Pirates, Dolphins & Mud Volcanoes Tour Itinerary

Pirates, Dolphins & Mud Volcanoes Tour Itinerary
REF: SAFC1
VERSION: 3

Duration:	10 days - Bogota to Cartagena
Countries Visited:	Colombia
Age Guide:	Child 5-11 years Adult 12-65 years
Max Group Size:	16
Transport:	Private Vehicle, Funicular Railway, Horseback, Plane, Boat, On Foot
Accommodation:	Hotels (9 Nights)
What's Included:	9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner - All Activities and Entrance Fees as per Itinerary - Escorted Tour - English Speaking Local Guide - Domestic Flight Bogota to Santa Marta - Arrival Transfer - Panaca Park - Day Trip to Tayrona National Park - Snorkelling Caribbean Sea - Island Boat Trip with Aquarium Visit - Mud Volcano
Local Payment:	NO LOCAL PAYMENT
Highlights:	Colombia - Bogota City Tour - Gold Museum - Panaca Park - Boyaca Bridge - Villa de Leyva - Horseback Ride - Ostrich Farm - Fossil Museum - La Raquira Village - Santa Marta - Tayrona National Park - Canaveral Beach - Tropical Forest Walk - Arrecife Beach - Snorkelling Caribbean Sea - Cartagena - San Felipe Castle - La Popa Monastery - Rosario Islands Boat Trip - Pirate Island - San Martin Island Aquarium - Performing Dolphins - Mud Volcano
Optional Highlights:	Colombia - Horse/Mule at Tayrona National Park
Meeting Point:	Hotel Casa de la Botica Calle 9 # 6-45 La Candelaria Bogota Colombia Tel: +57 1 2810811
Introduction:	This action-packed Colombia family adventure tour takes you from the capital city of Colombia, Bogota to the beautiful town of Cartagena on the Caribbean Coast. Our Bogota City Tour includes the Plaza de Bolivar and Gold Museum, and a ride on the funicular railway to the top of Monserrate Hill. We drive to Panacar Park to learn about the agriculture of the area and life in the countryside, and then stay in the beautiful colonial village of Villa de Leyva, where we visit an Ostrich farm, Fossil Museum and take a horse ride in the desert. From Santa Marta we take a day tip to Tayrona National Park to explore the beaches and tropical forest, and we snorkel with certified instructors learning about the fish of the Caribbean. Next stop the UNESCO listed city of Cartagena – with its beautiful colonial architecture set within the old city walls and where we will also discover the castle of San Felipe. From Cartagena we explore the Rosario Islands, to swim off the islands beaches, visit the aquarium to see its performing dolphins and sharks, and explore Pirate Island. We also visit the Mud Volcano for a volcanic mud bath, before offering you free time in Cartagena to enjoy this amazing city at your own pace. Please note that bookings may incur a supplement for the included flight to Santa Marta depending on flight availability at time of booking.
Day 1:	Bogota. There will be a pre-departure meeting at 6pm in the joining hotel where you get to meet your guide and the rest of the group. After the meeting, dinner is included. An arrival transfer is included, so please ensure that you have provided us with your flight details, to enable us to organise this transfer. (D)
Day 2:	Bogota. After breakfast we have a guided visit to the Colombian capital. The City Tour includes the Plaza de Bolívar (the city’s main square) and government buildings situated around it, La Candelaria (the old colonial part of town), the Church of San Francisco, and the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum). Then we take a trip in the funicular railway to the top of Monserrate, the best-known of the mountains that forms the eastern boundary of this city. Monserrate is at 3190m, and on a clear day, offers amazing views across the entire city. After the City Tour, we leave Bogotá via the Northern Expressway to get to the Panaca Park, to learn all about life in the countryside in Colombia. There are many varieties of horses, cattle and many other animals. We return to our hotel in Bogotá for the night. (B)
Day 3:	Bogota - Villa de Leyva. After an early breakfast, we leave Bogotá via the Northern Expressway towards Tunja. After about 2 hours, we arrive at the most important monument in Colombian history: the “Boyacá Bridge”. It was over this bridge that Simón Bolívar fought and won his most decisive battle against Spanish settlers in 1819. This battle paved the way for Colombian independence. The trip continues on to Tunja, capital city of the department of Boyaca. This was one of the first cities to be established by the Spaniards in Latin America, yet one that time forgot. After a one-hour stop in Tunja we continue on to Villa de Leyva, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved colonial villages in South America. In the afternoon we take a horseback ride visiting the desert and the Marine Bottom, the blue well with bath option.We also visit the Museum El Fósil (kronosaur), a 150 million year old, 7 metre, marine fossil that is housed in a museum built around the fossil, and then the ostrich farm. (B)
Day 4:	Villa de Leyva - Santa Marta. The morning is entirely your own to stroll around and enjoy the town at your leisure or enjoy time at the hotel. In the afternoon we begin the return trip, first through La Ráquira, a village of quaint and colourful small houses, famous for its pottery and ceramics; and then through the pilgrimage location of Chiquinquirá on route to Bogota´s Airport to take the flight to Santa Marta. On arrival in Santa Marta we transfer to our hotel. (B)
Day 5:	Tayrona National Park. After breakfast we have a full day excursion to the Tayrona National Park. After leaving Santa Marta we go east along the Caribbean coast till El Zaino, the main entrance to Tayrona Park and 1 hour away from Santa Marta. After another minutes drive, we arrive at Cañaveral beach, one of the wildest and at the same time most beautiful spots in Tayrona Park. From the top of a small hill we will be able to have a spectacular view of the Atlantic Coast. Following this a 1-hour trek through the tropical forest to Arrecife, another of Tayrona Park’s marvellous beaches (The trekking is not really that difficult but it takes 1 hour each way. For those that do not want to walk, donkeys or mules are available to hire at a cost of approximately US$20 per person). We have time for lunch (included), and to swim and relax. We return to Santa Marta to our hotel for the night. (B,L)
Day 6:	Santa Marta. After breakfast, we transfer to the pier to take a boat to one of the best beaches to snorkel with certificated instructors. This is the perfect time to learn about fish, snorkel and enjoy the Caribbean sea on a boat!. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy the city or the beach. (B)
Day 7:	Santa Marta - Cartagena. We depart Santa Marta driving along the northern coastline to our hotel in Cartagena, the journey taking approximately 4 hours. Cartagena is undoubtedly the jewel in Colombia’s crown and deservedly a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a delightful place to stroll around, packed with well-preserved colonial charm, tiled roofs, pretty balconies and flower-filled courtyards. After checking into our hotel we will enjoy a guided tour of the city paying particular attention to El Laguito, Bocagrande, and the old sector of the city, as well as San Felipe Castle, and La Popa Monastery. A defensive wall surrounds the old city, which overlooks the sea and its well-preserved colonial architecture makes Cartagena deserving of the title UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our trip includes a visit to the modern El Laguito and Bocagrande districts before returning to the old city. We tour the old city, with extensive visits to the most important historical sites and buildings. Next, we visit “San Felipe Castle”, and “La Popa” monastery. (B)
Day 8:	Cartagena - El Rosario Islands. A full day in the Caribbean Sea! After breakfast, we transfer from the hotel to the "Muelle de los Pegasos" pier where we board our speedboat and head across the Bay of Cartagena, passing through Bocachica and skirting the north coast of Baru Island towards El Rosario Islands, an archipelago of 27 small, coral islands, recently declared a National Park. Our first stop is the idyllic crystal clear waters at Cholon Beach, continuing on to Pirate Island. On arrival, a welcome coffee break and then time to swim or relax on the small island. After a traditional lunch (included), our trip continues to San Martín Island, and a visit to the aquarium with a chance to see performing dolphins and sharks. After this we begin the return trip to Pirate Island where once again, there will be time to relax or swim. We return to Cartagena, and on arrival at the pier end, transfer to hotel. (Please note that trip will be conducted in the company of an international group of tourists, under the supervision of a bilingual guide). (B,L)
Day 9:	Cartagena - Totumo Mud Volcano. After breakfast, we take a morning trip to nearby Totumo. At only 50 feet high, there is easy access to the crater where you can immerse yourself into liquid mud and experience one the weirdest sensations ever! It's probably the closest you will ever come to feeling weightlessness. Due to the rising mud from below, it is impossible to sink, so floating is easy, and perfect to relax and let the bubbling mud perform its therapeutic massage. Afterwards there is a nearby lake to wash off the mud before we head back to Cartagena for a free afternoon at your own leisure. (B)
Day 10:	Cartagena. The tour ends after breakfast.
Finishing Point:	Hotel Caribe Cra. 1a No 2-87 Bocagrande Cartagena Colombia Tel: +57 5 650 1160
Please Note:	Please be aware that arrival times and the itinerary may change due to unforeseen delays or events such as festivals and public holidays. However, we shall endeavour to ensure all sites are visited and that your tour runs as smoothly as possible but please note that Latin America does not run like clockwork, therefore do not expect the streamlined travel arrangements associated with some other continents. Things do not always go to plan; there will be times when you will need to be patient and philosophical about your travels. Conditions in South America can change rapidly and changes to the itinerary may be necessary. CONTINGENCY FUND: Protests and civil unrest occasionally take place in South America, namely Peru and Bolivia. Occasionally this might mean that we have to fly between two destinations in order to continue the tour. We strongly recommend that you bring along a contingency fund (as a guide we suggest USD300) or a credit card to cover any unexpected additional travel costs that may arise in these circumstances. Be flexible, you will enjoy your tour much more. Kumuka makes a point of visiting the indigenous populations of each country you visit, in order to give a true reflection of the country; please treat the local people and their customs with respect. Lastly, your tour leader is always conscious of everybody's views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.
What's Not Included:	All optional excursions and meals unless otherwise stated in the itinerary, drinks, visas, tipping, pre-tour and post-tour accommodation.

Pre Departure Information Follows


Pre-Departure Meeting:	The Pre-Departure meeting is held at 6pm THE DAY of the scheduled departure date. The pre-departure meeting is held to discuss the tour itinerary in more detail, meet your crew and fellow passengers. In each departure city we have named a joining hotel from where the tour will leave. It is your responsibility to make your way to this hotel. Your Tour Leader will leave a notice at reception on the first day of departure with information as to where he/she can be contacted and you should inform him/her that you have arrived. PLEASE ADVISE KUMUKA OR YOUR AGENT IF YOU WILL BE ARRIVING LATE AND ARE THEREFORE UNABLE TO ATTEND THE PRE-DEPARTURE MEETING. In addition the crew will check that all passengers have the necessary travel documents, insurance and immunization certificates for the tour. It is IMPORTANT that you attend this meeting. Please advise KUMUKA or your AGENT if you CANNOT attend this meeting. All passengers MUST bring: 1. Passport. 2. Vaccination Certificate. 3. Travel Voucher. 4. Travel Insurance Policy.
Insurance:	Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours. All clients MUST be insured to cover personal accident, medical expenses, cancellation, curtailment, repatriation, etc. Also, be aware that many activities such as trekking, bungy jumping or white water rafting may not be covered on your insurance policy. If you plan on doing any of these activities please purchase additional insurance. We recommend that you have a photocopy of this document, which you keep separate from the original. If you have not already arranged your own travel insurance then Kumuka can do this for you. Please visit http://www.kumuka.com/Travel-Insurance.aspx for more details or contact your nearest Kumuka office. Please Note: You will not be permitted to join a Kumuka Tour without travel insurance.
Passport:	Your passport is a valuable document and you should exercise extreme care in keeping it safe. We recommend that when possible you keep your passport in a deposit box at your hotel, or kept on you, preferably in a money belt that is worn under your clothing. It must be valid for at least six months after the end of your tour and it must have at least one blank page for each visa required. We advise that you take copies of relevant pages in your passport and any visas that you may purchase in case of loss or damage. Alternatively, you can scan copies of these pages and email them to yourself.
Visa Requirements	It is important that you obtain the appropriate visas before you embark on your South America trip. Country entry regulations change daily, www.kumuka.com provides visa information. Please consult your Travel Agent or relevant embassy for all details such as opening hours or costs. EACH CLIENT IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING ALL NECESSARY VISAS BEFORE JOINING A TOUR. Kumuka does not accept responsibility for changes in regulations or requirements for visas. The information provided is given in good faith.
Departure Tax:	Passengers leaving Colombia on international flights are charged a boarding tax not included in their plane tickets. The amount is approximately US$30 and can be paid in local currency. Please be aware that the amount is subject to change.
Medical Information & Vaccinations:	Compulsory Inoculations: Yellow Fever for Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay and Peru but ONLY if arriving from an infected area. Recommended Inoculations: Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Tetanus and Polio. We also recommend: A dental check-up prior to travelling and that you know your blood group in case of emergency. Medical Supplies: We advise that all passengers bring along their own personal first aid kit. Below is a list of some recommended items: Band Aids/Bandages, Laxatives, Upset stomach remedy, Anti-diarrhoea remedy, Panadol/Aspirin, Rehydration remedy, Antiseptic cream/powder, Sterile dressing, Any relevant course of medication such as contraceptive pills. A complete Travellers Medical Pack can be purchased for approximately US$25 at most Vaccination Centres, Chemists and outdoor travel shops.
Malaria:	Prophylactic tablets are essential in some areas of South America. They are prescribed by your vaccinating doctor and should be taken as directed.
Climate Information	For detailed climate information see www.kumuka.com and click on "Your Travel". Travel Tip: Always bring a lightweight, waterproof jacket and/or an umbrella - this should prepare you for anything!
Security	We recommend that you do not take unnecessary valuables with you. Wearing jewellery and expensive watches will attract attention. A money belt, or something similar, worn close to your body is the best way to carry passports, airline tickets and money. DO NOT leave any valuables in ANY hotel room, please use SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES. Items are left at your own risk. Pickpockets operate everywhere, particularly in tourist areas and in crowded markets; you must always exercise care. Be aware that anything left lying around will also be liable to theft.
Books & Reading Material:	You might like to read up on the destinations that you are about to visit as these cities all have interesting sites and histories. We recommend a variety of guidebooks such as Lonely Planet, The Rough Guide and Footprint Guides. All these publications have good general information as well as more specific country information that will help orientate you in the countries you visit.
Money	We suggest clients budget for between US$25-30 per day for personal expenses, souvenirs, evenings out, alcoholic drinks etc. There will be some days when you spend nothing at all and others when you exceed your budget. Take your money is US dollars only. This the only foreign currency readily exchanged in Latin America. Traveller’s cheques should be AMERICAN EXPRESS. American Express is the most widely accepted. Cash is far easier to exchange than Travelers Cheques, but also more risky as once lost, is irreplaceable. However, we do recommend that you take some US dollars cash in small denominations ($10 and $20). Credit cards are accepted frequently, particularly in the larger cities. They can also be used to get money from ATMs. VISA, MasterCard and American Express are the most widely accepted credit cards, VISA being the most useful.
Optional Activities:	During your tour your Tour Leader and/or Guide will recommend a variety of optional activities operated by carefully selected ground handlers to make your tour even more enjoyable. These ground handlers and activity partners have been chosen for their standards in quality, professional ability and reputation. All optional activities are available at your own expense, and are undertaken at your own risk. Kumuka can not be held responsible for injuries or claims arising from adventurous activities by third party. To start planning and budgeting for any optional activities that you may chose on your tour, please visit: http://www.kumuka.com/South-America-Optional-Activities.aspx IMPORTANT: Some tours depart from the starting city very early on Day 1, therefore you might not have enough time to enjoy the optional activities in that area. Furthermore, some tours end on arrival in the finishing city and your flight may leave early the following morning, therefore leaving no time to partake in any optional activities in that area.
Local Customs:	Please use your discretion and be sensitive to cultural differences in the countries that you visit, in particular when visiting religious buildings and when taking photographs.
Time:	For detailed information see www.timezoneconverter.com or www.timeanddate.com
Language:	Spanish is the language most widely spoken in the countries we visit in Latin America but English is spoken a little bit in the larger cities. In Brazil the main language is Portugese. Other languages you may encounter are; Quechua, spoken in Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador, Amyara spoken in Peru and Bolivia. Welsh is spoken in some of the old Welsh colonies of Argentinean Patagonia, with Guarani spoken in Northern Argentina. The Amazon region of Brazil is also home to many tribal languages, for example, Tupi. You might like to take the time before your trip to read up on the country you will be visiting and perhaps learn a few words of the language. Your effort will always be welcomed and will make your trip all the more enjoyable.
Pre & Post Tour Accommodation:	If you wish to spend a few additional days in your starting or finishing city, then we can arrange accommodation for you. All our accommodation is carefully chosen, conveniently located, clean and comfortable. (All rates per person per night and subject to availability).
Tipping and Bargaining:	For better or for worse, tipping is an accepted part of everyday life and although it is always at your discretion, you will be expected to tip to reward service. As a general guideline, in South America it is customary to tip 10% at restaurants and bars, USD5 to guides, and to leave approximately USD2 tip for the chambermaid and bellboy.
Drug Policy:	Under no circumstances are any illegal drugs allowed on any part of the trip. Anyone discovered in possession of any such drugs, will be asked to leave the tour immediately without question or refund.
Staying in Touch:	Whilst on tour you will probably want to stay in touch with family and friends. There are several ways of doing this: Mobile Phone – Before departing your home country check with your phone supplier to see if it compatible with the mobile phone networks in the countries that you are traveling to, and how much will it cost to use abroad. Email – Internet Cafes are very cheap and popular, and you are sure to come across several during your tour. If you haven’t done so already, set up a free Google Mail, Hotmail, or Yahoo email account which you can then access from any computer. Internet Cafes will charge a nominal fee for using their computers. Within Europe some hotels charge a wifi connection fee and we cannot guarantee a wifi connection at all hotels we use. Twitter – A method of communication that is rapidly gaining in popularity on the Internet especially amongst travelers. Twitter allows you to send short messages and update your friends and family with where you are on tour and what you are doing. Create your free account at http://twitter.com. Visit Kumuka’s page on Twitter at http://twitter.com/kumuka Facebook – Very popular website that allows you to upload stories, get in touch with fellow travellers before and after your Kumuka tour, upload photos and videos to share with other travellers, your family and friends. To create a free account, go to www.facebook.com and then become a fan of Kumuka’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Kumuka-Worldwide/26617121087?ref=ts Postcards – The good ol’ fashioned postcard. But you will probably get home before the postcard does!
Tour Feedback:	Tour Questionnaire - We would like to hear about your experiences on tour. One week after your tour ends you will automatically receive a feedback questionnaire via email. If we do not have your email address you can still complete a questionnaire by visiting www.kumuka.com/feedback Email - If you have any specific comments about your tour then please write to us by email to operations@kumuka.com
Contact Details:	KUMUKA WORLDWIDE UK OFFICE Hillswood Business Park 3000 Hillswood Drive Chertsey KT16 0RS Tel: +4420 7937 8855 Fax: +442075043782 Email: sales@kumuka.com www.kumuka.com AUSTRALIAN OFFICE Level 5, 387 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Tel: 02 9279 0491 Fax: 02 9279 0492 Email: sales@kumuka.com.au www.kumuka.com.au
Map:

This tour is operated by Kumuka Worldwide. Information given in all brochures, leaflets and dossiers is given in good faith by the company, and is based on the latest information available at the date of publication. The company reserves the right to change any of the facilities or vehicles described in the brochure without becoming liable for compensation or refund.

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