Colonial Splendour

Tailor made tours

SUMMARY

27 Days

Colombia, Panama, Brazil

Contours Travel’s Colonial Splendour Latin America Tour is a 27-day journey through some of the continent’s most captivating historic cities. This itinerary is ideal for lovers of history and architecture, taking you to beautifully preserved colonial gems in Panama, Colombia, and Brazil.

Your adventure begins in Bogotá, where you’ll ascend by cable car to the Monserrate lookout for breathtaking views of the city. Explore the colonial charm of Barichara, Salento, and Villa de Leyva, nestled amidst Colombia’s stunning landscapes. In Pereira, the heart of the coffee region, immerse yourself in the country’s rich coffee culture. Finally, visit Cartagena de Indias, the crown jewel of Colombia. Known for its brightly coloured streets, towering stone walls, and Caribbean charm, Cartagena is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in South America.

From Colombia, fly to Panama City. Its impressive skyline is a contrast to the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, the city’s historic heart. Explore the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Casco Viejo with its colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming plazas. Enjoy world-class restaurants and boutique hotels that offer a modern yet authentic city experience.

Your tour continues in Brazil, where colonial heritage comes alive in every corner. Explore Salvador de Bahia, a vibrant city with rich African influences, known for its lively music, cuisine, and culture. Discover the Gold Rush capital of Ouro Preto, where cobbled streets and baroque churches reflect Brazil’s colonial wealth. In Paraty, you’ll find a peaceful seaside town with a laid-back vibe and well-preserved colonial architecture. The tour ends in Rio de Janeiro, a city that seamlessly blends historical elegance with modern vibrancy.

This suggested 27-day Colonial Splendour Latin America Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the architectural and cultural treasures of Latin America’s colonial past.

HIGHLIGHTS

Discover the colonial gems of Latin America: Explore iconic cities steeped in history and architectural marvels, such as Bogotá, Cartagena, Panama City, Salvador, Ouro Preto, Tiradentes, and Rio de Janeiro.
Immerse yourself in history and culture: Learn about the rich colonial heritage of Latin America, from the Spanish conquest to the African influence in Brazil. Visit historic sites, museums, and cultural events.
Marvel at stunning natural landscapes: Experience the beauty of Colombia’s Andes Mountains, the Panama Canal, and the Brazilian coast.
Enjoy a variety of activities: From hiking and exploring colonial towns to relaxing on beaches and enjoying cultural performances, there’s something for everyone.
Sample delicious local cuisine: Savour the flavours of Latin American cuisine, from Colombian coffee and Brazilian churrasco to Panamanian fresh seafood.
Meet friendly locals and experience authentic culture: Interact with locals and learn about their way of life, traditions, and customs.
Create unforgettable memories: This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations in Latin America.
Fully customised to your needs and likes!

ITINERARY

Day 1 Bogota

Arrive in Bogota and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 Bogota

Discover Bogotá’s colonial heart on a half-day city tour, visiting La Candelaria, Capilla del Sagrario, the Gold Museum, and the Botero Museum. Soar above the city on a cable car ride to Monserrate for breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes.

Day 3 Bogota/Villa de Leyva

Embark on a journey to Zipaquirá to explore the awe-inspiring Salt Cathedral. Continue to the picturesque colonial town of Villa de Leyva, known for its cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture.

Day 4 Villa de Leyva

Immerse yourself in Villa de Leyva’s history and culture with a full-day tour, visiting the Fossil Museum and the Dominican Convento del Santo Ecce Homo.

Day 5 Villa de Leyva/Barichara

Travel to the charming town of Barichara, renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and stunning natural surroundings.

Day 6 Barichara

Enjoy a gentle 10km walk along El Camino Real to Guane, enjoying picturesque landscapes and spotting vibrant birdlife. Return by car to Barichara, where you can relax and unwind in Barichara’s peaceful atmosphere.

Day 7 Barichara/Pereira

Admire the breathtaking Chicamocha Canyon as you travel to Bucaramanga Airport. Fly to Pereira and transfer to your traditional hacienda accommodation.

Day 8 Pereira

Experience the rich coffee culture of Colombia with a tour of Hacienda San Alberto. Learn about the coffee production process and savour a delicious cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Day 9 Pereira

Discover the enchanting Cocora Valley, home to Colombia’s towering wax palm trees. Explore the picturesque town of Salento, known for its colourful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 10 Pereira/Cartagena

Fly to Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a sunset stroll along the city walls and savor a refreshing drink at Café del Mar.

Day 11 Cartagena

Immerse yourself in Cartagena’s local culture with a visit to the vibrant markets. Learn to cook authentic Colombian cuisine with a private cooking class and enjoy a delicious meal.

Day 12 Cartagena

Explore Cartagena’s historic centre at your leisure, discovering its charming streets, colourful buildings, and iconic landmarks.

Day 13 Cartagena/Panama City

Take a short flight to Panama City and transfer to your hotel in the historic Casco Viejo district. Embark on a guided sunset walking tour to explore the city’s colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 14 Panama City

Discover the wonders of the Panama Canal with a visit to the Miraflores Lock Visitor Center. Learn about the engineering marvels of the canal and witness the passage of ships through the locks.

Day 15 Panama City/Salvador

Fly to Salvador de Bahia, the cultural capital of Brazil. Transfer to your hotel and prepare to experience the vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture.

Day 16 Salvador

Explore the gorgeous historic Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful colonial buildings and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a captivating performance of Brazilian dance and music at the Miguel Santana Theater.

Day 17 Salvador

Discover the city’s religious heritage with a visit to the baroque Bonfim Church. Explore the Mercado Modelo, a bustling market filled with local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Day 18 Salvador/Ouro Preto

Fly to Belo Horizonte and transfer by road to Ouro Preto. Founded in 1698, this charming city is the masterpiece of colonial architecture in Brazil, declared by UNESCO as a “Cultural Patrimony of Mankind”. Due to its distance from the coast and the exhaustion of the mines after 1789, it is the one town in Brazil that remains an outstanding artistic and architectural example of that era.

Day 19 Ouro Preto

Explore the nearby town of Mariana, renowned for its colonial architecture. Spend the afternoon wandering through Ouro Preto’s charming streets and admiring its beautiful churches.

Day 20 Ouro Preto/Tiradentes

Transfer to Congonhas, once an important mining centre. Visit the stunning baroque Basilica, constructed in the late 1700’s and see the impressive rococo interior. Continue to Tiradentes, a picturesque colonial town nestled in the mountains.

Day 21 Tiradentes

Enjoy a walking tour of beautiful Tiradentes, with its cobblestone streets, historic houses and the lovely baroque architecture of its numerous churches. Framed by the São Jose Mountain Range, the city is one of Brazil’s finest colonial beauties. Spend the afternoon exploring hiking trails in the surrounding hills at your leisure.

Day 22 Tiradentes/Rio de Janeiro

Travel to Rio de Janeiro, one of Brazil’s most iconic cities. Transfer to your hotel and prepare to experience the city’s vibrant energy.

Day 23 Rio de Janeiro

Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado Mountain, offering panoramic views of the city. Explore the bohemian district of Santa Teresa and it’s Selaron Steps, known for its colourful houses and artistic atmosphere.

Day 24 Rio de Janeiro

Visit the Rio Cathedral, a stunning example of modern architecture. Take a cable car ride to Sugar Loaf Mountain for breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay and the city.

Day 25 Rio de Janeiro/Paraty

Depart this morning for the UNESCO Heritage listed colonial gem, Paraty, located on the stunning Angra do Reis Bay and framed by the Atlantic Rainforest. Spend the afternoon exploring its cobbled streets and admiring pastel-hued architecture.