Touch down at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) and meet your driver for a smooth private transfer to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is yours: keep things light and unhurried. As afternoon sun warms the tiled roofs and church spires, head out for a gentle evening wander through the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre—baroque façades, balconied mansions and lantern-lit plazas set the scene beautifully.

Suggested easy loop (60–90 mins): Start at Plaza Grande (Independence Square) to see the Cathedral and Carondelet Palace, then amble down the Calle de las Siete Cruces towards Plaza de San Francisco for golden-hour photos of its monumental church. Continue to La Ronda, the cobbled, pedestrian lane known for artisans (chocolate, panama hats, woodcraft) and alfresco cafés—perfect for a hot chocolate or canelazo before returning to your hotel.

AT A GLANCE — Quito Day 2

• Arrival & private transfer • Check-in & rest • Old Town evening stroll (easy pace) • Photo stops: Plaza Grande, San Francisco • Optional: artisan tastings on La Ronda

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Take it steady: Keep walks short and unhurried; avoid long stair climbs on your first day.
• Hydrate: Sip water regularly; choose lighter meals this evening and go easy on alcohol/caffeine.
• Layers: Evenings can be cool—carry a warm layer and light scarf.

Practical Notes

• Safety & comfort: Stick to lit, central streets (Plaza Grande, San Francisco, La Ronda). Use a hotel-called taxi for any longer hops after dark.
• Money: Ecuador uses the US Dollar (USD); carry small denominations for cafés and artisans.
• Timing: Historic interiors tend to close early; this evening is about façades, cafés and atmosphere.
• Packing cue: Comfortable walking shoes with grip for cobbles; compact umbrella for a passing shower.

Insider Touch

Pause at the corner of San Francisco as the plaza lamps glow and street musicians tune up—few places capture Quito’s golden-hour ambience more perfectly.

Meals: —None

A full, inspiring day that blends the Historic Centre of Quito with the magic of the equator and sweeping volcano views. After breakfast (B), delve into the UNESCO-listed core: stone plazas, gilded chapels and stories etched into every balcony.

Morning — Historic Core: Begin in Plaza de San Francisco, an immense square watched over by its 16th-century church and monastery. Continue to La Compañía de Jesús, Quito’s baroque jewel sheathed in carved gold leaf—an unforgettable showcase of Andean baroque artistry. Stroll lanes lined with bakeries and artisan boutiques; pause for a traditional canelazo or single-origin Ecuadorian chocolate tasting to round out the morning’s flavours.

Midday — Equator Line: Drive north to Mitad del Mundo to straddle the famous yellow line for the classic photo at 0° latitude. Nearby, the Intiñan Museum offers playful, hands-on exhibits about hemispheres, indigenous cultures and solar traditions—engaging, light-hearted and great for understanding why Ecuador is literally the “middle of the world”.

Late Afternoon — Quito Teleférico: Rise by cable car from the city’s edge to the high paramo for panoramic views of Quito unfurling along its long north–south valley. On clear days, scan the horizon for the silhouettes of Cotopaxi, Cayambe and Antisana. Golden hour paints the rooftops in amber, making this one of the most atmospheric vantage points for photographers and romantics alike.

AT A GLANCE — Quito Highlights, Teleférico & Equator

• Old Town: San Francisco, La Compañía • Equator: Mitad del Mundo & Intiñan • Views: Quito Teleférico near sunset • Pace: relaxed walking with café breaks

Practical Notes

• Dress & access: Churches may request modest attire (shoulders covered); photography can be restricted inside La Compañía.
• Tickets: Consider combined tickets for Old Town churches; Intiñan has guided slots that enrich the experience.
• Weather: Quito is spring-like year-round; pack a light jacket and compact umbrella. Evenings can be cool; carry a warm layer for the Teleférico.
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes with grip for cobbles and museum floors.
• Getting around: Central sights are walkable; for longer hops, use your guide/driver or hotel-called taxis.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Keep it gentle: Plan short walking segments with café stops; avoid long stair climbs late in the day.
• Hydration: Sip water regularly; choose lighter meals at lunch so you feel energetic for the afternoon cable car.
• Sun sense: High-UV conditions—use sunscreen, sunglasses and a brimmed hat even on hazy days.

Insider Touch

Time the Teleférico near golden hour for softer light and calmer breezes; if clouds roll in, enjoy a warming canelazo at the top café and watch the city lights flicker on across the valley.

Meals: B

Leave Quito after breakfast for a scenic drive that slips from the high Andean valley into the lush, life-rich Chocó cloud forest—a global biodiversity hotspot. As altitude eases and humidity rises, the roadside palette shifts to giant ferns, bromeliads and moss-draped branches. Arrive at your intimate cloud-forest lodge, tucked amid emerald slopes and birdsong.

Afternoon — Feeders & forest paths: Settle in, then visit the lodge’s colibrí (hummingbird) feeders where jeweled booted racket-tails and violet-tailed sylphs hover inches from your lens. A mellow waterfall walk follows, along leaf-littered trails with orchids peeking from the understory. Expect the soft thrum of wings, the patter of mist and the occasional flash of a tanager or quetzal overhead.

Evening — Dusk chorus: As daylight fades, the forest shifts register: tree frogs trill, cicadas rise, and a cool veil of cloud brushes the canopy. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner and linger on the deck with a warm drink while bioluminescent glimmers and distant calls fold into a soothing nighttime soundtrack. Overnight at the lodge.

AT A GLANCE — Chocó Cloud Forest

• Scenic drive Quito → cloud-forest lodge • Hummingbird & tanager feeders • Waterfall walk on easy trails • Dusk forest soundscape • Overnight at lodge

Practical Notes

• Road & timing: Allow ~2–3.5 hours with photo stops depending on lodge location and traffic.
• What to wear: Quick-dry trousers/shorts, light long sleeves, and grippy walking shoes (trails can be slick).
• What to pack: Small daypack, light rain jacket, refillable bottle, insect repellent, compact binoculars, lens cloth for mist.
• Facilities: Rural stops en route are simple; carry small USD notes for snacks or coffee.
• Connectivity: Expect limited Wi-Fi/mobile signal—part of the magic.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Keep walks short and steady: Trails are undulating; take your time and use handrails where provided.
• Hydration & snacks: Humid air can be deceptive—sip regularly and carry a light snack for the waterfall walk.
• Layering: Misty conditions cool quickly at dusk; a lightweight fleece or shell is ideal.

Insider Touch

Arrive at feeder stations in the softer mid-afternoon light for dreamy shutter speeds and fewer visitors. Ask your guide which perches the violet-tailed sylph favours, then pre-focus for that signature tail-streamer shot.

Meals: B D

Wake to a curtain of birdsong and soft mist rolling off the ridgelines. After breakfast, sink deeper into the rhythms of the cloud forest with unhurried nature time—more moments at the lodge’s hummingbird & tanager feeders, easy trails that thread beneath bromeliads and mossy branches, and a slow afternoon to simply watch the canopy breathe. As evening descends, the forest soundscape thickens—perfect for a warm drink on the deck before dinner.

Overnight at the lodge.

Suggested flow: Dawn at the feeders (peak activity), mid-morning orchid & epiphyte walk on gentle paths, relaxed lunch, optional butterfly house or cacao-to-cup tasting with local producers, golden-hour photography around the gardens, then a cosy home-cooked dinner.

AT A GLANCE — Cloud Forest

• Dawn hummingbirds & garden birds • Easy orchid trail (1–2 hrs) • Optional cacao tasting or butterfly visit • Golden-hour photography • Dinner & deck time • Overnight at lodge

Practical Notes

• What to wear: Light layers, quick-dry clothing and grippy walking shoes; a brimmed hat helps in light drizzle.
• Bring along: Compact binoculars, light rain jacket/poncho, refillable bottle, insect repellent, lens cloth for mist, small dry bag for phone/camera.
• Pace: Trails can be damp; expect short, gentle inclines and boardwalk sections.
• Photography: A fast lens (f/2.8–f/4) and higher ISO help under the canopy. Feeder perches offer clean backgrounds for classic hummingbird shots.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Short & steady: Keep walks unhurried; pause often to watch mixed flocks moving through the mid-storey.
• Hydrate & nibble: Tropical humidity can be deceptive—sip regularly and carry a light snack between meals.
• Wind-down: Reserve 30–40 minutes pre-dinner for quiet deck time; dusk brings a delightful chorus of frogs and insects.

Insider Touch

Ask your guide where the booted racket-tail favours as a “hover lane” near the feeders. Pre-focus slightly ahead of the perch and use short bursts for that crisp wing-pause image.

Meals: B D

After an early breakfast, return to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) for your flight to Baltra (Galápagos). As the aircraft descends over turquoise channels and lava-black islets, the enchantment of the archipelago unfolds. On landing, meet the local team for the authorised park entry formalities and a short ferry crossing to Santa Cruz—then ascend by road into the lush, mist-kissed highlands, a striking contrast to the arid coast.

Highlands — Lava Tunnels & Wild Tortoises: Walk a section of ancient lava tunnel, its cathedral-like tube revealing how the islands were forged. In surrounding ranch lands and reserves, encounter giant tortoises in their natural environment—grazing among sedges, wallowing in ponds, and moving with prehistoric poise. Trails are generally easy-going, with time for photos and a relaxed naturalist talk on behaviour, migration and conservation.

Embark — Coral I Small-Ship Expedition: Continue to the quay for a Zodiac (panga) ride to Coral I, your intimate expedition vessel designed for island-hopping comfort. Step aboard to a warm welcome, cabin check-in and a concise safety & itinerary briefing with your naturalist guides. Settle into life at sea—unpack, explore the sun deck and lounge, and watch blue waters slip past as the captain sets course for tomorrow’s landing. This evening’s dinner showcases fresh, local flavours and friendly, small-ship camaraderie.

AT A GLANCE — Quito → Galápagos | Santa Cruz Highlands | Embark Coral I

• Flight: Quito → Baltra • Formalities: Galápagos entry & biosecurity checks • Lava tunnel walk • Giant tortoises in the wild • Zodiac embarkation • Coral I safety briefing • Sunset under way

Practical Notes

• Documents & fees: Have your Transit Control Card and park fee ready as instructed; luggage is screened on entry for seeds/soil/organic matter.
• Baggage: Island flights have stricter allowances than intercontinental routes (typically one checked bag plus a cabin item). Pack a soft-sided bag and keep essentials (meds, camera, sunscreen) in your daypack.
• Footing: Lava tunnels and ranch trails can be damp—wear closed, grippy footwear. A light rain shell is handy in the highlands.
• On board: Coral I provides daily briefings, guided landings and Zodiac transfers; follow crew instructions for swift, dry or wet landings.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Hydration & sun sense: Equatorial UV is strong—apply reef-safe sunscreen, wear a brimmed hat and sip water regularly.
• Motion: If you’re sensitive to movement, take your preferred remedy prior to sailing and choose a central lounge spot this evening.
• Unhurried rhythm: Today blends travel and gentle walks—pace yourself and enjoy the quiet moments with the tortoises.

Expedition Etiquette & Insider Touch

• Keep to marked trails, maintain the recommended distance from wildlife, and leave nothing behind—your guides will advise island-specific dos and don’ts.
• Ask the crew for the evening’s starboard/port sunset view—Coral I’s sun deck is perfect for a first-night “golden hour” as frigatebirds wheel above the wake.

Meals: B L D

Wake to the hush of Isabela Island, the Galápagos’ largest and most dreamlike, where turquoise coves lap black lava reefs and marine iguanas bask like living fossils. After breakfast on board, take a short panga (Zodiac) to the nearby islets of Las Tintoreras—named for the white-tip reef sharks that rest in its calm channels.

Gentle Pace Note: All snorkelling, cycling and any potentially strenuous activities are optional. If you’d prefer, you may opt out at any time and simply rest, relax and enjoy the scenery—on deck, on shore, or back at the ship.

Morning — Tintoreras Snorkel (optional): Slip into crystal water for a gentle snorkel over sandy patches and lava ledges. In the blue, look for gliding white-tip reef sharks (placid and elegant), curious sea lions, darting reef fish and, with luck, a tuxedoed Galápagos penguin rocketing past. Along the shore, watch marine iguanas paddle with prehistoric poise while neon sally lightfoot crabs dot the rocks.

Afternoon — Coastal Cycle (optional): Back on land at Puerto Villamil, opt for an easy coastal ride towards the historic Wall of Tears (Muro de las Lágrimas) along a flat, sandy track. The route passes lagoon viewpoints where elegant flamingos feed, mangrove-fringed wetlands alive with herons, and open stretches of lava and beach. Pause at small interpretive stops to hear stories of the island’s past before returning with sea breeze in your hair.

AT A GLANCE — Isabela: Tintoreras & Coastal Cycle

• Gentle snorkel at Las Tintoreras • Likely fauna: white-tip reef sharks, sea lions, marine iguanas, reef fish, possible penguins • Optional bike ride to Wall of Tears • Wet landings by panga • Return to Coral I for evening briefing & dinner

Practical Notes

• Gear: Mask, snorkel, fins and shorty wetsuit provided on board (ask your guide for fit). A rash vest is great for sun protection between swims.
• Sun & skin: Use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply after each swim; add a brimmed hat and sunglasses for the cycle.
• Footing: Expect wet landings and uneven lava; wear strap-on sandals or light reef shoes for shore entries.
• Bikes: Hybrid/MTB-style bikes with simple gearing are typical; the route is mostly flat and suitable for casual riders.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Short & sweet: Keep snorkel sessions 30–45 minutes with restful deck time in between.
• Hydrate: Carry a refillable bottle on the bike; sea breeze can mask thirst.
• Set your pace: The cycle is optional; you can choose a shorter out-and-back to the flamingo lagoons and skip the final incline to the Wall.

Expedition Etiquette & Insider Touch

• Maintain the park’s minimum distance from wildlife and follow your naturalist’s guidance at all times.
• For the best penguin and white-tip sightings, ask which Tintoreras channel has the clearest water on the turn of the tide—then drift quietly and let the action come to you.

Meals: B L D

Sail along Isabela’s wild western coast where raw geology meets prolific wildlife. At Punta Moreno, fresh, ropey pāhoehoe lava spreads like a frozen river, punctuated by mirror-like brackish lagoons where marine turtles surface and galápagos cormorants dry their stubby wings. Later, land at Urbina Bay, famed for dramatic uplift that raised coral from the seabed, and walk quiet trails for close views of land iguanas and seasonal giant tortoises. If sea state and visibility are kind, enjoy a relaxed snorkel with green turtles and reef life.

Gentle Pace Note: Any snorkelling or potentially strenuous activity today is optional. If you prefer, you may opt out at any time and simply rest and relax—on the beach, on shaded trails, or back aboard the ship at your leisure.

Morning — Punta Moreno: Step ashore via panga for a guided walk across young lava with contorted ropes, pressure ridges and skylights. Pools tucked among the flows attract black-necked stilts, herons and sometimes Galápagos penguins commuting along the coast. Your naturalist unpacks volcanic stories—how vents formed, how pioneer plants like lava cacti gain a foothold—and why these oases are wildlife magnets.

Afternoon — Urbina Bay: A wet landing onto a pale sand arc leads to flat, sandy trails and scrub. Watch for golden land iguanas basking near burrows, Darwin’s finches fussing in the low brush and, in season, heavy-footed giant tortoises browsing quietly. The strandline often carries uplifted coral heads—a tangible reminder that the islands are still on the move. Conditions permitting, slip in for an easy snorkel with cruising turtles and shoals of surgeonfish along the bay.

AT A GLANCE — Punta Moreno & Urbina Bay

• Terrain: young lava flows with tide pools • Wildlife: marine turtles, flightless cormorants, land iguanas, herons; possible penguins • Landing style: wet • Activity: gentle lava walk + flat bay trail • Water time: relaxed snorkel if conditions allow • Ship: return to Coral I for briefing & dinner

Practical Notes

• Footwear: Sturdy closed shoes or strap-on sandals with grip—lava is uneven and can be sharp.
• Sun & heat: Minimal shade; wear a brimmed hat, long sleeves and reef-safe sunscreen (reapply often).
• Snorkel kit: Mask, snorkel, fins and shorty wetsuit provided on board; a rash vest helps between swims.
• Hydration: Carry your refillable bottle—trade winds can mask thirst.
• Landings: Expect wet landings; a small dry bag keeps phone/camera safe during panga transfers.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Short & steady: Take measured steps on the lava and pause often at lagoon lookouts.
• Choose your water time: If swell is up, opt for a shoreline watch instead of snorkelling—turtles and cormorants are active close to the beach.
• Cool-down: A lightweight neck buff dipped in water is a simple midday refresher.

Expedition Etiquette & Insider Touch

• Keep to marked trails and the park’s viewing distances—cormorants and iguanas are fearless but sensitive to crowding.
• For the classic turtle over lava-sand photo, ask your guide about the calmest leeward corner of Urbina; slip in quietly, float, and let the turtles approach rather than swimming towards them.

Meals: B L D

Wake to the wild west of the Galápagos, where raw lava meets teeming life. Fernandina, the youngest and most pristine island, stages extraordinary density: black carpets of marine iguanas warming on ink-dark flows, flightless cormorants drying stubby wings, Sally Lightfoot crabs scattering like sparks, and the occasional Galápagos hawk surveying its realm. Later, cross to Tagus Cove on Isabela for a coastal Zodiac (panga) exploration beneath tuff cliffs etched with historic sailor graffiti and patrolled by penguins and blue-footed boobies.

Gentle Pace Note: Any elements that could feel strenuous (longer lava walks, stairs to viewpoints, or optional water time if offered) are entirely optional. You may opt out and relax—stay aboard, choose a shorter stroll, or enjoy a calm panga segment while others continue. Your guide will tailor the day to your comfort.

Morning — Punta Espinoza (Fernandina): A dry landing onto knotted lava leads along boardwalk and slick basalt, weaving between dense iguana colonies, tide pools alive with green sea turtles, and shorelines where flightless cormorants nest. Naturalist guidance reveals how life conquers fresh lava and why Fernandina remains a sanctuary for endemic species.

Afternoon — Tagus Cove (Isabela): Glide by panga beneath pale cliffs whose rock is scrawled with 19th-century ship names. Scan ledges for penguins, boobies and noddy terns; watch sea lions porpoise along the hull. Conditions and programme permitting, your guide may offer a short shoreline walk to the Darwin Lake viewpoint, or extend the Zodiac circuit for wildlife photography in golden light.

AT A GLANCE — Punta Espinoza & Tagus Cove

• Landings: dry at Espinoza; panga coastal ride at Tagus • Wildlife highlights: marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, penguins, boobies, sea turtles, Galápagos hawk • Terrain: young lava & boardwalk; cliff-lined coves • Ship: evening briefing and dinner on Coral I

Practical Notes

• Footwear: Closed, grippy shoes for slick basalt; avoid bare feet on lava.
• Sun & spray: Minimal shade—use a brimmed hat, sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen. A light spray jacket is handy on the panga.
• Photography: A mid-telephoto (70–200mm equiv.) captures cormorants and penguins; keep a cloth ready for salt mist.
• Timing: Wildlife density peaks along tide pools; your naturalist will pace stops for best viewing.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Short & steady: Take measured steps on uneven lava; pause often near tide pools for effortless wildlife encounters.
• Hydrate: Carry a refillable bottle on shore; sea breeze can mask thirst.
• Sit & watch: Choose a calm corner of Tagus Cove during the panga ride and let penguins come to you—less motion, more magic.

Expedition Etiquette & Insider Touch

• Keep to marked paths and maintain park-recommended distances—iguanas will ignore you if you give them space.
• Ask your guide which cliff niches at Tagus are favoured by penguins late in the day; drift silently with the panga engine idling for intimate, natural behaviour.

Meals: B L D

Your final expedition day blends classic Galápagos shores with time to savour the rhythm of life at the ocean’s edge before returning to the mainland this evening. Expect tide pools alive with colour, sea lions lounging in shadowed grottos and seabirds patrolling ochre cliffs as your small ship, Coral I, traces Santiago’s storied coast.

Gentle Pace Note: Any snorkelling or potentially strenuous elements today are entirely optional. You may opt out at any time and rest, relax and enjoy the scenery—on deck, on shore, or back aboard the ship—at your leisure.

Morning — Puerto Egas: Make a wet landing onto a dark sand beach and follow easy coastal paths over lava platforms incised with rock pools. Peek into “blowhole” cuts where surf exhales; watch Galápagos fur seals tucked in shade, marine iguanas sprawled like living basalt, and bright Sally Lightfoot crabs fretting along the edge. The pools are a kaleidoscope—molluscs, small fish, and sometimes a green turtle rising to breathe in glassy water.

Midday/early afternoon — Buccaneer Cove: Cruise by panga beneath red and honey-coloured cliffs carved into arches and towers (guides love to point out “Elephant” and “Praying Monk” rocks). Scan ledges for blue-footed boobies, pelicans and noddies; look for penguins torpedoing along the surface. Conditions permitting, enjoy an easy snorkel over sandy patches and lava boulders where sea lions swoop and schools of surgeonfish sparkle in the light.

Later — Disembark & Fly Mainland: Return to Coral I for lunch and your final briefing, then transfer by panga to the pier for airport check-in. This afternoon/evening, fly back to mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) and transfer to your hotel for a restful overnight—memories of black lava and blue water still fresh.

AT A GLANCE — Puerto Egas • Buccaneer Cove • Fly Mainland

• Landings: wet at Puerto Egas; panga coastal ride at Buccaneer Cove • Wildlife: fur seals, sea lions, marine iguanas, boobies, pelicans, possible penguins • Water time: relaxed snorkel if conditions allow • Afternoon: airport transfer & flight to mainland • Evening: overnight Quito/Guayaquil

Practical Notes

• Footing: Expect uneven lava and tide pools—strap-on sandals or grippy water shoes are ideal for shore entries.
• Pack-out timing: Have your luggage staged per crew instructions before lunch for a smooth airport transfer.
• Snorkel kit: Mask, snorkel, fins and shorty wetsuit provided on board; a rash vest helps between swims.
• Airport formalities: Keep your Transit Control Card handy for outbound checks; liquids rules apply as on the mainland.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Short & steady: Take measured steps on slick lava; pause at pools for effortless wildlife viewing.
• Hydrate & shade: Minimal cover at midday—use a brimmed hat, sunglasses and sip water regularly.
• Transition-ready: Keep a dry bag with day clothes for the flight so you’re comfortable after snorkelling.

Expedition Etiquette & Insider Touch

• Respect park distances and keep to marked paths—fur seals and sea lions rest in the grottos and are easily disturbed.
• Ask your guide for the calmest cove corner at Buccaneer; slip in quietly and let sea lions choose the encounter—often the most playful moments happen when you simply float.

Meals: B L

After breakfast (B), take a short flight to Bogotá, Colombia’s high-plateau capital where colonial lanes meet a dynamic culinary scene. On arrival, meet your driver for a smooth private transfer to your hotel. Late this afternoon, set out with a local foodie guide for a gentle tasting walk through the storybook streets of La Candelaria—all carved balconies, mural art and café glow.

Evening — Flavours of La Candelaria: Weave past lantern-lit plazas and into small, characterful spots to sample Colombia in bites: arepas hot off the griddle, earthy ajiaco sips (Bogotá’s signature soup), zingy aji sauces, empanadas with lime and a finish of single-origin cacao or mellow canelazo. Between tastes, your guide threads in tales of independence heroes, bohemian poets and the neighbourhood’s creative pulse.

AT A GLANCE — Bogotá Arrival & Food Walk

• Short flight to Bogotá • Private airport transfer • La Candelaria guided tasting route (easy pace) • Signature bites: arepas, empanadas, ajiaco, artisan chocolate • Optional nightcap near Plaza del Chorro

Practical Notes

• Packing for today: Light jacket (cool evenings), compact umbrella, comfortable walking shoes with grip for cobbles.
• Payments: Cards widely accepted; carry small COP notes for market nibbles and street treats.
• Pace & comfort: The city sits on a high plain—keep walks unhurried this first evening and sip water regularly.
• Safety: Stay to well-lit, central streets with your guide; use hotel-called taxis for hops after the tour.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Small portions, many tastes: Share plates to sample more without feeling too full.
• Hydration: Alternate sips of water with tastings; evenings can be crisp and dry.
• Allergies & preferences: Tell your guide upfront—Bogotá’s kitchens are creative and flexible.

Insider Touch

Ask for a stop at a tiny chucula or cacao bar to taste high-altitude beans from Colombia’s coffee belt—paired with queso fresco in hot chocolate, it’s a beloved Bogotá comfort.

Meals: B

After breakfast (B), dive into Bogotá’s headline sights before flying to the lush hills of the Coffee Region for an atmospheric hacienda stay. Today balances world-class culture, sky-high views and a tranquil rural evening with dinner included.

Morning — Gold & Old Town: Begin at the iconic Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), where finely worked pre-Hispanic pieces shimmer like a constellation—perfect context for Colombia’s ancient craftsmanship and myths of El Dorado. Continue with a gentle wander through La Candelaria, past painted façades, quiet courtyards and café corners that distil the city’s bohemian heart.

Late Morning — Monserrate Cable Car: Ride the Monserrate cable car/funicular to Bogotá’s signature lookout. From the hillside sanctuary, the capital spreads out like a living map—red-tile roofs, glass towers and the green Andes ridgelines framing it all. Take unhurried photos, browse small kiosks and breathe the crisp mountain air before descending for lunch (own account).

Afternoon — Fly to the Coffee Region: Transfer to the airport for your short domestic flight to Armenia or Pereira. On arrival, a scenic drive through quilted coffee slopes and wax-palm silhouettes leads to a traditional hacienda tucked among plantations—verandas, orchids and birdsong included. Check in, settle by the pool or garden, and enjoy a relaxed dinner (D) as dusk softens the valleys.

AT A GLANCE — Bogotá → Coffee Region

• Highlights: Museo del Oro, La Candelaria, Monserrate • Flight: Bogotá → Armenia/Pereira (short) • Stay: heritage hacienda in the Coffee Region • Evening vibe: poolside/veranda unwinding amid coffee fields

Practical Notes

• Opening times: Museo del Oro is closed on some Mondays/holidays; we’ll sequence visits accordingly.
• Tickets & queues: Buying timed tickets for Monserrate can reduce waits; mornings often have clearer views.
• Packing for later: Keep a small daypack ready for the flight (IDs, medications, light jacket). Checked-baggage limits are tighter on domestic sectors.
• Dress code: Comfortable walking shoes for cobbles; a light layer for the hilltop breeze and the hacienda’s cooler nights.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Keep walks short: La Candelaria’s lanes are best enjoyed in gentle stretches with café pauses.
• Hydration & sun: Bogotá’s high-plain climate can feel dry—sip water and use SPF even when it’s cool.
• Unwind on arrival: On reaching the hacienda, prioritise an easy evening—stroll gardens, listen for birds at dusk, and dine early.

Insider Touch

Ask for a steaming tinto campesino (local-style black coffee) on the veranda at sunset—the perfect first sip in Colombia’s coffee heartland. Early risers can request a pre-breakfast farm walk the next morning when bird activity is at its peak.

Meals: B D

Wake amid rustling bamboo and birdsong, then spend a day woven with aromas of freshly roasted beans, towering wax palms and painterly Andean streets. This is Colombia’s coffee heartland at its most evocative, balancing gentle experiences and big landscapes with delicious, unhurried meals.

Meals: B L D

Morning — Farm-to-cup at the hacienda: Stroll the rows with a local expert to learn the craft from cherry to cup: blossom and fruit on the same branch, selective hand-picking, wet milling, sun-drying and small-batch roasting. Taste contrasting profiles (washed vs. natural; light vs. medium roast) and practise a simple cupping ritual—aroma, bloom, slurp—before savouring a perfectly brewed tinto on the veranda with valley views.

Late morning to afternoon — Cocora Valley: Drive a scenic ridge road into the emerald amphitheatre of the Valle de Cocora, where wax palms (the world’s tallest) climb like elegant exclamation marks to the sky. Choose an easy valley floor loop on soft pastures and farm tracks, pausing for photos of mist drifting through the palm forest. Lunch at a countryside spot features local favourites—think trucha a la plancha (griddled trout) or hearty patacones with fresh salsas.

Later — Salento town: Continue to Salento, a postcard of colour-washed balconies, flower boxes and artisanal cafés. Amble Calle Real’s boutiques for hand-woven textiles, coffee soaps and cacao treats; climb (or taxi) to the Mirador for a mellow panorama over patchwork hills. Return to the hacienda for a relaxed dinner and a starry, cricket-serenaded evening.

AT A GLANCE — Coffee Country • Cocora • Salento

• Hacienda farm-to-cup experience • Cocora Valley easy walk among wax palms • Salento old town stroll & viewpoint • Guided tastings and photo stops • Comfortable pace with café breaks

Practical Notes

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or light boots with grip—pastures can be dewy or muddy after showers.
• Layers: Mornings are fresh; carry a light jacket and a compact umbrella or rain shell for passing Andean showers.
• Sun sense: High-UV even when cool—use SPF, sunglasses and a brimmed hat.
• Shopping: Support small producers—look for single-origin beans, panela sweets and artisan ceramics in Salento.
• Transport: Short transfers between sites; we’ll keep drives scenic and broken with outlook stops.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Short & steady: Opt for the valley floor loop (mostly flat) and add viewpoints by vehicle if you prefer fewer steps.
• Hydration: Alternate coffee tastings with water; the air can feel dry at elevation.
• Gentle fuel: Snack on fruit or a small arepa to keep energy even between tastings and the walk.

Insider Touch

Ask your guide to time Cocora for late-morning light when mist lifts off the ridges—palms silhouette beautifully. In Salento, swap the main drag for a side-street café roasting on site; pick up a small bag of beans roasted that day for the freshest flavour back home.

After breakfast (B), fly via Bogotá to the Caribbean jewel of Cartagena de Indias—all coral-stone walls, pastel façades and bougainvillea spilling from balconies. A private transfer whisks you to your hotel inside the walled city or in colourful Getsemaní. Late afternoon, as heat softens and sea breezes arrive, take an unhurried golden-hour stroll along the city ramparts for cinematic views over the rooftops and the shimmering bay.

Suggested gentle route (60–90 mins): From Baluarte de Santo Domingo join the ramparts and wander towards Baluarte de San Francisco Javier, pausing for photos of bell towers and domes glowing amber. Drop down briefly to Plaza Santo Domingo for a café stop, then return to the walls in time to watch the sun slip behind the Caribbean—street musicians and horse-drawn carriages setting a timeless rhythm.

AT A GLANCE — Bogotá → Cartagena & Sunset Ramparts

• Morning flight via Bogotá • Private airport transfer to hotel • Easy ramparts walk at golden hour • Photo spots: Cathedral dome, San Pedro Claver, bay & skyline • Evening ambience: breeze, music, café terraces

Practical Notes

• Climate: Warm and humid year-round—choose breathable fabrics; carry a light scarf for breezy ramparts.
• Footwear: Comfortable flats/trainers with grip for cobbles and stone ramparts.
• Payments: Cards widely accepted; carry small COP notes for cafés and street vendors.
• Transfers & timing: Domestic baggage allowances are tighter—keep essentials in your cabin bag. We’ll time your ramparts stroll to start ~60–90 minutes before sunset.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Beat the heat: Take shade breaks in plazas and arcades; sip water regularly (reusable bottle recommended).
• Skin care: High UV and glare—use SPF, sunglasses and consider a linen long sleeve for comfort.
• Short & scenic: Keep the route compact; you can always extend after sunset if energy allows.

Insider Touch

For classic sunset frames, linger near Baluarte de Santo Domingo where the sea horizon, stone battlements and city domes align. After dusk, detour to Getsemaní’s Plaza de la Trinidad—street food, live music and murals make for a vibrant yet easy-going evening.

Meals: B

A richly layered day that reveals Cartagena’s soul—from ramparts and rebel tunnels to jasmine-scented patios where time seems to slow. After breakfast (B), meet your local historian-guide for a curated exploration that keeps distances short and stories vivid.

Morning — Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: Drive a few minutes to Cartagena’s lionhearted citadel. Walk gentle sections of the bastions and ramparts, peek into hidden tunnels that once flummoxed invaders, and enjoy sweeping views over the old city and bay. Your guide unpacks sieges, corsairs and the engineering genius behind this UNESCO-listed fortress—epic history, minimal stairs by using the easiest approach.

Late morning — Courtyards of the Walled City: Slip back inside the Ciudad Amurallada for an easy amble through shady colonial courtyards—cloisters, tiled galleries and burbling fountains that cool the Caribbean heat. Pause at a quiet convent patio or boutique hotel atrium for a refreshing limonada de coco, admire carved doors and colourful balconies, and browse a tasteful craft stop for handwoven mochila bags or emerald design pieces.

Optional (early) — Bazurto Market for the adventurous: If you’re keen on raw local flavour, add a guided Bazurto visit first thing. It’s energetic, aromatic and authentic—great with a savvy food guide who knows safe snack stalls (think arepa de huevo, fresh juices, ceviche carts). We’ll keep it short, focused and comfortable, then return to the old town’s calmer lanes.

AT A GLANCE — Cartagena Deep Dive

• Highlights: San Felipe Fortress, old-city courtyards, artisan stops • Optional: Bazurto market (early, short, guided) • Pace: easy walking with café and patio breaks • Evening: free to dine in the walled city or Getsemaní

Practical Notes

• Dress & comfort: Breathable fabrics, hat and sunglasses; fortress stones hold heat—start earlier for cooler temps.
• Footwear: Trainers/flats with grip for cobbles and rampart inclines.
• Bazurto option: Go with a vetted guide, carry minimal valuables, and use small COP notes for tastings.
• Shopping: Choose fair-trade workshops and certified emerald houses; ask your guide for reputable addresses.
• Transfers: Short hops by vehicle or on foot; we’ll keep transitions shaded where possible.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Beat the heat: Begin early at San Felipe, then retreat to shady patios; sip water regularly (reusable bottle recommended).
• Short & scenic: Alternate brief walks with sit-down stops—courtyards are natural coolers.
• Skin care: High UV and glare—apply SPF and consider a light linen long sleeve for comfort.

Insider Touch

Ask your guide to include a hush-quiet convent cloister or a boutique hotel patio for a mid-morning lemonade—birdsong, tiled arcades and dappled shade make a blissful Cartagena pause. At day’s end, wander Getsemaní’s murals just before dusk for soft light and lively plazas.

Meals: B

Slow the tempo in Cartagena with a full day at leisure. Drift through bougainvillea-framed lanes, pause in cool colonial courtyards, and browse artisan boutiques for woven mochilas, coffee soaps and cacao treats. As heat softens, stroll the ramparts for golden-hour sea views, then toast the evening in a leafy plaza.

Meals: B

Optional at Extra Cost — Rosario Islands Day (gentle pace)

Sheltered-water boat trip (45–75 mins each way) to a calm, leeward cove; gentle swim/snorkel (optional), shaded beach club with loungers, and an unhurried lunch. If you prefer to keep it dry, simply relax on deck or by the shore. We use stable boats with shade and handrails/ladders for easy re-boarding.

Other Easy-Going Options (optional at extra cost)

• Spa afternoon and courtyard lunch • La Boquilla mangrove canoe (calm, shaded, birdlife, ~2 hrs) • Convent of La Popa & San Felipe (lite) with vehicle-assisted viewpoints • Hands-on cooking class (air-conditioned studio; Caribbean flavours, relaxed pace)

Practical Notes

• Heat & pace: Midday can be warm—plan sightseeing in short bursts with café breaks.
• Dress: Light, breathable layers and comfy sandals for cobbles; a brimmed hat is invaluable.
• Booking: Optional experiences are subject to availability—best reserved a day in advance.
• Access: We can tailor activities to minimise steps and include shade/rest stops throughout.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Hydrate steadily and use reef-safe sunscreen even in shade.
• Choose short walks in the morning/evening; reserve midday for plazas, museums or a cool siesta.
• If taking the Rosario option, remember all swims/snorkels are optional; you may opt out at any time and simply relax.

Trade city domes for palm-fringed Caribbean shores as you journey to a quiet beach lodge near Tayrona. After breakfast (B), set out via a scenic private coastal transfer (sea views along the highway). Prefer to shorten road time? A Cartagena → Santa Marta flight is available as an optional upgrade at extra cost, followed by a short countryside drive to the lodge. Arrive to warm sand, softly crashing surf and hammocks swaying under almond trees—an invitation to fully unwind.

Arrival vibe: Check in, kick off your shoes and settle into the lodge’s easy rhythm—pool time, shady verandas, a slow beach stroll and tropical juices on tap. As late-afternoon light turns honeyed, the Sierra Nevada peaks blush in the distance and pelicans skim the breakers. Evening is lanterns, sea-breeze suppers and early nights to the hush of waves.

Optional at Extra Cost — Fly Cartagena → Santa Marta
Swap most of the highway for a short domestic flight (≈1 hr) plus a 60–90 minute drive. Includes: airport transfers, checked bag per airline policy, and on-arrival meet & assist. Recommended for travellers who prefer less time on the road or during busy holiday periods.

AT A GLANCE — Cartagena → Tayrona Coast

• Route: private transfer (≈4–5 hrs, traffic dependent) or flight to Santa Marta (optional, extra cost; ≈1 hr) + drive (≈60–90 mins)
• Stay: quiet beach lodge near Tayrona
• Pace: fully relaxed—pool, beach, hammock, spa
• Setting: palm groves, warm sea, coastal sunsets

Suitability & gentle-options (50–80)

• Well-suited: Today is a travel-and-rest day with minimal walking; lodges provide easy beach access, pool areas and shaded lounges.
• Optional light activities: 30–60 min guided beach/estuary walk, sunset yoga/stretch, or a short cacao/coconut workshop (hands-on, seated).
• Prefer all-leisure? Keep it pool-and-porch—cool drinks, a good book and a seafront nap do the trick.

Practical Notes

• Road & comfort: Coastal highway is straightforward; request a mid-morning rest stop if you’re motion-sensitive.
• Lodge style: Many coastal properties are eco-lodges—expect natural ventilation or timed A/C, ceiling fans and abundant shade.
• Cash & connectivity: ATMs are limited near the park; carry small COP notes for tips and beach kiosks. Wi-Fi can be intermittent—bliss for screen-free downtime.
• Sea sense: Surf and currents vary—swim only where staff indicate or enjoy the pool. Lightweight water shoes help on shelly sand.
• Essentials: Insect repellent for dusk, sun hat, reef-safe sunscreen, light long sleeves for late afternoon.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Hydrate steadily: Warm coastal air + travel—sip water little and often; add a pinch of salt or coconut water for electrolytes.
• Stretch & reset: On arrival, a 5–8 minute feet-up rest and gentle shoulder/hip stretches melt road miles away.
• Slow sunsets: Time your beach stroll 30–45 minutes before sunset for cooler air and softer sand.

Insider Touch

Ask the lodge for a coconut & lime limonada as your welcome drink and request a sunset hammock spot facing west—the Sierra’s silhouette and the sea’s soft hush are the perfect pre-dinner tonic.

Meals: B

Wake to wave-hush and palm shade on Colombia’s Caribbean fringe. Today is yours: beach time, a restorative spa session, or a gentle guided walk to a jungle-fringed cove where golden sand meets emerald water. As evening draws near, the sky turns mango and rose—perfect for a barefoot sunset by the palms. Meals: B

Choose-your-pace options (mix & match):
• Tayrona “soft trail” day-hike: Vehicle-assisted entry + shaded forest paths (mostly flat/undulating) to a quiet cove; frequent photo and water stops.
• River float (Buritaca/Don Diego): Short jungle transfer, then guided inner-tube drift on calm, clear water to the sea; sit-in tubes with backrests available.
• Spa & slow day: Local botanicals, coconut scrubs and deep-shade relaxation by the pool or veranda, book in hand.
• Beach & birding amble: Dawn or late-afternoon stroll with a naturalist—tyrannulets, motmots and pelicans on patrol.

AT A GLANCE — Tayrona Leisure Day

• Pace: fully flexible • Activities: soft hike (optional), river float (optional), spa, pool, shaded beach time • Best light: early & late (cooler, softer sun) • Sunset: palms + sea breeze, easy stroll

Suitability (50–80) & easy-going tweaks

• Soft trail hike: We select shorter sections with rest points; vehicle drop-offs minimise stairs and steep bits.
• River float: Calm, guide-escorted water; life jackets and assisted entry/exit as standard.
• Prefer all-leisure? Absolutely—keep today to hammock, pool and beach-bar veranda with a long, shaded lunch.

Practical Notes

• Sea sense: Caribbean currents vary—swim only where lodge staff indicate; pool is a perfect alternative at any time.
• What to wear/bring: Breathable fabrics, brimmed hat, sunglasses, light long sleeves for sun; reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent (late afternoon), refillable bottle, water shoes for river/rocky patches.
• Park access: ID needed at entrance; we plan off-peak hours for quieter trails. Some areas occasionally close for conservation; we’ll route to alternative coves if needed.
• River float kit: Dry bag for phone, simple sandals, quick-dry towel; guides carry first-aid and spare water.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Cool windows: Aim activities for early morning or the last 2 hours of daylight; rest during midday heat.
• Hydrate + nibble: Coconut water or a pinch-of-salt lemonade keeps energy even; carry a small fruit/arepa snack.
• Short & scenic: Break the hike into 15–20 min segments with photo pauses; on the float, let the current do the work.

Insider Touch

Ask your guide for the quiet cove bench where river-meets-sea birds gather near dusk—brown pelicans glide low, and the palms silhouette for postcard-worthy frames. Back at the lodge, toast the day with a limonada de coco as the first stars appear.

Sink into a blissfully unhurried day on the Tayrona Coast. Wake to wave-hush and palm shade, then let time stretch: pool dips, a barefoot beach stroll, a hammock and a good book. Order a chilled limonada de coco, listen for scarlet macaws winging overhead, and watch pelicans skim the breakers at golden hour.

Meals: B

Easy-Going Options (optional at extra cost)

• Spa time: coastal massage or cocoa-butter body treatment • Sunset yoga/stretch under the palms • Gentle river float (Don Diego/Palomino; shaded, calm water, ~90 mins) • Cacao or coconut workshop (hands-on, seated) • Short estuary walk for birdlife and sea breezes

Gentle Pace Note

Any activity that could feel strenuous (longer beach walks, hikes, open-water swims) is entirely optional. You may opt out at any time and simply rest—by the pool, on a shaded veranda, or in your hammock with the sea as your soundtrack.

Practical Notes

• Sea sense: Currents vary—swim only where staff indicate; the pool is a great alternative.
• Sun & skin: High UV—use reef-safe sunscreen, a brimmed hat and light long sleeves in midday hours.
• Comfort: Light sandals for hot sand; water shoes help on shelly patches.
• Cash & comms: ATMs are scarce; bring small COP notes for tips. Wi-Fi can be intermittent—perfect for a digital detox.
• Park access: If you decide on a short Tayrona park visit, carry photo ID; modest entry fees and capacity limits may apply.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Hydrate steadily (coconut water is a tasty electrolyte top-up).
• Shade strategy: Plan beach time early/late; reserve midday for a siesta or spa.
• Move gently: A few shoulder/hip stretches and a sunset stroll keep you fresh without effort.

A slow, sun-dappled morning to savour your last Caribbean moments. After a relaxed breakfast (B), enjoy poolside downtime, a final beach stroll, or a coffee on the veranda before your private transfer. Depending on flight logistics, travel back to Cartagena for your international check-in, or transfer direct to the nearest airport (Santa Marta or Barranquilla) for your night flight home.

AT A GLANCE — Departure Day

• Morning: leisure (pool, beach, veranda coffee) • Transfers: Tayrona → Cartagena (CTG) or Tayrona → Santa Marta (SMR)/Barranquilla (BAQ) • Check-in: arrive 3 hours before international flights • Evening: overnight flight home

Practical Notes

• Airports & routing: We’ll choose CTG (Cartagena), SMR (Santa Marta) or BAQ (Barranquilla) based on the smoothest connection and road conditions.
• Road times (indicative): Tayrona→CTG ≈ 4–5 hrs; Tayrona→SMR ≈ 1–1.5 hrs; Tayrona→BAQ ≈ 2.5–3.5 hrs (traffic dependent).
• Baggage: Domestic sectors may have tighter limits—ensure souvenirs/liquids comply with airline rules before re-checking for the long-haul.
• Dining: Have an early, light lunch at the lodge or en route; most airports offer cafés/quick bites airside.
• Documents: Keep passports, e-tickets, and any entry/exit forms handy in your daypack for swift security.

Easy-Pace & Wellbeing Tips

• Unrush the morning: Pack the night before; enjoy a final swim or shaded read to keep departure day serene.
• Hydrate & move: Sip water on the drive and do gentle ankle circles/shoulder rolls before boarding the night flight.
• Comfort kit: Keep a light layer, eye mask and lip balm in your carry-on for the long-haul sector.

Insider Touch

Ask your driver for a brief mirador (viewpoint) stop as you leave the coast—one last photo of palms and the Sierra Nevada makes a perfect farewell frame. If flying from CTG, time a quick stroll in the old town earlier in the day (luggage in the vehicle) for a final limonada de coco in a shady courtyard.

Meals: B