Colombia

Cartagena’s period architecture, pastel colours, horse-drawn carriages and narrow, cobbled streets exude colonial charm. This Caribbean jewel was the first Spanish colony on the South American mainland and one of the main ports of the Spanish fleet. Today, the city draws artists, musicians and travellers in search of a muse.

Set amid the misty haze of a vast cloud forest, Colombia’s lush Cocora Valley harbours a protected enclave of wax palms, a tall, slender palm species teetering on the brink. Hike Los Nevados National Natural Park, exploring this misty forest as you learn about efforts to conserve this important ecosystem. Then, play your own part in this vital mission as you plant a wax palm at the base of the valley

Join your guide for an introduction to the production process from bean to brew at a renowned coffee plantation. Located in Colombia’s best known coffee producing region, and a UNESCO World Heritage site, enjoy the chance to savour the different aromas and flavours at a curated Coffee Baptism.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Colombia’s salt miners endured a hard life, often leading them to seek divine intervention. In a small mining town just outside Bogotá, descend into the subterranean Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá to learn how religious sculptures were hewn from the tunnels of a former salt mine by the miners themselves.

Founded in 1538, the Colombian capital sprawls across a vast plateau sheltered by the eastern range of the Andes Mountains. This rapidly emerging destination welcomes guests with its historic colonial architecture, thriving nightlife and superb al fresco dining scene.

Disappear into a tranquil haven of islands just off the coast of Colombia. This is the Caribbean, but not as you know it. Explore the colourful archipelago of coral islands, seek out hidden powdery white beaches and swim and snorkel in brilliant blue waters.

Cartagena’s 500-year-old walled city brims with squares, cobblestone streets and colourful colonial buildings. Against this vibrant backdrop, locals congregate in the evening to stroll, chat, eat, drink, see and be seen. Immerse yourself in this daily magic hour ritual as your guide reveals the city’s local haunts for authentic food, drink and conversation.

You may come to Providencia for some of the world’s most pristine beaches and best preserved coral reefs, but you’ll stay for its truly Caribbean island way of life. This tiny South American corner of the Caribbean is unknown to much of the travel world — and it shows.