Colombia incorporates all the best features of any South American country: Beautiful Caribbean beaches, elegant colonial cities high in the Andes mountains, exotic Amazon rainforest, rich pre-columbian cultures with remarkable craftsmanship; and relaxing cloud-forest regions steeped in coffee-growing traditions and lovely haciendas.

With so much to offer, it can be difficult to plan a visit! We recommend everyone spend some time in the charming capital city of Bogotá. You’ll find classy traditional style lodging, as well as modern business oriented hotels. Latin American Escapes will help you find a comfortable place to use as a base while you explore the city, and some of the many tours available to the nearby countryside.

After enjoying a stop at the famous Gold Museum, and visits to all the scenic colonial sites around Plaza de Bolivar, you may wish to venture outside the city to visit the unique underground Salt Cathedral near to Zipaquira. Or take a full day to drive into the coffee growing regions to visit a typical “finca” or farm, and view the abundant varieties of orchids that thrive in this region.

With a few extra days, we recommend a side-trip to San Agustin to explore the extensive archaeological sites of the area. You can also do some river rafting, horseback riding & hiking in this lush agricultural region.

Another “must” visit is to spend a few days in the Boyacá region north of Bogotá. Here you’ll find typical colonial cities such as Villa de Leyva, which is also a national monument. The town market, extensive handicrafts, museums and large town plaza will show you a relaxed, charming side of Colombian life.

Cartagena earns the well-deserved title of Colombia’s most fascinating city. Located on the Caribbean coast with its beautiful beaches, it is loaded with colonial history, well-preserved forts and a fascinating old town area. You’ll want several days to immerse yourself in the special ambience of this city.

Our Colombia tours are all suggested customized itineraries, which are very flexible. The Highlights of Colombia tour offers several days in the two most popular cities-- Bogotá and Cartagena. For more in-depth explorations, we recommend the Colombia Explorer, which will take you beyond Bogotá to the archaeological sites of San Agustin, and the charming colonial experience of Villa de Leyva.

And for a truly “off-the-beaten-path” experience, try our Bogotá and Coffee Plantations tour. After sightseeing in Bogotá, you’ll fly to Armenia and stay in a lovely hacienda while you explore the coffee growing region, and experience the lifestyle and beautiful sites of the area.

For a complete listing of our group departures, and suggested custom designed itineraries please visit our Colombia Trip Index.

To request specific itineraries not found on our website, for help designing a custom trip, or any additional information, please contact us by email, or by calling 800-510-5999.