Women Traveller Group | SIB 2026

Welcome to Colombia! Over the next few days, let yourself be charmed by Colombia’s hospitality and its little everyday treasures; do try the local delicacies and fresh fruit!

Transfer from Bogotá Airport to the hotel.

Take a stroll through Bogotá and discover the striking contrast between its modern and historic sides. Wander the bustling aisles of Paloquemao Market, where local vendors offer fresh regional produce, sip a delicious fruit juice, and be dazzled by the vibrant colors of the open-air flower market.

Step into the legendary La Candelaria neighborhood, with its colorful colonial houses and charming cobblestone streets, centered around the Plaza de Bolívar. Here, history comes alive with landmarks like the government district, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the Palace of Justice, the Parliament, and the Mayor’s Office.

Immerse yourself in Bogotá’s art scene at the Botero Museum, showcasing Fernando Botero’s iconic sculptures and paintings alongside works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and other masters. Then explore the Gold Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian gold jewelry crafted by Colombia’s indigenous communities.

Weather permitting, a short cable car ride to Monserrate Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling city, home to over eight million inhabitants, providing a perfect finale to an unforgettable day.

It’s time to leave the capital and head toward Guatavita Lake, a place steeped in legend. Here, you’ll learn about the famous “El Dorado” ceremony, in which a man covered himself in gold and threw emeralds and gold offerings into the lake. Along the way, take in the region’s typical flora, including the iconic frailejones, a plant crucial for maintaining the local water supply.

Guatavita Lake, located 75 km northeast of Bogotá, is a perfectly circular body of water surrounded by mountains covered in páramo vegetation. Situated at 3,100 meters above sea level, it enjoys a cool climate and an enchanting atmosphere. The trail to the lake follows an ecological path with spectacular viewpoints and informative stops, where guides share the history, ecology, and cultural significance of this legendary site.

In the late afternoon, arrive in Villa de Leyva, the former summer residence of the Bishops of Tunja. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along its cobblestone streets and make your way to the Plaza Mayor to end the day with a delicious meal.

Discover the rich flavors of Boyacá’s culinary heritage. The region’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Muisca people and its rural farming heritage. Simple, authentic dishes rely on local ingredients such as corn, potatoes, peas, and dairy products.

Just 7 kilometers from Villa de Leyva, a visit to Isabel’s farm offers an immersive experience into this culinary tradition. Here, you’ll learn to prepare the region’s typical amasijos—traditional corn-based wraps. This is more than a cooking class; it’s an intimate experience where you hear Isabel’s story, her family’s history, and their deep connection to rural gastronomy.

Under Isabel’s guidance, the day begins with making the wraps: peeling the corn, grinding it into dough, and shaping the masa into these delicious treats. While the food cooks, you are invited to explore the farm, visit the vegetable garden, and participate in some daily tasks. The experience culminates in a shared meal, tasting the wraps prepared together at the table.

In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets of Villa de Leyva, accompanied by your guide, to discover the charm and history of the town center.

Today, your driver will pick you up from the hotel to continue your journey toward Barichara, heading into warmer landscapes. The route winds through lush green pastures and along a dramatic gorge that stretches down to the Suárez River. Along the way, there are opportunities for short stops, depending on local opening hours: visit a traditional sugarcane mill (trapiche), sample the region’s famous guava mousse, or try cuajada con melao, a local specialty of fresh cheese with sweet sugarcane syrup.

You will arrive in Barichara, situated at 1,300 meters above sea level. Take your time to stroll along the charming cobblestone streets and admire the stunning colonial architecture of this exceptionally well-preserved town, rightly celebrated as one of the most beautiful in Colombia.

The trail connecting Barichara and Guane is one of Santander’s most famous hiking routes, celebrated for its natural beauty, historical significance, and charming rural surroundings. This old Camino Real (Royal Road) was originally built in the colonial era from stone and partially restored in the 19th century by the German engineer Geo von Lengerke. The path links the two picturesque villages, offering a peaceful, panoramic, and enchanting walk.

The hike takes approximately 2 hours, covering around 6 kilometers, almost entirely downhill—from 1,340 meters in Barichara to 1,000 meters in Guane. The trail is mostly paved, with irregular steps, stones, and some dusty sections, so sturdy footwear with non-slip soles is recommended, ideally hiking or trekking shoes. As the descent can be tough on the knees and shade is limited, bringing a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water is advisable. The route provides spectacular views of the Suárez River gorge, as well as fields, dry stone walls, and traditional rural architecture.

In Guane, take time to explore the main square, visit the colonial church and archaeological museum, and enjoy the viewpoint overlooking the Chicamocha Canyon.

On the return journey to Barichara, you’ll stop at Finca San Pedro, where you will be warmly welcomed by the hosts and guided through the organic garden, discovering the plants, vegetables, and herbs that bring the flavors of your lunch to life. During the visit, the hosts share stories and insights about sustainable practices and the unique features of this ecosystem.

The experience concludes with a delicious, nutritious country-style lunch, prepared with fresh farm produce and served in a tranquil, natural setting. The menu includes soup, a vegetarian or vegan bowl, homemade lemonade, and dessert—a simple, healthy, and regionally inspired meal, perfect for connecting with nature and enjoying the leisurely pace of rural life.

The return to Barichara is by tuk-tuk, taking approximately 20 minutes.

This relaxed discovery tour takes you into the cultural heart of Barichara, one of Colombia’s most beautiful and best-preserved towns. Strolling through cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses and red-tiled roofs, it feels as though time has stood still. At a leisurely pace, you’ll explore the town’s key landmarks, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the central Plaza Mayor, the Santa Bárbara Chapel, and the historic cemetery. Along the way, you’ll visit select workshops of local artisans who preserve traditional crafts such as stone carving, ceramics, and handmade paper—most notably at the Casa de Papel, a space where craftsmanship, creativity, and sustainability intersect.

Barichara enchants not only with its colonial architecture but also with its unique atmosphere of calm and mindfulness. From scenic viewpoints, enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Suárez River gorge, while every street invites you to pause and take in the unhurried rhythm of rural life.

A highlight of the tour is a visit to the Casa Común, a community space fostering new forms of economy, well-being, and solidarity. Casa Común serves as a place of trust and collaboration, where local residents share their knowledge, skills, and traditions, contributing to a resilient and regenerative territory. Experiences offered here are mutually transformative—for visitors and for the community members preserving and passing on their cultural heritage.

As part of a hands-on workshop, you will explore one of the region’s most extraordinary culinary traditions: the preparation and tasting of Hormigas Culonas (large leafcutter ants). This sensory experience combines traditional and innovative flavor variations, offering fresh perspectives on local gastronomy. By consciously engaging with this unique delicacy, your senses are sharpened, cultural boundaries are challenged, and a deeper understanding of Santander’s culinary identity is gained.

You will continue your journey from Barichara to Bucaramanga, passing through the dramatic Chicamocha Canyon. Weather permitting, you may cross the canyon by cable car, enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the deep gorge. Take a moment to admire the scenery before continuing your drive to Bucaramanga Airport.

From there, you will take a flight to Medellín, followed by a transfer from José María Córdova Airport to your hotel.

The Transformation Tour in Medellín offers a firsthand look at the city’s social and urban evolution. A central highlight is the neighborhood of Moravia, located close to the city center. Once Medellín’s urban landfill and an informal settlement where thousands of families lived under extreme poverty—further exacerbated by forced displacement during Colombia’s armed conflict—Moravia is today one of the city’s most densely populated districts and a symbol of resilience and community transformation. Through locally led initiatives, the neighborhood has become a hub for art, culture, and social entrepreneurship. Community and social guides lead the tour, sharing personal experiences and explaining how this former landfill was transformed into green and cultural spaces. Beyond its educational and authentic value, the tour directly supports the local community and promotes responsible, sustainable tourism.

In the afternoon, you will explore other central areas of Medellín with your guide, gaining a well-rounded perspective on the city’s history, culture, and urban development. The city center, around Parque Berrío and Parque Bolívar, serves as Medellín’s historic and administrative heart, characterized by colonial churches, bustling plazas, street vendors, and vibrant everyday life. Highlights include the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe and the works of Fernando Botero at Plaza Botero, all easily explored on foot.

You will also visit Parques del Río, a modern green corridor along the Medellín River that combines recreation, urban design, and ecological restoration, exemplifying the city’s reconnection with its river. Walking paths, viewpoints, and open green spaces invite relaxation and offer fresh perspectives on Medellín’s urban transformation. Exact stops can be customized in consultation with your guide.

Transfer from your hotel to José María Córdova Airport.

Flight from Medellín to Santa Marta.

Upon arrival at Santa Marta Airport, you will be greeted and begin your private transfer to Palomino along Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The route follows the coastal road, passing through tropical landscapes dotted with palm trees, rivers, and small villages, with frequent glimpses of the Caribbean Sea. In the background, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest coastal mountain range in the world, accompanies you for much of the journey.

After a relaxing drive, you will arrive in Palomino, a small, authentic coastal village where rivers, jungle, and the sea meet in a unique harmony. Palomino is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and its close connection to nature.

This day is at your leisure at the hotel in Palomino. Nestled between tropical gardens, river landscapes, and the expansive Caribbean beach, this special location provides the perfect setting to relax and fully embrace the moment.

Spend the day as you wish: unwind on the beach or by the pool, listen to the soothing sound of the waves, or indulge in a yoga session or wellness treatment. Alternatively, explore Palomino and its surroundings at your own pace—take a stroll along the shore or enjoy a swim in the river that flows directly into the sea.

OPTIONAL:
A visit to Tayrona National Park can be arranged upon request, depending on the number of participants.

Immerse yourself in the magic of Katanzama, a sacred and peaceful place where the indigenous Arhuaco community opens its doors to offer an authentic and transformative experience. On the Caribbean coast, you will be warmly welcomed with the hospitality and generosity that define this ancient people.

Your adventure begins with a community guide, leading a 2 km walk through a lush tropical rainforest to the boundaries of the community. There, an Arhuaco elder will introduce you to the role of men in traditional agriculture, demonstrating their techniques, tools, and vision for farming in harmony with Mother Earth. You will have the opportunity to plant a native tree, leaving a symbolic mark as an honored visitor and contributing to reforestation and environmental preservation.

The experience continues with a female community leader, who will guide you through the homes and communal spaces, sharing insights into the Arhuaco way of life, customs, and social organization. Along the way, you will learn about the cultivation of Hayo and coca leaves, central to their worldview and ritual practices.

The highlight of the visit is a meeting with the Mamo, the community’s spiritual leader. Seated beneath a sacred tree, he will share ancient wisdom, teachings about living in balance with nature, and messages of harmony that form the foundation of the Arhuaco philosophy in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

Today, you will transition to a new landscape without leaving the region as you travel to Cartagena on the Caribbean coast, beginning your exploration of this Colombian gem. En route, you will stop in La Boquilla, where you have the opportunity to support an inspiring community-based microenterprise. This cooperative is run by seven women—mothers and grandmothers who have transformed traditional coconut craftsmanship into a powerful tool for economic and social empowerment since 2008.

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed at a rustic beachfront restaurant. The following workshop offers far more than a creative activity—it is a deeply human encounter with art, history, and the strength of a resilient female community. With care and creativity, the artisans transform coconut shells and fibers into jewelry, accessories, vases, and decorative objects, giving natural materials new life.

The project emerged in response to deeply rooted machismo in the region. Over the years, the women have gained economic independence, recognition, and respect within their community. During this cultural exchange, you will hear their inspiring life stories, engage with them personally, and create your own handcrafted keepsake—whether a bracelet, keychain, necklace, or pair of earrings—to take home as a reminder of a transformative experience.

After arriving in Cartagena, take time to discover the Caribbean city at sunset and in the evening. A relaxed sundowner at the Baluarte offers a magical view as the city walls glow in the warm light, letting you fully soak in the unique atmosphere of Cartagena.

Cartagena is a city that captivates with its vibrant colors, tropical climate, warm people, and rich historical heritage. On this guided tour, you will explore the city’s most significant sights in just a few hours, accompanied by an experienced guide who will bring the fascinating stories of one of Latin America’s most remarkable cities to life.

The tour begins at San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, an impressive military structure built by the Spanish on a strategically placed hill to control the bay. Learn about its extraordinary military architecture and its historical role in defending the city. Next, you will ascend to Cerro de la Popa, the highest point in Cartagena, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city, the Caribbean Sea, and surrounding landscapes. At the summit, visit the Santa Cruz de la Popa Monastery, a site rich in history, spirituality, and local tradition.

The tour continues with a pleasant walk through the historic center. See the Clock Tower at Plaza de la Aduana, a site historically linked to colonial trade, including the transatlantic slave trade. Then visit the square in front of San Pedro Claver Church, a historic church featuring remarkable artworks and religious heritage. Here, enjoy a short break with a refreshing juice or coffee.

Next, stroll to Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic colonial buildings. The tour concludes by leaving the old town through the Clock Tower, walking past Centenario Park—a green oasis where sloths, capuchin monkeys, iguanas, and other wildlife roam freely—and ending in Getsemaní, a lively and colorful neighborhood celebrated for its graffiti, flowers, vibrant houses, and music at every corner.

Your final morning in Cartagena is at leisure, offering one last opportunity to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. A stroll through the walled old town, with its colonial facades, small plazas, and shady courtyards, invites you to savor the final impressions. You might have time to stop at a café for a colombian coffee while watching the lively streets, or browse one of the local artisan boutiques in search of a souvenir. The day concludes at a relaxed pace before your transfer to the airport and onward journey home.

Transfer from your hotel to Cartagena Airport.

OPTIONAL:
Would you like to extend your stay for a few more days of sun and relaxation on the Caribbean coast? We would be happy to arrange a personalized extension for you. Here’s a glimpse of what’s possible:

https://wetu.com/Itinerary/Landing/a62de745-1043-4df6-b7e1-b10d854ecda7?operatoridentity=85846