Detailed Panama and Colombia Itinerary
Day 1-3: Panama
Your Panama and Colombia cultural discovery begins. Arrive into Panama city and enjoy a relaxed first day to soak up the atmosphere and explore on foot. Stay in a gorgeous boutique hotel, try some delicious local food and take in this vibrant city. The next day head out on a private tour of the Canal, learning its history and importance to the city and beyond. Venture further, on an eco-tour of The Gatun Lake in the Panamanian Rainforest. See a side of Panama you never knew existed; vibrant butterflies, monkeys, rich biodiversity, a huge glistening lake and magnificent jungle.
Day 4-7: Medellin & Coffee Farm
Today take a direct flight to Medellin to begin your Colombian cultural adventure in this beautiful city rich in art, history, incredible architecture and bustling plazas. Your guide will show you the highlights, including Comuna 13, a symbol of transformation and positive resilience against Medellin’s challenging past. Head to colourful Santa Elena, witnessing one of Colombia’s famous flower farms. Have a go at climbing the iconic Rock of Guatape with its 740 steps and astonishing views. Colombian coffee is world famous. Try a delicious cup on this unique working farm trip, just 45 minutes from Medellin passing through beautiful rich landscapes. Spend a day learning the plant to cup process, discovering the roasting secrets and what makes Colombia coffee so beloved.
Day 8-9: Cartagena
Next on our unique trip to Panama and Colombia is Cartagena; the city of street food and majestic buildings. Your expert guide will take you on a gastronomy tour to sample local delicacies and regional favourites. You will explore the convents, fortresses and walled city, taking in some incredible views. Cartagena offers a unique and fascinating blend of cultures, and is a great place to take your time to explore on foot. Head to a rooftop bar for a sunset view with a cold drink.
Day 10-12: Mompox
Begin an amazing road- trip inland to some remarkable Colombian villages. Firstly San Basilio de Palenque; a UNESCO cultural Heritage site full of rich history and captivating bullerengue music. Continue to San Jacinto; a colourful village famed for its vibrant culture of artisan hand-weaving and birthplace of gaita music. Lastly Mompox, another UNESCO World heritage site.
Mompox is a timeless colonial town teeming with Spanish architecture, cobbled streets and historical charm. Your time here is spent learning the history, trying delicate local flavours including artisan cheese, and having a go yourself at some intricate handweaving. For something really special, experience Magdalena River’s musical heritage with an unforgettable folk performance of songs and dance.
This is how you explore the real Colombia; away from the tourist route, hearing music, learning unique cultures, experiencing artisan customs and meeting locals.
Day 13-16: Tayrona National Park
Before an epically beautiful drive to Tayrona National Park, you will get the chance to explore Aracataca, the home of Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Take a trip to the Cienaga Granda de Santa Marta; a vast area of stunning marshland and the largest wetland in Colombia. Head out on a boat and be enthralled by this protected Biosphere, before visiting Nueva Venecia and Buenavista to discover fishing techniques, colourful artwork, and brightly coloured houses.
Finish your Panama and Colombia cultural holiday in Tayrona National Park, the world-renowned sanctuary of nature and archaeological remains. Explore Mangrove swamps, corals, cloud forests and look out for over 100 species of mammals. Stay in a lovely boutique coastal hotel, giving you both free time to relax on the beach, and enjoy the National Park.
Day 17: Depart
As your Panama and Colombia cultural journey comes to an end, soak up the last few hours of the beautiful Caribbean coastline.
Thinking of adding a hike into your Colombia trip, or some more time in the coffee region? For some inspiration read more about the best things to do on a holiday to Colombia here.
17 days from £5700 pp
Based on two adults sharing, travelling in low season, subject to availability
Includes
All accommodation, excursions, and transport, private guides
Excludes
International flights, travel insurance, any visa cost and tips