Adventuring Through Past And Present Colombia

Discover the Charms of Bogota on a Private Tour

Your Bogotá adventure begins with a visit to the lively Paloquemao Market, where the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and flowers will captivate your senses. This bustling market offers a glimpse into the daily life of Bogotá’s locals, immersing you in their rich traditions and customs.

Next, take a stroll through the iconic neighborhood of La Candelaria, the historic heart of the city, where you’ll admire Plaza Bolívar, a place brimming with history and charm.

Later, explore the renowned Gold Museum, home to one of the most impressive collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts. With over 35,000 pieces, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the region’s past. Be sure to marvel at the legendary golden raft, a key discovery in the Spanish quest for El Dorado.

A national Tradition  

Although Colombia may not be particularly well known for its beer, every local could tell that there is a big culture around it. Tejo, one of the activities in Colombia that involves the greatest amount of beer, is both a game and a sports event. It involves clay, rock-throwing, and small gunpowder envelopes.

Tejo has been played for over 500 years dating back to Colombian native indigenous populations. 

This popular tradition has become a national sport in the country. Become a Tejo player on your visit! Try out your aim as you calm your thirst down with some national beer. The game is accompanied by a full crate of beer, so be very well-prepared for it! This unique experience is something you won’t forget when you travel back home.

As part of this tour, you will also get to visit two beer pubs that are regarded as landmarks in Colombia. Thanks to their artisan, high-quality tasting beers. Enjoy the hip atmosphere of Chapinero, one of Bogotá’s emerging areas. You will get the chance to taste different beers and identify their differences in preparation and flavors.

Hop into the fun and get ready for an exciting and unique beer night with your friends in the wonderful city of Bogotá.

Journey to the Majestic Colombian Jungle

This morning, the IB team will be by your side as you head to the airport for your flight to Leticia, the gateway to Colombia’s Amazon region. Upon arrival, you’ll step into the vastness of the Amazon rainforest, a unique ecosystem that has sustained countless species and human communities for centuries.

The mighty Amazon River, winding through this lush jungle, is the lifeline of the region, providing water, food, and shelter for its diverse inhabitants. Originating in the Peruvian Andes and flowing all the way to Brazil’s Atlantic coast, the Amazon is one of the planet’s most astonishing natural wonders—an essential force in maintaining the Earth’s delicate ecological balance.

Adventure in the Heart of the Amazon: Amacayacu National Park

Today, we’ll journey deep into the Amazon rainforest to explore Amacayacu National Park, the largest natural treasure of Colombia’s Amazon region. Our day begins with a walk along the Matamata stream, where we’ll follow winding trails in search of the incredible wildlife that inhabits this lush ecosystem. Along the way, we’ll marvel at the intricate details of the park’s rich biodiversity. Later, a peaceful canoe ride will take us back to Calanoa, marking the end of our morning adventure.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit El Vergel, where you’ll have the heartwarming opportunity to meet a group of children dedicated to preserving the traditional songs and dances of the Ticuna culture. This vibrant and authentic encounter will offer a glimpse into their heritage, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Amazon.

Connection with the Jungle: Mocagua Community and Wildlife

Today, you’ll have the chance to experience the heart of the jungle, where local communities play a vital role in the ecosystem, just as nature does around them. Your day begins with a visit to Mocagua, an indigenous community deeply intertwined with its natural surroundings. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their traditions, gain insight into their way of life, and understand how the jungle and its people are connected in a delicate balance.

After a delightful regional lunch, take some time to relax and enjoy the wildlife along the riverbanks. If you’re up for it, join in a local fishing activity before embarking on a boat ride to spot the famous pink Amazon dolphins. It’s a magical sight to see them leap and play in the river’s waters.

Throughout the afternoon, you’ll hear fascinating stories and legends shared by the locals about these mystical dolphins. As the day draws to a close, you’ll return to your lodge for a restful evening and a delicious dinner.

Journey to the Heart of Coffee: The Coffee Region

This morning, we’ll make sure your journey is as smooth and comfortable as possible by accompanying you to the airport for your flight to Pereira, a key destination in Colombia’s renowned coffee region.

Often regarded as the cultural heart of the country, this region will delight you with breathtaking views at every turn. From the gentle hills adorned with coffee plantations to the grand valleys and mountains, the landscape will captivate you. Staying at a local finca or hacienda will allow you to immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of this environment, offering a well-deserved rest surrounded by nature and the warmth of the region.

Discovering the Magic of the Coffee Region

Salento is an Andean town in Colombia located west of Bogota. It is popular for its coffee estates and verdant scenery. On the east side of Salento is Cocora Valley where lofty wax palm trees are home to rare parrots and other birds. 

In 1985, Ceroxylon Quindiuense, a distinct species of a palm tree, was declared the country’s national tree.

We will begin the tour by visiting the Cocora Valley. 

First, you’ll have a welcome cocktail called “Canelazo.” With the assistance of a specialist eco guide, we’ll be ready to start the introduction to the natural reserve of Cocora. 

You will then be transferred to the fog’s forest to witness the biodiversity of fauna and flora. There you’ll find the highest wax palm in the world and the tour won’t be complete without connecting with the earth. We will do a special ritual planting of some palms to pay our respect and appreciation to the wonderful gifts of Mother Nature. 

After the planting, we’ll go to the typical village of Salento, a heritage town characterized by its stunning and colorful traditional architecture. We will stop for lunch and continue visiting Filandia, a little town where you can walk through and adore its colonial streets and beautiful crafts. 

You will also have the opportunity to visit the “La Colina Iluminada” lookout point. It offers a panoramic view of the mountains of the coffee region and you have to get your cameras ready. 

Finally, we will visit a traditional basketry workshop where you will learn the art of making baskets using vegetable fibers.

El Paraiso Coffee Farm: Where Coffee and History Unite in a Sensory Journey

Nestled between bamboo groves and mountains, lies our special coffee spot. Here, at this charming coffee estate, every visitor is embraced with the rich aroma and the compelling history of the Valencia family. Their journey, from facing challenges to finding hope through coffee and tourism, will surely touch your heart. For generations, the Valencia family has been meticulously crafting the perfect coffee bean, honing techniques passed down through the ages.

Explore the coffee fields and witness the love and dedication poured into every bean. From its humble beginnings in the nursery to the bustling processing area, and finally the drying and roasting zones. Treat your senses to an exquisite coffee tasting session directly from the farm. Relish the pure, unfiltered taste of Colombia. To elevate this sensory journey, indulge in authentic regional dishes, a feast that encapsulates the soul of the region.

See you soon Colombia!

Saying goodbye is always the most emotional moment at the end of such a memorable adventure, but at IB we make sure that your departure is as serene and worry-free as the entire trip. We will be at your side to accompany you to the airport and make your return home as easy as possible. We wish you a great trip and hope to have the opportunity to see you again soon!