Colonial Towns of Colombia

Discover the Heart of Bogota

Today, you’ll dive into the soul of Colombia’s capital with a private, guided city tour. Begin your journey by marveling at the world’s most extensive collection of pre-Colombian gold at the Gold Museum. Then, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art as you explore the works of Fernando Botero, Colombia’s renowned painter and sculptor, at the Botero Museum.

Stroll through the charming, historic streets of La Candelaria, where colonial architecture meets colorful culture. As you ascend to Cerro de Monserrate, enjoy breathtaking views of the city below. Your day will conclude with a visit to a local coffee roastery, where you’ll be guided through the nuances of tasting and distinguishing the rich flavors of Colombia’s world-class coffee, just like a true aficionado.

A Scenic Journey to Villa de Leyva

We begin our adventure early in the morning, setting out on a road trip filled with charm and history, heading towards the enchanting Villa de Leyva. Our first stop will be the awe-inspiring Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, nestled deep within the tunnels of an ancient salt mine. This breathtaking cathedral is a marvel of modern engineering, with three stunning sections symbolizing the birth, life, and death of Christ—an artistic tribute to the miners and creators who brought this masterpiece to life.

From there, we’ll continue to the colorful village of Raquira, a haven for art lovers. With its vibrant buildings and abundant craft shops, the town is famous for its handcrafted pottery and clay treasures—perfect for picking up a unique souvenir. After a relaxing lunch, we’ll make our way to Villa de Leyva.

This quaint town, founded in 1572, is a hidden gem, offering a glimpse into Colombia’s colonial past. With its picturesque whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and terracotta rooftops, Villa de Leyva exudes old-world charm. The grand central plaza, the largest in Colombia and South America, is surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture, inviting you to relax, explore, and embrace the peaceful ambiance of this historic town.

A Journey into Colombia’s Culinary Traditions

We’ll start the day early with a visit to a charming farm just an hour away from Villa de Leyva. Here, you’ll be treated to a traditional Colombian breakfast before diving into a hands-on cooking experience where you’ll learn to make almohabana, a delicious corn pastry that’s a beloved staple of the country’s cuisine. As you prepare this dish, you’ll also have the chance to connect with the farm family and hear the rich history behind how ancient indigenous cultures processed and cooked corn.

Next, we’ll visit another local farm to explore the fascinating world of panela, a sweet product made from sugar cane. You’ll gain insight into its traditional production process and its significance to the region.

After a satisfying lunch, we’ll journey to the Convento Santo Ecce Homo, a peaceful retreat founded in 1620 by Dominican monks. This stunning stone-and-adobe convent features a serene courtyard made from local stones, with fascinating fossils and ammonites adorning its walls. It’s the perfect place to pause and admire the natural beauty that surrounds us. After the visit, we’ll return to Villa de Leyva, leaving you with the afternoon free to relax or explore at your own pace.

A Scenic Journey from Villa de Leyva to Barichara

After a delightful breakfast, we’ll set off on a journey to Barichara, a captivating colonial town nestled in the department of Santander.

Barichara is a true gem, celebrated for its stunning colonial charm—hand-carved stone streets, charming wooden balconies, and a peaceful atmosphere that earned it the title of Colombia’s most beautiful town. Situated amidst the rolling hills of one of the country’s most picturesque regions, the town’s natural beauty will surely leave you in awe. The drive from Villa de Leyva to Barichara takes about 4 hours, and along the way, we’ll stop to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and capture some unforgettable moments with a few photos.

Discover the Charm of Barichara

Today’s journey will immerse you in the beauty of Barichara, beginning with a visit to a local home where you’ll discover the intricate methods used in constructing colonial houses. You’ll have the chance to engage with skilled artisans, learning about the traditional building techniques passed down through generations. This hands-on experience offers a meaningful connection with the community and a glimpse into their daily lives.

Afterward, we’ll explore some of the town’s most significant colonial landmarks, including the majestic Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, the Casa de la Cultura, and other historical treasures. The cathedral, built from sandstone, is a stunning sight that dominates the town square, and its glow at sunset, as the stone transforms into a deep orange hue, is simply magical. You’ll have time to wander through this enchanting town, filled with quaint cafés, charming artisan shops, and picturesque streets just waiting to be explored.

A Serene Hike to Guane

Today, we embark on a peaceful 2-hour hike along the historic Camino Real, an ancient path that connects Barichara with the quaint town of Guane.

Originally constructed by the indigenous Guane people and later used by the Spanish, this trail was beautifully restored in 1864 by German explorer George von Lenguerke. As you stroll along the mostly downhill route, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the canyon and valley, providing a tranquil and scenic escape.

Guane, a more intimate version of Barichara, is a perfect place to unwind and savor a delicious lunch while soaking in the relaxed pace of this hidden gem. Afterward, return to Barichara for an afternoon of leisure, exploring the town’s highlights at your own pace and enjoying the gentle rhythm of the day.

Journey Through Charming Villages to Zapatoca

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll begin our scenic drive towards Zapatoca, a hidden gem nestled 2.5 hours north of Barichara. Along the way, we’ll pass through charming towns like Galán and Fuente, where time seems to stand still, offering a peaceful glimpse into a more relaxed and simple way of life.

Set amidst a stunning canyon backdrop, Zapatoca was founded in the 17th century and remains a tranquil retreat few have the pleasure of discovering. This serene town is the perfect escape to unwind, with its quiet streets and breathtaking natural beauty. Before settling into your hotel, enjoy a private tour through this enchanting community, allowing you to soak in its unique charm and peaceful ambiance.

A Day of Tranquility in a Picturesque Retreat

Today, immerse yourself in the serenity of your surroundings and take time to rejuvenate both body and soul. At Hotel Sindamanoy, a luxurious wellness spa, you’ll have the perfect setting to unwind and treat yourself to indulgent spa experiences designed to nurture your well-being. Whether you choose to relax with soothing treatments or take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful streets of Zapatoca, this day is all about slowing down and finding balance in the beauty that surrounds you.

Chicamocha National Park / Flight to Cartagena

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, and then embark on a scenic drive toward Bucaramanga. Along the way, we will stop at the breathtaking Chicamocha National Park, home to Colombia’s largest canyon and a must-see natural wonder in Santander. Be sure to capture the stunning views – this is a place that begs for photos you’ll treasure forever. After taking in the awe-inspiring landscape, we will continue to Bucaramanga and head to the airport for an afternoon flight to the vibrant city of Cartagena.

Upon your arrival, we will take you to your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the enchanting experiences that await you in this coastal paradise.

Uncovering the Timeless Charm of Cartagena

Begin your day with a warm greeting from your guide, as you set out to delve into the rich history and captivating beauty of Cartagena. Your journey starts with a visit to Castillo San Felipe, the largest Spanish fortification in the Americas, proudly standing tall over Old Town. Built to protect the city from pirates and invaders, this fortress has withstood the test of time since the 16th century. With its remarkable preservation, San Felipe is one of South America’s finest fortresses and a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its awe-inspiring walls.

As we stroll through the enchanting cobblestone streets of the Old Town, we’ll visit its most treasured landmarks, experiencing the heart and soul of Cartagena. Afterward, you’ll have the afternoon free to relax at your hotel, or continue exploring the city’s stunning architecture and its romantic, timeless charm.

Explore La Boquilla and the Tesca Wetlands

Start your day with a peaceful trip to La Boquilla, a charming fishing village just outside of Cartagena, nestled on the northern tip of a narrow peninsula. On one side, the sea stretches out, while on the other, the tranquil Ciénaga de Tesca welcomes you.

Here, we’ll embark on a canoe journey through the serene mangrove forests, navigating the winding waterways that provide a haven for both native and migratory bird species. After the peaceful mangroves, we’ll venture into open waters, where you’ll have the chance to learn traditional fishing techniques from a local fisherman. Experience the art of casting nets and setting crab traps, immersing yourself in the rhythms of the sea.

Following your fishing adventure, we’ll return to the village to savor a delicious, traditional seafood lunch, offering a taste of the vibrant flavors of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. As you dine, you’ll gain insight into the culture and daily life of the local community. Afterward, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful afternoon and some free time to reflect on your day’s adventure.

A Day to Explore at Your Own Pace

Take this day to fully immerse yourself in the charm of Cartagena. Stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets of the historic center, visit the beautiful colonial churches that dot the city, or wander over to the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood, where colorful graffiti tells the story of the city’s artistic spirit. This is your time to explore at your own pace, soaking in the sights and sounds of this magical place.

Saying Goodbye to Colombia

The hardest part of a perfect Colombia adventure is always saying goodbye, but at Inkas Blood, we make sure the journey home is just as smooth and stress-free as the rest of your trip. We’ll take care of all the details, ensuring you get to the airport with ease for your flight. Safe travels, and may the memories of this beautiful journey stay with you forever!