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Western Australia
Western Australia

A Colombia Itinerary Text Size A A A

You asked: My husband and I are interested in learning more about Colombia. If we have a week to travel, where should we go and how should we organize it? – R.N.

The travel world is buzzing about Colombia’s comeback. From the modern capital of Bogota to the beauty of historic Cartagena and the pristine Caribbean coast, the country’s appeal continues to grow as its rocky past fades. Thanks to its proximity to the US (Cartagena is a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Miami), it also makes an easy destination for a week-long escape. As in many developing countries, we recommend using an experienced ground operator.

One of our preferred operators recommend starting the trip with two days in Bogota, where you will explore the colonial area of La Candelria and see the historic plazas and palaces. A highlight is a trip to Monteserrate Hill and its church, the city’s main symbol and a destination for thousands of pilgrims since its construction in 1640. From Bogota, fly into the Tayrona National Park, situated in the north of the country between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Caribbean Sea. Formerly a hotbed for drug activity, this pristine jungle now hosts tourists in the funky Ecohab resort, a collection of huts that overlook the coast. Tour the rain forest with a guide and visit archaeological sites left by ancient tribes that populated the area, or just relax on the palm-lined beaches. Cartagena, which many consider Colombia’s jewel, will be your final destination. Founded as a trading port in 1533, the cosmopolitan city is filled with spectacular colonial architecture, chic shopping and fine dining. Explore the city’s historic center and the San Felipe Fort, built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates, but leave plenty of time to soak up the tropical sun by the pool or in stylish cafes.

Travelers may want to check warnings from the US State Department (travel.state.gov) as well as from the governments of Canada (www.voyage.gc.ca) and Great Britain (www.fco.gov.uk).

Read insider advice on Cartagena from Marcella Echavarria (founder of Surevolution ) and tips from designer Moises Esquenazi.

Read “Two Colombians, at War and at Peace” in the New York Times

For advice on travel in Central America or to be introduced to a travel specialist in the region or to learn about special trips or preferred rates at hotels, contact our booking department by calling 212-988-2611 or by sending an inquiry

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