34 MUST-VISIT COLOMBIA Colombia beautifully weaves nature and hiking with history and culture • Experience the colorful colonial and eclectic walled streets of Cartagena • Glimpse into the local houses of San Agustin with their beautiful gardens brimming with flowers, which are as enchanting as the reputed archaeological sites! • Compare the oceans and beach with the rainforest and mountains on a full day visit to Tayrona • Venture to Botero Museum with its wonderful art and architecture! PORTS & PIRATES In the colonial era, Colombian gold was mined and minted before being sent to Europe from the port city of Santa Marta. Many pirate attacks forced the traders to move to Cartagena, which had more natural protection from the raids, and is the reason why the city has such a huge fort and walls! Favorite Stay: HACIENDA BAMBUSA An authentic vacation in Colombia must include a stay at the incredibly charming Hacienda Bambusa. Be prepared for bumpy roads, but what you will find on arrival is a rustic luxury experience with the most outstanding views – perhaps this is why there are no glass windows! There are always little surprises and treats. My walk with a naturalist through a cocoa plantation and a giant bamboo forest was particularly special. BEST TIME TO GO • The Caribbean Coast is hot and humid all year around and is best to visit during early December. • Bogotá is best enjoyed from December to March and July to August, but it can rain at any time so be sure to pack your waterproofs! DID YOU KNOW? Colombia’s flag colors are symbolic Yellow sovereignty, justice, gold Blue loyalty, vigilance, seas Red valor, blood spilled Plan your private trip to Colorful Colombia today! Contact Lisa Fox on lisa.fox@enchantingtravels.com RECOMMENDED ROUTE 14 Days / 13 Nights Bogota (1) - San Agustin (3) - Bogota (1) - Villa de Leyva (2) - Coffee Region (3) - Cartagena (3) Starting from USD 4, 690 / person