They’re just a few of the attractions that make Medellin such a great opener on your journey to Colombia’s Pacific Coast. And then comes the coast itself; a symphony of beautiful beaches, deep jungle and diverse wildlife.
Not to mention picturesque towns and tiny villages – like Santa Fe de Antioquia and San Jeronimo – that seem to have simply shrugged off the effects of time, to give you an intimate glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of rural Colombia.
Medellin
Fly to Medellin, via Bogota. Upon arrival you’ll be taken to your hotel.
Medellin
In Medellin you’ll be staying at the heart of the prized El Poblado neighbourhood, renowned for its restaurants, cafés and busy nightlife. Your city tour will encompass the Botero sculptures in Parque San Antonio and the Museum of Antioquia where you can browse through artefacts ranging from the pre-Colombian era to the modern day.
The next day sees you travelling to Guatepe with its monumental dam and towering rock (thought to be a meteorite) giving wonderful views. Guatape town features pretty, pastel coloured houses – the perfect spot for lunch before taking a gentle cruise on Guatape Reservoir and visiting the flower gardens of Llanogrande.
Stay: Two nights in a junior suite at the Patio del Mundo.
El Choco
Now it’s time to fly off to the Colombian Pacific Coast. You’ll have a choice of resorts, both of which support ecological and cultural tourism and directly help local communities. You’ll laze on immaculate beaches and stay in luxurious rooms overlooking the ocean. You can also watch humpback whales, hike along nature trails, immerse yourself in one of the most bio-diverse areas on the planet, go scuba diving and snorkelling or watch the fabulous indigenous birdlife. Excursions include jungle exploration, visits to waterfalls and hot springs and meeting local communities.
Stay: Four nights in a standard room at either El Cantil or La Jovisena Resorts.
Medellin
Fly back to Medellin for a fascinating private excursion to Santa Fe De Antioquia. You journey through the wondrous Parque de los Tamarindos and onwards to the Puente de Occidente. This masterpiece of engineering is one of the first suspension bridges in South America and a truly awe-inspiring sight. In complete contrast are the timeless, whitewashed buildings and narrow streets of your destination – Santa Fe De Antioquia. You return to Medellin via the well-preserved town of San Jeronimo.
Stay: One night in a junior suite at the Hotel Park 10.
Depart Medellin
This morning you’ll have the opportunity to drive over to a picturesque coffee plantation just an hour and a half from Medellin. You’ll learn all about the coffee-making process and be able to stroll around the plantation itself, before returning to Medellin to take your return flight home.
