Colombia

So much more than its cliched image

A year round destination with both a Caribbean and a Pacific coastline Colombia is an amazing country you should go to before the crowds get there.  Highlights include:

  • Cosmopolitan capital city Bogotá.
  • The underground cathedral in the salt mining town of Zipaquirá.
  • The town of Villa de Leyva which contains some of the finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture in Colombia.
  • The temperate rainforest in the Cocora Valley, which is well known for numerous bird species such as hummingbirds and the endangered parrot – the Palmero.
  • A plantation tour and tasting session in the coffee region.
  • A visit to the vibrant city of Medellin.
  • Whale watching off the pacific coast.
  • Beaches in the Tayrona National park.
  • A meander through Cartagena one of South America’s most colourful cities.
  • Relax on the white sand beaches of the Caribbean islands of San Andres and Providencia.
  • Flying time: 11 hours 15 mins
  • Time difference: -5 hours
  • Currency: Colombian Peso
  • Best time of year to travel: Year round
Medellin cable car
Medellin cable car
Colombia
Colombia
Coffee zone
Coffee zone
Villa de Lleyva
Villa de Lleyva
San Andres island
San Andres island

Ideas for a trip to Colombia

Here are some ideas for trips to Colombia all of which can be adapted for you and we are always happy to create a bespoke trip from scratch.

Colours of Colombia small group tour

from £2595 per person
On this small group twelve-day tour, explore the vibrant cities of Bogotá and Medellin and take in their renaissance in food and art. Find stunning natural beauty in the coffee region with its rolling emerald hills, deep valleys dotted with soaring palms, quaint towns and coffee farms. End in the historic walled port city of Cartagena, Colombia's jewel in the crown. Stunning colonial architecture, pastel-coloured mansion houses and arcaded leafy squares make up this enchanting Caribbean city.

Classic Colombia private tour

from £1499 per person (excl flights)
On this ten-day Classic Colombia itinerary, you will get to see some of the most important and characteristic places in Colombia. You'll begin your journey in Colombia's historic capital, Bogotá, before making your way to the beautiful town of Villa de Leyva. Visit Colombia's coffee region to learn more about the production and culture behind the country's world-class coffee. And finally, you'll visit Cartagena, a vibrant and charming corner of Colombia's Caribbean coast.

Colombia by the sea

from £1679 per person (excl flights)
On this ten-day Colombia by the Sea holiday, you will enjoy the best of what the Colombian coastline has to offer while still stopping at some of the most historically important spots in the country. You'll begin your trip in Colombia's historic capital Bogotá, then you'll head to vibrant and charming, Cartagena, which will be your base to explore San Andres and Providencia Island, a turquoise paradise. Get your sunscreen ready!

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions that haven't been answered here? Send your questions to enquiries@shearwatertravel.co.uk and we'll try our best to help.

British nationals can enter Colombia for up to 90 days as a visitor without a visa at the discretion of the Colombian Immigration Officer on arrival. You may need to provide evidence of return or onward travel. For further information visit the Foreign Office Colombia pages 

For information on recommended vaccinations visit the NHS Fit for Travel Colombia pages

Carry a colour photocopy of the data page and Colombian visa from your passport at all times for identification. 

Want to find out more?

Let us know what you're looking for and we'll tailor your dream holiday for you.