An unforgettable luxury journey through Colombia
A journey of culture, adventure and the best of Colombian hospitality. My recent trip through Colombia was nothing short of extraordinary – a seamless blend of friendly locals, rich cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a glimpse of the experiences that made my journey unforgettable.
Bogotá: A Blend of Culture, Markets, and Rich History
My adventure began in Bogotá, the lively capital of Colombia, where I stayed at the Four Seasons Casa Medina. The hotel has a perfect mix of colonial architecture and modern amenities.
One of my experiences in Bogotá was a visit to the bustling Paloquemao market to discover Colombia’s incredible gastronomic diversity and variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The colours and flavours were fabulous and I couldn’t resist sampling a variety of fruit along with the largest and most delicious avocados I’ve ever seen and tasted!
I also explored the city’s rich cultural offerings, including the Gold Museum. The museum showcased Colombia’s pre-Columbian history through an awe-inspiring collection of gold artifacts. I learned all about the indigenous cultures that have shaped the nation and got lots of inspiration for my own jewellery making!
Coffee Region and Hacienda Bambusa: A Journey Through Nature and Cacao
From Bogotá, my journey took me to the lush Coffee Region, where I stayed at the tranquil Hacienda Bambusa.
One of the highlights of my stay was a private tour of a cacao plantation. I had the chance to see firsthand how the cacao pods are harvested and processed into some of the finest chocolate in the world. I even had the opportunity to make hot chocolate from scratch. The Colombians drink their hot chocolate with cheese, which was certainly an acquired taste!
Along with the cacao experience, I also visited a local coffee farm, where I learned about the entire coffee-making process – from the planting of beans to the final brewing. I sipped on rich, aromatic Colombian coffee, and it was easy to see why Colombian coffee is considered some of the best in the world.
The surrounding nature was equally enchanting and the region is home to a diverse array of birdlife. As I took guided walks around the area, I spotted hummingbirds and other exotic species. I was thrilled to capture a perfect photograph of a hummingbird in mid-flight. The beauty of the land, combined with the peaceful atmosphere at Hacienda Bambusa, truly made it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
I also had the chance to visit the Wax Palms in the nearby Cocora Valley, which is part of the beautiful Salento area. The towering wax palms, the tallest trees in South America, rise high above the verdant valley floor, creating a stunning landscape that looks almost otherworldly. I was very spoilt with a delicious picnic set up by my lovely guide to view the palms.
One of the highlights was learning to play Tejo, which is where players throw metal discs at a clay target with gunpowder packets. Hitting the packets causes explosions, earning points!
Medellín: Innovation, Street Art, and Andean Flowers
Next, I flew to Medellín, a city that has undergone a remarkable transformation from its turbulent past to becoming a vibrant, innovative metropolis. My stay at El Cielo, a chic hotel that combines modern luxury with traditional Colombian design, offered a fantastic base to explore this dynamic city.
I visited the Andean Flower Hacienda to learn about the region’s rich floral heritage and a hydrangea farm, along with a private collection of 5,000 different orchids, which were just stunning.
One of the most unexpected and fun parts of my visit to Medellín was exploring Comuna 13. Once a dangerous part of the city, Comuna 13 has reinvented itself as a hub for street art and local culture. I had the chance to try my hand at graffiti, along with a hands-on drumming experience.
Cartagena: Colonial Charm, Salsa, and Caribbean Culinary Delights
From Medellín, I flew to Cartagena, a city that blends colonial charm with Caribbean allure. My home for the next few days was Casa San Agustin, a luxurious boutique hotel that exudes elegance, with its colonial architecture and colourful cobblestone streets.
One of the most memorable parts of my time in Cartagena was having lunch at Celele, a renowned restaurant that showcases the best of Colombia’s Caribbean flavours. Celele is currently ranking No. 6 on The Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants and I can certainly see why! Each dish was a masterpiece – innovative, beautifully presented and utterly delicious.
I explored the vibrant Getsemaní neighbourhood, known for its lively atmosphere and street art with colourful murals. I also took part in a salsa dance lesson. Cartagena’s salsa scene is legendary, and learning from a local instructor made it all the more authentic and fun. I think I’m going to need a lot more lessons though……
I also had a Caribbean cookery lesson where I learned how to prepare some of the region’s most beloved dishes. From coconut rice to ceviche, the class was a deliciously fun way to connect with the flavours of the region.
Islas del Rosario: The Ultimate Caribbean Escape
To cap off my trip, I took a private boat ride to the Islas del Rosario, an archipelago off the coast of Cartagena known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. The boat trip was an adventure in itself—gliding through turquoise waters. It was the perfect way to unwind after a week of exploration and immersion in Colombia’s culture.
A Journey of Discovery
If you’re looking for a journey that combines adventure, culture, and luxury, Colombia should be at the top of your list. View my full Colombian itinerary or contact Albee’s Travel today to start planning your tailor-made journey – it’s also a great destination to combine with other Central or South American countries.
