2026 Colombia Orchid Adventure: A Journey of Nature and Culture

Join us on an unforgettable 16-day journey through Colombia’s breathtaking landscapes, where nature, culture, and adventure converge. This expertly curated trip is designed for orchid enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a rare opportunity to explore some of Colombia’s most diverse orchid habitats and stunning national reserves. From the highland ecosystems of Chingaza National Park to the misty cloud forests of Yarumal and the orchid-rich reserves near Jardín, you’ll encounter a dazzling array of orchid species—Telipogon, Dracula, Miltoniopsis, Odontoglossum, Pleurothallids, and many more—in both their natural habitats and world-renowned collections.

Beyond orchids, immerse yourself in Colombia’s vibrant culture: marvel at the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, savor panoramic views of Bogotá from Monserrate, and discover the rich history of pre-Columbian gold at Bogotá’s Gold Museum. In Medellín, enjoy the Orchid Show and explore the lush trails of Arví Park. Witness the enchanting display of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock in Jardín and admire the endangered Yellow-Eared Parrot in its natural reserve.

With comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and unique experiences at every turn, this trip is an extraordinary blend of exploration, learning, and beauty that will leave you inspired and enriched. Whether you’re a dedicated orchidophile or a lover of wild places, this adventure promises memories to last a lifetime.

Day 1 – Welcome to Bogotá!

Your Colombian adventure begins in Bogotá, where we’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a warm welcome dinner, sharing the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2 – Highlands and Hidden Treasures

We’ll travel to Chingaza National Park, a highland habitat in the Eastern Andes known for its stunning flora. Here, you’ll discover several orchid species like Telipogon, Cyrtochilum, and Epidendrum, along with unique highland plants such as Espeletia. Our overnight stay is in a cozy country hotel near Guasca.

Day 3 – Mountain Explorers

Our exploration continues as we drive through the scenic towns of Monguetiva and Guatavita, immersing ourselves in the Andean mountain landscapes. Watch for even more orchid species and fascinating Pleurothallids along the way. Another relaxing evening awaits at our charming Guasca retreat.

Day 4 – Reserves and Legends

In the morning, we’ll explore the Encenillo Biological Reserve, where native orchids thrive among the trails. After lunch, we’ll visit the legendary Guatavita Lagoon, nestled in a volcanic crater and surrounded by cloud forests. Legend has it that this lagoon was the inspiration for the myth of El Dorado! We’ll return to Guasca for the night.

Day 5 – Underground Marvels and City Views

We’ll visit the breathtaking Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, a stunning underground church built 200 meters below the surface. After lunch, we’ll head to Bogotá to visit Monserrate, a mountain with panoramic views of the city—perfect for watching the sunset. Dinner at Monserrate rounds off a spectacular day.

Day 6 – Gardens and Gold

In the morning, we’ll visit the Bogotá Botanical Garden, home to Colombia’s rich native flora and the stunning Tropicarium. After lunch, we’ll explore the Gold Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. A second night at our Bogotá hotel follows.

Day 7 – Journey to Yarumal

We’ll fly to Medellín in the morning, then take a scenic drive to Yarumal in the northern central Andes. After a relaxing lunch, we’ll settle into our Yarumal hotel for the night.

Day 8 – Los Magnolios Reserve

Today, we will visit Reserva Los Magnolios, a haven for orchid enthusiasts. Here you’ll find Pleurothallids, Dracula, Houlletia, Miltoniopsis, and other rarities, along with endangered magnolia trees and vibrant bird species. Later, we’ll stop at a bird-watching site for a close-up view of hummingbirds and tanagers. Return to Yarumal for the night.

Day 9 – Cloud Forest Discoveries

Our journey continues to Quebrada El Oro, a foggy mid-elevation forest teeming with orchids and epiphytes. You’ll walk along crystal-clear streams in the same area where many species were discovered by orchid experts Luer & Escobar. We’ll enjoy lunch by the stream before heading back to Medellín.

Day 10 – Coffee Culture and Natural Wonders

We’ll travel to Jardín, a picturesque coffee town in the western Andes, passing by the iconic Cerro Tusa, a pyramid-shaped mountain where we will visit a ceremonial site. In the evening, we’ll witness the mesmerizing courtship display of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock. Overnight at a charming country hotel.

Day 11 – Orchid Reserves

We’ll spend the day exploring two natural reserves: the Reserva Orquídeas of the Colombian Orchid Society and the private forest of La Libertad, both rich in orchid species. Take in the beauty of the local flora and fauna as we walk the trails before returning to our hotel.

Day 12 – Yellow-Eared Parrot Reserve

Our morning takes us to the Yellow-Eared Parrot Reserve, home to this rare and beautiful parrot. We’ll follow the orchid trail and enjoy close encounters with hummingbirds. In the afternoon, we return to Medellín.

Day 13 – Orchid Collections and Nurseries

A special day dedicated to Colombia’s finest orchid collections. We’ll visit Daniel Piedrahita’s collection and the Colomborquideas nursery, renowned for their breathtaking orchid displays. In the evening, relax at our Medellín hotel.

Day 14 – Aerial Views and Orchid Shows

Take a ride on the Metrocable to Arví Park, where we’ll explore forest trails and visit an orchid dome. In the evening, we’ll attend a delightful Orchid Show Dinner at the Medellín Botanical Garden.

Day 15 – Orchid Show and Farewell Dinner

Spend the morning at the Orchid Show, then enjoy a free afternoon to explore Medellín or join an optional tour in the city. In the evening, we’ll gather for a memorable farewell dinner.

Day 16 – Departure

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of Colombia’s orchids, landscapes, and vibrant culture.