South Colombia: Bogota, Tatacoa, San Agustin, Ipiales and Cali
A 14-day cultural immersion in southern Colombia, from Bogotá and La Candelaria to Mercado de Paloquemao, Tatacoa Desert, San Agustín Archaeological Park, La Laguna de la Cocha and Cali. Nights in Bogotá, Neiva, Villavieja / Tatacoa, San Agustín, Mocoa, La Laguna de la Cocha, Pasto, Popayán and Cali.
The journey at a glance
Following the route
The journey moves gradually through 5 chapters.
Route shown schematically for orientation.
Detailed Itinerary
Bogota Airport - Bogotá Metropolitan Area
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Transfer Bogota Airport –> Overnight at Hotel in Bogotá historic centre (TBD)
A road transfer from Bogota airport to a hotel in the city's historic centre, crossing the capital to the colonial quarter around La Candelaria.
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Overnight at Hotel in Bogotá historic centre (TBD)
A hotel in Bogota's historic centre, within walking distance of the colonial streets, squares and markets of La Candelaria.
Bogotá Downtown
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Guided Bogotá Market and La Candelaria Walk
Spend a guided day in Bogotá's markets and La Candelaria. Taste local products, then follow colourful houses, colonial architecture, Plaza Bolívar, and the civic landmarks surrounding it, including the Capitol, City Hall, Palace of Justice, Catedral Primada, and Casa Nariño.
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Museo del Oro Visit
Explore the Museo del Oro, whose collection of pre-Columbian gold objects offers a direct encounter with the artistry and symbolism of Colombia's earlier cultures. The museum houses the world's largest collection of its kind.
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Fundación Botero Cultural Visit
Visit Fundación Botero in Bogotá to see Fernando Botero's paintings and rounded sculptures alongside works from his private collection, including pieces by Picasso and Braque. It is a thoughtful introduction to Colombia through one of its best-known artists.
Bogotá Metropolitan Area - Bogota Airport - Neiva
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Paloquemao Market Visit
Visit Bogotá’s Mercado de Paloquemao, a working food market where stalls of tropical fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and local ingredients offer a direct introduction to the city’s everyday culinary life. Take time to browse the market’s colours, aromas, and conversations, with any tastings or purchases depending on the day’s availability.
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Optional Monserrate Ascent
Ascend Monserrate by funicular or cable car to 3,152 metres above Bogotá. The summit combines wide views over the capital and its surroundings with an important place of pilgrimage for residents and visitors.
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Transfer Overnight at Hotel in Bogotá historic centre (TBD) –> Bogota Airport
A road transfer from Bogota's historic centre across the city to the airport, timed around a domestic departure.
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Transfer Bogota Airport –> Neiva
A domestic flight from Bogota airport south to Neiva, the city that serves as the arrival point for the Tatacoa Desert.
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Overnight at Hotel in Neiva (TBD)
Spend the final night in Colombia at the Neiva hotel before the flight to Bogotá. The source confirms one night but not the property or amenities.
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Transfer Neiva –> Overnight at Hotel in Neiva (TBD)
A short road transfer in Neiva from the arrival point of the flight to the hotel.
Neiva - Tatacoa Desert - San Agustin
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Road Transfer from Neiva to the Tatacoa Desert
Continue by road for about an hour from Neiva into the Tatacoa Desert. The landscape changes quickly toward arid red and gray earth, eroded canyons, and distinctive rock formations.
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Tatacoa Desert: Cuzco Red-Ochre Desert and Los Hoyos
The Desierto de la Tatacoa is a dry tropical forest of sandy red and grey formations dotted with candelabra cacti; Cuzco's red-ochre desert leads to the whites and greys of Los Hoyos, where a spring-fed pool offers a swim.
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Overnight at Rustic Posada in Villavieja / Tatacoa (TBD)
A rustic posada in the Tatacoa Desert near Villavieja, the village that serves as the gateway to this dry tropical forest.
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Transfer Tatacoa Desert –> San Agustin
A road transfer from the Tatacoa Desert to San Agustín, climbing from dry tropical forest into the Andean highlands of southern Colombia.
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Overnight at Hotel in San Agustín (TBD)
Spend the first of two nights in San Agustín near the archaeological park. The property remains a generic source placeholder.
San Agustin
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San Agustín Archaeological Park Visit
At San Agustín Archaeological Park, we follow a distinct cultural visit block from the published route. Local-guided archaeological visit; birding is incidental and the stated focus is cultural. The exact timing and access remain flexible with local conditions.
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Horseback Ride to La Pelota Statues and La Chaquira Viewpoint
A horseback ride through the countryside around San Agustín to La Pelota, where naturally dyed statues remain in the landscape, and on to La Chaquira for a view over the Magdalena River Valley.
San Agustin - Sombrillero rafting put-in
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Transfer San Agustin –> Sombrillero rafting put-in
A short road transfer from San Agustín to nearby Sombrillero, the starting point for the Magdalena River rafting section.
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Magdalena River Whitewater Rafting from Sombrillero to Versailles
An 11 km (7 mile) whitewater run on the Magdalena River from Sombrillero to Versailles, navigating Class II and III rapids through a deep canyon.
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Transfer Sombrillero rafting put-in –> San Agustin
A road transfer from Versailles back to San Agustín through the canyon country of the Magdalena River.
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Coffee Plantation Tour near San Agustín
A visit to a coffee plantation outside San Agustín, where the process is explained from bean picking through to tasting.
San Agustin - Mocoa - Villagarzón
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Transfer San Agustin –> Mocoa
A road transfer southwest from San Agustín to Mocoa, about three hours away at the edge of the Amazon rainforest.
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Overnight at Hotel in Mocoa (TBD)
A hotel in Mocoa, a warm town at the Amazon edge of the southern Colombian Andes, used as a base for the surrounding foothills.
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Transfer Mocoa –> Villagarzón
A short road transfer from Mocoa to the nearby village of Villagarzón, in the foothills on the Amazon side of the Andes.
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Hike along the Dantayaca River to the Fin del Mundo Waterfall
A four-hour walk from Villagarzón through lush vegetation toward the Dantayaca River, passing natural pools and waterfalls that invite a swim, and ending at the 230 ft (70 m) Fin del Mundo waterfall.
Mocoa - La Laguna de la Cocha - Sibundoy
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Transfer Mocoa –> La Laguna de la Cocha
An 86-mile (138 km) drive on winding road from Mocoa to La Laguna de la Cocha, with wide views along the way.
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Inga and Kamsa Handicraft Workshops
Handicraft workshops of the Inga and Kamsa Indigenous communities, which can be joined in the villages of San Francisco, Sibundoy, Colón and Santiago.
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Overnight at Hotel on La Laguna de la Cocha (TBD)
Accommodation on the shore of La Laguna de la Cocha, a high Andean lake at 8,793 ft (2,680 m) known as 'The Switzerland of Colombia'.
La Laguna de la Cocha - Ipiales - Suan Juan de Pasto
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Canoe Paddle to Isla de la Corota Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
A canoe crossing on La Laguna de la Cocha to the Isla de la Corota Flora and Fauna Sanctuary at the centre of the lake, where a walk around the island looks for tropical birds in the dense greenery.
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Transfer La Laguna de la Cocha –> Ipiales
A road transfer from La Laguna de la Cocha to Ipiales, close to the Ecuadorian border in the far south of Colombia.
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Las Lajas Sanctuary Visit
The La Lajas Sanctuary is a Gothic Revival basilica built on a bridge over a canyon 328 ft (100 m) above the river, six miles (10 km) from the Ecuadorian border.
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Transfer Ipiales –> Suan Juan de Pasto
A road transfer from Ipiales north to Pasto, crossing the high Andes of southern Colombia.
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Overnight at Hotel in Pasto (TBD)
A hotel in Pasto, one of the main cities of southern Colombia and a practical overnight stop between the Ecuadorian border and the Popayán highlands.
Suan Juan de Pasto - Popayán
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Transfer Suan Juan de Pasto –> Popayán
A road transfer from Pasto north to Popayán, covering the mountain drive between the two Andean cities.
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Popayán Guided City Tour
A guided walk through Popayán, the 'White City' of whitewashed colonial buildings, taking in the cloisters of San Francisco, Caldas Park, the sundial, the Humilladero Bridge and the Guillermo Valencia theatre, with museums as an option.
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Overnight at Hotel in Popayán (TBD)
Spend the night in Popayán before the long transfer into the Magdalena River Valley. The property remains a generic source placeholder.
Popayán
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Transfer Popayán –> Puracé National Natural Park
A road transfer from Popayán up into the Puracé National Natural Park, a mountainous area of volcanoes, lakes and páramo.
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Puracé National Natural Park: Volcanoes, Lakes and Frailejones Páramo
The Puracé National Natural Park is a mountainous area of volcanoes, lakes and frailejones plants within the páramo ecosystem.
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Termales de San Juan Hot Springs
The Termales de San Juan are sulfurous hot springs with colourful waters, reached in the village of Puracé.
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Bedón River Waterfall, Laguna San Rafael and San Nicolás Waterfall
A circuit of the park's water features: the Bedón River waterfall, Laguna San Rafael and the San Nicolás waterfall, set among páramo vegetation.
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Piedra del Cóndor
The Piedra del Cóndor, or Condor Stone, is an optional stop within the Puracé National Natural Park, visited when time allows.
Popayán - Silvia - Cali
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Transfer Popayán –> Silvia
An early road transfer from Popayán north to Silvia, a small town in the Andean countryside.
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Silvia Indigenous Market
On market day, Silvia fills with Indigenous communities from the surrounding region who come together to trade; the market is also a good spot for souvenirs.
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Transfer Silvia –> Cali
A road transfer from Silvia north to Cali, leaving the Andean highlands for the warmer valley city.
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Overnight at Hotel in Cali (TBD)
Spend one night in Cali after the salsa evening. The hotel name and exact location remain to be confirmed.
Cali
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Cali Historic District and Cristo Rey Guided Tour
A guided tour of modern Cali that begins in the historic district and goes up to Cristo Rey for views over the city.
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Chapel of San Antonio
The Chapel of San Antonio is a small historic chapel in Cali, one of the sights of the city's historic district.
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Cali Salsa 101 Class
Join a late-afternoon salsa 101 class and let a local teacher introduce the rhythm that shapes Cali's evenings. The class is a social introduction rather than a performance, so beginners can take it at their own pace.
Cali - Cali Airport
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Transfer from Cali to Cali Airport
Price Details
Our tour prices are based on a tiered pricing model. more guests = lower price, per person. That means the prices go down on a per-person basis as more people book onto a specific tour departure.
Price Base
- Price for 2 people: 9.295 USD (664 USD / day)
- Price for 3 to 4 people: 8.095 USD (578 USD / day)
- Price for 5 to 6 people: 6.495 USD (464 USD / day)
- Price for 7 to 8 people: 5.595 USD (400 USD / day)
** Prices are based on double occupancy / twin share basis.
Included
- Hotels mentioned in the program
i
Hotels mentioned in the program- Overnight at Hotel in Bogotá historic centre (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Hotel in Neiva (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Rustic Posada in Villavieja / Tatacoa (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Hotel in San Agustín (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Hotel in Mocoa (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Hotel on La Laguna de la Cocha (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Hotel in Pasto (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Hotel in Popayán (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Overnight at Hotel in Cali (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Transportation in comfortable vehicles (Car / Van)
- 1 cocktail before dinner
- Water is included
- Professional photographic guidance & instruction by Tristan Quevilly
- Preparation Meeting (Pre-trip briefing and final Q&A session held via Zoom)
- 1h skype session of photo editing in Lightroom or Photoshop
- Restaurant gratuities / tips
- Pre-trip planning assistance
- Detailed trip notes with practical information and cultural insights
- Access to Remote Expeditions custom travel app
Not Included
- Breakfast on day 2, day 3, day 4, day 5, day 6, day 7, day 8, day 9, day 10, day 11, day 12, day 13 and Departure day, Lunch on Arrival day, day 2, day 3, day 4, day 5, day 6, day 7, day 8, day 9, day 10, day 11, day 12, day 13 and Departure day, Dinner on Arrival day, day 2, day 3, day 4, day 5, day 6, day 7, day 8, day 9, day 10, day 11, day 12 and day 13
- Tips
- International flights
- Travel, Medical & Cancellation insurance
- Additional drinks and meals
- Expenses not specified in the program
- Camera Equipment
Deposit
- 30% (1.949 USD approx)
Payment Options
- Bank Transfer (Recommended): Free
- Credit / Debit Card: Secure payment via Revolut. A 3% processing fee applies.
Booking Conditions
- Deposit: 30% to secure your booking
- Final payment: Due 90 days before departure
- Cancellation more than 90 days before departure: Deposit retained as a 4-year travel credit
- Read the full Terms & Conditions ↗
Services to Expect
Road Transfers, Domestic Flight and Local Guides
This journey combines road travel through southern Colombia with a domestic flight from Bogotá to Neiva. Some transfers are long and winding as the route crosses the Andes, while local guides add context during archaeological, cultural and nature visits. The schedule is designed around the route’s geography, so travel days are part of the experience rather than gaps between activities.
Practical Information
An Active Journey with Varied Travel Days
Expect a varied, active programme rather than a purely sightseeing holiday. The itinerary includes guided city walks, a horseback ride, a four-hour waterfall hike, canoeing, whitewater rafting and excursions in high Andean terrain, alongside several substantial road transfers. Comfortable walking on uneven ground and a flexible attitude towards changing conditions will help you enjoy the route.
Altitude, Climate and Changing Landscapes
The route moves between Bogotá’s highland setting, the dry heat of Tatacoa, the warmer foothills around Mocoa, La Laguna de la Cocha at about 2,680 metres, the Puracé páramo and Cali’s warmer valley. Conditions can change noticeably during a single day, so allow time for slower movement at altitude and be ready for both sun and mountain rain.
Cultural Encounters and Flexible Timing
The journey includes markets, museums, archaeological places, Indigenous craft workshops and a salsa class, each with its own rhythm and etiquette. Visits to Inga and Kamsa artisans and Silvia’s Indigenous market are opportunities to observe and engage respectfully, not performances guaranteed on demand. Opening hours, weather, road conditions and local activity may require the order or timing of visits to change.
Layers, Walking Shoes and Rain Protection
Pack comfortable shoes with good grip for colonial streets, archaeological sites, trails and uneven ground. Lightweight layers will help across Bogotá, Tatacoa, the warmer Mocoa area and the cool highlands around La Cocha and Puracé. Include sun protection, a waterproof jacket, insect protection, a small daypack and reliable protection for camera or personal electronics.
Detailed Trip Notes, including practical tips, cultural insights, and a complete packing list will be sent to you 60 days before departure.
Booking this tour means you agree to our full Terms and Conditions. Below is a summary of the key points. As life is unpredictable, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.
- Deposit: A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking. This deposit is refundable for 7 days (less transaction fees), after which it becomes a non-refundable credit, transferable to a future tour offered by Remote Expeditions within 4 years of the cancellation date, less any non-recoverable costs already paid on your behalf.
- Final Payment: The remaining balance is due 90 days before the tour begins.
- Cancellation more than 90 days before departure: You will receive a full refund of any payments made, except for the 30% deposit. Your deposit will be converted into a travel credit valid for 4 years on a future tour Remote Expeditions.
- Cancellation within 90 days of departure: 100% of the tour price is forfeited. There are no refunds or credits.
* This is a summary only. Please read our complete
Terms and Conditions
for full details before booking.
** We strongly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events.
A few kind words
Colombia Photography Tour 2026
Top notch photographic experience for enthusiasts of nature, culture, and portraits. Tristan is well connected to the area and the local communities with a specialty in indigenous tribes and less-visited areas. Additionally, he is an excellent teacher and will provide incredibly helpful instruction on exposure, lighting, and composition. Our tour was incredibly well organized and ran on time, with full days of photography. I fully recommend Remote Expeditions for your photographic travels!
You are in good hands with Tristan!
Tristan does an amazing job at putting together a culturally rich experience. He also does a great job at adapting to his clients needs and interests. He responds well to feedback. He is both professional and personable. I feel as though I had the opportunity not only to photograph many different elements of Colombia, but that I truly experienced the country and its culture. Our adventure took us from birding in the mountains outside of Cali, to visiting remote indigenous tribes, to visiting active fishing villages, to learning about local and historical musicians and customs, to beautiful settings in the mountains and along the seashore.
I give Tristan the highest recommendation as a guide for Colombia.
Colombia Birding Tour
I visited Colombia with Tristan of Remote Expeditions and would highly recommend him. He put together a wonderful itinerary with great knowledge of the areas and attention to details to give us a wonderful sampling of the country. He is personally very gentle and fun by nature and you will return home feeling very happy and satisfied. Whatever your special interest is, I’m sure he can make an itinerary to exceed your goals.
The difference is in the details
Journeys shaped by experience
Every route is built from time spent in the field: knowing when to linger, when to move on, and which small details are worth noticing.
Room for the unexpected
The best moments are not always on the itinerary. We leave enough flexibility to follow a good conversation, an unusual sighting, or a changing landscape.
Local relationships that open doors
Our journeys are grounded in long-term relationships with people who know their home intimately and are proud to share it in their own way.
A small group, properly looked after
With only a few travellers, decisions remain personal. We can adapt the pace, answer questions, and make sure everyone feels part of the journey.
Your Tour Guide
Tristan Quevilly
Since my first transformative visit in 2005, Colombia has held a special place in my heart. I returned to build a life here for 10 years, managing and leading tours which allowed me unparalleled access and deep exploration across the country. My expertise is particularly strong in the stunning Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where I've cultivated relationships and understanding with the land and its indigenous Kogi communities. My photography tours are born from this passion and extensive insider knowledge, offering you a unique opportunity to authentically capture the vibrant spirit and hidden beauty of Colombia.
- Nationality: French
- Languages: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese
- Guiding since: 2003
- Specialties: Photography, Trekking, Indigenous Communities
Extend your journey
Optional extensions and add-ons you may consider for your trip. Each can be added to your itinerary on request — just let me know.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most Remote Expeditions journeys are arranged privately, so the pace and rhythm can be shaped around the people travelling together. When a scheduled group departure is offered, it is typically limited to four or five travellers.
No. Photography is one of the ways we observe and connect with a place, but it is not a requirement. Our journeys also welcome travellers drawn to slow travel, wildlife, culture, trekking, landscapes, and genuine encounters. You can join with professional equipment, a simple camera, or just your curiosity.
Every itinerary has its own rhythm. Some journeys are gently paced, while others include long walks, trekking, uneven terrain, altitude, or substantial travel days. The practical details on each tour page explain the expected walking, terrain, altitude, distances, and overall physical level so you can decide whether the journey suits you.
Tristan designs the itineraries and personally leads many Remote Expeditions journeys. Depending on the destination and the character of the trip, trusted local guides, drivers, cultural hosts, or specialist leaders may also join part of the route. This combination gives you direct personal support alongside local knowledge.
Often, yes. Private journeys can usually be shaped around your interests, pace, and available time. Fixed group departures have a defined route and dates, but it may still be possible to arrange additional nights, private extensions, or other travel before or after the main journey. Tell us what you have in mind and we will explain what is practical.
