly hued streets and plazas of Old Cartagena. End the day with a tour of the San Pedro Claver Convent, housing impressive Pre-Columbian artifacts.
 
 
Breakfast
 
 
CULTURE & TRADITION Visit the convent of San Pedro Claver, originally founded by the Jesuits in the 17th century, and admire its 3-story building made of stone façade, stained-glass windows, and marble details. Inside, browse the many amazing artifacts of religious art, pre-Colombian ceramics, and Afro-Caribbean paintings and masks.
 
 

Day 8. CARTAGENA

 

 

 
A free day in Cartagena

 

Full day at leisure to explore the town on your own, take an optional adventure, or visit the beach and enjoy the sun and the waves. Farewell dinner hosted by the Tour Director.
Breakfast/Dinner
 

EXPLORE MORE in Cartagena with an optional visit to Islas del Rosario, a rum tasting and salsa dancing class, or join an evening bay tour with wine and 4-course dinner.

 

Day 9. CARTAGENA

 

 

Safe Travels Until We Meet Again!

 

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
Breakfast
 
 

 

 


Jewels of Colombia with Peru and Machu Picchu

 

Your South America adventure continues in the mysterious locales of Peru. From Lima to Cusco—through the Sacred Valley to the heights of Machu Picchu, you’ll marvel at the magnificent discoveries and down-to-earth traditions of the Peruvian people.

 

 


Day 9. CARTAGENA–LIMA, PERU

 

 

Welcome to Peru!

 

Fly to the modern city of Lima today where you will be met by your Globus representative. The remainder of your day is free to relax.
 
Breakfast

 

Day 10. LIMA

 

 
Plazas & Pre-Columbian Treasures

 

Guided sightseeing includes the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, Cathedral, and the 18th-century San Francisco Monastery with its unique cloisters. This evening, take a short drive to the Globus Larco Herrera Museum to see some of the best Pre-Columbian art in the world followed by dinner at the museum.
 
BreakfastDinner
 
 
ART & ARCHITECTURE This evening, an exclusive guided Tour of Lima’s Larco Herrera Museum, on the site of a 7th-century pre-Columbian pyramid, introduces you to the world’s largest private collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art. See 5,000 years of art, artifacts, and archaeological treasures followed by a special dinner in the beautiful Peruvian café here.
 
 

Day 11. LIMA–CUSCO–SACRED VALLEY

 

 
 
Incan Ingenuity

 

Fly to Cusco and spend the day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit the Temple of Sacsayhuaman, a fortress of gigantic stones with some blocks weighing more than 350 tons. Also, see the semi-circular Kenko Amphitheater and the ancient site of Puca Pucara before reaching Pisac. Stay in the Sacred Valley tonight.
 
 
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
 

 

Day 12. SACRED VALLEY–MACHU PICCHU

 

 
 
The Lost City

 

This morning, visit the Inca Fortress of Ollantaytambo, followed by a visit to a local home to meet some of the area’s families and experience their way of life in the Sacred Valley. Then, board the Vistadome train for a scenic journey through the lush Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival, ascend the mountainside to legendary Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” Your Local Guide will introduce this intact fortress with its temple remains, holy houses, and mile-long aqueduct, and will bring you closer to the mysteries still hidden in these amazing structures. Tonight, learn how to make the perfect Pisco Sour at a Peruvian cooking demonstration before your included dinner.
 
BreakfastDinner
 
LIFE & TIMES Today, you are invited into a local family’s home in the Sacred Valley. Learn about their traditions like weaving that has been passed down for centuries from ancestors. See how they cook, live, sleep, work, and ask about the cuy (guinea pigs) who share their homes.
 
 
 

Day 13. MACHU PICCHU–CUSCO

 

 

 

 

Here Comes the Sun

A morning at leisure in Machu Picchu allows you to wake up early to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu with your second included entrance to the ruins. After lunch, return to the Sacred Valley by train and continue to Cusco.


Breakfast/Lunch

 

PICTURE PERFECT Staying overnight in Machu Picchu allows you to get up early and experience the ruins at their most pristine before

 



Day 14. CUSCO

 

 

Sun Worship & Spanish Conquests


On your guided sightseeing tour of Cusco today, learn more about the Inca and Spanish influence. Begin at the heart of Cusco in the Plaza de Armas (main square), with a visit to the imposing cathedral, where construction began in 1550 and was finally completed 100 years later. Continue to Koricancha and the Santo Domingo Monastery and see how the two sites have become one. The Temple of the Sun at Koricancha was once the most important Inca site, dedicated to the worship of the Sun. The walls, altars, and decorations were all said to be covered in gold—until the Spaniards looted the temple and then built the contrasting Baroque-style Santo Domingo Monastery on top of the temple’s foundations. Your tour concludes at San Pedro Market for a final opportunity to shop for mementos. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore on your own. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

 

Breakfast/Dinner
 
LOCAL TASTES You can find anything your heart desires at San Pedro Market. From every type of food, fresh juices, handmade clothing, knick-knacks and more. Pro tip: Find a food stall that serves lomo saltado, a traditional Peruvian dish with steak, onions, tomatoes, and French fries. Muy Rico!
 
 
 

Day 15. CUSCO–LIMA

 

 

At leisure in Lima.

A short flight returns you to Lima, where the remainder of your day is free to explore.

 

Breakfast

EXPLORE MORE Now is the time to fill your plate with the mouth-watering Peruvian culinary specialties to indulge the palate with a free day in Lima. From Pisco Sours to Pollo a la Brasa, from ceviche to cuy (Guinea Pig, if you’re feeling adventurous). Your Tour Director can point you in the right direction, and your GlobusGO mobile app has local maps and suggestions to get the most out of your day.

 


Day 16. LIMA

 

 

 

Safe Travels Until We Meet Again!

 

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
 
Breakfast
 
 
 

HAND-PICKED HOTELS

 

We’ve vetted and hand-selected the best hotels around the world with location, comfort, and style in mind. Enjoy first-class hotels in each destination, and check in with the confidence that we’ve already checked everything out for your comfort and convenience.
 

BOGATA
Cité Hotel

 

PEREIRA
San Carlos Lodge En Pereira

 

MEDELLIN
Diez Hotel

 

CARTAGENA
Estelar Cartagena De Indias

 

LIMA
Hotel Pullman Miraflores

 

SACRED VALLEY
Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel And Villas

 

MACHU PICCHU
Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel

 

CUSCO
Casa Andina Premium Cusco

Touring. Beyond.

 

Each tour includes the legendary landmarks and must-see sights with an eye for hidden local gems you won’t find in any guidebook. We take you to the head of the line at the world’s most awe-inspiring and iconic attractions, while sharing nearly a century of travel expertise in discovering off-the-beaten path surprises for immersive experiences in the true cultures and traditions. Be introduced to towns with no traffic, coasts with no crowds, and nooks with no noise. We strike the perfect balance between bold adventure and the beauty of simply being in the moment with the free time and personalized choices you deserve.

 

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