COLOMBIA
IN SEARCH OF ELDORADO
12 DAYS
20 PEOPLE
3190 EURO
15 days
09.08.2026
—
23.08.2026
DESCRIPTION
Main program — 12 days
Our team has prepared a journey through Colombia — a country that until recently was associated with legends of drug lords, but today is considered one of the most colorful, welcoming, and fascinating destinations in Latin America. In fact, Colombia has now become one of the most attractive countries for tourism: it offers countless landmarks, museums, white-sand beaches, and ancient colonial towns.
We will try to cover the most exciting highlights of the country. We begin in the capital — Bogotá. Here we will visit the famous Gold Museum with its collection of ancient artifacts, stroll through the historic district of La Candelaria with its colonial streets, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of Monserrate Hill.
We will then spend several days in the heart of Colombia’s “Coffee Triangle.” Here we will explore the Cocora Valley with its giant wax palms — the national symbol of the country, wander the colorful town of Salento with its bright balconies and charming streets, and learn about coffee traditions at an authentic finca (coffee farm). We’ll try freshly picked beans and discover the secrets of roasting.
From there, we head to Medellín — a city that has transformed from the once dangerous hub of drug cartels into a symbol of Colombia’s cultural rebirth. We’ll visit the Roberto Escobar Museum, explore the vibrant Comuna 13 district filled with street art, admire the famous sculptures of Fernando Botero in the square that bears his name, and discover the collection at the Museo de Antioquia, home to the best of Colombian art.
The highlight of our adventure will be the colonial city of Cartagena — the pearl of the Caribbean! Its narrow streets, fortified walls, and colorful facades make it one of the most beautiful cities in South America. Those who wish can take a salsa class and then stay to dance alongside locals.
Finally, we will finish our journey in the north of the country, near Santa Marta. From here we will set off to Tayrona National Park — a true tropical paradise where mountains, jungle, and beaches blend into one breathtaking landscape.
ADDITIONAL OPTION
(total duration of the expedition — 15 days)
For those who wish, an additional 4-day trek to Ciudad Perdida — the Lost City is available.
Over the course of the route, participants will cover about 46 km (round trip) through the jungles of the Sierra Nevada. Main luggage can be transported by packhorses, so you only need to carry a daypack. The trail includes river crossings, ascents and descents, overnight stays in mountain shelters, and guided excursions that gradually immerse you in the history and nature of the region.
In 1972, “black archaeologists” stumbled upon a stone staircase hidden in the Colombian jungle. Climbing 1,200 steps, they reached the ruins of a vast indigenous city: terraces, stone plazas, roads, house foundations — along with golden ornaments and artifacts of an unknown culture.
News spread quickly, sparking violent conflicts over the treasure. By the time authorities learned of the site in 1975, it had already earned the grim nickname “The Green Hell.”
The local Kogi people, however, insist they always knew of the city. To them, it is not a discovery but the sacred city of Teyuna, once inhabited by their ancestors — the Tayrona civilization. At its height, up to 8,000 people lived there, but the city was abandoned after the Spanish conquest.
For a long time, the area was closed due to armed conflict, and only since 2005 has it been open to tourists. Today, Ciudad Perdida is considered safe and is protected by the Colombian army.
For a long time, the area was closed due to armed conflict, and only since 2005 has it been open to tourists. Today, Ciudad Perdida is considered safe and is protected by the Colombian army.
During our expedition, we may also set out to visit this legendary site. Four days of trekking through the jungle (two days each way), culminating with the climb up those very 1,200 steps — into the heart of the ancient Tayrona world, where the legend of El Dorado was born.
МАРШРУТНИЙ ПЛАН
Bogota ➙ Zipaquira ➙ Catedral de Sal ➙ Pereira ➙ Salento y Valle de Cocora ➙ Medellin ➙ Cartagena ➙ Santa Marta ➙ Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) ➙ Santa Marta
· Transfers to/from the airport (if you arrive and depart on the exact dates of the program);
· 3 domestic flights;
· Accommodation in 3- and 4-star hotels with breakfast (double occupancy);
· All transportation within the program;
· Excursions as per program;
· Entrance fees to national parks and museums included in the program;
· Services of local guides;
· Services of a Spanish–Russian-speaking Paganel Studio guide.
· International flight to Bogotá (return from Santa Marta);
· Colombian visa (if required);
· Meals not listed in the program;
· Personal insurance;
· Single-room supplement XXXX € (optional);
· Additional activities;
· Tips for guides and drivers;
· Supplement for participation in the optional program — Trekking to the Lost City.
THE COST
2890 Euro
ITINERARY
Day 1
09.08.2026
Arrival in Bogotá — the lively capital of Colombia. Meeting at El Dorado International Airport (BOG) with the guides and the team. Transfer to the hotel and rest after the journey.
(Included: overnight stay in a hotel in Bogotá).
Day 2
10.08.2026
After breakfast, we leave bustling Bogotá and head by our private bus toward Zipaquirá. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, with changing scenery outside the windows: green mountain slopes, plantations, small villages, and rural markets. It’s a perfect first glimpse of life beyond the capital.
Zipaquirá is known as the “City of Salt.” Long before the arrival of the Spaniards, the local Muisca people mined salt here, which they valued more highly than gold: it was their “white gold,” used for trade and exchange. The Muisca are also closely tied to the legend of El Dorado: their chiefs, during rituals, would cover their bodies with golden dust and sail to Lake Guatavita, casting offerings into its depths.
We will visit the city’s greatest wonder — the Salt Cathedral, hidden nearly 180 meters underground. This is not just a church, but an entire subterranean world: long tunnels, vast chambers, stone-carved crosses, soft lighting, and play of light creating a mystical atmosphere.
Construction of the cathedral began in the 1950s and continued for several decades. It consists of three main naves and numerous side chapels, carved directly into the salt walls. Beyond its religious significance, the cathedral also had a practical role — ensuring the miners’ safety and preserving the salt from collapse.
After the excursion, we will have time for lunch in Zipaquirá, where you can try dishes of Andean cuisine and take a leisurely stroll through the cozy colonial center. The town has retained the charm and calm rhythm of a historic mining settlement. In the evening, we return to Bogotá.
(Included: breakfast, overnight stay in a hotel in Bogotá).
Day 3
11.08.2026
We rise early to adjust to the time difference, enjoy breakfast, and set out on a city tour of the Colombian capital.
We begin with the famous Monserrate viewpoint. Our bus will take us to the base of the mountain, where we board a cable car to reach the monastery perched at 3,200 meters above sea level. From here, we are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Bogotá.
Descending back into the city, we will explore the colonial district of La Candelaria and the historic center, with its plazas, markets, monuments, and many landmarks. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the culture and lifestyle of the capital.
In the afternoon, we visit the world-renowned Gold Museum — one of the most remarkable museums in both Colombia and the world. Here we will uncover the mystery of the enigmatic “golden airplanes,” admire an incredible collection of ancient indigenous artifacts, and finally unravel the true meaning behind the legend of El Dorado and the secrets of Lake Guatavita.
After our tours, we gather at the hotel restaurant for the traditional Paganel welcome evening, where each participant receives their personalized expedition T-shirt and badge. Dinner is included.
(Included: breakfast, overnight stay in a hotel).
Day 4
12.08.2026
Early breakfast — and off we go to the airport! Today we leave Bogotá and fly to the heart of Colombia’s coffee region — Pereira. A short flight, and already from the plane windows we see green hills covered with coffee plantations, tiny villages, and mountain landscapes that immediately put us in the mood for adventure.
Upon arrival in Pereira, a bus will take us to Salento — one of the most picturesque colonial towns in the region. Narrow cobbled streets, brightly painted houses with wooden balconies, and the aroma of fresh coffee at every corner.
After a short walk through the town center, we continue to the famous Cocora Valley. Here grow Colombia’s national trees — wax palms, reaching heights of 70–80 meters. The valley is often draped in light mist, and the hills covered with these majestic trees seem to float in a sea of green. It’s the perfect setting for photographs, short hikes, and pure inspiration. We will take a light hike along the trails of the valley to enjoy the views from different perspectives and feel the scale of this natural wonder.
After a full and inspiring day, we head to our hotel to freshen up, relax, and soak in the atmosphere of this charming little town. In the evening, you may wish to stroll through the main square, stop by a coffee shop, and experience life in a small Colombian town.
(Included: breakfast, overnight stay in a hotel).
Day 5
13.08.2026
After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to explore more of Colombia’s coffee heartland. Our first stop is Armenia, a city with a complex history. Founded in the early 20th century, it was devastated by a strong earthquake in 1999, but today it has been fully rebuilt and has become one of the centers of Colombian coffee culture. We will stroll its streets, admire its colonial architecture, and visit the local markets.
Next, we head to Parque de la Vida. This scenic park lies on a gentle hillside, with walking trails and lush gardens offering great photo opportunities. If we are lucky, we may spot some of the rare birds that inhabit Colombia’s coffee zone.
The highlight of the day is a visit to the coffee farm Finca Buenos Aires. Colombia is one of the largest coffee producers in the world, and this region is famed for its perfect climate: mountain slopes, fertile volcanic soils, and frequent mists provide ideal conditions for growing Arabica beans. At the farm, we will learn all about the coffee-making process — from planting the tree to roasting and brewing the perfect cup.
Here we will also take part in a tasting session, learning to distinguish different varieties and understanding why Colombian coffee is considered among the best in the world. The farm is a living place full of stories: the owners proudly share family traditions passed down through generations, old processing methods, and how coffee has shaped the lives of these mountain villages.
To finish the day, we will visit Filandia — a colonial town considered a jewel of Colombia’s Coffee Axis, with its colorful houses, cobbled streets, and picturesque main square.
In the evening, transfer to Pereira airport for our flight to Medellín. Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel in the very heart of the city. Check-in and rest.
(Included: breakfast, flight to Medellín, overnight at hotel)
Day 6
14.08.2026
Medellín, the “City of Eternal Spring,” is today one of the most innovative cities in Latin America. Not long ago, however, it was notorious for its association with Pablo Escobar and violent gang conflicts. Over the past twenty years, Medellín has undergone a radical transformation — from one of the most dangerous cities in the world into a thriving modern metropolis.
We explore the famous Botero Plaza, filled with sculptures by Colombian artist Fernando Botero, whose works have become a city symbol.
We will then head to Santo Domingo, a Medellín neighborhood once considered a crime hub. We'll visit vibrant Comuna 13, home to another innovative project that has improved the quality of life for Medellín residents: escalators in its narrow streets.
Next, we'll visit the Roberto Escobar Museum. We'll learn about one of the most controversial episodes in Colombia's recent history. Roberto was Pablo Escobar's brother and accountant, and his home now houses a collection that chronicles the rise and fall of the drug cartel. Here you'll see photographs, personal belongings, documents, even a bulletproof car. The exhibition is ambiguous—it's not a glorification of the hero, but rather an inside look at an era that left a deep mark on the country. The visit itself evokes mixed feelings: on the one hand, curiosity, on the other, a realization of what Colombia went through during those years.
(Included: breakfast, overnight at hotel)
Day 7
15.08.2026
Having packed our bags, we set off by bus towards another amazing natural attraction – El Peñol (the famous El Peñol rock, at the top of which there is a landscape of extraordinary lagoons) and Guatapé (the city of Guatapé, classified as a national natural monument).
According to scientists, it formed over 70 million years ago. The rock is 220 meters high and approximately 380 meters long. Rough estimates place the weight of this enormous "stone" at close to 10 million tons.
For a unique view, we'll climb a zigzag staircase on one of the monolith's slopes, comprising 644 steps.
It’s interesting that hundreds of years ago, the Tahamis Indians living in this area considered the largest stone in the world a sacred relic that saved humanity from the wrath of the gods. According to legend, a giant fish, Batholito, lived in the river flowing through the valley, and people made sacrifices to it.
One day, the gods became so angry with humanity that they decided to collapse the heavens upon them. The Indians asked Batholito for help, and she propped up the sky and prevented it from falling to earth. As punishment, the gods turned the fish into a stone, which became a sacred place for the Indians.
In the evening, transfer to the airport for our flight to Cartagena, Colombia’s Caribbean jewel. Arrival, transfer to hotel, check-in and rest.
(Included: breakfast, flight, overnight at hotel)
Day 8
16.08.2026
After breakfast, we explore Cartagena de Indias — the undisputed queen of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. A city of exceptional beauty, Cartagena is encircled by 13 km of massive colonial stone walls.
The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of cobblestone streets, flower-draped balconies, leafy squares, and imposing churches casting long shadows over the plazas.
We'll follow in the footsteps of famous pirates and discover this city's blended heritage of exoticism and cultural richness. Cartagena will immerse us in the colonial era, with its colorful houses and the bustling plazas of San Diego and Santo Domingo. We'll visit, if possible, the Plaza de los Coches, Plaza de la Aduana, Bolivar Park, the Gold Museum, and the Plaza de Santa Teresa.
In the evening, you can sit on the shady streets in cozy restaurants and eat excellent seafood, try delicious hand-made ice cream, or go shopping. Ride a special music bus and sing along with other tourists from all over the world over a bottle of rum :) There's plenty to do here, you won't be bored!
(Included: breakfast, overnight at hotel)
Day 9
17.08.2026
Free day. Choose from a variety of optional activities: explore the paradise islands of Rosario, go scuba diving, sunbathe on the beach, or explore the city's museums.
The Rosario Islands are a small paradise where we can enjoy clear waters and colorful corals. We'll meet at 8:30 AM at the Muelle de la Bodeguita port and depart by boat to the island. After an hour on the boat, we'll have time to relax and enjoy this small island with its natural pools. We'll explore the underwater coral world while snorkeling or simply relax on the beach. A traditional lunch will be served. We'll return to the port of Cartagena after lunch.
(Included: breakfast, overnight at hotel)
Day 10
18.08.2026
After breakfast, we say farewell to Cartagena and head north by private bus (approx. 5 hours) to Santa Marta. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and stroll around the city.
Santa Marta is located on Colombia's Caribbean coast in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and is known as one of the region's premier tourist destinations. The city is the capital of the Magdalena Department and an important seaport in Colombia. Santa Marta was founded in 1525 by the Spanish conquistador Rodrigo de Bastidas and became the first major Spanish settlement in the area. Before the arrival of the Spanish, the area was inhabited by the Tairona Indians, who were renowned for their skill in goldsmithing.
Small communities of descendants of the Tairona Indians still live in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Santa Marta is also famous for being the home of Gabriel García Márquez, who lived nearby (80 km away) in the small town of Aracataca.
Many of Márquez's works (including One Hundred Years of Solitude, the novel for which he won the Nobel Prize) take place in the fictional town of Macondo. Macondo is a village that began to thrive thanks to banana plantations, but later turned into a ghost town, plagued by nostalgia and melancholy. Aracataca, where Márquez spent his childhood, was the inspiration for Macondo. At the entrance to the town, you can see a quote from the author: "One day I returned and realized that the material for my work lay somewhere between reality and nostalgia."
(Included: breakfast, overnight at Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta)
Day 11
19.08.2026
We rise early, have breakfast, grab our swimsuits and towel, and head out to Tayrona National Park. Today, one of Colombia's most exciting adventures awaits us – a walk along the trails of the national park, where the tropical forest meets the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
Our route takes us along picturesque forest trails, crossing streams and revealing ever-new panoramas of bays and beaches. The distance to Playa del Cabo San Juan is approximately 7 km one way (approximately 2.5–3 hours' walk). This is a leisurely route with stops at viewpoints and beaches where you can catch your breath, take photos, or swim.
Our final destination is the famous Cabo San Juan del Guía beach, considered one of the most beautiful in Colombia. Two white-sand peninsulas connect coves, overlooked by a cliff with a gazebo. Here we can swim, relax, and have lunch at a local restaurant by the sea.
After a rest and a swim, we'll head back along the same path to the bus. In the evening, we'll have a farewell dinner and time to share our impressions of the trip.
(Included: breakfast, overnight at Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta)
Day 12
20.08.2026
The morning of our last day of the expedition can be spent on the beach next to the hotel, swimming and sunbathing by the pool, or heading out into town to pick up a few more souvenirs.
We say goodbye to Colombia. We say goodbye to each other and to the guides. Tears of farewell.
Airport transfer. Flight from Santa Marta to your city.
Additional Option
(Total expedition duration is 15 days)
On day 11 of the program (August 19), for those interested, a four-day trek to Ciudad Perdida—the Lost City—begins.
Departure from Santa Marta to the village of Mamey (approximately 3 hours by jeep). After lunch, hike approximately 7.6 km (4 hours) to a campsite, where we will have dinner and spend the night in the jungle.
The route then includes daytime hikes of 14.7 km per day (8 hours of walking), with ascents and descents through mountain jungle, swimming in rivers, and encounters with Kogi and Arahuaco communities.
On the third day, we climb 1,200 steps and reach the terraces of the ancient city, where we spend several hours exploring the ruins and the atmosphere of the place. Afterwards, we begin the return journey back to the intermediate camp (7.6 km, 4 hours).
On the fourth day, we return to the Mamey refuge (15.6 km, approximately 7-8 hours of descent) and then transfer to Santa Marta.
The total trek distance is approximately 46 km.
On the 15th day of the expedition (August 23), we fly home from Santa Marta.
Day 11
19.08.2026
Today begins the most active phase of our journey. We head to Ciudad Perdida, or the "Lost City."
It's located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and is the world's highest seaside mountain.
We wake up at our hotel and have breakfast. We'll store our bags at the hotel. We'll pack our gear for the trek: backpacks, mountain boots, trekking poles, sunscreen, insect repellent, raincoats, and other essentials. After packing, we'll leave Santa Marta at 8:30 a.m. by bus to Aguacatera, where we'll transfer to equipped 4x4 jeeps that will take us up the winding mountain roads to the start of our trek, Machete Pelão, where we'll have lunch. There, before the start of the trek, local guides will give the Paganels instructions on the route.
The trek to the Lost City takes four days (two there and two back). Unless you hire a porter (which almost everyone does), you'll have to carry all your belongings yourself, so pack only the essentials and be prepared for any weather along the way.
Accompanied by a professional local guide, we'll set off for the first camp at 7.6 km—Adam's Hut, a farming community where we'll spend the first night. This trek can be completed in three hours, or five, depending on your mood and pace. The schedule and pace are flexible.
We'll each walk at our own pace; the most important thing is that you're comfortable. If you don't want to walk, you can hire a mule for the ENTIRE route, which will carry you through the mountains for four days.
In the evening, over dinner, a local guide will tell us about the history and customs of the region and its people.
Adam's Hut (and other huts) are equipped shelters in the jungle with all the necessary amenities. These huts feature wooden bunk beds (standing side by side) with mattresses and individual mosquito nets and blankets for a more comfortable sleep.
Hammocks are available for those who prefer. All huts have toilets and showers with clean mountain water (there's no hot water, but trust us, you won't need it; it'll be warm). There's a kitchen and cooks who prepare fresh and delicious food. Three hearty meals a day are provided, along with purified water for filling our water bottles for the day.
Overnight at the Adam's Hut shelter, on beds or in hammocks with mosquito nets.
(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.)
Day 12
20.08.2026
Rise early at 7:00 AM. Breakfast. Trek from Adam's Hut to the Cabana Paraiso Teyuna camp. En route, we pass the Mutanyi Indian village. Trek time: 6-7 hours. Distance: 14.7 km.
The Cabana Paraiso Teyuna camp is located at an altitude of 830 meters above sea level, almost at the foot of the sacred city of Tayronas.
In the afternoon, we'll relax and swim in the river. In the evening, the guide will tell us more about Ciudad Perdida and its sacred significance to the indigenous people of the Sierra.
Overnight at Cabana Paraiso Teyuna, on beds or hammocks with mosquito nets. (Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Day 13
21.08.2026
Early rise and breakfast. We have quite a busy day ahead. To reach the sacred city, we'll climb 1,200 steps built by the ancient Tayrona culture. After an hour's walk, we'll discover this once-lost city.
Ciudad Perdida is a mythical place, a magnificent example of the urban planning of the Tayrona civilization, impressive in its location and landscape. "Tayrona," meaning "Lost City" in the indigenous language, represents a complex architectural system built on terraces, houses, and ceremonial centers.
We'll spend three hours wandering around the city, exploring ancient ruins and various sacred sites, taking photos, and rejoicing at having reached the end of our walking route. It's so beautiful and mysterious here! If we can, we might even get a chance to speak with the chief shaman of the Kogi Indians, who lives right here in the ancient city!
After a light snack, we begin our descent back to the Cabana Paraiso Teyuna campsite, where we'll rest and have lunch. Next, we'll hike down (about 5 hours) to the Cabana Mumake refuge, where we'll spend the night. The hike is 7.6 km long.
(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Overnight at Cabana Mumake, on beds or in hammocks with mosquito nets.
Day 14
22.08.2026
Today is quite a busy day. We must cover the distance from Camp Gabriel Sanches to the starting point of our mountain expedition—the village of El Mamey.
The trail is mostly downhill, with two small climbs, and takes about 6-8 hours.
At the end of the route, we'll have lunch and board jeeps that will take our team to the city of Santa Marta, where we'll find our cozy Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta. The trek is 15.6 km long.
A hot shower. Good coffee. A soft bed. It's moments like these, returning from a jungle trek and finding yourself back in comfort, that bring you an indescribable sense of joy, and life takes on a new meaning!
In the evening, we gather at a restaurant in the city's central square for a delicious meal. We relax.
(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and overnight stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta.)
Day 15
23.08.2026
We can spend the morning of our last day on the beach next to the hotel, swimming and sunbathing by the pool, or we can go out into the city and buy a few more souvenirs.
We say goodbye to Colombia. We say goodbye to each other. Tears of farewell. Transfer to the airport. Flight from Santa Marta to your city.
Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.
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