ZONES From North to South, you are going to discover a fantastic country with unique glaciers, pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and exceptional flora and fauna. It will truly be a life changing journey that will delight your senses. Let this heavenly country welcome you, on one of the best trips of your life. 4 ZONES NORTHERN ZONE
ZONES OF COLOMBIA Central Zone Western Zone Northern Zone Eastern and Southern Zone ZONES 5
CENTRAL ZONE As the capital of Colombia, Bogotá is the first destination that welcomes all visitors, with its diverse and multicultural charm. This metropolis is one of the highest capital cities in South America with approximately 2,650 meters above sea level. * Do not leave the city without enjoying the spectacular view of Bogotá by riding a cable car or funicular to the peak of the Sanctuary of Monserrate. * Walk around the historic center of La Candelaria and visit its renowned sites, such as Plaza Bolivar, presidential buildings and various cathedrals. * Visit a variety of national museums, including the Gold museum and the exemplary Botero museum. 6 ZONES CENTRAL ZONE
BOGOTÁ S SURROUNDINGS Bogotá s surroundings include 20 municipalities which have different climates. Temperatures range between -5 Celsius (23 Fahrenheit) and 26 Celsius (79 Fahrenheit). The region is full of beautiful landscapes as well as economic and cultural richness. The principal economic activities in this region are flower, cattle and agricultural production. Explore Colombia s diversity in the surroundings of its capital! The Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá Discover the history of mining in the region and the largest religious building made out of salt in the world. Guatavita Lake and Town A mysterious lake full of legendary indigenous tales, surrounded by a beautiful mountainous environment. Chingaza National Park & Siecha Lake Enjoy hiking around the lakes and mountains within the immaculate Paramo biome, filled with frailejon trees and deers, the perfect scenery for a delicious picnic. Chicaque National Park A National Park where you will enjoy a hike around oak forests, waterfalls and trenches in the misty forest. La Chorrera Waterfall Hike around the misty forest and up to the highest waterfall in Colombia (590 meters). CENTRAL ZONE ZONES 7
BOYACÁ National park El Cocuy In this protected area of 306,000 km² of the Sierra del Nevada Cocuy National Park, you will find yourself in an incredible environment: 23 snow peaks, waterfalls, lakes, and unique flora and fauna, including the Andean condors, eagles, deer or tapirs can also be found in this astonishing national park. Go trekking at El Cocuy National Park, where you will enjoy a hike among the astonishing landscapes ranging from 2.400 meters to 3.800 meters of altitude. Villa de Leyva This UNESCO World Heritage Site is well known for its colonial architecture and paleontological presence in the area. Founded in 1572, the site takes visitors back in time through its distinctive history and culture. Ráquira An artisanal craft paradise, where you will be able to discover the local artisan s techniques within their distinguished ceramics. The most beautiful landscapes with astonishing mountains in the country can be found in Boyacá. Known for its rural tourism, it is located in the central zone of Colombia, only 3 hours from the capital. Visit one of the most picturesque colonial towns of Colombia, relax in the hot springs, or hike through the beautiful national park El Cocuy! 8 ZONES CENTRAL ZONE
SANTANDER Colonial Town Barichara A small colonial town full of enchanting adobe houses and spectacular archaeological pieces. According to many, the most beautiful village of Colombia. Chicamocha Canyon The second largest canyon in the world, definitely an unmissable place to visit while in Colombia. Adventure Activities in San Gil Experience a full adrenaline rush with activities such as, rafting, rappelling, paragliding, horseback-riding or ecological hikes. Santander offers a wide variety of natural beauty with its plains, mountains, canyons, rivers and caves. It is an excellent destination for extreme sports, where adventure lovers will find the perfect place for exhilarating adventures CENTRAL ZONE ZONES 9
WESTERN ZONE San Agustín is known for its historic landmarks and cultural treasures displayed through its archaeological parks and museums. The indigenous communities, who lived in this region, practiced death rituals for their chiefs and warriors and entombed them behind archaeological figures with all their belongings. * El Alto del Mortiño and El Salto de los Borbones. Where you will fall in love with the beautiful landscapes including the breathtaking natural sceneries. * El Alto de los Isnos and Obando, Where you will visit archaeological pieces and statues, a distinctive feature of San Agustin and its surroundings. 10 ZONES WESTERN ZONE
SAN AGUSTÍN AND TATACOA DESERT Explore this amazing site known for its historic landmarks and cultural treasures of the San Agustin native community. Additionally, the most important river of Colombia the Rio Magdalena originates in this department, in El Páramo de las Papas Horseback riding in La Chaquira and El Tablon Discover the archaeological area of La Chaquira and El Tablon, where you will be amazed by the ancient megalithic sculptures and the stunning views. Tatacoa Desert Visit this amazing desert near San Agustin where you will have the unique opportunity to spend the night under the stars! WESTERN ZONE ZONES 11
COFFEE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE Formed by the departments of Quindío, Caldas and Risaralda. This coffee cultural landscape of Colombia has been declared as a UNESCO cultural World Heritage Site in 2011. * The Botanical Garden. Where you will appreciate the region s biodiversity, a butterfly farm and a vast bamboo forest. * Salento and Valle de Cocora Hike around the stunning mountains which are comprised by the tallest wax palms in the World, which grow up to 70 meters tall! * Los Nevados National Park (Manizales) This multifaceted biodiverse landscape includes forests, as well as snow ecosystems, and crosses through moraines that resemble moonscapes. Enjoy walking, climbing or biking through different landscapes at an altitude of 4.800 meters above sea level. * Beautiful towns to visit: Marsella, Pijao, Buena Vista and Filandia. 12 ZONES WESTERN ZONE
COFFEE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE The coffee region can be found on the central mountain range of the Colombian Andes. This region has become the first rural tourist destination in Latin America thanks to the construction of different attractions related to the coffee production and culture. These beautiful sites have 513.000 people working on the production of 12.1 million coffee sacks which are exported to 36 countries around the world. Here you will taste the best coffee of the world. Be enchanted by the diverse and fascinating landscapes, get carried away by the aroma of the coffee plantations as well as the friendliness and hospitality of the locals. Delight your senses with the aroma of the coffee plantations at the Coffee Cultural Landscape, with special attractions related to the coffee production and culture WESTERN ZONE ZONES 13
MEDELLÍN It is the second largest city in Colombia, with its own interesting culture and exciting nightlife. The city is located in the center of a valley surrounded by mountains and it is named by many as The city of Eternal Spring, due to its enjoyable weather conditions. ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY * City Tour Takes you to Medellin s most popular neighborhoods and sights, such as the Poblado neighborhood, the bar district and restaurants around El Parque Lleras, Parque de Los Piés Descalzos, Plaza Botero and Antioquia s museum. * Arví Park by cable car. Take the metro up to the Santo Domingo station where you will take the cable car and enjoy the beautiful city landscapes. * Visit The Botanical Garden. * Discover Parque de Los Deseos. 14 ZONES WESTERN ZONE
MEDELLÍN Medellin, has been named the world s most innovative city in the World, before cities, such as New York and Tel Aviv. It is praised for its civic spaces, libraries, and art galleries, as well as its curious infrastructure that has managed to decrease crime rates. It includes electric escalators and cable cars allowing the residents of some neighborhoods on Medellin s steep hillside to easily commute to the city centre Guatapé Visit the picturesque town enclosed by the Peñol Dam, and visit the amazing rock La Piedra del Peñol (200 meters and 740 steps). Santa Fe de Antioquia A colonial town close to Medellín, where you will walk along its cobblestone streets, and enjoy the hospitality of the locals with an exceptional cup of homegrown coffee. Piedras Blancas Ecological Park Enjoy activities such as canopy, ride on water bikes, or simply visit a butterfly farm and the entomology museum. WESTERN ZONE ZONES 15
CALI Cali is an important economic and industrial city of Colombia. However, it is better known as the Salsa capital of the world! This town delights its visitors with the best Salsa music and dancers, always eager to teach visitors some steps * Enjoy the traditional cuisine of Cali which it is famous for a fusion of Spanish, Indian and African heritage which gives it a truly unique flavor. * Stroll through the streets of the beautiful colonial quarter San Antonio, visit the historical sites, learn some salsa steps from the professional dancers in town and do not miss a spectacular salsa show at night! * Visit Farallones at the Cali National Park. 16 ZONES WESTERN ZONE
POPAYÁN Discover Popayan, known as the White City, one of the most important religious and historical centers of Colombia. It has been home to many national poets, presidents and writers that have left an important legacy * Visit Tierradentro, famous for its large number of underground tombs, the so called hypogea, and well-preserved monumental statues of human figures. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. * Visit of the indigenous market in Silvia. * Hike through the Puracé National Park. * Holy Week in Popayán. WESTERN ZONE ZONES 17
BAHÍA SOLANO TO ENJOY A place where beautiful Pacific beaches meet the dense tropical rain forests. The perfect scenery to admire whale watching during the birthing season which takes place from August to October. Additionally, discover Bahía Solano, a small town in the Chocó Department 18 ZONES WESTERN ZONE
NUQUÍ TO ENJOY In Nuqui you will find the perfect atmosphere to just relax and dream away. It is a destination with limitless waters, flora and fauna and rich vegetation of the tropical rainforest and the deep sea. Surrounded by waterfalls, lonely beaches, crystalline rivers and hot springs combined with many species of birds, reptiles and amphibians the absolute paradise WESTERN ZONE ZONES 19
NORTHERN ZONE Cartagena is the main tourist attraction in Colombia, famous for its beautiful and well maintained walled city, built by the Spaniards in the 1700 ś. Go back in time with the balconies of the antique buildings and its narrow cobblestone streets. The city was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Enjoy the warm breeze of the Caribbean sea in this romantic city that you will surely fall in love with! * Walk through the colonial historic landmarks such as the castle of San Felipe de Barajas, the Popa Convent, and the Corralito de Piedra. * Relax on the breathtaking beaches of the Rosario Islands, and swim in crystal clear waters. 20 ZONES NORTHERN ZONE
CARTAGENA Cartagena de Indias is an impressive city that holds the secrets of its history in its walls, in the balconies of its buildings and its narrow cobblestone streets. This magical environment and beautiful architecture makes it a wonderful destination to spend some relaxing days NORTHERN ZONE ZONES 21
MOMPOX Is an island situated in the Magdalena River that preserves the colonial architecture and Spanish traditions. In 1995 the historical center was declared Cultural World Heritage by the UNESCO as a spectacular example of a Spanish 16th-Century colonial city in Latin America. Mompox is an important religious place especially during Easter week where many pilgrims find their way here. It is located in the department of Bolivar, 5 hours away from Cartagena and its average temperature is 30 Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). Feel the magic of this historical place! 22 ZONES NORTHERN ZONE
SANTA MARTA & TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK Santa Marta is the capital city of the department of Magdalena located on the Caribbean Coast. The city has always been an important maritime port for the country especially for coal exports. Santa Marta was founded in 1525, and is known as the oldest city of South America. Near Santa Marta, you will find Tayrona National Park which offers some of South America s most amazing coastlines and is a protected area. It shelters a variety of flora and fauna, between the jungle, mountains, beaches and the Caribbean Sea SIGHTS & ACTIVITES TO ENJOY * Visit the historic Santa Marta, Taganga and La Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, a historic site that belonged to General Simon Bolívar. * Visit Cañaveral beach, Arrecifes, La Piscina and Cabo San Juan where you have the opportunity to swim or snorkel. * Get to know the culture of the Kogi. * Go for a hike in the beautiful surroundings. * Discover a perfect place for bird-watching. * Enjoy an extraordinary experience through beautiful landscapes during your 5 day hike to the indigenous Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) home to the majestic Tayrona tribe. * The small village of Minca is located within the rainforests of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta home to many rivers, and is inhabited by the significant Kogi Indian tribe. NORTHERN ZONE ZONES 23
SAN ANDRÉS AND PROVIDENCIA These two wonderful islands are located 775 km northwest of Colombia and 220 km from the coast of Nicaragua. They are the largest islands in the Colombian territory, with an exciting colonial history and a vivid local language that it is a mixture of old English, Spanish and African dialects. Be enchanted by the sea of seven colors, home to various marine animals and corals. * Swim in the most beautiful seas of the country, where the water has seven different kind of colors that are unique on these tropical islands. Do not leave without discovering the home of extraordinary marine wildlife. * Relax on the beaches of Johnny Cay, surrounded by a colorful sea, light reggae music, and the most delicious local seafood in the area. * Visit Providencia s Peak where you will have an amazing view of the island. * Tour cays around Providencia, enjoy the beautiful beaches or practice watersports like snorkeling or diving. 24 ZONES NORTHERN ZONE
GUAJIRA The peninsula of the northern part of Colombia, holds the paradisiac desert of La Guajira. It is the home of the Wayúu Indians, who make beautiful crafts including hammocks and handmade bags traditional to their culture. Visit them and discover more about their culture and customs! Cabo de La Vela Enjoy the mixed landscapes: deserts and beaches. Manaure Where you will learn about the formation of salt. * Visit a typical Ranchería close to Riohacha where you can enjoy and experience the Wayúu culture. * Visit the Cerrejón coal mine which, is the largest mining operation in Colombia and among the largest open-pit coal mines in the world. * Overnight Cabo de la Vela at a Ranchería (sleep in a hammock or wooden cabin). NORTHERN ZONE ZONES 25
EAST & SOUTHERN ZONE The eastern plains stretch through several departments in Colombia (Arauca, Casanare, Vichada, Guainía and Meta), and make up over a quarter of Colombia s land mass. Comprised of vast savannas, which are home to the biggest cattle ranches in Colombia, this unique environment is filled of an immense biodiversity. As an important part of the native culture, locals practice Joropo, the most well-known musical rhythm of the area. Due to the low altitude and being close to the equator, the weather can be rainy or dry - depending on the season and the temperatures can rise above 30 c (86 f). 26 ZONES EASTERN AND SOUTHERN ZONE
CAÑO CRISTALES This amazing Colombian river is located in the Sierra de la Macarena, and is also known as The River of Five Colors. The red, yellow, green and blue colors are given by the plants and algae at the bottom of the river, giving the river a unique and beautiful appearance. In the Serranía de la Macarena you can also discover 420 bird species, 10 species of amphibians, 43 of reptiles and 8 primate species amongst others. The average temperature is 24 C (75 F) Ecological Walk * Ecological walk along the river Caño Cristales. * You will also be able to admire its gorgeous waterfalls, and unique 1.2 billion year old geological formations, as well as its surrounding nature. EASTERN AND SOUTHERN ZONE ZONES 27
VILLAVICENCIO HATO DE LA AURORA Only 90 km outside from Bogotá, Villavicencio is located on the hillside of the eastern mountain range, surrounded by gorgeous rivers. This city offers a wide variety of wildlife that everyone can enjoy during various ecological walks Fomeque Canyon Descending through the Fomeque Canyon, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the Colombian Eastern Plains. Maloka Park Where you can absorb more about the way of living of the local people called Llaneros. Ocarro s Park Have lunch at one of the typical restaurants that serve Ternera a la Llanera (local style veal). Puerto Lopez Where you will visit the monument of the Middle of Colombia and continue to Menegua (Los Llanos) to enjoy unmissable flora and fauna. The 16,000 hectare reserve Hato La Aurora in the Casanare department of Colombia is located in the vast Eastern Plains and comprises a unique ecosystem which offers fantastic birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities. Here you can find many species of birds, capybaras, caimans, iguanas, white-tailed dears, jaguars and giant anteaters in the middle of savannas, forests, lakes and streams in the state of innocence * Ecological walk and tour by canoe along the river Ariporo and its creeks. * Experience a Panoramic Safari that will leave you speechless. 28 ZONES EASTERN AND SOUTHERN ZONE
AMAZON The Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world, and it is one of the biggest regions in Colombia. Located in the south of the country, its capital Leticia, lies on the northern part of the Amazon River and is the frontier between Colombia, Brazil, and Peru. * Travel in the Amazon River in a canoe and admire the wonderful flora and fauna. * Cross the border to visit special natural reserves, such as Park Orellana in Brazil and the ecological reserve of Marasha in Peru. * Do not leave without watching the grey and pink dolphins swim around the lakes of Tarapoto. * Visit the communities that inhabit the amazon, such as the Huitotos, Ingas, Tucanos, Ticunas and Nukakus. The natural beauty of the jungle will leave you speechless! EASTERN AND SOUTHERN ZONE ZONES 29