ICONIC COLOMBIA

Welcome to Colombia! This itinerary perfectly introduces the country's main cities and culture. Visit Bogotá, Colombia's capital and largest city, a melting pot of people from around the country. The city is diverse and multicultural, blending modern and colonial architecture, great food, fascinating history, and some of the best museums in Latin America. Travel to Medellin and see with your own eyes how it has transformed from one of the most dangerous cities to a fascinating destination. Explore Cartagena, the jewel of the Caribbean Sea, and go on a trip to the beautiful beaches and islands nearby… your perfect ten days in Iconic Colombia!

 

Cartagena Old Town

Bogota

Start by exploring Paloquemao Fruit Market and get to know the real Bogota. Nothing can define a city better than its urban food and markets, and this tour will take you on a visit to one of the most famous and essential markets. You will also get a fruit tasting as part of the tour. Later you'll be transported back in time as you enter the famous Gold Museum (Museo de Oro). Full of thousands of spectacular gold artworks, the museum displays artistry and crafts created by the indigenous peoples of the Andes mountains, with some pieces dating back thousands of years and pre-dating the creation of modern metalwork tools. You will also visit the Botero Museum and indulge in one of Latin America's most important international art collections. You will continue to the neighborhood of the Candelaria, home to some of Bogota's most famous universities and the city's most popular walking streets. Pass by modern buildings nestled against colorful and detailed street-art murals, leading to some of Bogota's oldest neighborhoods where original colonial houses still stand. As you walk the historic streets, learn about Bogota's culture and the importance of the city's street art. As you make your way along a beautiful canal and old restaurants in the city center, you'll see a variety of architectural styles as you come to Plaza Bolívar, the civic heart of the country. Here you'll find the city's expansive cathedral and the local and federal governments, all nestled against the presidential palace, La Casa de Nariño. 

 

La Candelaria, Bogota

Medellin

Medellin is located in a bowl in the Andes mountains, meaning that wherever you go in the city, you are guaranteed a view of mountains and stunning landscapes. The city remains deeply rooted in and proud of its rich Paisa culture—though it also acknowledges the dark side of its past. But thanks to innovative advancements in public transportation and education, modern infrastructure projects, and a growing technology scene, Medellín has made remarkable progress and has become one of the best cities to visit and live in Latin America.
Explore the famous Botero Plaza downtown 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 and allows visitors to glimpse the lives of the marginalized population. At the Comuna 13 district, with its unique escalators, you observe another innovative project that improved the quality of life of the people of Medellín. 

 

Medellin Cityscape

 

Cartagena

 La Popa Monastery, where you can appreciate the best views of Cartagena de Indias. From there, you go to the fort of San Felipe de Barajas, the most significant piece of architecture showing the strength and power of the Spaniards in Latin America. Your next stop will be the Walled City, where you will see the Bóvedas, another example of military architecture and fascinating history. At Las Bovedas, you can buy local art and crafts from local artisans. You continue the tour by walking through the old city and discovering the magical streets of Cartagena. There you will see beautiful houses, squares, and churches. You will also visit the San Pedro Claver church, the patron saint of enslaved people for Colombians and African-Americans. The tour continues by car to the modern part of the city, with a panoramic view of Bocagrande, the beach area, and the island of Tierra Bomba. We recommend it to understand the city better, and you will have fun, learn a lot, and enjoy it! Afterward, you can rest and relax or walk around the walled city and enjoy Cartagena to the full.

 

Cartagena de Las Indias

 

Islabela

 

The Rosario Islands are an archipelago formed by coral reefs. The magic of its crystalline waters and small coralline beaches are the best accomplices for activities, relaxation, and a great trip that offers something different for everyone. You can snorkel or dive, go swimming, book Spa services, enjoy the sea and the waves, tan under the Caribbean sun, practice kayaking, relax and enjoy nature. Includes shared boat transportation, lunch, and use of facilities at the eco-hotel (any extra activities are not included, and you can book them upon arrival). The Day Pass at the islands consists of a traditional local lunch of fish, meat, or vegetarian option. We can also upgrade the experience and include fresh lobster for lunch. There are many options to explore in The Rosario Islands, with Islabela being one of them. Perfect for a laidback day of relaxing and snorkeling. If you are looking for a more chilled .out relaxing beach, then Islabela is the ideal escape. The Rosario Islands are the perfect day trip from Cartagena. This archipelago comprises 28 islands and reefs that are protected as part of Colombia's only underwater National Parks. A short boat rides away from the city. There is plenty to do in the Rosario Islands to keep you busy. Relax by the warm Caribbean Sea, go snorkeling, and enjoy the local Colombian cuisine.

 

Islabela

 

Visit these iconic cities on your trip to Colombia with VA Expeditions.