Holidays with Downtown

Medellin

Medellín, capital of Antioquia department, has a pleasant climate of around 75°F; offers modern transport systems like Metro and Metro Cable, and an efficient infrastructure which has allowed it to host world-class events. Located in a valley surrounded by mountains, this city is always friendly to visitors. In 2012 the city won the title of “City of the Year”: a competition organized by the US newspaper Wall Street Journal and the Citi Group. Known by Colombians as ‘The City of the Eternal Spring,’ Medellin was chosen for its progress, potential, “rich culture and impressive strides in urban development

Cali

Cali, founded in 1536, can be explored on foot: walk under the shade of trees along the riverbank, admire the architecture of churches and other national monuments, and visit the city’s many museums. In Cali, travelers can enjoy music festivals, learn about sugarcane farming, and take in the mountainous landscapes. Cali is known as the World Capital of Salsa due to the cheerful nature and the passion that the Calenos dance this frenetic rhythm. Salsa dancing may seem difficult, especially when it’s performed by master pairs and dance groups that have spent years perfecting their movement, coordination, and speed. There are numerous opportunities in Cali for visitors to try this energetic dance, as there are a number of dance academies and schools offering lessons tailor-made for beginners.

Day 1: Bogota

After clearing customs and immigration at El Dorado International Airport you will be met and assisted on your transfer to the selected hotel. Remainder of the day on own to relax or explore the surroundings of your hotel. Overnight in Bogota.

Option: This evening, enjoy your first Salsa class with a professional teacher. Your guide will pick you up and take you to a renowned Bogota club for a private dance lesson. Return to the hotel.

Note: In order to take advantage of the night life, we suggest that your arrival day in Bogota is on a Wednesday.

We may change the order of the itinerary to match the activities and shows the best possible way. If the Salsa attractions suggested are not available, we’ll replace them with a Salsa club.

Day 2: Bogota

After breakfast, depart on a comprehensive tour of the city that will show you the highlights of the Colombian capital.  See the Plaza de Bolivar, the historical center of Bogota surrounded by Colombia’s Primary Cathedral, National Capitol, Archbishop's Palace, Palace of Justice, Liévano Palace - greater Bogota City Hall - passing by the Palace of Nariño, official residence of the head of State -, Palacio de San Carlos and residence and Government seat of Simón Bolívar. Visit the Gold Museum (*), that displays a great collection of Hispanic and Pre-Columbian world jewelry crafted in gold and tumbaga (an alloy of gold and copper). Then walk through the Candelaria quarter, declared a national monument, with its steep, narrow streets, mansions and balconies which are the heritage and the living memory of colonial architecture. Afternoon at leisure to relax. Later your guide will meet with you for an evening learning the basics of Salsa with a professional dancer. Discover the highlights of Salsa history while you taste typical liqueurs from the region. Practice the steps learned with locals in three of the best salsa clubs in the city and end the night with an impressing live music or dance performance by renown artists from Bogota. Overnight in Bogota [B]

* Gold Museum is closed on Mondays.

Day 3: Bogota, Medellin

At agreed time, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Medellin. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon your tour guide will show you the highlights of Medellin. Start at El Poblado, head to ‘La Milla de Oro’, which is the financial sector of the city. Here we will find the Square ‘Parque de El Poblado’ where the City was born. The next stop will be at the Sculptures’ Square, just outside of Museo de Antioquia to admire the twenty-three statues donated to the city by Fernando Botero. In this area we will also see Palacio de la Cultura; a gothic style building that houses the Hotel Nutibara - the first luxury hotel in the city, constructed in 1945. Finally, after a short stop at the los Pies Descalzos square, go up the hill of Cerro Nutibara to visit the life-sized replica of a typical village of the region called Pueblito Paisa. There you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city) and the surrounding mountains. Overnight in Madellin [B/L]

Day 4:  Medellin (Guatape, Piedra del Peñol)

On this day trip we’ll take you on a scenic drive through the Eastern Highlands of Antioquia. You can climb the Peñol Boulder, enjoy a delicious typical Colombian lunch on the waterfront of the Guatapé reservoir, explore the lake on a boat ride and take time to stroll and relax. The Peñol Boulder is one of the most spectacular destinations in the surrounding area of Medellín. The 656-feet-high monolith can be climbed through a staircase of 740 steps. Enjoy breath-taking views over the stunning surroundings full of green mountains and blue lakes. The village of Guatapé is famous for its church and its beautiful, colorful paintings that decorate the houses of the village. Tonight, enjoy Colombia’s most important music style, take a Salsa class in El Poblado, learn how to move like a Colombian local and impress your own teacher with your new moves. [B/L/S]

Day 5; Medellin, Cali

After breakfast, depart to the airport for your flight to Cali. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon your local guide will pick you up to take you on a city tour where you’ll see the highlights of Cali. You pass by River Avenue, Belalcazar statue, the Cathedral, Cristo Rey and Pachamama. We end up in San Antonio to walk through the traditional neighborhood and buy handicrafts in the Loma de la Cruz. Then head to a Salsa Swing Latino school to perfect your dancing skills in a one-hour class at El Mulato Cabaret, an authentic reflection of the city’s salsa culture. El Mulato group is recognized for

performance at the Super Bowl with Jennifer Lopez. [B]

Day 6: Cali

Day at leisure to explore Cali on own, or to take another Salsa class.  Get ready for an incredible dinner and Salsa night at Delirio or Ensalsate (**). Overnight in Cali. [B/D]

Note:

** At this moment both venues provide only virtual shows due COVID-19 restrictions. Today’s activities will be confirmed at the time of booking depending on your arrival date,

Day 7:  Cali, USA

Day at leisure. At the appointed time, transfer to the airport to board your connecting flight to the USA. [B]

[B] = Breakfast | [B/D] = Breakfast and Dinner