HIGHLIGHTS

Discover the magic of one of South America’s most vibrant countries when you travel to Colombia with Photo Quest Adventures with Alison Wright during Carnaval one of the world’s great celebrations. It is the biggest folklore celebration in Colombia, and often called the second most colorful carnival in the world after Brazil.

With a number of world-class beaches, gorgeous architecture and Carnival, it is quickly becoming one of our favorite places to visit in South America.  Journey to photograph the heady majestic romance of Cartagena; capture  the time-worn colonial streets, enthralled by its enduring history and colonial culture. 

Now it is time to discover one of the best kept secrets of Latin America on the Photo Quest Adventure of a lifetime.

February 13:  Arrive at Medellin, Colombia (MDE)

Arrival at Medellin airport (MDE), Colombia. Airport pickup/transfer to hotel.

Late afternoon photograph the heart of Medellin’s city center exploring the San Antonio Park, Plaza de San Ignacio, the traditional Avenida la playa and the sculpture Park, which contains more than 20 sculptures donated by Maestro Fernando Botero, a son of Colombia´s best-known artist. This evening we will meet for a welcome dinner at Hato Viejo Restaurant. Overnight at Hotel Park 10. (D)

February 14:  Medellin-Guatapé-Piedra del Peñol

After breakfast we will take the metro and cable car over the neighborhoods North West to the station of ‘la Aurora.' From there, continue to Jardin to photograph the Colombian life, untouched by tourists!  We will join a group of locals to taste tintos and discuss news - the atmosphere is relaxed and the buildings are incredibly colorful. After lunch, drive to Guatape, the most colorful town, and spend the rest of the afternoon wandering the streets before we head back to Medellin. Overnight Hotel Park 10. (B, L, D) 

February 15:  Medellin-Cartagena

Early this morning transfer to the airport for our flight to Cartagena. 

After lunch, photograph the most important monuments of Cartagena starting at the Convent of La Popa (the highest point of the city) and San Felipe Castle. Photograph the plazas and enjoy the charm of the city. We will meet Palenqueras in their typical colorful dresses and hear their story and learn about their everyday life. This unforgettable combination gives Cartagena a well-deserved title of UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Dinner in colonial town. Overnight at Hotel Movich or similar. (B, L, D)

February 16:  Cartagena - Rosario Islands & Playa Blanca

Transfer to the harbor and take a private boat to Isla Baru where we visit ‘Playa Blanca’. Continue by boat to Islas del Rosario where we have lunch and time for some great photos and beach time.. Explore the impressive, beautiful landscapes of Islas Del Rosario with its clear waters and gentle breezes. Back by boat to Cartagena to photograph sunset from the rooftop. Dinner and night in Hotel Movich or similar.(B, D)

February 17:  Cartagena-La Boquilla drumming workshop

After breakfast drive to La Boquilla to photograph drummers and dancers. After lunch photograph San Felipe castle and La Popa. Photograph sunset from the rooftop. Dinner and night in Hotel Movich or similar. (B, D)

February 18: Cartagena- Barranquilla

After breakfast drive to Barranquilla. (D)

February 19:   Barranquilla Carnival

All day photograph the Barranquilla Carnival - "La Gran Parada de la Tradición". The Queen of the Carnival goes around town inviting people to participate. Hotel BH Barranquilla Hotel or similar. (B,L)

February 20:    Barranquilla Carnival

All-day photograph the Barranquilla Carnival. Today is The Great Fantasy Parade and the Orchestras Festival. Overnight at BH Barranquilla Hotel or similar. (B,D)

February 21:  Departure from Cartagena

Early morning transfer to the airport for your return flight from Cartagena. Book your flights back in the afternoon.

 *Make sure to book your flight to Medellin and out of Cartagena, Colombia.

ABOUT

Colombia is situated in South America, bordered by the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean, Panama, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela and Brazil. The Andes Mountains extend into the country in three ranges running south to north, dipping finally into the lowlands of the Caribbean coast. Colombia is considered a diverse country given its culture, geography, and rich history making it a unique and genuine travel destination. Traveling there can be an experience like straight out of a novel where you will be captivated and dazzled by the contrast of its colonial architecture and modern cities, the richness of its native communities, the incredible natural biodiversity, the traditional fairs and festivals that display the traditions and not to mention the exquisite and peculiar cuisine from its different regions. If you are looking to fall in love with a country where every day is a magical experience, the answer is Colombia.

Passport & Visa

A valid passport is required to visit Colombia. Visas are not required if you are a citizen of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand, South Africa, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, or the United States.

Vaccines

Though no vaccines are required to enter Colombia, it's a good idea to get vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever prior to entry.

Language

Except for a tiny percentage of rural indigenous communities, Spanish is universally spoken in Colombia. 

CURRENCY

The Colombian peso (COL$) is the official currency. Money is denominated in notes of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000, and coins of 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 pesos.

ElectricitY

Electric outlets accept U.S.-type plugs. Electricity in Colombia runs at 110 volts, so transformers are not necessary for tourists from the U.S. 

Time Zone

All of Colombia is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. Colombia does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Water

It is always  best to stick to bottled water.