¡Nos vamos a Colombia! From gorgeous coastlines to lively culture, Colombia is one of the most unique, historic and diverse countries in the world. With its history dating back thousands of years, there is so much to see, taste and experience — so why not explore it with the leading experts who can bring the location to life? That’s where National Geographic Expeditions comes in.
We’re excited to share that our new Signature Land trip, Colombia: Connections to the Land and the Past, will embark in 2024! This nine-day, eight-night itinerary is bursting with exciting activities and learning opportunities – perfect for curious explorers. Plus, traveling with a National Geographic Expert will take you deeper into Colombian culture.
Fascinating behind-the-scenes insight from the Experts help to set up the experiences in the days ahead. From photographers to naturalists and local experts, these expeditions are brimming with access and knowledge!
Let’s Begin in Bogota
There’s no better place to kick off this itinerary than in the country’s capital: Bogota. This bustling and beautiful hub has so much to offer travelers.
Start your day at Paloquemao Market, one of the largest food markets in Bogota. With a private tour, you’ll navigate the aisles as you sample delicious fresh fruits, and not only admire but also learn about the diversity of the vibrant local flowers that fill the market – all before embarking on a walking tour of the city’s historic plazas and landmarks.
In the afternoon, enjoy a tour of Museo del Oro (an amazing collection of pre-Columbian gold relics from indigenous Muisca people), then settle back into the comfort of the hotel for an impactful talk from a National Geographic Expert – the first of three fascinating Expert talks along the way.
Get Caffeinated in the Coffee Region
Have you ever thought about where your morning cup of joe originated from? Now you can experience coffee production first-hand at a fourth-generation, family-owned coffee farm in the Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is an incredible chance to understand the process – from growing beans to roasting – in one of the top coffee-producing countries in the world.
Discover Biodiverse and Beautiful Surroundings
Your expedition will also take you to breathtaking natural areas, such as the Cocora Valley. This lush green valley is home to towering, 125-foot wax palms, Colombia’s national tree. Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world – so this is a nature-lover’s dream.
Then, you’ll explore Tayrona National Park with a naturalist, hearing all about the surrounding environment. Be on the lookout for endemic cotton-top tamarins and more than 280 species of birds! Nearby, you’ll also visit Taironaka Village, where you can see the ruins of a historic indigenous community and meet members of the Kogi community, who are descendants of the Tairona culture.
Channel Your Inner Explorer
Other unique cultural experiences include a visit to the Carnaval Museum in Barranquilla, where travelers will hear about the iconic celebration recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Towards the end of the trip, you’ll take a closer look into important history, famed architecture and local fare while exploring Cartagena.
From a walking tour of the historic Walled City to following the footsteps of the influential Colombian writer Gabriel Garcia Márquez, there’s so much to do and see in this area.
On the final full day, you’ll take a short coach ride to nearby San Basilio de Palenque, known for being the first free town for enslaved people in the Americas. Here, you’ll learn about its rich African roots and music, taste regional food and even step into the ring at a local boxing studio.
Are You Ready for the Expedition of a Lifetime?
We can’t wait for you to enjoy all that the National Geographic Expeditions Colombia itinerary has to offer in 2024.
For details, visit nationalgeographicexpeditions.com, call 888-732-2379, or contact your travel agent.
Here’s to exploring!
