Cali, Coffee Region and Cartagena de Indias - Essence

Wednesday

Our journey begins! We head to the airport to catch the World2Fly flight to Cali. Upon arrival, we will receive assistance at the airport and transfer to our chosen hotel. Accommodation.

Thursday

Breakfast at the hotel. We begin the tour by immersing ourselves in music with a visit to the Monumento al Grupo Niche, a tribute to the legendary musical group. Then, we will walk along the charming River Boulevard, a place that offers breathtaking views of the mountains, where you can feel the pulse of urban life and appreciate the architecture of La Ermita Church and Ortiz Bridge, until we reach La Merced Church, where Cali was born, a place full of history and meaning. Afterwards, we will enter the charming Colonial Quarter of San Antonio, home to the second oldest church in the city, built in 1747. From here, you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view. We continue to the famous Gato del Río and the picturesque Las Novias del Gato Park, a place full of charm and mystery, with an intriguing history, before stopping at La Palabra Cali. We will head to a cosy craft shop, where we can purchase special souvenirs and enjoy a delicious snack typical of the region. We will end the experience with an hour-long Cali salsa class, where we can learn about the characteristics and influences that have made this genre unique and significant to Cali culture. Transfer back to the hotel and overnight stay.

Friday

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by private vehicle to the coffee region, approximately 4 hours and 211 km, enjoying the beautiful landscape and coffee plantations that characterise this beautiful region. Arrival and welcome at the selected hotel. Accommodation. We suggest taking the Santa Rosa Hot Springs tour.

Saturday

Breakfast at the hotel. Hacienda Combia is one of the most historic places in the department of Quindío, built in the early years of Quindío's colonisation. Located just 15 minutes from the municipality of Calarcá, it is home to one of the most typical and magical eco-hotels in the area and is the producer of Combia Inspiración export-quality coffee. Welcome drink before starting a visit to the different plots of the hacienda, where we will have an interactive tour. Afterwards, we will visit the processing plant to understand the pulping, fermentation and drying processes. Finally, we will arrive at a special place on the Hacienda where we will have a tasting of special coffees. Transfer back to the hotel and accommodation.

Sunday

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to explore the surrounding area, such as the Cocora Valley or Salento.

Monday

Breakfast at the hotel. At the appointed time, transfer from the hotel to the airport to catch the flight to the city of Cartagena. Arrival, welcome and transfer to the hotel. Accommodation.

Tuesday

Breakfast at the hotel. We will discover the rich history of Cartagena de Indias on a shared tour in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by an expert guide. We begin in the safe bay of Cartagena, followed by a panoramic view of the quiet neighbourhood of Manga, with its republican architecture. We will explore the imposing Fort San Felipe de Barajas, the largest colonial fortification in America. Then, we will immerse ourselves in the historic walled city centre with time for shopping for handicrafts and a revealing walk through the streets and squares steeped in history.

Duration: 3.5 hours approx.

Level of difficulty: Moderate Includes: Shared transport, professional tour guide in Spanish and entrance to the Castle of San Felipe.

Note 1: Departure times depend on the location of the hotel where you are staying. Note 2: If you are staying at a hotel in the historic centre, you must make your own way to the pick-up points indicated above.

Recommendations: Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat and clothing suitable for warm weather.

Clarifications: The tour may vary due to museum closures or operational issues such as closures in the historic centre without prior notice.

Wednesday to Friday

Breakfast at the hotel. Free days to enjoy optional activities and get to know the city better. Accommodation.

Saturday

Breakfast at the hotel. At the appointed time, transfer from the hotel to Cartagena Airport and departure on flight to Cali. Arrival and transfer to the hotel. Accommodation.

From Sunday to Monday

Breakfast at the hotel. At the appointed time, transfer from the hotel to Cali Airport. After checking in your luggage, we will board the World2Fly flight, returning home with the best memories of our trip. Night on board and arrival.