Colombia Highlights

An incomparable example of sustainable and cultural practices, the Coffee Cultural Landscape (CCL) of Colombia is a system of collectively cultivated coffee plantations in a mountainous landscape. Consisting of a series of six sites, which integrate eighteen urban settlement. The urban areas, mainly situated on the relatively flat tops of hills above sloping coffee fields, are characterized by the architecture of the Antioquian colonization with Spanish influence.

The Valley is famed for its abundance of Quindío wax palm, the national tree of Colombia and tallest palm in the world. Visit on board Jeep Willys, the first USA military WW2 Jeeps (M38 or CJ-2A models) imported to Colombia for military defense but never actually used. Local farmers quickly took a fancy to them to replace the over-worked mules in the mountainous coffee growing region of Colombia. Roads, some even to this day, are only single track dirt roads.

Enjoy the diverse sights on a horseback ride through the Coffee Cultural Landscape, declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2011. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to this activity.

Head to a traditional coffee plantation in the Coffee Cultural Landscape to learn about the importance of coffee in Colombian culture and economy. See where the beans are grown, how they are harvested and roasted and then enjoy your own steaming cup at the end of the tour.

Visit the photogenic village of Salento, the oldest municipality in the department of Quindío, where traditional architecture and handicrafts make it an unforgettable place. See colorful colonial houses, balconies full of flowers and enjoy a warm welcome.

Dancing in Colombia is an important form of socializing and Bambuco is the most representative genre in the Andean zone: A blend of Spanish, African and indigenous styles. After a welcome ceremony from hosts keen to preserve local customs, drop all you inhibitions and join in on the fun, letting the music guide your movements.

Using the iconic Metrocable linking the city's neighborhoods, visit the “City of Eternal Spring” also known as "Transformation City". Just over 20 years ago, Medellin was notorious for its crime and violence. It is now a forward-thinking and hopeful metropolis and is considered one of the great success stories of Latin America.

Visit the Rock of Guatape: The Peñol Boulder, a spectacular sight in the surrounding area of Medellin. The 200-meter-high monolith can be accessed by climbing 740 steps. Enjoy breath-taking views of green mountains and blue lakes. The village of Guatapé is famous for its church and its beautiful, colorful paintings that decorate the houses of the village.

Watch as local dancers sway, clap and stomp to the lively rhythms of salsa music, and then get the chance to try the steps yourself during a salsa lesson in Medellin.

Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking architecture of this port city overlooking the Caribbean sea. Walk through the walled Old Town with cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. Visit the iconic Cartagena fortress and its tunnels: Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas as well as the statue of Don Blas de Lezo.

Experience the authentic and local culture of Getsemani, a vibrant neighborhood of Cartagena. Getsemani is filled with impressive murals and walls that talk, sharing commentary on social issues such as the neighborhood’s fight against gentrification, racism, treatment of the indigenous population, and local forgotten hero Pedro Romero.

The Cartagena region traditionally carried a strong African influence. While Cartagena itself has lost much of this influence over time, its less-cosmopolitan neighbor La Boquilla still largely retains its African-influenced styles of dress, food, and language. Today, La Boquilla’s culture is a rich mix of Afro-Caribbean elements including unique foods and exceptional music. Fishing is deeply rooted in this community, join local fishermen as you canoe through the mangroves and shallow waters of the Cienaga de Juan Polo lagoon to catch fish and seafood using traditional techniques.

Canoe though channels and tunnels formed by dense mangrove swamp forests and learn about the authentic fishing village, and the traditional life outside the city. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to this activity.

The Rosario Islands are located approximately an hour away by boat from South-West Cartagena. They consist of 27 islands with 20 hectares of coral reefs. Explore the impressive, beautiful landscapes of the Rosario Islands with their clear waters, gentle breezes, and marine life. Today, the surrounding area, including the Islas de Barú and the Islas de San Bernardo, are protected sites. During this day trip to Majagua Island, explore the breathtaking nature, relax on the beach and snorkel through the clear waters.