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 Our gay Colombian Enchantment tour offers in-depth experiences in three very different regions of Colombia. We start in Bogota, where we will witness the modern city alongside its colonial past, including a visit to the unique Salt Cathedral. From Bogota, we will fly to Santa Marta, a Caribbean coastal city steeped in history, as Colombia’s oldest European settlement. We’ll enjoy a full-day boat ride to see the beautiful coastline and have time for snorkeling.
We’ll conclude our tour in Medellin, where we will see the pride of the locals for rescuing the city from its dangerous recent past. A highlight will be Guatape, best known for its massive rock monolith, complete with 740 steps.
Our gay Colombian Enchantment tour offers in-depth experiences in three very different regions of Colombia. We start in Bogota, where we will witness the modern city alongside its colonial past. One day we’ll venture out from the city to see the magnificent Salt Cathedral, carved from salt caves deep in the earth.
From Bogota, we will fly to Santa Marta, a Caribbean coastal city steeped in history, as Colombia’s oldest European settlement. Along with visiting historical sites, we’ll enjoy a full-day boat ride to see the beautiful coastline and have time for snorkeling.
We’ll conclude our tour in Medellin, where we will see the pride of the locals for rescuing the city from its dangerous recent past. From Medellin, we’ll drive into the countryside to Guatape, best known for its massive rock monolith, complete with 740 steps.
Day 1 -
Upon arrival at Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport (BOG), a representative will greet you.
Our driver will transfer you to our hotel, chosen by our LGBTQ+ travel experts to ensure a special experience. Take some time to explore the hotel’s amenities and prepare for the evening.
If you have extra time in Bogota, you may wish to visit the Gabriel García Márquez Cultural Center, the Botero Museum, the Planetarium, or other impressive museums and galleries.
In the evening, join the other guests and your local guide for our welcome dinner, featuring local and international dishes. Afterward, enjoy a restful night’s sleep to recharge for tomorrows adventures.
Day 2 -
Bogota, a vibrant Latin American capital, is rich in arts and culture. After breakfast, join our guided tour to see Bogota’s highlights. We will start in Plaza Bolívar, a historic colonial square housing Colombia’s government headquarters, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the landmark "Casa 20 de Julio" where Colombia’s Independence was declared.
Next, we will explore the spectacular Museo del Oro (Gold Museum), featuring the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian gold and other metals. We will then head to Bogotá’s oldest neighborhood, La Candelaria, home to the University District and centuries-old houses. Feeling adventurous? Try "Chicha", a traditional indigenous drink made from fermented fruit rinds, reminiscent of Kombucha.
Our adventure concludes with a visit to Cerro de Monserrate, soaring over 10,000 ft above sea level. A cable car will take us to the summit to explore a charming 17th-century village with a Catholic shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Cross of Monserrate. The tour ends with a breathtaking sunset above the clouds.
Day 3 -
This morning, we will head toward Guatavita Lake where we will delve into the legends of the pre-Columbian Muisca civilization and the myth of "El Dorado".
Next, we will explore the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral, a unique underground church built 180 meters below the surface. Experience the impressive salt structures and the solemnity of this architectural wonder.
This inclusive journey blends ancient traditions with colonial marvels and is the perfect stage for you to show off your “Indiana Jones” side.
Day 4 -
The day begins with a transfer to the airport for a ninety-minute flight to the city of Santa Marta on the pristine Colombian Caribbean coast. Upon arrival, a shuttle will take us to our hotel.
Walk through the colonial city on your own, visit attractions like the nearby Sierra Madre Mountains or the "Parque de los Novios" (Lover’s Park) or enjoy the comfort and services available at the hotel.
We will close this day with a delicious dinner inspired by the flavors, colors, and aromas of the Caribbean Sea.
Day 5 -
Our exclusive full-day adventure begins at the Santa Marta International Marina. We will sail past the stunning Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the northern tip of the Andes. Next, we will head toward the Bay of Cinto, where we can enjoy a private and tranquil environment, walking along the beach, sunbathing, and snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters.
Then we will visit "La Madre Vieja" (Old Mother), a river mouth teeming with crabs and endemic species, followed by Playa Cristal, where we will enjoy the catch of the day as part of our delicious lunch on the shore.
In the afternoon, we can snorkel among the coral reefs and white sands of Concha Bay. We will end the day with a beautiful sunset and a cold drink before returning to the International Marina.
Day 6 -
Founded in 1525, Santa Marta is Colombia’s oldest city, rich in cultural and historical heritage.
We will start our tour enjoying the historical and botanical collections of the "Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino" museum. This is where Simon Bolivar, hero of the South American Independence Wars, spent his last days. Next, we will visit Colombia’s oldest Roman Catholic Cathedral, the "Minor Basilica".
Next, we will visit the Gold Museum with its extraordinary collection of gold artifacts and tapestries. This beautifully restored colonial house was once the residence of Bolivar and now is a bridge that connects Colombia’s past and present.
The tour concludes with a visit to the Taganga Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Day 7 -
Our morning starts with a 75-minute flight from Santa Marta to Medellin.
Medellin is a city so vibrant and full of new energy and dreams that the Queen of Pop wrote a song about it!
After hotel check-in, the afternoon will be free to enjoy our hotel’s amenities and to explore the surrounding El Poblado, the most vibrant neighborhood in town, offering gastronomic experiences, music, and architecture.
In the evening, we will enjoy dinner together.
Day 8 -
We will explore Medellín’s history and culture, starting at the city’s civic center. Next, we will examine its transformation from the industrial revolution to the dynamic but convulsive 80s and 90s. We will learn how architecture, transit, and the LGBTQ community have shaped Medellín into the leading innovative city of today.
Then will visit Parque de las Luces (Lights’ Park), Berrio Park and Botero Square, and the Museum of Antioquia featuring the works of world-renowned sculpture artist Fernando Botero.
You will have a chance to browse traditional handicrafts at a local market and stroll through flower-lined streets and parks. If there is time, we will also drop in at the LGBTQ community center. The morning ends with a traditional lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, we will explore Comuna 13, a neighborhood once known for its danger, but now revitalized by public projects. We will engage with members of the community and learn how graffiti art tells their stories.
Day 9 -
Guatape is a popular weekend destination known for its colorful streets, handicrafts, and charming houses. We will start at "El Peñol", a 600-feet-high, 10-million-ton massive stone monolith with a 740-step staircase. The vantage point at the top offers breathtaking views of the green mountains and blue lakes that surround it. If you prefer not to climb, you can stroll around the town or sit and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee with local pastries.
Next, the group will head to an upscale glamping site for a lakeside lunch. Then will we enjoy a one-hour motorboat cruise to see the beautiful islands and impressive country homes. Back on land, we will wander through Guatape’s cobblestoned streets, learn about its history and zocalo friezes, and visit local shops.
After returning to Medellin, we will have a little down time, then we will enjoy our Farewell Dinner this evening.
Day 10 -
Today, transfer to Medellin’s airport (MDE) for your flight home or to your next destination.
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