Colombia

GASTRONOMY

Colombian cuisine is a soulful celebration of tradition and artistry. From slow-simmered stews and fire-grilled meats to handmade breads crafted with care, every dish is infused with deep, earthy flavors that comfort and connect. Here, food is more than sustenance—it’s storytelling. Ancestral techniques like smoking, fermenting, and cooking over wood fires meet the lush abundance of tropical ingredients—cacao, coffee, herbs, and fragrant leaves—creating layers of flavor that linger. Spanish and Arab influences echo through rich pastries, vibrant rice dishes, and smoky sausages, reminding us that in Colombia, every bite carries the essence of its heritage.

CULTURE

Colombia’s cultural spirit runs deep—home to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites and countless untold stories. Walk among the sacred statues of San Agustín, where ancient civilizations carved their beliefs in stone and laid their leaders to rest as early as 1000 BC. Through intricate tombs, mythic figures, and ceremonial art, the legacy of the Northern Andes echoes—a testament to a people whose wisdom, spirituality, and creativity shaped the roots of a continent.

ADVENTURE

For the spirited traveler, Colombia is an open invitation to feel alive. From the soaring peaks of the Andes to the untamed depths of the Amazon, this land offers a playground of wild beauty and untapped adventure. Whether you’re gliding with the wind above verdant valleys, hiking through cloud forests, or chasing adrenaline on two wheels, Colombia’s diverse landscapes awaken the senses and ignite the soul. Every experience—no matter your pace—is a chance to connect more deeply with nature, with others, and with yourself.

NATURE

Colombia is nature at its most awe-inspiring—raw, radiant, and wildly diverse. One moment, you’re immersed in the lush, life-giving depths of the Amazon; the next, you’re gazing out over the snow-capped Andes as they touch the sky. With two breathtaking coastlines, you can chase the rhythms of the Pacific one day and bask in the warmth of the Caribbean the next. At Altuara, we weave these extraordinary landscapes into journeys of refined adventure—where sustainability and luxury go hand in hand. It’s the great outdoors, reimagined with intention, comfort, and meaning.

WELLNESS

Colombia offers an unparalleled sanctuary for those seeking rejuvenation, where luxury meets nature’s healing touch. Escape to the Paipa Hot Springs, one of Colombia’s volcanic retreats, where the earth’s natural spas invite you to unwind in thermal pools that soothe both body and soul. As the warm waters embrace you, the stunning landscapes unfold around you—providing a tranquil haven to detoxify, refresh your spirit, and emerge with a renewed sense of vitality.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Hike Through Ecuador’s Overpowering Volcano Range

For hikers looking to take on new challenges, Volcano Avenue is an adventure you’re destined to go on. Eight towering volcanoes touch the clouds, dusted with snow upon every peak. At the base of each, a rich valley packed with foliage provides a sense of calm before the next incline begins. Many travelers will come from near and far to hike the most famous of these mountains, Cotopaxi, which is one of the tallest peaks in the world. Get ready to take on a challenge and trek through these sleeping giants with a luxury hiking trip!

WHERE TO EAT

Somos

A globally inspired menu that unites Ecuadorian favorites with authentic French recipes. Chef and owner Alejandra Espinoza uses what she learned while studying abroad at culinary school to give her most beloved childhood dishes an innovative spin with modern techniques. This fun, energetic destination is ideal if you enjoy a playful dining experience, one that starts with everyone’s favorite: dessert. Taste inspirational recipes that combine international cooking styles with authentic, local ingredients, for unique masterpieces such as the guinea pig dumplings.

WHERE TO STAY

Casa Gangotena

Rest in the elegance of a Relais & Châteaux mansion planted in the heart of Quito’s old town that offers guests an extravagant, refined living experience. Mirroring the opulence of European royalty with Ecuadorian flair, this is a destination for the traveler who wants to feel like royalty as they explore South America. An on site restaurant offers a culturally inspired menu, and their selection of excursions feature cooking courses, walking tours of Quito, even an evening of chocolate tasting in the birthplace of the rich delicacy.