Expeditions luxury gastronomy tour: bogota & cartagena

Bogotá is the capital of Colombia. Its name comes from the word "Bacatá", which in the Muiscas's language means "Lady of the Andes," although some say that the real meaning is "field outside of the tillage," and others say this was the recreation city for the Zipa.

It is one of South America's highest cities above sea level, with an altitude of 2,640 meters. Bogota's famous colonial neighbourhood of La Candelaria contains most of the historic sites, museums, ancient churches and central government buildings. Practically every street corner in La Candelaria marks some important event in Colombian history, and most buildings retain their colonial architecture and charm. 

On display at the Gold Museum is the largest collection of gold pieces as well as other artefacts from the pre-Hispanic societies who live in the land today known as Colombia. The gold collection started with one single piece, the poporo quimbaya. Today, more than 55,000 pieces are in the exhibition.

One of the highlights of the museum is the famous Muisca Raft, which depicts the ancient El Dorado ceremony, and intricate jewelry and ceremonial objects. The museum offers a deep insight into the spiritual and cultural significance of gold in pre-Hispanic societies.

Majestically overlooking the city of Bogota, Monserrate Hill is an iconic symbol in Colombia’s capital. A historic white church sits at the top of the mountain, more than 3,152 metres, or 10,341 feet, above sea level. This unique church from the 17th-century houses the statue of El Señor Caído (The Fallen Lord), an object of deep devotion for pilgrims and locals alike. Many visitors make the journey up as an act of faith, especially during Holy Week.

The mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bogotá. The experience combines natural beauty with spiritual reflection and cultural history. At the top, in addition to the sanctuary, you'll find restaurants serving traditional Colombian food, cafes, artisan shops, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

The small town of Zipaquira is famous for its salt mines and for the Salt Cathedral, now built inside the network of monumental chambers and tunnels that were left behind when commercial mining operations ceased.

This cathedral is unlike any other in the world, in terms of its innovative architecture. It was opened in 1995 and represents an eclectic mix of religion and architecture to maximise protection from the ever-present risks of working in a mine. The walk-through Stations of the Cross in the mine are a poignant representation of Jesus' last steps, and they culminate in a three-part cavernous subterranean cathedral.

The salts from the Zipaquirá salt mine, thanks to their mineral components, help relieve overall body tension, muscle contractures, nervous exhaustion, and other conditions commonly caused by stress. They also act as a revitaliser and circulatory regulator, restoring the body’s natural freshness and vitality.

The perfect blend of an exotic setting, aromatherapy, music therapy, and expert masseurs offers an unforgettable experience of rest and relaxation;180 metres underground in a completely natural space at the spa in Zipaquirá.

In this beautiful spot, we invite you to enjoy an extraordinary cooking experience that highlights the essence of organic living and Andean regional cuisine. Our adventure begins with a visit to a charming organic garden, where you’ll learn about cultivating fresh, local ingredients that are key to traditional Colombian dishes.

Guided by a skilled local chef, you’ll prepare the renowned lomo al trapo a time-honored recipe from the Andes. Using high-quality beef, coarse salt, and a cloth wrap, you’ll learn the rustic technique of cooking the meat directly over hot embers, which results in an incredibly juicy and flavorful cut.

As you season, wrap, and roast the meat, you'll gain hands-on insight into this unique method, rooted in Colombia’s countryside traditions. Once the lomo al trapo is ready, you’ll enjoy your meal accompanied by regional sides and refreshing natural drinks, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the Neusa Reservoir.

This culinary journey offers more than just a delicious meal it’s a celebration of the land, its people, and the enduring bond between nature and traditional Andean cooking.

The Neusa Reservoir is one of the most important places for hiking, outdoor activities, and ecotourism near Bogotá. In addition to its recreational value, the reservoir is a crucial water source for Bogotá, Zipaquirá, and several surrounding towns. This protected area boasts an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, making it a true haven for nature lovers. As a site dedicated to natural conservation, it remains a pristine jewel of ecological richness.

To reach the reservoir, you’ll enjoy a scenic hike through the Andean landscape. Along the way, you'll visit an organic garden where we’ll harvest fresh ingredients for a hands-on cooking class. Surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the highland views, it’s the perfect setting to relax and connect with nature.

Leo is one of Bogotá’s most acclaimed and innovative restaurants, led by award-winning chef Leonor Espinosa. Known for her dedication to Colombia’s biodiversity and cultural roots, she has created a unique dining concept called Ciclo-Bioma, which showcases native ingredients from the country’s diverse ecosystems. Each dish is a carefully crafted story that connects guests with remote regions, ancestral traditions, and local communities. The tasting menu is a culinary journey through Colombia’s landscapes, full of bold flavors and artistic presentation. Consistently ranked among The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Leo offers an experience that goes far beyond dining it's a deep exploration of Colombian identity through food.

San Alberto Coffee is one of Colombia’s most awarded and prestigious coffees, known for its exceptional quality and rich flavor profile. Grown in the high-altitude hills of Quindío, it benefits from ideal climate and volcanic soils. Each bean is handpicked through a meticulous “triple selection” process to ensure only the finest are used. The coffee offers a smooth body, bright acidity, and notes of fruit, floral tones, and chocolate. San Alberto controls every step of production, from cultivation to roasting, guaranteeing consistency and excellence. Its unique taste has earned it numerous international awards. The brand also offers immersive coffee experiences at its scenic estate and elegant cafés in Cartagena and Bogotá, making it a true symbol of Colombia’s coffee heritage.

Celele is a renowned restaurant in Cartagena that has earned international acclaim for its innovative approach to Caribbean Colombian cuisine. Founded by chefs Jaime Rodríguez and Sebastián Pinzón, Celele focuses on rescuing ancestral ingredients and culinary traditions from local communities, elevating them to the level of fine dining. Each dish is a creative masterpiece, blending modern techniques with native flavors to deliver a truly unique sensory experience. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and cultural identity has been key to its success. Thanks to this authentic and refined vision, Celele has been featured on the list of Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants and recognized among the world’s best by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the richness of Caribbean flavors in a sophisticated way.

Cartagena de Indias is one of Latin America's most fascinating, romantic, and beautiful colonial cities. Located on the Caribbean coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of history, colourful streets and great people, making it a fairy tale city of romance.

Cartagena is a city of contrast between the old town, the urban area, the beach and the local Afro-Colombian communities that usually live in the coastal zone and have fishing traditions in the sea and in the wetlands that connect sea life with the continental ecosystems. These communities love dancing, playing the drums, eating seafood and playing football on the beach.

Cartagena’s cuisine and the food of Colombia’s Atlantic coast are a vibrant fusion of flavors, colors, and traditions that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. Influenced by Indigenous, African, and Spanish roots, this gastronomy stands out for its use of fresh ingredients such as fish, seafood, tropical fruits, and local spices. Dishes like coconut rice, mote de queso, posta cartagenera, and Caribbean-style ceviches are just a few of the delicious staples that define this coastal cuisine. Each recipe tells a story of heritage and ancestry, prepared with techniques passed down through generations.

This tour will allow you to explore the region’s gastronomy not only by dining at some of the best local restaurants, but also by taking part in an interactive cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes yourself. Dining in this region is an authentic experience full of flavor, tradition, and joy; perfect for travelers looking to connect with culture through the senses.

The Rosario Islands is an idyllic archipelago consisting of about 27 small islands surrounded by coral reefs. The whole area has been declared a natural park in order to preserve and protect the coral reefs and associated ecosystems.  

This national park offers a serene escape with pristine beaches and lush vegetation. Snorkelling and diving are popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and various coral species.

Long recognised as one of the finest Bogota hotels, this stately and urbane jewel of composure and calm is now a signature Four Seasons experience, perfectly placed for business and nestled in the Zona G (for Gastronomy), the destination for the best restaurants in Bogota.

Their landmark 1946 building, designed by Colombian artist-architect Santiago Medina Mejia, boasts some of the most quietly elegant rooms in the city, complete with beamed ceilings, hand-carved wooden furnishings and fireplaces.

In romantic and legendary Cartagena, Sofitel revived the Convent of the Poor Clares, whose story dates back to 1621. Travel back in time in this imposing colonial building and discover the secrets of a hotel where every detail has its own story to tell.

This historic landmark still maintains different historical elements such as crypts, wells, confessionals, paintings, doors, hidden windows and ceramic objects. Transformed into an upscale hotel in 1995, its path toward excellence has seen it considered one of the elites amongst the best hotels in the world.

Its bright rooms have free WiFi and flat screens. Some offer wood-beam ceilings, balconies, sea views and butler services. Refined suites add sitting areas or living rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows.