A bit more feedback on each place:

Bogota – probably our least favourite out of all the places visited. The Salt Cathedral was very impressive and unexpected, but not much else of huge interest in Bogota itself I feel. Cesar the guide was excellent and very knowledgeable and the insight he gave to the history of Bogota and Colombia in general certainly helped set the tone for the rest of the trip. Being in Plaza Bolivar filled with hundreds of Venezuelans excitedly waiting for the election results was an interesting experience for all!

Cocora Valley – great hotel, with very friendly, helpful staff. The hike was great, spectacular views and not another soul in sight. The trip to the coffee farm was fabulous – the meal when we arrived at their very welcoming home was a definite highlight! Great tour of the farm and an incredible story told by Carlos of his encounters with the guerillas.  The bike ride was great – but much harder work than we expected!! Some of the climbs were pretty full on and we were glad the Willy Jeep was there to back us up! Ziplining and chocolate farm also both big hits.

Medellin – for us, the absolute no. 1 highlight of the trip. With the soundtrack of our guide Pablo beautifully interlacing the history of the city into each place we visited, we were blown away by the journey Medellin has been on – and, more importantly, where it is now and where it’s heading. The trip to Comuna 13 was simply breathtaking – and actually quite emotional. We sat on the steps and were transfixed as Pablo described the tragic events which had unfolded on these very streets within our kids’ lifetimes.

To see what the people of this neighbourhood have now turned the area into is jaw-droppingly inspirational. To his total credit, Pablo decided to switch the itineraries of the two main days to avoid traffic issues – which worked a treat and we avoided huge queues at Guatape and at the rock.

Tayrona – wonderful couple of days spent here. Really enjoyed the jungle trek – not a huge amount of wildlife found and very, very hot – but the dip in the sea and lunch worked its magic for the return trip. The tubing was good fun – if slightly more sedate/lazy river than we imagined!

Cartagena – guided around by the magnificent Sandra, who really looked after us well, we especially enjoyed the market visit, buying all the foods to then prepare in the local way and subsequently eat! The drum workshop on the return trip was a fantastic experience and really pleased we did that having missed out on the Foundation in Medellin. Sandra also suggested a couple of great restaurants to us.

I was quite surprised how modern much of the country is, with clearly huge investment going into the infrastructure and building of homes, schools and so on. There are obviously areas with extreme poverty, more visible in the north and coastal areas, but much less than I anticipated. The people were very warm and friendly and were extremely keen for us to spread positive vibes on their country on our return home – which we were all more than happy to do!

Thank you Stubborn Mule!

Cartegena – very short stay but really enjoyed the old town.

Your colleagues Diana and Rhonda were both amazing, always in contact and sorting bits and bobs out along the way. Please let them know how much we appreciated it.

Once again a huge thank you for organising a wonderful family adventure. I always recommend you guys to anyone who is looking to travel and see the world with their children. We have the best memories from our trips and wouldn’t change them for anything.

Now for a very quick breakdown.

Bogota – Not for the faint-hearted. Inexperienced travellers may struggle.  Hotel was brilliant. Location 10/10. Guide great.  Waterfall trip very good.  The next day whilst enjoyable was a long drive.  It was a 7/10 day but bearing in mind how great the rest was I wish we did an extra day in Medellin. Enjoyed the gold museum.

Medellin – At this point must praise Avianca. All flights on time and good service. Paragliding brilliant. City tour fantastic and location of the hotel superb.  Medellin is the most progressive city I have been to in the last 20 years.   

Santa Marta – Not there long enough to enjoy but great hotel and good vibe in town.  Need to be aware at night. 

Lost City Trek – really enjoyed it.

Tyrona – Great hotel a nice bit of R+R after trek, good food in hotel.  

Cartagena – Fantastic hotel.  Wouldn’t want to be there when a boat docks but great place.  Fort very interesting.

The island – 2-hour speed boat journey was comfortable and the accommodation great. Food good, very relaxing.  Music is banned!!!

A shout-out to your local partner.  All guides/drivers excellent.

That’s about it.  Definitely matched (which were high) / exceeded our expectations.