3-week itinerary in Colombia: discovering exotic fauna

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through Colombia, ranked second in the world for the diversity of its animal and plant species (after Brazil) and first for birdwatching! You’ll have the opportunity to discover an exceptional array of exotic fauna. For three weeks, this trip will take you from the wild beaches of the Pacific coast, through the thick jungles of the Amazon and the vast plains of the Llanos. Each stage of this itinerary has been carefully designed to allow you to explore the country’s varied ecosystems and observe rare and fascinating animal species up close.

Whether you’re a birdwatcher, an amphibian and mammal enthusiast, or simply curious about biodiversity, this journey promises memorable encounters with nature. Pack your backpack, binoculars and camera, and embark on an expedition where every day holds its share of surprises and wonders (if you’re lucky). Colombia awaits you with its natural treasures and breathtaking landscapes! This itinerary will allow you to discover the country’s four main zones: the Pacific coast, the Andes mountains, the Amazon rainforest and the great plains of the Llanos.

Please note: firstly, as the title of this article indicates, this itinerary is mainly focused on theobservation of Colombian flora and fauna, with few visits to towns or villages on the program. Secondly, the proposed trip is quite demanding and requires a good capacity for adaptation: accommodation can be rustic and far from Western standards, climatic conditions can be difficult (humidity, heat), and a decent level of physical fitness is required as there are many hikes planned.

Timetables are given as an indication only and are subject to change depending on flight departure and arrival times. Activities have no fixed schedule and will be planned in consultation with local guides. The examples presented in this itinerary reflect our personal experiences only.

Course

3-week itinerary in Colombia: discovering exotic fauna

Duration: 3 weeks. Entry into Colombia from Medellín and exit from Bogotá.

When to go (ideally): January to April

Stages: 4 stages (Pacific coast, Amazon, Llanos du Casanare and Bogotá).

Travel: bus, cab, plane (4 internal flights)

Activities: visits to 1 town, mountain and jungle hiking, snorkeling/diving, beaches, birdwatching, safari.

Physical level required: medium/high

Located on Colombia’s Pacific coast, the Bahia Solano and El Valle region is a natural paradise where biodiversity reigns supreme. Enveloped by dense rainforests and bordered by the Pacific Ocean, this region offers a unique and preserved ecosystem. The waters of Bahia Solano are renowned for welcoming majestic humpback whales every year, who come here to breed. The black sand beaches of El Valle are a haven for sea turtles who come to lay their eggs, offering visitors magical moments of marine life.

The surrounding forests resound with the songs of multicolored birds, attracting ornithologists from all over the world. Rare species such as the scarlet-backed cotinga and the palm tanager add vibrant touches to the verdant landscape. Exploring the jungle trails, you can encounter capuchin monkeys, poison frogs and a multitude of fascinating insects.

Bahia Solano and El Valle are relatively isolated, wedged between the ocean, the jungle and the Andes. This isolation is good for wildlife, but limits economic development. These simple little towns are not particularly pretty, and every project is a challenge.

To visit the Choco department, as for the Casanare, it is possible to book an “all-inclusive” package (accommodation, food, activities) directly with the lodges, which facilitates organization. It is also possible to book accommodation only and find guides on site, either in the village or via your accommodation, but this requires good organization so as not to lose time once there. The activities on offer are generally the same, and each lasts half a day.

In the case of this itinerary, we’ll be opting for 2 all-inclusive packages (there are others, of course):
– El Valle: Playe Alegre Ecolodge, located on El Almejal beach, just outside the village.
– Bahia Solano: Jardin Botanico Ecolodge, located on Mecana beach, a little isolated.

Note:whale watching is also possible, but only between July and October.

Day 1: Arrival in Medellín

The journey begins in Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, located in the Andes at an altitude of around 1,500 metres. Medellín is an essential gateway to Bahia Solano / El Valle, as the only flights to this region leave from this city. So it’s a good idea to optimize your flights by arriving in Colombia at Medellín and departing from Bogotá. Depending on your arrival time, you can take your first steps on Colombian soil by strolling around the area around your hotel and sampling the local cuisine, such as the famous bandeja paisa.

NOTE: Medellín has two airports. You’ll arrive at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), 17 km from the city. To reach Choco, flights only leave from Enrique Olaya Herrera airport, located in the heart of the city.

Day 2 / TRANSFER / Choco – El Valle (Playa Alegre Ecolodge)
Beach relaxation

After a quiet night in Medellín, head for the Enrique Olaya Herrera airport in the city to catch a flight to the Pacific coast. Flights (1 hour) operated by Satena or ClicAir leave only in the morning. In Bahia Solano, get ready to discover probably the smallest, most rustic and exotic airport of your life: José Celestino Mutis. Also expect intense heat, similar to that of the Llanos, but with an extra dose of humidity. The effort will be well worth it, as you’ll be greeted by dense jungles flowing into the Pacific Ocean. After arrival, you’ll head to your accommodation and get ready for lunch, where you’ll be able to sample a variety of fresh fish dishes. You’ll then have time to relax and explore the surrounding area, including a trip to the beach, before enjoying dinner.

NOTE: There are no ATMs in Choco. Make sure you withdraw enough money in Medellín before you leave.

Day 3: Choco – El Valle (Playa Alegre Ecolodge)
Jungle trekking + canoeing

The day begins with a guided tour of the jungle surrounding the village. Along the way, visitors can discover a multitude of local flora and fauna treasures. If you’re lucky, you may spot monkeys, toucans and dendrobates, the brightly-colored frogs. Basilisks, nicknamed “Jesus Christ lizards” for their ability to run on water, add a spectacular touch to the adventure, as do the many insects, including the inevitable mosquitoes. The hike ends at the foot of a picturesque waterfall, where a refreshing swim offers a well-deserved moment of relaxation. The return journey to El Valle is made in traditional wooden canoes, gliding peacefully along the Tundó and Valle rivers. Along the way, you may come across small caimans and birds such as waders and kingfishers. You’ll be back in time for lunch, with the afternoon free to relax on the beach (as the heat and humidity can be tiring). We recommend starting the activity as early as possible (around 6am-7am) to maximize your chances of seeing animals and take advantage of milder temperatures.

Day 4: Choco – El Valle (Playa Alegre Ecolodge)
Beach walk + Natural pools (snorkeling)

A new day begins, this time dedicated to the sea. The adventure begins with a guided walk along the beach, leading to aquariums and natural pools formed between the rocks. The guide takes you along at low tide, making it easy to observe various species of fish evolving in calm, crystal-clear waters. Equipped with a mask and snorkel, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the marine wealth as you explore these little havens of aquatic life. After this fascinating immersion, it’s time to return to the lodge. Once back at the lodge, you have several options: enjoy the rest of the day free to discover the hidden treasures of the coast on a beautiful hike, or plan another exciting activity.

Suggestion: ask your accommodation to organize an hour-long night walk in the jungle. Spoiler alert, you’ll mainly see lots of insects and frogs, but it’s a very interesting (if a little scary) experience.

Day 5: Choco – El Valle (Playa Alegre Ecolodge)
Utria National Park: hiking + snorkeling

On this last day in El Valle, we’ll be exploring the Utría National Park. Created in 1987 and covering 54,300 hectares, this park is a true natural gem, particularly spectacular from the sea. Access and hiking opportunities are limited, adding to its exclusive charm. The boat trip, lasting around an hour, is often accompanied by playful dolphins, adding a magical touch to the adventure. The morning begins with a guided hike through mangroves and forest, where you can spot stingrays, puffer fish, hummingbirds, lizards, monkeys and many other species. The guide shares fascinating anecdotes about local medicinal plants and endemic species, enriching the experience. After the walk, the adventure continues in the ocean. The crystal-clear waters of Utría National Park are ready to be explored. Equipped with masks and snorkels, you can discover two snorkeling sites: the first at the entrance to the park, where a boat wreck lies at the bottom, and the second at Isla Playa Blanca. After admiring the underwater wonders, return to El Valle for a late lunch. The day ends with a well-deserved rest and the preparation of your belongings for departure the next day.

You can also arrange with your guide or driver to make a stop at Mama Orbe, between Parc Utría and El Valle. They have a hawksbill turtle rescue program, offering the chance to release baby turtles and witness egg-laying whenever possible. Turtle season lasts all year round, but is most intense from July to December.

Day 6 / TRANSFER / Choco – Bahia Solano (Jardin Botanico Ecolodge)

Change of scenery! Adios El Valle and hola Bahia Solano, the region’s main town. Depending on your accommodation in El Valle and Bahia Solano, transportation to the airport may be included, often by tuk-tuk, which lies between the two towns. If this is the case, you’ll need to coordinate drivers so that one drops you off at the airport and the other picks you up. Otherwise, we recommend that you ask your accommodation to book a driver. The journey takes around 50 minutes. For your stay in Bahia Solano, you have two options: staying in town or outside. Staying in town is generally less expensive and makes it easier to organize activities for those who prefer not to plan ahead. However, the city itself is not particularly attractive. By contrast, staying outside the city, while often more expensive, offers a more immersive and tranquil experience in the heart of nature. This often includes more expensive ecolodges and boat transport. So it’s a good idea to plan activities in advance with your accommodation to avoid unpleasant surprises. In this itinerary, your drop-off point is the peaceful Jardin Botanico Ecolodge, located on the beach of Playa Mecana, a 10-minute boat ride from Bahia Solano. Once you’ve arrived, the afternoon is free to settle in, enjoy the beach and organize activities with the locals. As at El Valle, this transitional day allows you to relax and prepare for the adventures to come in this magnificent coastal region.

Day 7: Choco – Bahia Solano (Jardin Botanico Ecolodge)
Whale-shark watching trip (March to early June)

There’s a special day on the horizon! If you’re here between March and June, an incredible opportunity awaits you: the sighting of whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. For this unique experience, we recommend that you contact the renowned MarAdentro association. They organize sea outings lasting around three hours, accompanied by a passionate biologist who will share his knowledge of these impressive but harmless creatures with you. Throughout the excursion, whale sharks are respected thanks to strict rules on distances to be maintained and time spent near them, to minimize any negative impact on their natural behavior. In addition to this extraordinary encounter, the excursion includes a snorkeling break to explore the local fauna of Colombian waters. It’s a fascinating outing, particularly rewarding if you’re comfortable in the water and lucky enough to come across these giants of the sea. After this marine adventure, you can enjoy the rest of the day relaxing on the beach, enjoying a good meal and letting the impressions of this unique experience sink in. A memorable day to add to your unforgettable stay on Colombia’s Pacific coast.

Day 8: Choco – Bahia Solano (Jardin Botanico Ecolodge)
Hiking in Jardín Botanico (nature reserve)

After a day spent swimming, why not explore the surrounding forest? Jardin Botanico Ecolodge is home to its own nature reserve, the famous Botanical Garden, which, despite its name, is actually a vast 168-hectare expanse. The reserve stretches from sea level up to 170 meters above sea level, crossed by several watercourses and home to a diversity of ecosystems: upland dry forests on low hills and terraces, freshwater marshes, mangroves, wetlands and beach vegetation. Antonio, an enthusiastic and friendly native guide, offers various hiking circuits ranging from 2 to 6 hours, adapted to different levels of difficulty (with corresponding rates). These tours offer a unique opportunity to discover the local flora and fauna. Opting for the longer circuit involves sustained ascents and descents throughout the hike. However, for those who are physically ready, it’s a rewarding experience, especially for admiring the venerable centuries-old Ceibas trees that dominate the forest. Don’t forget to bring a raincoat, as rains are frequent (we had 80% of the hike in the rain). This wilderness adventure will allow you to connect deeply with the environment and discover the hidden treasures of the rainforest, making this a memorable day of your stay at Jardin Botanico Ecolodge.

In the heart of the Colombian Amazon, Leticia and Puerto Nariño plunge you into one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. These two cities, located along the majestic Amazon River, are gateways to lush nature and fascinating indigenous traditions. Leticia, capital of the Amazonas department, is an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding jungle and meeting indigenous communities. Just a few hours’ sailing away, Puerto Nariño stands out for its commitment to sustainable tourism and its wealth of flora and fauna.

Visitors can observe exceptional wildlife, from pink dolphins playing in the river waters to multicolored parrots flying over the canopy. Hiking trails around the village offer the chance to discover the local flora, while boat excursions immerse you in breathtaking aquatic landscapes.

Meeting indigenous communities such as the Ticunas, Yaguas and Huitotos is an unforgettable experience. These peoples generously share their ancestral knowledge and traditions, while serving as experienced guides in the world’s largest rainforest. Participating in these cultural exchanges enriches the trip and provides a better understanding of the harmony between man and nature in this exceptional region.

For this itinerary, we’re leaving for a 5-day experience at Yoi EcoLodge, between Puerto Nariño and Leticia, in the heart of the forest. This includes accommodation, full board and activities.

Day 9 / TRANSFER / Medellín -> Leticia (Amazonia)

It’s time to plunge back into the heart of nature! This time, we’re heading for the extreme south-east of the country, towards the town of Leticia, nestled in the heart of the Amazon. We’ve finally reached this emblematic stage: the exploration of the world’s largest jungle begins. To get there, the adventure begins with a flight from Medellín (José María Córdova International Airport) to Leticia, with an obligatory stopover in Bogotá. We recommend spending the first few days in Leticia.

There are many ways to explore the Amazon. You can opt for day trips from Leticia or Puerto Nariño, a charming nearby town. However, for total immersion, nothing beats a stay in a local community or an isolated lodge in the heart of the forest. This option allows you to truly immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Amazon, even if comfort can be more rustic and you may have to share your room with a few nocturnal insects. Despite these minor constraints, choosing an indigenous village or lodge is highly recommended for an authentic experience. For this itinerary, we’ve planned a 5-day immersion at Yoi EcoLodge, located between Puerto Nariño and Leticia, in the very heart of the Amazon rainforest. This stay includes accommodation, full board and various activities.

Day 10: Leticia (Amazonia)
_{Visit to the community village of San Martín}

Arriving in Leticia the day before, an agency representative will take you from the hotel to the public boat at 9:00 am, marking the start of your epic journey up the majestic Amazon River. This experience, similar to a river bus trip with strategic stops, reveals the full grandeur of the river. After 1h15 of navigation, the boat comes to rest on an isolated stretch of land in the middle of nowhere. Your local guide will be waiting for you in a lancha, for a further 20 minutes of navigation on a tributary of the Amazon, winding through the forest to reach the lodge, cleverly hidden in the wilderness. After dropping off your belongings, a jaunt to the village of San Martin is in order. Dinner in the village, interspersed with clumsy attempts to create bracelets from natural fibers, precedes a peaceful return to the lodge. The evening ends with a delicious dinner, a shower in the persistent humidity and a night with the only sounds being those of Mother Nature.

Day 11: Amazonia
_{Hiking in Amacayac National Park + Amazon River cruise / Lake Tarapoto + Night walk}

As is often the case in Colombia, the alarm goes off early. After an early breakfast, you embark on a lancha outing. In the middle of nature, you disembark ready for an almost three-hour hike in Amacayacu National Park. Your guide reveals the secrets of the plants, explaining their dangers and medicinal virtues, while you try to spot the wildlife – a complex mission. Back at the lodge, a well-deserved lunch awaits you, followed by a short break. Then it’s back on the lancha to cruise the Amazon River, watching birds and dolphins along the way. Destination: Lake Tarapoto, famous for its pink dolphins. Although they are present, the murky water limits their observation. For the more courageous, a plunge into the lake is even possible. After this experience, return to the lodge to wait for nightfall, around 6 – 6.30pm, for a night hike. Under headlamps, this exploration unveils an impressive nocturnal bestiary, with huge insects (mygals included!), amphibians and even snakes – an experience to thrill.

Day 12: Amazonia
_{Visit to Puerto Nariño + Visit to Maikuchiga sanctuary}

On this third day, you’ll head for the tourist village of Puerto Nariño, where you’ll find a variety of small hostals and hotels. Although its viewpoint offers a pleasant view of the surroundings, it’s not essential. Your exploration takes you to a mini-nature reserve on the outskirts of the village, where a few monkeys roam free, including howler monkeys, and a small lake is home to fish and caimans. Then it’s off to the Ethnographic Museum for a captivating guided tour of the surrounding nature and indigenous culture, complete with myths and legends such as those of Guarana and boto. Lunch in a canteen on the banks of the Amazon River will introduce you to popular Amazonian gastronomy. After a break in Puerto Nariño, take a lancha to the Maikuchiga sanctuary, an animal haven and rehabilitation center in the heart of the Amazon. The name Tikuna, which means “the story of the monkey”, aptly reflects this sanctuary where animals confiscated through illegal trafficking find safety and care. After this magical experience with the furry residents, we return to the ecolodge for a break before another night out.

Day 13: Amazonia
_{Ornithology + Caiman observation}

The activity begins at first light, when the forest awakens and birdsong fills the air with a natural symphony. Accompanied by an experienced local guide and equipped with binoculars, you venture into this ecosystem rich in life. The guides, often from indigenous communities, have an in-depth knowledge of the area and the birds’ habits. Their expertise allows you to observe rare and endemic species, while learning to recognize their distinctive songs and behaviors. The Amazon rainforest, with its lush vegetation and varied landscapes, offers perfect habitats for a multitude of birds. From toucans with colorful beaks and brightly plumaged macaws, to mysterious hoazins and elegant egrets, every ornithological encounter is a source of wonder. After this enriching activity, your last meal awaits you, marking the start of preparations to leave this environment soothing to the heart and mind. You retrace your steps by lancha with your guide to the same isolated point on the riverbank, where you wait for the public boat that will take you back to Leticia. You reach the town at around 4.30pm, bringing your Amazon escapade to a close with your final accommodation.

Nestled in the heart of the vast Llanos plains, Yopal is a captivating gateway to a region of Colombia that is often overlooked, but incredibly rich in biodiversity. The Llanos, endless stretches of grassland and marshland, offer spectacular panoramic views and are home to exuberant wildlife that will delight nature lovers and adventurers alike. Every corner of this region seems to conceal natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Yopal, capital of the department of Casanare, is the ideal starting point for exploring this wild region. The Llanos are a veritable sanctuary for numerous animal species, from caimans and anacondas to colorful birds such as macaws and ibises, capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, and majestic jaguars. The area is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a dazzling diversity of birds.

In Yopal, visitors can immerse themselves in the wilderness by taking part in guided safaris, navigating winding rivers or traversing the vast savannahs on horseback. Whether you’re an avid wildlife photographer or simply curious about nature, the Llanos promise an unforgettable experience.

Depending on your budget, a variety of safaris are available, tailored to your preferences in terms of duration and intensity. Simply contact the local agencies to organize a safari that will meet your expectations. Two particularly recommended options are:
– Safari to the Altagracia reserve (the most expensive option), a very remote but incredible place.
– Safari to the Hato la Aurora nature reserve (relatively expensive), a little further away than Altagracia.
– Safari to Hatos Mata de Palma, Altamira, Hato Montana (less expensive), 2h30 drive from Yopal.

In our program, we have selected the safari to the Altagracia reserve, but it is also possible to replace it with another safari without modifying the rest of the itinerary. Simply check flight schedules to ensure compatibility.

Day 14 / TRANSFER / Leticia to Yopal (Casanare)

After a final night immersed in this sea of green, it’s time to hit the road again, heading for the warmth of the vast Colombian plains and the town of Yopal, capital of Casanare. The main airlines serving the city include Avianca and Latam, renowned for their reliability. The flight, although not direct, requires a mandatory 2 to 3-hour stopover in Bogotá, bringing the total journey time to around 5 to 6 hours. On arrival at Yopal airport, you can easily take a cab to your accommodation in the city. We recommend the area near the Gran Plaza shopping center, which offers a variety of restaurants, bars and cafés. What’s more, this area is very close to the airport, only 5 minutes away by cab.

Day 15: Altagracia Reserve (Safari in the Casanare Llanos)

Departure from Yopal for the Altagracia reserve is usually scheduled for around 9am. A driver will pick you up in a pick-up truck and you’ll head east towards the Altagracia reserve, located far from the city. The journey will take around 7 hours, passing over asphalt roads, gravel tracks and dirt paths. It’s a bumpy ride, so you’ll need to be prepared for a rather adventurous experience, far from a simple stroll (but that’s what makes the region so charming!). Along the way, you’ll cross Colombia’s vast, flat plains, often little-known. From rice fields to cattle pastures, this region is crucial to national food production. You’ll stop for lunch at a well-known local restaurant, where you can sample some delicious meat, a mainstay of the local gastronomy.

Day 16: Altagracia Reserve (Safari in the Casanare Llanos)

The day begins with a delicious breakfast at the Ecolodge, preparing guests for a day of adventure. After savoring local specialties, walking tours begin in the Buenaventura Nature Reserve, offering a complete immersion in the region’s spectacular biodiversity. Trails wind through groves, the territory of howler monkeys. Around midday, an invigorating lunch is served, allowing everyone to regain their strength before continuing their exploration. The afternoon is devoted to a canoe trip, gliding peacefully over streams and a small lake. This activity allows you to get up close and personal with the aquatic fauna and exotic birds. Weather permitting, an incredible sunset brings this aquatic adventure to a close. After this outing, a 4×4 ride back to the Ecolodge offers a final opportunity to admire the beauty of Buenaventura in a new light. The day concludes with a delicious dinner, followed by a well-deserved rest, while memories of the day’s discoveries linger in the mind.

Day 17: Altagracia Reserve (Safari in the Casanare Llanos)

Waking up around 06:00 on this third day, the quest for nocturnal creatures begins near the lodge. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover an exceptional marvel: a giant anteater observed at close quarters, a truly astonishing encounter. Along the way, there’s a good chance of spotting deer and white-tailed deer. After an hour or so of exploration, return to the lodge for an essential breakfast. Afterwards, a 4×4 outing is planned to explore the plains and enjoy the air conditioning in this intense heat. A variety of captivating birds are likely to cross your path, including the surprising burrowing owl. If you’re lucky, you may also spot armadillos or even collared anteaters. After lunch, head for the anacondas’ lair, where specimens of around 6 meters are often seen, although the largest can reach up to 9 meters!

Day 18: Altagracia Reserve (Safari in the Casanare Llanos)

On this last full day in Altagracia, another nature reserve is enthusiastically explored, warmly hosted by a charming local family. The day begins with a short hike around a lake and through a grove, delving deep into the local flora and offering fascinating sightings of insects such as leaf-cutter ants, which cut leaves to grow mushrooms. Majestic birds such as the red ibis, herons and roseate spoonbills also accompany this discovery. Two curious giant otters gracefully emerge from the lake, while sunbathing caimans add to the picturesque ambience of the scene. After a delicious lunch based on local fish, the afternoon continues with an hour-and-a-half canoe trip along a river, allowing us to observe stingrays, iguanas and a variety of birds. The guide, fishing piranhas for dinner, also shares fascinating information about the presence of electric eels in the area, adding a touch of excitement to the experience. For the second sunset of the day, a lakeside table with white wine and fruit creates a magical, romantic atmosphere. On the return to the lodge, a pleasant surprise awaits visitors: a group of musicians and dancers introduce Joropo, the traditional dance of the Llanos, offering an enriching and festive conclusion to this last memorable night.

Day 19: Altagracia Reserve (Safari in the Casanare Llanos) & Return to Yopal

The last day promises to be an intense one! It begins with a final walk around the lodge, offering a last glimpse of the local wildlife, before embarking on the 6-7 hour drive back to Yopal. The emotional farewell with Victor and his family, hosts as warm as they are fascinating, marks the end of this memorable stay. The return journey to Yopal promises to be punctuated by stops to observe and photograph capybaras and jabirus, the region’s largest birds. Arriving in Yopal at around 5 p.m. gives you time to catch a flight to Bogotá without wasting a precious day. A flight with ClicAir is scheduled for 8 or 8:30 p.m., giving you a 50-minute flight to Bogotá. Once at Bogotá airport, a cab will take you to your accommodation for a well-deserved night’s rest.

Bogotá, Colombia’s vibrant capital, is much more than just a metropolis. Rising over 2,600 meters above sea level in the Andes, this dynamic city is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, which has been harmoniously intertwined since its foundation in 1538. As the country’s largest city, Bogotá captivates with its cultural diversity and the warm welcome of its inhabitants.

Neighborhoods abound with life, from colorful markets to thriving art scenes. La Candelaria, a historic district of cobbled streets and brightly-fronted colonial houses, bears witness to the city’s rich history. Bogotá is also a major cultural center, with prestigious museums such as the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, as well as numerous art galleries and theaters.

Bogotá’s surroundings are not to be outdone. The Andes mountains offer spectacular panoramas and unforgettable hikes. A few kilometers away, the salt cathedral of Zipaquirá, a church carved out of a salt mine, fascinates with its unique design. The village of Guatavita, nestled near its legendary lake, invites you to explore local stories and contemplate the region’s natural beauty. For nature lovers, Chingaza National Park reveals unique ecosystems and exceptional biodiversity.

Whether it’s discovering its cultural treasures, savoring the local cuisine or exploring the surrounding mountains, Bogotá and its surroundings promise a rich and varied experience, captivating at every turn.

Day 20: Bogotá
_{Visit to Candelaria + Montserrate + others (we recommend you do this with a guide)}

Explore Bogotá’s history and cultural richness on this leg of your trip. Immerse yourself in the heart of downtown Bogotá, with its cobblestone streets, century-old churches and museums that trace the history of Spanish colonization and Colombian independence. Don’t miss a visit to the Museo del Oro, where a remarkable collection of gold and emerald objects tells the story of pre-Columbian civilizations. In the afternoon, climb to the summit of Monserrate, which rises to over 3,000 meters, to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Bogotá, offering a unique perspective on the city. Weather permitting, explore the Botanical Garden and Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park to discover the botanical diversity and enjoy the green space in the heart of the capital.

Day 21: Bogotá – Departure, end of trip (already!)

Oh, here it is, your last day in Colombia, time has gone by so quickly! Now it’s time to head for El Dorado International Airport and say goodbye to this magnificent country. We hope your stay in Colombia has brought you as much happiness as we have.

If you still have a few hours before your flight, consider a final stroll through the historic Candelaria district, to the Pasaje Rivas, to buy souvenirs, visit one last museum or simply relax in one of the city’s peaceful parks.

Budget (estimate)

3-week itinerary in Colombia: discovering exotic fauna

Here’s an estimate of the total budget per person on site (excluding plane tickets in and out of Colombia) in Colombian pesos. Prices for activities include guides and tours mentioned in the itinerary.

Travelling with two or more people and staying in a private room can be more economical than travelling alone and taking a single room, which sometimes costs almost the same. As every situation is different, it may be necessary to adjust the budget, by choosing less luxurious accommodation or simpler meals, for example.

In general, this type of itinerary is quite costly, as it often requires guides, and a safari in the Llanos represents a major expense. But it’s well worth it to observe the country’s incredible biodiversity!