Experience Colombia’s diverse regions on an overnight tour that takes you from the Caribbean coast to the capital of Bogotá, a cosmopolitan mountain metropolis of heritage, architecture, fascinating museums and vibrant urban culture. You’ll fly from tropical Santa Marta up into the Colombian Andes, where Bogota sits atop a high mountain plateau.
Your capital exploration begins in La Candalaria, Bogota’s historic city center. You’ll enjoy an early lunch at Son de los Grillos, a venerable restaurant known for its renditions of Colombian specialties and whose regular patrons include legislators from the nearby Congress. Following lunch, embark on a guided tour of the colonial district that includes going inside the Casa de Nariño, the stately building that is the presidential residence and office. You’ll also visit the Museo Botero, home to the distinctively “oversized” paintings and sculptures of Colombia’s own Fernando Botero as well as an acclaimed collection of international works. And you’ll spend time at the Museo de Oro, a spectacular showcase of pre-Colombian gold treasures and archaeological finds.
Check in to the elegant JW Marriott Hotel, Bogata’s 5-star accommodations located in the heart of the financial and entertainment district. Settle in to your luxurious room, with time to change and freshen up for the evening. You’ll head out to Monserrate, a hilltop church that has long been a pilgrimage site. A funicular brings you to the summit, where the view encompasses older neighborhoods, the city’s modern business district and the flat plains in the distance. It’s a short walk to the Restaurante Casa San Isidrio, housed in a beautiful colonial building, for an elegant dinner.
The next morning features a visit to the Plaza de Paloquemao, the city’s enormous, colorful market for fresh-cut flowers, fruits, vegetables and more. While there, you’ll have a traditional snack of hot chocolate accompanied by an arepa, the famous Colombian corn bread, and sample some fruits unique to Colombia. Then it’s on to a nearby private home for a cooking class with an award-winning young chef. Toast your time in Bogota as you sit down to lunch together.
The return flight lands in Cartagena de las Indias. From the airport, you’ll travel to the center of this walled city for a scenic tour via horse-drawn carriage. The route highlights Cartagena’s spectacular heritage architecture of churches, leafy plazas, monasteries, mansions and flower-laden balconies. As the sun begins to set, you’ll climb the stairs of the colonial-era ramparts to the Café del Mar, the city’s premier spot for drinks with a view, for a cocktail before rejoining the yacht.
Go beyond the tropical coast to explore history, heritage and culture in Colombia’s vibrant mountaintop capital on an overnight visit.