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Discover Colombia | November 26th, 2024

Price $6299 $5999 12 Days/11 Nights
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Discover Colombia | November 26th, 2024

$6299 $5999 per person
⭐⭐⭐⭐+
*Prices are CAD per person, based on 2 people sharing and reflects early booking discount (land only) – Rates are based on a minimum of 18 guests
Single Supplement: $1900 CAD (If you’re a single traveler and looking to be matched up with a roommate (of the same gender), please reach out to us for details)
Early Booking Price Expires May 31st, 2024


8 Days/7 Night WONDERS OF COLOMBIA RIVER CRUISE – CARTAGENA TO BARANQUILLA ON THE MAGDALENA  – DECEMBER 7TH TO 14TH, 2024


Embark on the journey of a lifetime through the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms” and join us in 2024 as we become the first major river cruise line to discover Colombia along the magnificent Magdalena River. Enjoy exquisite, locally-sourced cuisine inspired by the Colombian Caribbean coast, explore local history and traditions on a variety of included excursions, and attend an exclusive Carnaval experience in Barranquilla – just for AmaWaterways guests!



Why River Cruise?

Unpack once on board their newly designed luxury river cruise ships– the
beautiful AmaMagdalena and wake up in a new destination outside your
window each day. Step right off the ship and discover distinctive UNESCO World Heritage Sites, witness diverse traditions, dance to a variety of Latin American musical styles, and spot incredible wildlife, including fascinating birds only found in this region.


Click Here to View the AmaMagdalena River Cruise Cabin/Deck Plans

Early Booking Rates: Rates below include $300 per person discount, are based on double occupancy and are in CAD

Category GS: $8764

Category LS: $7493

Category A: $6222

Category B: $5841

Category C: $4953

Singles are on request.

Past Guests: Above rates are combinable with standard past guest discounts and benefits.

Terms and Conditions:

$500 CAD per person deposit due within 7 days of reservation – 50% is non-refundable immediately.

120 days prior 100% non-refundable deposit.

Final Balance Due: September 1st, 2024


Includes: 

7-night river cruise in a twin-balcony stateroom or suite
All gratuities included ($159)
All fine dining on board, plus special dinner on shore in El Banco
Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour
A variety of excursions, including birdwatching and boat tours
Nightly entertainment
24/7 Colombian coffee and tea station
The services of one of AmaWaterways’ wonderful Cruise
Managers throughout your river cruise and land journey
Port Charges of $267

Not Included: Extra expenses not indicated in description, Internal Flights (Santa Marta to Bogota)  Airport Tax.


Saturday, December 7th | CARTAGENA – EMBARK CRUISE 


Arrive in Cartagena, the beautiful capital of the Bolivar region located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. After settling into your stateroom, enjoy a tour through the breathtaking Getsemaní neighborhood. With the vibrant colors of the homes and street art as well as the mouthwatering local delicacies that can be found throughout the area, this historic neighborhood will delight all your senses. Upon returning to your ship, embark on your journey along the magical Magdalena River.



Meals: Breakfast


Accommodation: AmaMagdalena River Cruise


Sunday, December 8th: PALENQUE ­- CALAMAR


In the morning, experience the town of Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas. Founded by those who fled a life of slavery during colonial times, the spirit and appearance of this town has been preserved through time. In 1713, the Spanish crown issued a Royal Decree that officially freed the people of Palenque from slavery. Immerse yourself in the town’s deeply rooted culture and traditions, which are so distinct that UNESCO declared Palenque to be a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. An important piece of their heritage is the music and rhythmic style that was developed in this city, which you will enjoy during a special performance by local musicians.



Later in the day, visit Calamar. Located at the entrance of the Canal del Dique, this town was first settled in 1840. Witness historic sites such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception as you tour this beautiful destination by paolo (a bicycle taxi for two).


Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Accommodation: AmaMagdalena River Cruise


Monday, December 9th: SANTA BARBARA DE PINTO -­ MOMPOX



Spend your morning in Santa Barbara de Pinto, located on the banks of the Mompox arm of the Magdalena River. Enjoy a walking tour through this traditional town, where you may see local landmarks such as the Santa Barbara Church Church and enjoy intricate hand­made crafts created in the town. In the afternoon, arrive in island town of Mompox, where you will be welcomed with open arms and lively music during an exclusive jazz performance played by local musicians.


Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 


Accommodation: AmaMagdalena River Cruise


Tuesday, December 10th: MOMPOX



A town frozen in time, Mompox embodies the appearance of what many villages looked like during colonial times. Founded in 1540, this remote village became an important Spanish trading post. Some Spaniards found Mompox to be a haven for keeping gold and other treasure protected from the pirates that pillaged coastal cities like Cartagena, and with this precious metal and the work of skilled artisans from Spain came beautifully crafted artifacts. Since then, the town has become famous for its incredible filigree jewelry, which you can learn more about during your tour of this tour in the afternoon. While visiting this unique island, journey
through the incredible ecological Cienega Pijiño region, exploring the massive lake that is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the region. In the afternoon, take a stroll through this storied town on a guided walking tour. With stunning colonial churches, breathtaking nature surrounding the town, and delicious local delights such as capa cheese and butifarra, Mompox is sure to be a highlight of your journey along the magnificent Magdalena River.


Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Accommodation: AmaMagdalena River Cruise


Wednesday, December 11th: MOMPOX -­ EL BANCO



Bid farewell to in Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River – La Mojana Region – and reaching the town of El Banco, nestled at the intersection of the Magdalena and César rivers. Founded in a location strategic for both the native people and the Spaniards, the town was repeatedly destroyed in their struggles and then rebuilt atop its ashes. In 1749, a freed black slave named José Domingo Ortiz led a group of settlers to this special location, carrying with him a statue of the Virgin Mary, staking this place as their new home. Because of this connection, the Virgin of Candelaria, a special invocation of the Virgin Mary, is specially venerated in this region.

Embark on a guided walking of this incredible destination and learn more about its history as the birthplace of cumbia, an iconic genre of music and dance that has now been popularized around the world. What began as a courtship dance practiced by African slaves later incorporated American steps and European and African instruments has become a world­wide sensation, which is especially popular in the Andean region of Colombia. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive dinner in town and witness an incredible cumbia performance by locals.


MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 


ACCOMODATION: AmaMagdalena River Cruise


Thursday, December 12th | MAGANGUE


Witness the sights, hear the bird calls, and watch the wildlife around you as spend the day in Magangue. Immerse yourself in the presence of Colombian nature surrounding this city on a birdwatching tour, giving you a unique opportunity to see birds only found in this specific part of the country. You can also take a hiking tour through the picturesque Cienega, a town teeming with Colombian heritage.



Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Accommodation: AmaMagdalena River Cruise


Friday, December 13th: NUEVA VENECIA ­ BARRANQUILLA


In the morning, visit the Floating Village of Nueva Venecia. A charming town filled with inviting locals, Nueva Venecia, or “New Venice,” can only be navigated by boat. With its beautiful colonial houses, vivid architecture and local sanctuary protecting the native flora and fauna, this town highlights the beauty and warmth of Colombia. Witness its splendor as you tour the village. While here, explore this village and learn more about the lives of its people during a guided tour. Enjoy the traditional crafts and art that is on display, learn about the techniques the fishermen of Nueva Venecia use, and taste the local delicacies as you embrace this village and its unique culture.



Later in the day, venture to the beautiful seaside city of Barranquilla, a vibrant destination home to notable musicians, writers and artists.



Immerse yourself in the warmth and culture of the city’s atmosphere as you venture through this magnificent location, where you may visit famous landmarks such as the bocas de cenizas, the point at which the magical Magdalena River meets the breathtaking Caribbean Sea, and the Carnaval Museum, which showcases the unique history of this incredible festival.

In the evening, enjoy an exclusive Carnaval celebration just for AmaWaterways guests as we bring the full traditional experience to our guests all­ year round.



Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Accommodation: AmaMagdalena River Cruise


Saturday, December 14th: BARRANQUILLA – FAREWELL



Bid your ship and crew farewell as you disembark and prepare for your flight home.


Meals: Breakfast


November 26th to December 7th, 2024

Join Tom and Ryan, Founder’s of Trip Merchant! 
Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world. We both came here for the first time back in August of 2019 on a scouting trip and we both loved it so much we came back separate times for our own personal vacation with our wives. Colombia is no longer the unsafe destination it once was. It is such a beautiful country that offers so many different experiences. The exciting capital of Bogota with its colourful Candelaria neighbourhood, the eternal springtime city of Medellin, the lush landscape of the Coffee Region, home to the worlds tallest palm trees in the Cocora Valley and the spectacular 16 century walled city of Cartagena located on the Caribbean! Colombia will far exceed your expectations we guarantee it!
Join us on this amazing trip to Colombia! We will be limiting this group departure to 24 participants.

*Pre Night in Bogota is available for $249 CAD per person, based on double occupancy or $440 CAD single occupancy (includes accommodation, arrival transfers, breakfast and all taxes)

2 Nights: Bogota – Sofitel Victoria Regia (5*)

2 Nights: Coffee Region (Pereira) – San Carlos Lodge (4*)

1 Night: Guatape – Hotel Los Recuerdos (3*)

2 Nights: Medellin – Hotel Park 10 (4*)

4 Nights: Cartagena – Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena (Luxury)

Highlights:
  • Admire the city of Bogota from Monserrate Hill
  • Welcome Dinner at Criterion, awarded best restaurant in Colombia multiple times
  • Coffee Tour and tasting in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle
  • Experience the incredible beauty of Cocora National Park. Home of the Wax Palm tree, the national tree of Colombia
  • Witness the incredible transformation of Comuna 13 in Medellin
  • Experience a birds eye view of Medellin as you travel across the city by Metro Cable Car
  • Enjoy a boat cruise on the lakes of Guatape
  • Stay 4 Nights in the Old Walled City of Cartagena at the Legendary Sofitel Legend Santa Clara
  • Full day excursion to the Rosario Islands
  • Farewell Dinner in one of Cartagena’s Top Restaurants
What’s Included:

All sightseeing and meals as per itinerary (23 meals – 11 Breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 Dinners), all tipping for drivers and guides, all entrance fees as per itinerary, arrival and departure transfers, private English Speaking guide throughout the entire trip, local specialty guides, all taxes, 3 domestic flights within Colombia (Bogota to Pereira | Pereira to Medellin | Medellin to Cartagena)

Not Included: 

*International airfare

*Trip Merchant is happy to assist you with booking the international airfare from your preferred Canadian air gateway

Out of Country Cancellation and Medical Insurance is mandatory (proof of insurance coverage will be required)

Terms and Conditions:

$500 per person deposit | If you cancel prior to January 31st, 2024, then $250 per person is refunded and the remaining $250 per person becomes a Future Travel Credit to be used on any TMJ group departure up to 2 years beyond original date of travel. Deposit becomes non-refundable and cannot be converted to a Future Travel Credit after January 31st, 2024

Final Balance: September 1st, 2024 (100% non-refundable after final payment)

Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext 3
Mention Group Booking Number: TMJCOL1124
  • Destination
  • Arrival City
    Bogota, Colombia
  • Departure City
    Cartagena, Colombia
  • Activity Level
    You must be in good physical condition to comfortably enjoy this tour. Certain portions are at high altitude, involve walking up stairs, cobblestones and/or on uneven ground, and combine some longer and shorter days.
  • Passenger Limit
    24 Guests
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Tuesday, November 26th: Depart from Home/Arrive in Bogota, Colombia

Begin your journey from Canada, as you depart from your desired airport gateway. The best flight schedule to get to Colombia connects through Toronto. The overnight flight from Toronto arrives into Bogota at approximately 5 am. Upon arrival proceed through customs and collect your luggage. As the flight arrival into Bogota is approximately at 5 AM, we will start your journey with a visit to a local market called "La Plaza de Mercado Paloquemao"', one of the largest and most recognized local markets in Bogotá, where all traditional products and ingredients of Colombian cuisine can be found.

Try some of the exotic fruits, local doughs, and Colombian cheese. Known to the vendors and the local cooking techniques; visit the flower market and the popular food stalls to feel a true local experience. Afterwards enjoy an early lunch at "La Herencia". They opened their doors in December 2011, to satisfy the desires of lovers of Colombian gastronomy.  Their dishes are like those of yesteryear, cooking with the secrets of their grandmothers. After lunch you will be transferred to your hotel, the charming Sofitel Victoria Regia, in the northern section of Bogota located in an area known for its great restaurants. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.
Accommodation: Sofitel Victoria Regia, Bogota (Deluxe)

Sofitel Victoria Regia offers the exclusive Basilic Restaurant which specializes in French cuisine, 24 hour room service, a bar, disabled facilities, self-service business center, dry cleaning service, a fitness centre, beauty salon and massage area. The property is known for its elegance, comfort and its exceptional personalized service. It has a key location in the northern area of Bogota at La Cabrera neighbourhood, walking distance from La Zona Rosa. This area is well known within the city for its selection of designer boutiques, numerous restaurant and entertainment options, night life and shopping centres.
Meals Provided: Lunch
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Wednesday, November 27th: Bogota - Full Day City Tour - Welcome Dinner

This morning transfer to the historic centre of Bogotá, known as "La Candelaria".  This archaic suburb is of great significance to the country's history due to its cultural heritage and is a prime example of Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the main square "Plaza de Bolivar", where a statue of the great emancipator Simón Bolívar is located. The plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes. It served as a marketplace, a bullring and also the site where many public executions were held.

The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the same spot where the first church was built in Bogotá in 1539.  The church houses an important collection of religious artifacts such as textiles and artworks collected over over four centuries. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns.  The central area of the Capitol, known as the Elliptic Hall, is where congress meets and is the actual chamber for politicians and the Senate. In the internal squares are busts of former presidents such as General Tomás Cipriano Mosquera, president over four terms, and Rafael Núñez, the composer of the Colombian National Anthem. Around the Plaza de Bolívar are buildings such as the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the country called "San Bartolomé and the Casa de los Comuneros", named after the leaders that participated towards the end of the XVII Century in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Visit the Botero Museum, a colonial house exhibiting some of Fernando Botero´s works of art and in addition pieces from his own personal collection that includes works by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. 

Continue with the visit in the Sanctuary of Monserrate, a symbol of Bogotá. Take the cable car or funicular up to Monserrate at 500 metres above the city. The site offers the incredible panorama of the city on one side and the Andes on the other. Return to the hotel. 

This evening enjoy a welcome dinner at "Criterion". The three-time Best Restaurant in Colombia from 2013 to 2015, Criterión is the flagship of the Rausch brothers, who own more than 10 restaurants across the country. Founded in 2004, it was one of the first in Colombia to serve a tasting menu and now offers two options: one focused on classics and another showcasing the bestselling dishes since the restaurant’s inception.
Accommodation: Sofitel Victoria Regia, Bogota (Deluxe)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Thursday, November 28th: | Bogota – Pereira (Gateway to the Coffee Region) - Coffee Tour

After breakfast, transfer to El Dorado airport for a short domestic flight to the coffee region (Pereira).
This region has been along the Central Andes Mountain Range which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers the perfect climatic conditions for coffee growing.

Upon arrival we will head to a coffee plantation, the Finca del Café, a place where coffee tastes better when you live the experience of the farm. Once you reach the farm, the tour begins with an expert who will take you through the coffee plantations, showing you how is the process from planting, manual picking and pulping.

After this, you will toast the beans of special coffee in a wood stove in the typical kitchen of the country house, here you can have an authentic coffee experience. During the tour, you will have several stations with viewpoints made in bamboo where you will appreciate the coffee landscape and the natural environment of the place.

Finally, you will go to the innovative drying process of the coffee bean and then to the coffee processing center. Enjoy an included lunch and then continue to your hotel, the Casa San Carlos Lodge. This evening you will have an included dinner at your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel San Carlos Lodge, Coffee Region (Superior)

A natural environment to feel the silence and reconnect with the power of nature offered by the four elements, earth, air, water and fire are present in rivers, mountains, valleys and roads that are part of Casa San Carlos Lodge, a reserve where the exuberance of Colombia lives in one place.

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
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Friday, November 29th: Full Day Valle del Cocora, Salento & Filandia

After breakfast, leave for the Valle de Cocora which is located in the central mountains of the department of Quindío. This makes part of the Parque Nacional de los Nevados and is the ideal place to marvel at the “Quindian wax palm” (Ceroxylon quincense), the national tree of Colombia. This tree can reach a staggering height of 60m. Around here a great number of species of birds live, in particular some types of hummingbird and the orejíamarillo or the palm parrot (Ognorhynchus icteroti) which is endangered.

Upon arrival in the valley, either hiking or on horseback (not included), head into the cloud forest to enjoy the biodiversity of flora and fauna. On the return journey, cross the River Quindío while walking along an ecological pathway which takes one past the tallest wax palms in the world. Learn why the indigenous people here worshipped this tree. Then you can have a typical lunch and enjoy some free time here.

In the afternoon, continue 10km towards the traditional town of Salento to enjoy a city tour that visits the Plaza de Bolívar with its colorful balconies, the calle real, the handicrafts shops and the Cocora viewpoint. Then, transfer to the traditional village of Filandia to enjoy a city tour that includes the viewpoint, the colonial homes,the Plaza de Bolivar and the coffee shops. Enjoy a lunch from a scenic location here to admire the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Here, enjoy some time soaking up the regional atmosphere and perhaps some local spirits before returning to the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel San Carlos Lodge, Coffee Region (Superior)
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch
 
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Saturday, November 30th: Pereira – Medellin - Guatape
After breakfast, transfer to Pereira airport for a domestic flight to Medellín. Upon arrival transfer directly to Guatape, a colourful town and overnight at your lakeside hotel.


Day at leisure. Dinner at the hotel. Overnight stay.
Accommodation: Hotel Los Recuerdos: Guatape (Medium/Comfortable)

Hotel Los Recuerdos is located in Guatape directly on the man made lake. Which was created as a result of flooding that took place to complete the Hydroelectric dam. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, pool, Jacuzzi and Wi-Fi.

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
 
6
Sunday, December 1st: Guatape – Full day El Peñol and Guatape – Medellín

This morning wake up rested and after a leisurely breakfast embark on a boat cruise of Guatapé reservoir. Many wealthy Colombians own lakeside homes here. Also see one of Pablo Escobar's former mansions "Hacienda Manuela", named after one of his daughters. In the middle of the reservoir is the Peñol Rock. Walk up the stairs if you are full of energy (OPTIONAL - there are 654 steps to get to the top – entrance fee not included), to view the entire Guatapé reservation, this is an optional activity.

Then stop at the village of Guatapé and enjoy an included lunch.

After lunch we will make our way to Medellin. This drive is approximately 2 hours. We will then check into our hotel in "'El Poblado", an upscale suburb of Medellin. This lively area is filled with chic cafes, fashion boutiques, and high-end restaurants (without the high priced tags).
Accommodation: Hotel Park 10: Medellin (Superior)

This elegant, all-suite hotel in an upscale neighborhood is 3 km from the Museo de Arte Moderno de Medellín.  Featuring wood floors and furnishings, the polished 1-bedroom suites offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, as well as living rooms, desks and marble bathrooms. 

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch
 
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Monday, December 2nd: Medellín – Full Day City Tour in Medellin.

After breakfast, start a full day visit to Medellin, visiting the areas wherein the social transformation that has shaped this beautiful city has been most profound. The tour allows participants to learn the history of a city that has been truly transformed since the 1980´s, when it was known to be one of most dangerous cities in the world as a result of drug-trafficking. Following the footsteps of Medellín’s history back in time about 20 years, find yourselves in what used to be one of the most dangerous cities in the world. In the early 90s, hunting for Pablo Escobar, the head of Medellín’s drug cartel, was at its peak. When the reign of “El Patrón” finally came to an end, struggles and fights for his succession started. In 2002, however, the city began to undergo a deep transformation. Local politicians gave it a try and started to invest in infrastructure and public education. The city is still reaping the rich rewards today. Medellín has turned into one of the most innovative cities in the world.

Take the Metro Cable to San Javier, which in its past was an area of violence and gangs in Medellin. The cable car was built to make the city centre more accessible to people from the suburbs, and allows visitors a glimpse of the life of the marginalized population. Travel through Medellín history and learn more about the transformation of the fascinating “City of Eternal Spring”. Discover more about the city’s transformation after the death of Pablo Escobar and also get to know the innovative transport-system in the poorer neighbourhoods at first hand. Visit the district Comuna 13 and its ingenious electric stairs, where you can see another innovative project that has improved the lives of its inhabitants. Have another beautiful view of the city from the balconies of San Javier, enjoy street art and graffitis, which are not only artistic expression, but also have a strong cultural and political component.

Then you will have a brief review of what "Las Berracas" are, a community project in the Comuna 13 that empowers woman victims from the violence and single mothers that every day invent new ways to take the community forward. Learn how the project was born, its approach and future prospect. You will visit "Las Berracas" house to get to know all the information about the book “El caso de las Berracas de la 13” (The case of Las Berracas of the 13th) and understand the context of this social project, what have been the contributions to the community until today and how they intend to continue advancing by the hands of the community women. Here you will enjoy a typical lunch.

Have a look at the history of the city by visiting the Cerro Nutibara, its "Pueblito Paisa" and enjoying a panoramic view of the city. Explore Berrio Park and the famous Plaza Botero with an exhibition by the Colombian artist Fernando Botero, whose 23 sculptures have become a landmark of the city. Enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Hotel Park 10: Medellin (Superior)
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch
 
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Tuesday, December 3rd: Medellin – Cartagena

Transfer to Medellin airport for your flight to Cartagena. Cartagena is one of the world's most beautiful cities! When you enter into the old walled city, you will know why! Founded in the 16th century, filled with squares, cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings and located on the Caribbean coast. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the Sofitel Legend, an iconic property in Cartagena and your home for 4 nights. It used to be a monastery and has been converted into a luxury hotel that has retained its historic feel. This property is written about in Gabriel Garcia Marquez famous book titled "One Hundred Years of Solitude". In the afternoon, you may choose to take an optional salsa lesson in a place walking distance from the hotel. Overnight stay.

Accommodation: Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara 5* (Luxury)

Originally built as a convent in 1621, it is a legendary landmark in the heart of Cartagena's walled city. Transformed into a luxury hotel in 1995, the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, unique in style, combines the allure of history with local hospitality and the art of French savoir-faire. Mixing Colonial and Republican-style architecture with modern comfort. The hotel features gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, a world-class spa, 2 bars and 2 restaurants and a gym.
Meals Provided: Breakfast
 
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Wednesday, December 4th: Cartagena – Full Day city tour in Cartagena

In the morning, start with a panoramic view of the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located high above Cartagena, from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean.

Continuing to the San Felipe Fortress, erected in honour of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa” It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn how the castle was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways.

Then continue on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convert and Church of San Pedro Claver which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, continue to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center where one can appreciate local handcraft.

After lunch, visit the city’s colonial district, starting in Bolivar Park, shaded by large trees and with four fountains the park has a statue of the great Liberator at the centre. Around the square is the Inquisition Palace, recognized for its large baroque style door. The Inquisition held its meetings here and it was also the prison and torture chambers of presumed heretics, opponents of the Catholic Church.

The visit continues to the Santo Domingo Church, the Cathedral and ends with 1-hour walking tour in Getsemani, an alternative, cool and cultural quarter, that will give you a deeper insight towards Cartagena.

Here the stories are told with present graffiti paintings with images of tropical scenes, palenqueras, and local flora and fauna.

Go to the street of La Sierpe (where all the murals are), the famous Umbrellas Street and the Trinidad Plaza, which has an historical, cultural and national value. Lunch at a local restaurant. Return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.
Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Cartagena, Cartagena (Luxury)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch
 
10
Thursday, December 5th: Cartagena – Full day to Rosario Island

All day excursion to one of the islands of the Archipiélago del Rosario, located approximately one hour (45km) by boat from Cartagena. During the transfer, observe the impressive and beautiful landscapes of the islands with its clear waters and gentle breezes. Upon arrival to one of these islands, you will have free time to enjoy the beach, snorkel (not included) and relax. Lunch is served on the island and in the afternoon, return to Cartagena.
Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Cartagena, Cartagena (Luxury)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch
 
11
Friday, December 6th: Day of Leisure in Cartagena - Farewell dinner

Enjoy a full day of leisure to explore on your own.

This evening cap off this fabulous trip at Baruco restaurant, one of the top restaurants in the city!
Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Cartagena, Cartagena (Luxury)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
 
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Saturday, December 7th: Cartagena - Depart for home Or Continue with our Optional Post Extension on the Magdalena River with AMAWATERWAYS

After breakfast depart for your flight back home or continue with our 7 Night Optional Post Extension on the Magdalena River- from Cartagena to Baranquiila with AMAWaterways.
Click Here to Download Brochure


Meals Provided: Breakfast
 
13
Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext. 3
Mention Group Booking Number: BCRTACOLOMBIA

Tour Location