4-week itinerary in Colombia: stay 1 of Ma Colombie

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with our 4-week itinerary in Colombia, designed to help you discover the diversity and richness of this magnificent country. Start in Bogotá, the bustling capital where history and modernity meet. Explore its museums, historic districts and vibrant nightlife. Next, immerse yourself in the colonial charm of Villa de Leyva, with its cobbled streets and white houses, then discover Monguí, another colonial gem nestled in the mountains.

Then set off on an unforgettable safari in the Llanos del Casanare, a little-explored wilderness rich in exotic fauna. Take the opportunity to observe anacondas, capybaras, caimans and a multitude of birds in their natural habitat. Join Medellín, the city of eternal spring, famous for its urban transformation, innovations and warm atmosphere.

Continue on to Chocó Pacific, a remote region where lush jungle merges with the ocean. Discover pristine beaches, tropical forests and exceptional biodiversity. End your journey in the picturesque villages of Jericó and Jardín, nestled in the Andes. These villages will charm you with their breathtaking scenery, authentic culture and tranquility. This tour promises a complete immersion in Colombia’s natural and cultural diversity.

The times shown are for guidance only and may vary according to the departure and arrival times of the various flights.

Course

4-week itinerary in Colombia: stay 1 of Ma Colombie

Duration: 4 weeks. Entry into Colombia from Bogotá and exit from Medellín.

When to go (ideally): February to April or July to September

9 Stages : Bogotá, Villa de Leyva, Mongui, Casanare, Medellin (x2), El Valle, Jerico, Jardín.

Travel: bus, cab, plane (3 internal flights)

Activities: city tours, visits to heritage villages, mountain and jungle trekking, snorkeling/diving, coffee finca visits, beaches, birdwatching, water sports, whale watching, paragliding.

Physical level required: medium/high

Welcome to Bogotá, Colombia’s dynamic and captivating capital. Situated at an altitude of over 2,600 meters in the heart of the majestic Andes, this fascinating metropolis combines tradition and modernity in a unique way. Founded in 1538, Bogotá is the country’s largest city, famous for its diverse and welcoming population.

The city’s vibrant energy is evident in its lively neighborhoods, colorful markets and thriving art scene. The streets of the old town, La Candelaria, are dotted with brightly-fronted colonial houses, reflecting the city’s rich historical heritage.

Bogotá is also a major cultural center, home to numerous museums, art galleries, theaters and concert halls. The local cuisine is a veritable explosion of Colombian flavours, offering a multitude of regional dishes to sample. The city presents a striking contrast between its past and its future, promising travelers an enriching experience combining authenticity and modern discoveries.

Day 1: Bogotá – Arrival

Your adventure in Colombia begins as soon as you arrive at Bogotá‘s El Dorado international airport. After clearing immigration and customs, you can take a cab to your accommodation. The first evening will be free, allowing you to relax after the flight and acclimatize to life in the Colombian capital. Use this evening to relax and prepare to explore the wonders of Colombia in the days ahead.

Day 2: Bogotá
^{Visit to Candelaria & Monserrate (can be done on your own or with a guide)}

Explore Bogotá’s history and culture on this leg of your trip. Stroll through the historic downtown area, with its cobblestone streets, ancient churches and museums tracing the history of Spanish colonization and Colombian independence. Don’t miss the Museo del Oro, home to an impressive collection of gold and emerald objects recounting pre-Columbian history. In the afternoon, take the funicular to the top of Mount Monserrate, culminating at over 3,000 meters, for a spectacular panoramic view of Bogotá, offering a unique perspective on the city.

Welcome to Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia’s historic gems! Nestled in the majestic Andes mountains, this small colonial town is a well-preserved treasure trove of Colombian history. Founded in 1572, Villa de Leyva boasts one of the continent’s largest town squares, entirely paved with pebbles and lined with white houses, all at the foot of the Iguaque Wildlife Sanctuary, which protects the country’s major ecosystems such as páramos, Andean forests and lagoons.

Spanish colonial architecture is omnipresent, giving the town a timeless atmosphere. The main square is the vibrant heart of the town, surrounded by restaurants, craft stores and open-air cafés, inviting you to relax and enjoy the serenity of this enchanting place. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking panoramas, from mountains to spectacular rock formations.

Villa de Leyva is a must-see destination for lovers of history, culture and tranquillity, offering a true journey back in time to the heart of colonial Colombia. The town is proud to be one of 17 colonial villages designated as cultural heritage, testifying to its exceptional importance and preservation.

Day 3 / TRANSFER / Villa de Leyva

We recommend that you get to the Salitre terminal around 09:00-10:00 to catch a bus to Villa de Leyva, a journey of around 3.5 hours. On arrival, spend the afternoon exploring this charming colonial village. Start at the main square, one of the largest in South America, then wander through the town’s picturesque and soothing streets. Take the opportunity to discover emblematic sites such as the Casa Museo Luis Alberto Acuña or the Convent del Santo Ecce Homo. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this timeless village, ideal for strolling around and immersing yourself in its rich history.

Day 4: Villa de Leyva
^{Village tour + Mirador El Santo Sagrado Corazon de Jesus + Casa Terracota}

The next day begins with a challenging hike to the Mirador El Santo, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Villa de Leyva and the surrounding area. Next, visit Casa Terracota, a unique house built entirely of terracotta, an architectural work of art. You can also discover the Museo El Fossil, located outside town (accessible by cab or about 1 hour’s walk), famous for its fossils of prehistoric marine reptiles. Once covered by the sea, this area is now renowned for its many fossil finds. If you prefer, continue your stroll through the village streets and perhaps buy some woollen clothing, such as ruanas, the traditional ponchos.

Day 5: Villa de Leyva
^{Village of Ráquira}

Raquira is a picturesque village near Villa de Leyva, Colombia. Renowned as the “artisan capital of Colombia”, Raquira is famous for its colorful pottery and traditional crafts. You can even take part in a pottery workshop and try your hand at creating your own work of art! As you stroll through its lively streets, you’ll discover brightly-faced houses and numerous artisan stores selling ceramics, textiles and a variety of unique souvenirs. Local markets abound with ruanas, traditional ponchos, and other handcrafted creations. Raquira is an ideal destination for immersing yourself in Colombian culture and crafts, while enjoying a warm and welcoming atmosphere. To get there, it’s best to take a bus from the Villa de Leyva terminal (departures: 6 a.m. – 8.30 a.m.) for around 6,000 COP per person and a 45-minute journey.

Nestled in the mountains of the Boyacá department, Monguí is one of Colombia’s most enchanting heritage villages. Founded in the 17th century, Monguí features cobbled streets, white colonial houses with wooden balconies and a peaceful atmosphere. The heart of the village is marked by the Basilica of Our Lady of Monguí, an impressive example of Spanish colonial architecture.

Monguí is also renowned for its handicrafts, in particular the traditional manufacture of (leather) footballs, an industry that has endured for generations and given the village a special reputation. Visitors can explore these workshops and learn more about this unique know-how.

One of Monguí’s landmarks is the Calicanto Bridge, built in the 17th century using local stone and mortar made from molasses and animal blood. The bridge links the village to the surrounding fields, and bears witness to the ingenuity of colonial construction.

Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, Monguí is also a gateway to the Páramo de Ocetá, one of Colombia’s most spectacular high-mountain ecosystems. Monguí is a must-see destination for lovers of history, culture and nature.

Day 6 / TRANSFER / Monguí

To get to Monguí from Villa de Leyva, you’ll need to take three buses. First, a bus from Villa de Leyva to Tunja, which takes about an hour. Then a bus from Tunja to Sogamoso, which takes about an hour and a half. Finally, a bus from Sogamoso to Monguí, which takes around 45 minutes. Buses for these routes are frequent, so connections are generally straightforward. However, it’s crucial to arrive in Sogamoso no later than 5:30 p.m. to avoid missing the last buses to Monguí.

NOTE: There is no ATM in Monguí. Remember to withdraw enough cash in Villa de Leyva before you go.

Day 7: Monguí
^{Visit the village}

Mongui, a charming village in Colombia’s Boyaca department, is a colonial gem perched at around 2900 meters above sea level. Explore the picturesque streets and main square to discover preserved colonial architecture and the Puente de Calicanto, a historic bridge built by the natives and the Spanish. The Basilica Menor and the Convent of Mongui, built in 1760 along with the Church of Our Lady, display iconography linked to the history of the village and the evangelization of the indigenous population. Visit one of the 30 or so local workshops in Monguí to discover the art of traditional ball making, renowned for its footballs. And enjoy the Boyacense culture, illustrating the spirit of the high Andes.

Day 8: Monguí
^{Páramo de Ocetá (guide highly recommended)}

The Páramo de Ocetá, near Monguí in Colombia, is one of the country’s most remarkable high-mountain ecosystems. This unique landscape boasts lush green valleys, crystal-clear rivers and spectacular rock formations. Frailejones, the emblematic plants of the páramos, dominate the panorama, creating a mysterious and bewitching atmosphere. This ecosystem is home to exceptional biodiversity, with flora and fauna adapted to the extreme conditions of high altitude. Hikers can explore picturesque trails leading to hidden lagoons (laguna negra) and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. The hike, organized with a guide (highly recommended), starts at around 7am. At around 4,000 meters above sea level, it’s a demanding hike with little signposting, crossing many private plots of land owned by farmers and stockbreeders, which can sometimes lead to conflicts and restricted access.

Alternative: Laguna de Tota for lesser difficulty.

In the heart of the vast Llanos plains, the small town of Yopal is a fascinating 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 panoramas and are home to exceptional wildlife that will delight nature lovers and adventurers alike. Every nook and cranny of this region hides natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Capital of the Casanare department, Yopal is the ideal starting point for exploring this wild region. The Llanos are a 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 an impressive diversity of birds.

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

Depending on your budget, several safaris are available, tailored to your preferences in terms of duration and intensity. Contact local agencies to organize a safari that meets your expectations. Here are a few recommended options:
– Safari to the Altagracia reserve (most expensive option), a very remote but incredible place.
– Safari to the Hato la Aurora nature reserve (relatively expensive), a little less remote 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 9 / TRANSFER / Yopal

Get ready for a radical change of climate! You’re leaving the high plateaus of the majestic Andes mountains for the intoxicating heat of the vast Colombian plains. Your final destination: Yopal, capital of Casanare and the ideal starting point for exploring the Llanos on memorable safaris. To get there, you’ll need to follow two simple steps: first, take a bus from the Mongui terminal to Sogamoso (approx. 45 minutes, very frequent buses). Then, take a bus from the Sogamoso terminal to Yopal with the Flota Sugamuxi company (departures every hour from 04:00 to 18:00, journey time 4-5 hours, fare 40,000 COP per person). On arrival in Yopal, you can easily find a cab to take you to your accommodation.

Day 10: Safari in Casanare (Llanos)

Departure from Yopal for the Altagracia reserve is usually around 9am. A driver will pick you up in a pick-up truck and you’ll head east towards the Altagracia reserve, which is a long way from town. The journey takes around 7 hours, passing over tarmac roads, gravel tracks and dirt roads. Be prepared for some serious jolting; there’s a lot more to this trip than just a stroll, but that’s the charm of the region! Along the way, you’ll cross Colombia’s vast, often little-known flat plains, where rice fields and cattle pastures are crucial to the country’s food security. You’ll stop for lunch at a renowned local restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious meat, a mainstay of the local gastronomy.

Day 11: Safari in Casanare (Llanos)

The day begins with a hearty breakfast at the Ecolodge, preparing visitors for a day of exciting adventures. After savoring local delicacies, the hikes begin in the Buenaventura Nature Reserve, plunging participants into the heart of the region’s spectacular biodiversity. Trails wind through groves, the territory of howler monkeys. Around midday, a revitalizing lunch is served, giving everyone a chance to regain their strength before continuing the exploration. The afternoon is reserved for a canoe trip, gliding gently over the peaceful waters of rivers and small lakes. This activity allows close observation of aquatic fauna and exotic birds. Weather permitting, a magical sunset crowns this aquatic adventure. Back at the Ecolodge by 4×4, a last chance to admire the beauty of Buenaventura from a new angle. The day ends with a delicious dinner followed by a well-deserved rest, while memories of the day are etched in the minds of travelers.

Day 12: Safari in Casanare (Llanos)

On this last full day in Altagracia, another nature reserve is explored with great enthusiasm, warmly welcomed 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 Leafcutter Ants, famous for cultivating mushrooms with the leaves they cut. Majestic birds such as the red ibis, herons and roseate spoonbills also enhance this exploration. Two giant otters emerge gracefully from the lake, while sunbathing caimans add to the picturesque ambience of the scene. After a delicious lunch of local fish, the afternoon continues with an hour-and-a-half-long canoe trip along a river, where you can 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. Back at the lodge, a pleasant surprise awaits visitors: a group of musicians and dancers introduces Joropo, the traditional dance of the Llanos, offering an enriching and festive conclusion to this last memorable night.

Day 13: Safari in Casanare (Llanos) & return to Yopal

The last day promises to be an emotional one! It begins with a final stroll around the lodge, offering a last glimpse of the local wildlife, before taking the 6-7 hour drive back to Yopal. The touching farewell with Victor and his family, hosts as welcoming as they are fascinating, marks the end of this unforgettable stay. The return to Yopal is punctuated by stops to observe and photograph capybaras and jabirus, the region’s largest birds. Arrival in Yopal around 5 p.m.

Medellín, known as the “city of eternal spring” for its pleasant year-round climate, is a dynamic metropolis nestled in the Aburrá Valley. Once infamous, Medellín has metamorphosed into a model of urban innovation and resilience. The city stands out for its modern transport system, notably the famous Metrocable, which links the mountainous districts to the city center.

Medellín offers a wealth of culture, with museums such as the Museo de Antioquia, home to the works of Fernando Botero, and annual events such as the Feria de las Flores. Visitors can explore the lively El Poblado district, renowned for its stores, restaurants and nightlife, or relax in green spaces such as the Botanical Gardens.

Urban and social revitalization efforts have made Medellín a must-see destination, combining history, culture and modernity. This remarkable transformation makes it an essential step in capturing the dynamic and innovative essence of Colombia.

Day 14 / TRANSFER / Medellín

To fly from Yopal to Medellín, you first need to get to El Alcaraván airport in Yopal, then choose a flight with a stopover, usually in Bogotá. Transfers usually take between 3 and 3.5 hours with Avianca or Latam airlines. On arrival in Medellín (José María Córdova International Airport), you can either take a cab, at 120,000 COP, or opt for a combo bus and cab, costing around 30,000 to 40,000 COP. The first evening is free to relax after the flight and adjust to life in Antioquia’s capital. Use this evening to relax and get ready to discover the wonders of Colombia over the next few days.

Day 15: Medellín
^{Tour of downtown & Comuna (can be done on your own or with a guide)}

Discovering Medellín starts with an exploration of the city center, where history and vitality come together. Start at Plaza Botero, adorned with the iconic sculptures of Fernando Botero, and visit the Museo de Antioquia to immerse yourself in Colombian art. Explore the La Candelaria district, blending colonial and modern architecture, and discover Parque Berrío, the historic heart of the city. Then, take the Metrocable to a comuna, like the famous Comuna 13, once one of the most dangerous, now a symbol of transformation and resilience (you can also choose comunas 3, 4, 8, less touristy but with a guide highly recommended). Join a guided tour to learn about the neighborhood’s history, admire the impressive murals and talk to residents about community projects. This dynamic combination of downtown and reinvented comuna offers an authentic look at Medellín’s urban renaissance. Finally, enjoy the lively nightlife of the Laureles and Poblado districts.

Day 16: Medellín
^{Parque Arví}

Parque Arví, near Medellín in Colombia, is a magnificent nature reserve that offers the perfect day of adventure and relaxation. Start by taking the metro to Acevedo station. From there, hop on the Metrocable (line K) to Santo Domingo station, then change to line L, which will take you directly to Parque Arví. Enjoy panoramic views of Medellín and the Aburrá Valley during the cable car ride. Once you’ve arrived at the park, head to the visitor center for information on the many hiking trails available. The Arroyito Trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering views of local flora and fauna, including various species of birds and butterflies. For lunch, relax in the picnic areas or enjoy local dishes in the park’s restaurants. Back in town, if you want to take a piece of Colombia home with you, don’t miss the Sanalejo craft market (every first Saturday of the month near Plaza Botero) or the mini market at Parque El Poblado.

Located on Colombia’s Pacific coast, the El Valle region is a veritable haven of biodiversity. Surrounded by dense rainforests and bordered by the ocean, this area is home to a unique and well-preserved ecosystem. Every year, the waters of the Colombian Pacific welcome majestic humpback whales to breed, while the black-sand beaches of El Valle provide a haven for sea turtles to lay their eggs, offering visitors unforgettable moments of marine life.

The surrounding forests echo with the songs of a variety of multicolored birds, attracting birdwatchers from all over the world. Rare species such as the scarlet-backed cotinga and the palm tanager add bright touches to this verdant landscape. Exploring the jungle trails may reveal the presence of capuchin monkeys, poison frogs and a host of fascinating insects.

El Valle is an isolated region, nestled between the ocean, the jungle and the Andes. While this isolation is beneficial for the flora and fauna, it also limits economic development. Towns here are modest and simple, each project a real challenge.

To stay in the department of Chocó, it is possible to opt for “all-inclusive” packages including accommodation, meals and activities, making it easier to organize your stay. Alternatively, you can simply book accommodation and find guides on site, either in the village or through your chosen accommodation, although this requires careful preparation to maximize your time on site. The activities available are generally structured over half a day each, with few options for independent exploration.

Day 17 / TRANSFER / El Valle

After a pleasant night in Medellín, head for the Enrique Olaya Herrera airport in the heart of the city to finally reach the Pacific coast. Flights, available only in the morning, last about an hour and are operated by Satena or ClicAir. Get ready to discover perhaps the smallest, most rustic and exotic airport of your life: José Celestino Mutis de Bahia Solano. Expect to brave the heat, accompanied by humidity that won’t go unnoticed. But all the effort will be worth it once you’re immersed in dense jungles plunging into the Pacific Ocean. Once you’ve arrived at your accommodation for lunch, sample a variety of fish dishes typical of the coastal region. Then take advantage of your free time to make yourself comfortable and explore the surrounding area, perhaps even taking a trip to the beach before dinner.

NOTE 1: Medellín has two airports. The international airport is José María Córdova (MDE), 17 km from the city. Flights to Chocó depart exclusively from Enrique Olaya Herrera airport, in the heart of the city.

NOTE 2: No ATMs are available in the Chocó region. Make sure you withdraw enough money in Medellín before you leave.

Day 18: El Valle
^{Jungle trekking + Canoeing}

The morning begins with a guided excursion through the jungle surrounding the village. During the walk, visitors discover an impressive variety of local flora and fauna. If they’re lucky, they’ll spot monkeys, toucans and even brightly-colored dendrobates. Basilisks, known as “Jesus Christ lizards” for their ability to run on water, add a spectacular dimension to this adventure, as do the many insects, including the inevitable mosquitoes. The hike ends at the foot of a charming little waterfall, where a refreshing swim offers a well-deserved moment of relaxation. The return to El Valle is by traditional wooden canoe, gliding peacefully along the Tundó and Valle rivers. Along the way, it’s possible to spot small caimans and a variety of birds such as waders and kingfishers. Back for lunch, the afternoon can be spent relaxing on the beach, given the exhausting heat and humidity. It is strongly recommended to start the activity as early as possible (around 6am-7am) to maximize the chances of wildlife sightings and to take advantage of milder temperatures.

Suggestion: talk to your accommodation about organizing an hour’s walk through the jungle at night. Be careful, you’ll have the opportunity to observe many insects and frogs, which is very interesting but can be a little frightening due to the impressive size of some specimens.

Day 19: El Valle
^{Natural pools + Whale watching (July to October)}

A new day begins with a focus on the sea. Exploration begins with a guided walk along the beach, leading to aquariums and natural pools formed between rocks. The guide leads you at low tide, offering an easy view of various species of fish evolving in calm, crystal-clear waters. Equipped with a mask and snorkel, you can fully appreciate the marine wealth as you explore these little havens of aquatic life. After this fascinating immersion, return to the lodge. Back at the lodge, you have several options: enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, discover the hidden treasures of the coast on a beautiful hike, or plan another exciting activity. In the afternoon, organize a whale-watching trip with your host in advance. Every year, between July and October, the majestic humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Colombian Pacific to breed and give birth. El Valle offers a privileged vantage point for this natural spectacle.

Day 20: El Valle
^{Utria National Nature Park}

Today, you’ll explore the region’s main nature reserve: Utría National Park, a genuine natural treasure protected since 1987 and covering 54,300 hectares, offering magnificent views from the sea. Limited access and hiking trails add to its exclusivity. The hour-long boat trip, often accompanied by playful dolphins, adds a magical touch to this adventure. The morning begins with a guided hike through mangroves and forest, where you can spot stingrays, globe fish, hummingbirds, lizards and monkeys. Your guide will share fascinating anecdotes about local medicinal plants and endemic species, enriching your experience. After this walk, the exploration continues in the crystal-clear waters of Utría National Park, perfect for snorkeling. Two sites await you: the first near the park entrance, with an underwater boat wreck, and the second at Isla Playa Blanca. After exploring these underwater wonders, return to El Valle for a late lunch. The day ends with a well-deserved rest and preparation for tomorrow’s departure.

Jericó, a historic village in Colombia’s Antioquia department, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and picturesque charm. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, it offers spectacular panoramic views and a pleasant year-round climate. Jericó’s cobbled streets and colorful houses tell the story of the region’s vibrant history, set against the backdrop of the Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes cathedral and several small museums such as the Maja museums. Local artisans are famous for their carrieles, traditional leather bags emblematic of regional craftsmanship.

Nature lovers can explore the hiking trails of the Las Nubes nature reserve, visit coffee plantations and admire the magnificent Cauca Canyon. Jericó is also the birthplace of Santa Laura Montoya, Colombia’s first saint, whose family home is a place of pilgrimage. With its tranquil atmosphere, rich cultural heritage and splendid landscapes, Jericó is a must-see destination for travellers in search of authenticity and natural beauty.

Day 21 / TRANSFER / Jericó

You’re about to embark on a day of transition, leaving the wild Pacific coast for the majestic mountains of the Colombian Andes. After saying goodbye to the intense heat, persistent humidity and mosquitoes, arrange with your accommodation in El Valle for a transfer to the José Celestino Mutis airport in Bahia Solano to catch an early flight to Medellín. You’ll land at Medellín’s Enrique Olaya Herrera regional airport around noon, after a flight of around 50 minutes. From there, a short walk to the Terminal del Sur will enable you to catch a bus to Jericó, a heritage village some 3 to 3.5 hours away. Buses depart frequently from the terminal, so there’s no need to stress about timetables. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon in this enchanting village nestled in the heart of the mountains, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional Andean atmosphere we love so much!

Day 22: Jericó
^{Village tour + Paragliding (bonus)}

Jericó invites you to enjoy an authentic and charming experience. Stroll along its cobbled streets lined with colorful houses with flower-filled balconies and feel its peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. Discover the majestic Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes cathedral, an architectural gem from the mid-20th century, and the Santuario Santa Laura with its magnificent blue ceiling. Immerse yourself in local history and culture by visiting emblematic sites such as the House-Museum of Mother Laura, Colombia’s first saint, and the three small MAJA museums. Don’t miss the Botanical Garden with its breathtaking view from the El Salvador mirador, where the calm and beauty of the surrounding Andes reigns supreme. Finally, simply stroll the streets and sample the local cardamom sweets and the village’s signature dessert, postre jericoano. For an extra touch of adventure, you can even go paragliding directly from the village for around 250,000 COP, an activity that takes around two hours in all, from departure by tuktuk to return.

Day 23: Jericó
^{Finca de café Ariel + hike to Las Nubes nature reserve}

We recommend that you start your day early with a short hike to the mirador of the Las Nubes nature reserve. This 2- to 2.5-hour round-trip hike, with ascents and descents, offers spectacular views first thing in the morning. Then, at 11 a.m., take a jeep from Jericó’s main square to the Ariel coffee finca, a journey of around 50 minutes followed by a 20-minute walk. The family’s warm welcome and location overlooking the Cauca Canyon make this an unforgettable experience. For COP 50,000 per person, enjoy a delicious traditional meal and a guided tour of the plantations. You’ll discover the process of growing and harvesting coffee, an experience that’s both enriching and instructive. At around 3:30 p.m., drive back to where the Jeep dropped you off in the morning. You’ll be back in Jericó by 5pm, after a day rich in discovery and adventure.

The heritage village of Jardín, located in Colombia’s Antioquia department, is a veritable gem nestled in the mountains of the coffee-growing region. Founded in 1863, Jardín is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobbled streets and colorful houses with wooden balconies, reflecting its Spanish heritage.

Jardín’s peaceful, picturesque atmosphere is enhanced by the Plaza Principal, the main square where locals gather around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, an imposing neo-Gothic church dating from 1871. Surrounding the square are cafés and craft stores where you can sample the renowned local coffee produced on the surrounding plantations.

Visitors can explore Jardín’s surroundings by taking the cable car, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. Hikers will also be delighted by the picturesque trails leading to panoramic viewpoints such as Cerro Cristo Rey.

Jardín is also known for its many hiking trails in the surrounding area, with numerous waterfalls.

Day 24 / TRANSFER / Jardín

To get from Jericó to Jardín by bus, you can take a traditional means of transport between the region’s villages: chivas, colorful old buses. They leave from Carrera 4 (next to the Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes cathedral) at 07:00 and 14:00, for a 4-hour journey, mostly on a dirt track, without much comfort, but very Colombian.

Day 25: Jardín
^{Village tour + Miradors}

Exploring the village of Jardín is a truly magical experience. Tucked away in the heart of the Antioquia mountains, this heritage gem immerses you in the authenticity of Andean culture. The cobbled streets, brightly-colored houses with flower-filled balconies, and charming central square with its majestic neo-Gothic church create an atmosphere both peaceful and picturesque. Don’t miss a ride on the Garrucha, a small cable car that crosses the village to offer breathtaking panoramic views, or a visit to the Jardín de Rocas nature reserve, where you can observe unique specimens such as the famous rock cock (Rupicola peruvianus). After savouring a delicious typical lunch, a short stroll to the Mirador Cristo Rey just outside the village is ideal for digesting while enjoying a splendid view of Jardín and its surroundings.

Day 26: Jardín
^{Ruta 7 cascadas (or Cueva Espendor, or Las Orquídeas Nature Reserve)}

The Ruta de las Siete Cascadas in Jardín, Colombia, is a breathtaking adventure through some of the region’s most picturesque natural landscapes. Nestled in the heart of the Antioquia mountains, this spectacular route guides you through seven majestic waterfalls, each offering its own natural spectacle. The journey often begins with the famous Salto del Ángel waterfall, where tumultuous waters tumble from an impressive height into a lush forest setting. Next, you’ll traverse winding trails through verdant pastures, fragrant pine forests and mystical cloud-forested areas. Each waterfall along the way, like Las Tinajas, Los Pozos Dorados, and La Escalera reveals its own unique beauty, creating natural pools where visitors can refresh and recharge in peaceful surroundings.

NOTE 1: it’s quite possible to do the hike on your own, but the orientation is quite difficult (no signposts).

NOTE 2: this is a challenging hike (ascents and descents, difficult terrain) lasting around 7 hours. An excellent level of physical fitness is required. If you’re physically fit, we recommend the Las Orquídeas nature reserve, ideal for watching hummingbirds and learning more about orquids.

We’re back in Medellín, which marks our last stop in Colombia before leaving this beautiful country.

Day 27 / TRANSFER / Medellín

After your stay in Jardín, which we hope you enjoyed, we’re back on the road to Medellín. For your bus journey from the village of Jardín to Medellín, be prepared to cross the magnificent Colombian mountains. Departure is from Calle 8 in Jardín, where the transport company offices are located, with regular departures to Medellín. The journey takes around 3 to 3.5 hours. On arrival in Medellín, you’ll be dropped off at Terminal del Sur. We recommend that you take a cab to your accommodation and enjoy Colombian city life.

Day 28: Departure from Colombia

Well, your last day in Colombia is already here – time has gone by so quickly! Now it’s time to head for José María Córdova International Airport and say goodbye to this magnificent country. We hope you’ve enjoyed your stay here as much as we have!

Budget (estimate)

4-week itinerary in Colombia: stay 1 of Ma Colombie

Here’s an estimate of the total cost per person on site (excluding airfares in and out of Colombia), expressed in Colombian pesos. Activity prices include guide fees and excursions mentioned in the itinerary.

Sharing a private room with two or more people can be more economical than booking a single room, often for a similar price. As each situation is unique, it may be necessary to adjust the budget by opting for simpler accommodations or less expensive meals, depending on preferences and budget constraints.