C O L O M B I A

Transcription

C O L O M B I A

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www.macondodmc.com
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MACONDO DMC S.A.S
General Coordination: Lorena Toro
Texts: Macondo DMC
Design: Flow Creativo www.flowcreativo.com
Design assistant: Nicolle Ascanio
Photos: Sandro Leopardi, Lorena Toro
Hansa Tours, Proexport, Fontur
Printed in Colombia
Free distribution / Not for sale
©ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - MACONDO DMC S.A.S 2014
Against exploitation and sexual abuse of minors:
Law 679 of August 3rd, 2001, passed by the Colombian Congress, establishes dispositions to
prevent and counter any activities involving the sexual exploitation, pornography and sexual tourism, involving minors.
In accordance with the dispositions of the aforementioned law, all individuals must prevent, block,
fight and denounce the exploitation, hosting, use, publication and distribution of images, text, documents, multimedia files, the improper use of global information networks, or the establishment
of telematic links of any kind, which are related to pornographic material, or to any material that
refers to sexual activities with minors.
In compliance to article 17, law 679 of 2001, Macondo DMC notifies tourists that commercial
sexual exploitation or sexual abuse of minors is sanctioned with criminal and legal action according to Colombian current laws. Macondo DMC acts in accordance to the code of conduct
under law 1336 of 2009.
In Partnership with:
MACONDO DMC SAS
mice@macondodmc.com
Phone: +57 1 5204919
24 hour support: +57 300 6577014 / +57 321 2253606
Address:
Carrera 17A No 106-36 oficina 103 Bogotá, Colombia
www.macondodmc.com
LEGEND
DESTINATION CATEGORIES
Archaeological
City
Colonial
Nature
Canopy
Soft Adventure
Exciting
Nightlife
Weedings and
Honeymoons
Resort
Air
conditioner
Parking
Lot
Valet
Parking
Gym
Wardrobe
Sun and Beach
ACTIVITIES
Ecoturism
Bird Watching
Shopping
Gastronomy
Voluntarism
Extreme Adventure
Cultural and
Museum
Diving
Surfing
White Water
Rafting
FACILITIES
Wheel Chair
Access
Golf
Airport
Distance
Spa
Stage
Restaurant
Vegetarian
menu
Wifi
Live shows
Cocktail
Natural light
MEETING ROOMS
Banquet
Board
Class Room
Theater
U-Shape
Nautica
Pool
INDEX
TRAVEL INFORMATION
MACONDO DMC
PORTFOLIO OF SERVICES
COLOMBIA AS A M.I.C.E DESTINATION
M.I.C.E PLANNER
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BOGOTA
“The Latinamerican Athens”
Destination fact sheet
Useful Information
Sample itinerary
Inspiring experiences
Hotels
Venues
Restaurants
Nightclubs
16
18
19
20
22
34
38
40
CARTAGENA
“The Caribbean Jewel”
Useful Information
Sample itinerary
Hotels
Venues
Restaurants
Nightclubs
42
44
45
46
48
58
64
66
MEDELLIN
“The City of Eternal Spring”
Useful Information
Sample itinerary
Hotels
Venues
Restaurants
Nightclubs
68
70
71
72
74
80
84
86
CALI
“The Salsa Music Capital”
Useful Information
Sample itinerary
Hotels
Venues
Restaurants
88
90
91
92
94
98
101
COFFEE ZONE
“The Heart of Colombia”
Useful Information
Sample itinerary
Hotels
Venues
Restaurants
104
106
107
108
110
114
116
SAN ANDRES
“The Seven Colors Sea”
Useful Information
Sample itinerary
Hotels
118
120
121
122
124
OTHER DESTINATIONS
WEDDINGS
ITINERARY IDEAS
COLOMBIAN MAIN FESTIVITIES
COLOMBIAN HOLIDAYS
FRECUENTLY ASK QUESTIONS
129
134
140
143
144
145
TRAVEL INFORMATION
ELECTRICAL SUPPLY & PLUGS
INTERNET ACCESS
Colombia uses 110 volts AC (60 Hz) and most of the sockets
are for appliances using 2 flat pin plugs (US standard).
CURRENCY
The majority of hotels provide internet access for guests. In
large and intermediate cities, there are internet cafes where
you can rent a PC with Internet connection for an hour or
fraction of an hour at a modest price.
Colombian Peso (COP$).
DRINKING WATER
TIME
Colombia local time is GMT -5.
Although major cities have excellent running water services,
we recommend you to avoid taps, and rather drink bottled
water.
ATM AVAILABILITY AND CREDIT CARD USE
TIPPING
In major cities are both common
Below are general recommendations for tipping in Colombia:
INTERNATIONAL CALLS FROM COLOMBIA
Restaurants: 10% service fee is included in the bill. In case
you are not satisfied with the service, you can request for
this amount to be removed from the bill before paying it.
Dial 00 + (9) or (7) + country code + area code + number.
National calls in Colombia: Dial 0 + (9) (5) or (7) + city code
+ number.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
National Police: 112
Civil Defense: 144 or 640 0090 in Bogotá
Administrative Security Department DAS: 153
Colombian Red Cross: Log on to cruzrojacolombiana.org and
check the office number of the corresponding department.
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MACONDO DMC Luggage carriers (airport/hotels): COP 2.000 per luggage (approx. 1 USD per luggage).
Taxi: In Colombia it is not common to tip taxi drivers.
Private Drivers: Depending on your satisfaction, between 2
and 4 USD per day.
Guides: Depending on your satisfaction, between 5 and 10
USD per day.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Most major cities in Colombia offer public bus transportation systems. However, many people prefer to use taxis as
they are not expensive. For taxis, we recommend special
precautions in order to have a good service and pay the correct amount:
We recommend not to stop taxis on the streets, but always
request one to be called to your hotel, restaurant, etc. Depending on which city you are in, the calculation of the fare
might vary. In Bogota, Medellin and Cali, taxis use meters to
calculate the fare (there is a conversion rate table to convert
taxi meters units into a price). In other cities like Cartagena, where taxis use no meters, it is recommended that you
always ask for the price of your ride, before you enter the
taxi.
Airport taxes: National flights, always include airport taxes.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
There is no nationality restriction to travel to Colombia. A
visa is required, except for citizens of the following countries (who stay strictly for tourism purposes and for a maximum of 90 days): Argentina, Australia, Austria, Barbados,
Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Chile, Denmark, Ecuador, El Salvador, Germany, Finland, France, Great Britain,
Greek, Guatemala, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg,
Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Poland, Republic of Ko-
rea (South Korea), Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and
Tobago, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela and foreign residents of Canada and the United States.
Neither a visitor’s visa nor an entry permit is required when
the passenger is in transit for a maximum of 24 hours. For
up to date information about visas, please contact the Colombian consulate in your country. Further information can
be found in the Colombia Travel official website:
www.colombia.travel/en/international-tourist/practical-information/embassies-and-consulates-in-colombia
DEPARTURE TAX – EXIT TAX
In Colombia, the EXIT tax must be paid by travelers on all
international departures, visitors, Colombian citizens and
foreign residents in Colombia; foreign tourists visiting or in
transit when their stay exceeds 60 days in Colombia.
Foreigners not living in Colombia that have not a stay of
over 60 days, they can apply for an exit tax exemption in the
Aerocivil modules at Colombian international airports. The
foreigner will present the passport that will be in turn stamped, and the payment voucher submitted when chek-in at
the airline counter. If a foreign citizen is staying in Colombia
for more than 60 days, an amount of US38 or $68,000 COP
must be paid at airline counter check-in.
When the departure tax is being charged on the ticket and
you are eligible for exit tax fee exemption, you must apply
for reimbursement with the airline.
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WE ARE MACONDO
Macondo represents the magical essence of Colombian
culture, described by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the Colombian Nobel prize for literature.
Our mission is to add some of this magic to each event
and incentive experience, together with the best standards for efficiency, quality and safety.
In Macondo, we understand that events and incentive
travel is an important part of your strategy to achieve a
variety of business goals. With all the professionalism
and commitment, we bring our knowledge, experience
and passion to get you the results you seek.
Whether you’re planning a small incentive gathering or
a conference for hundreds of delegates, our team will
make your event a success. Our dedicated staff, provides
expert assistance with theming, entertainment, catering
and equipment hire, to ensure your event is remembered for many years. We also provide local knowledge, so
your guests will maximize their enjoyment of Colombia
during their stay.
If you want to motivate your sales force, strengthen client
or employee relationships or showcase your capabilities
and services, we’ll execute your vision flawlessly.
So sit back, relax and let us make your event or incentive
travel, an inspiring success.
www.macondodmc.com
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PORTFOLIO
OF SERVICES
INCENTIVES
Incentive travel is a great way to reinforce customer loyalty, reward employees and boost productivity. Strengthen relationships with an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you take your clients or staff on a lively trip,
show them that you recognize and appreciate their contributions to your business success!
Macondo DMC, offers you the experience and well name,
to make your incentive trips, the best way to grow a business.
- Trips customized for your travel, business and financial
needs.
- Accommodation.
- Travel services including recreational & spousal programs, such as city tours, excursions and extension stays.
- Special meet & greet at the airport
- 24/7 on-call travel support for common and unexpected complications.
- Unique company events ( for motivating, training or
communicating to clients or staff.)
- Team building events
- Communication services
- Transportation logistics
- On site meeting management
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MACONDO DMC MEETINGS & EVENTS
Based on an in-depth consultation to understand your
needs, our specialists will suggest an event concept and
theme, including decor, menu planning, entertainment,
transportation and more.
Also, combined with our elite partnerships, we provide
consistent, seamless performance in all areas of event
and meeting organization.
- Standard and unique venue selection
- Catering: Colombian, creative and international cuisine
- Entertainment booking
- Audio visual equipment
- Stage concepts and design
- Program planning & logistical services
- Meet and greet service at the airport
- Transportation logistics
- Professional on-site staffing
CREATIVE SERVICES
In addition to your incentive or event project, we can design and deliver branded event collateral, signage, invitations and gift cards.
- Merchandise
- Innovative collateral design & printing services (Banners, name tags, personalized usb devices, brochures, etc)
- Customized websites and logos
- Themed constructions & Video mapping
- Themed and branded experiences
- Personalized gifts and handicrafts
- Contest awards and more
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COLOMBIA AS A M.I.C.E DESTINATION
If one had to define Colombia using just one word, that
would be “variety”. This is because the country offers a
unique mix of cultures, traditions as well as the most diverse fauna and flora and different geographical characteristics; such variety is all available within one country
and comes with one special extra: extraordinary people
that, eager to proudly show their country, will welcome
every visitor.
Located in the middle of the Americas and on the Equator, Colombia boasts a strategic geographical position.
This location makes it the gate to South America, and
connects it to the rest of America, Asia, Africa and
Eu-
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MACONDO DMC rope. Without seasons, the country enjoys a pleasant tropical climate all year round.
Colombia is prepared to host world-class events that
bring thousands of visitors every year. Choose from large and luxurious hotels from national and international
chains, to magical boutique hotels, modern business
hotels, typical haciendas and tourist inns located in the
green jungles or near the ocean.
Furthermore, you will find a wide variety of conventions
centers, fairgrounds and meeting rooms with all the logistics services necessary to make every event a success.
Itinerary Planner
Macondo DMC Itinerary Planner is a practical
instrument for quickly understanding how to
organize a logistically correct trip to Colombia
according to travellers’ preferences or interests.
Each destination is placed on the planner according to its geographical location and classified by
categories and activities.
MAIN DESTINATIONS
Are those that are a MUST for any first time visitor to the country.
Bogotá....................................................... 14
Cartagena.................................................. 22
Coffee Triangle.......................................... 32
OPTIONAL ADD ONS
Are those locations that can be either visited as
full day tours or by staying a short number of
nights, and that can add great value to the trip.
Providencia Island.................................... 42
Rosario Islands & Barú............................. 28
Villa de Leyva............................................ 18
ALTERNATIVE DESTINATIONS
Are those that can be suitable alternatives, or
that can be added to complete a generic itinerary
in the country.
Cali..............................................................36
Medellín.....................................................40
San Andrés Island.....................................42
Santa Marta............................................... 46
Tayrona...................................................... 48
SPECIAL INTEREST DESTINATIONS
Are those mostly appreciated by travellers that
have some particular interest in their visit to the
country.
Amazon......................................................50
Barranquilla...............................................52
Guajira........................................................54
Mompox.....................................................58
Pacific.........................................................60
Popayán..................................................... 62
San Agustín & Tierra Adentro................. 64
Santander...................................................66
BOGOTÁ
CATEGORY
TEMPERATURE
2º C (54º F) to
18º C (64º F)
ALTITUDE
2,640 meters
above sea level
TOTAL AREA: 1776 km²
URBAN AREA: 307,36 km²
“The Latinamerican Athens”
Bogotá is the capital district of Colombia and the country’s most populated city. It
is also the most important political, financial, educational and cultural city. It is
located at an altitude of 2640 masl (meters above sea level) on a plateau known as
the Savanna of Bogotá on the eastern range of the Andean Mountains.
POPULATION
7.363.782
(4146 ppl./km²)
ACTIVITIES:
HISTORIC CENTER
This is the area of skyscrapers, where the major financial and government institutions are located and of
the Colonial houses of the La Candelaria area. The historic center of
Bogota, was declared a National Monument in 1963. Breathing culture
and history, due to the large number
of museums located there and their
colonial architecture, the area has
places that all tourists should visit
NORTH AREA
AIRPORT AREA
Parque 93
FINANCIAL
DISTRICT
NORTH AREA
This is the area with the newest development in the city, and therefore with modern architecture and lifestyle. There are
stores, shops and markets for all tastes,
exquisite dishes at the best restaurants
and exclusive spaces to do business. At
night there are attractive places to go,
from gourmet restaurants, through places
for clubbing, as well as the best cultural
and musical performances.
ZONA ROSA & CHICO
AIRPORT AREA
This is both a residential and
business area. Its importance
is mainly due to the presence
of the most important airport
in Colombia, the El Dorado,
but also because it is where
the largest convention center,
Corferias, is located. In the latest years it has been renovated with new office buildings
and hotels that have increased
the importance of the area.
HISTORIC CENTER
FINANCIAL DISTRICT
& GOURMET ZONE
ZONA ROSA,CHICO & 93 PARK
Is one of the most renown places in the city due to the
presence of design hotels, stores, restaurants, bars
and discos. It is generally considered a “movida” area
and, therefore, it is preferred by those who want to
enjoy every minute of their visit to the city.
This area hosts the best restaurants in Bogota with the elite of
international cuisine. Peruvian,
French, Italian food, steaks, cafes and pastry shops, really appeal to tourists, who also take
advantage of its excellent hotels.
FINANCIAL DISTRICT
BOGOTA
ACCESS
El Dorado International Airport concentrates 65% of the aerial operations in the country.
Bogota’s intangible heritage, represented in
the customs and expressions of a multi-ethnic population, is complemented by closed
spaces in which culture lies as if time had
stopped.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS:
05:00 h from Atlanta (US)
10:40 h from Barcelona (ES)
05:30 h from Brazilia (BR)
01:50 h from Caracas (VE)
04:00 h from Fort Lauderdale (US)
11:00 h from Frankfurt (DE)
05:20 h from Houston (US)
10:00 h from Madrid (ES)
10:00 h from Lisboa (POR)
The city, which was declared by the prestigious New York Times as one of the 31 destinations to visit in 2010 is an inspiring city
with millions of amazing stories that surprise
visitors every day.
04:30 h from Mexico DF (MX)
03:30 h from Miami (US)
06:10 h from New York (US)
04:05 h from Orlando (US)
10:50 h from Paris (FR)
05:40 h from Rio de Jainero (BR)
06:00 h from Sao Paulo (BR)
08:30 h from Toronto (CA)
11:00 h from London (UK)
WEATHER
MONTH
Temperature°F
Temperature°C
Precipitation(mm)
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
45
7,2
66,6
19,2
45,7
7,6
66,9
19,4
47,5
8,6
66,7
19,3
48,6
9,2
65,8
18,8
48,7
9,3
34
46
67
113
JUN
Max
65,1
18,4
102
OCT
NOV
DEC
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
48,4
9,1
64
17,8
47,7
8,7
63,7
17,6
47,3
8,5
64
17,8
46,8
8,2
64,8
18,2
47,3
8,5
64,8
18,2
47,5
8,6
65,1
18,4
46,4
8
65,8
18,8
The Colombian capital has excellent convention centers
with large capacity for all types of events, a major exhibition center and a large number of meeting rooms to
conduct conferences and congresses.
The main convention center can receive up to 31,500 visitors and the capacity of the meeting rooms in hotels
or other venues, can reach 5,200 in auditorium setup for
one event.
MACONDO DMC SEP
Min
Bogota has a wide range of hotels, ranging from simple
hostels to 5 star hotels.
Some of the most recognized hotel chains found in the
city are: Marriott, Sheraton, Hilton, GHL, Accor, among
others.
Currently the city has approx. 7.000 hotel rooms, but this
number is expected to increase to 8.500 in 2 years.
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AUG
Max
ACCOMmODATION
VENUE CAPACITY
JUL
Min
63
47
47
56
119
112
60
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
Iberoamerican Theatre Festival:
The Ibero-American Theatre of Bogotá is a major cultural
event in Colombia and one of the largest performing arts
festivals in the world. Every two years, between the last
week of March and the first of April, the city welcomes
theater companies from all around the world to perform
over 800 shows,
SAMPLE ITINERARY - 4 DAYS
DAY ONE | After arrivals and hotel check in, guests will
be invited to a welcome dinner at the iconic Monserrate
hill with spectacular panoramic view over the city.
ADD THE WOW FACTOR
Planning your event at the Salt Cathedral
A 2 minutes ride into the mountain by cable car, must to
be taken to reach the restaurant.
*Private restaurant for minimum 30 guests.
DAY TWO | Visit the emblematic district of La Candelaria (famous for preserving its colonial and republican
architecture and a mythical place full of fairy characters
in heroic and romantic tales), Bolivar Square including
the National Capital, Prime Capital, Palace of Justice,
City Hall, and Leivano Palace. Also visits to the Gold Museum a unique place to experience the goldsmith culture
of our indigenous ancestors and the Botero Museum, a
must see visit, for art lovers.
DAY THREE | Explore one of the largest popular markets in Bogota, and lead by an expert discover a labyrinth of stands offer a large variety of fruit, vegetables
and flowers. After a typical Lunch, have fun with a Tejo
Game, a traditional sport in Colombia, originating from
pre-Hispanic central-western. It is played by throwing a
disc at a board spotted with gunpowder. So have fun and
to make as many loud explosions as possible!
At night, enjoy an authentic chiva party with open bar.
DAY FOUR | Visit to beautiful towns of Zipaquira where
you can live a magical and unforgettable experience. Traveling along beautiful landscapes of Bogotá Savannah,
stop in Nemocon; there, visit the mine full of charm and
mysticism, surrounded by beautiful lit brine pools. Then,
enjoy a delicious typical lunch. Finally, visit amazing Salt
Cathedral in Zipaquira to live a fantastic, unforgettable
adventure 180mts underground.
Return to the hotel and transfer to airport.
Located, about 50 kilometers north of Bogota,
there is an underground breath-taking church
built in a tunnel deep inside a salt mine. With
its interlinked rooms with different sizes, the
actual cathedral, located at the lowest part of
the mine, has a size of 75 meters in length and 18
meters in height, with a capacity for 8400 people.
An impressive venue to organize your conferences, as well as unforgettable events or dinner
parties.
www.macondodmc.com
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Inspiring Experiences
1. CHIVA PARTY: The Chivas are typical of Colombia, buses adapted in craft for rural public transportation. Gradually, the Chivas
have evolved from craft transportation to a tourist attraction, designed as walking clubs, provided with sound equipment, disco
lights, microphone, dance floor and other accessories, adapted for
tourism, fun and culture. A unique activity that travelers shouldn’t
miss.
2. BUILDING DREAMS: This activity is based on the values of solidarity and mutual trust and transcends all cultural boundaries,
languages and geography. By providing their time and expertise
without expecting a material reward, participants will experiment
an extraordinary feeling of fullness.
3. TEJO GAME: Tejo is a traditional sport originated by the Chibcha people from pre-Hispanic central-western Colombia. It is
played by throwing a metal plate or disc at a board spotted with
gunpowder, named tejo, at a target. The important thing in tejo is
to have fun...and make as many loud explosions as possible!
4. DINNER PARTY AT THE SALT CATHEDRAL: Let us amaze you
with this spectacular venue, where participants will make a walking tour through the Salt Cathedral 180 meters underground. At
the end, the group be surprised by an incredible dinner party.
5. MINER FOR A DAY: There are many honors for which Colombia
has international prestige, and being the first producer of emeralds in the world is one of them. Be part of this unique experience
getting deep in a real emerald mine.
6. MIXOLOGY: Like a great team, great cocktails needs its ingredients to blend well together, to mix perfectly and become one
unforgettable, wonderful experience. Create the best cocktails by
teams, using unique Colombian ingredients.
7. BIKE N´ROLL: The teams compete for “Road Rally Points”
through a series of challenges to collect parts for their bikes. After building their bikes and decorating their victory flags and race
suits, the bike race begins. Awards are given in various categories,
and to make the victories even sweeter, the bikes can be donated to
the charity of your choice.
8. COLORS IN THE SKY: Thanks to its strong wind in some seasons, Bogotá and Villa de leyva become a perfect scenario to fly
kites. With different materials, you can build your own kite and
organize different contest like most creative, best representation
of a theme, best crash, fastest ascent, or relay races.
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MACONDO DMC CARTAGENA
CATEGORY
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TEMPERATURE
28º C (82º F) to
30º C (86º F)
ALTITUDE
2 meters
above sea level
“The CARIBBEAN JEWEL”
Colombia’s most popular destination was founded in 1533 by Spanish Conquistador Don Pedro de Heredia as “Cartagena de Indias”. This beautiful colonial city rapidly became the gem of the Spanish Crown’s territories and, to protect it from continuous attacks by pirates, the largest wall fortress in America was built around it.
POPULATION
URBAN AREA: 512 km²
1.100.250
MACONDO DMC ACTIVITIES:
HISTORIC CENTER
The historic center is also known as the
“Old City”, protected by eleven kilometers
of antique walls, several forts and the
castle of San Felipe de Barajas, the most
important military construction in colonial
America. The area has variety of architectural styles, mainly colonial, but republican and Italian style buildings, such as the
Cathedral’s bell tower, can be seen also.
There are plenty of boutique hotels, colonial venues and restaurants in this area.
ANILLO VIAL
In this area is located the Rafael Núñez International Airport,
ten minutes drive from historic
center and fifteen minutes away
from the modern area. Zona
Norte, the area located immediately north of the airport, is
widely recognized as the district
with the greatest prospective
long-term urban development.
It is the setting for some of the
largest hotels and resorts.
HISTORIC CENTER
GETSEMANI
GETSEMANI
BOCAGRANDE
BOCAGRANDE
BARU
Barú Island is next to the
Rosario National Park at approximately 40 minutes from
Cartagena’s bay by boat, or
three-hour drive by land. Within
its 7.000 hectares there are
some small towns and whitesandy beaches such as Playa
Blanca. All of these are blessed
with clear turquoise waters and
surrounded with multicolored
mangroves and dreamlike
landscapes.
ANILLO VIAL
GETSEMANI
BOCAGRANDE
The Bocagrande area contains the bulk of the city’s
tourist facilities, such as hotels, shops, restaurants,
nightclubs and art galleries. It is located between
Cartagena Bay to the east and the Caribbean Sea
to the west. The beaches of Bocagrande, lying along
the northern shore, are made of volcanic sand,
which is slightly greyish in color. This makes the
water appear muddy, though it is not.
African people brought as slaves
used to live in this neighborhood. Parque Centenario (Centenary Park) was built in 1911 to
commemorate a century of independence. Cartagena’s Convention Center, Third Order Church
and San Francisco Cloister are in
the area. This area has several
night clubs and hostels, as well
as boutique hotels.
BARU
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CARTAGENA
ACCESS
There are many domestic and some international flights to Cartagena’s
recently renovated airport, Rafael Nuñez. The city is also reached by
sea: its strategic location in Latin America makes it a regular port of
call for cruise liners from all over the world. In high season Cartagena
receives up to 100 cruises.
Cartagena de Indias is considered a UNESCO
World Heritage Site because of its impressive colonial architecture which remains intact
since 1533. The city is also located on the Caribbean coast which makes it all the more appealing for leisure or business travel.
Nowadays Cartagena is a city that opens its
doors to the thousands of tourists that, year
by year, are attracted by the enchantment of
its impressive historical center and by its colorful culture.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
NATIONAL FLIGHTS
00:41 h from Panama City (PA)
01:10 h from Bogota
00:45 h from Bucaramanga
01:00 h from Cali
01:20 h from Medellin
01:00 h from Pereira
WEATHER
MONTH
Temperature°F
Temperature°C
Precipitation(mm)
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
71,6
22
88,3
31,3
75,2
22,3
86,5
31,4
77,7
23,1
87,4
31,7
77,3
23,8
97,9
31,8
77,5
24,4
88,3
32
102
3
0
1
17
OCT
NOV
DEC
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
78,2
24
88,3
31,7
77,5
23,8
88,8
31,7
77,7
23,9
88,3
31,6
77,7
23,9
87,9
31,4
77,1
24
87,6
31,4
77,1
24
87,6
31,5
75,5
22,8
87,2
31,5
Cartagena receives travellers year round, with different
goals; business, pleasure and events. For this matter the
city is prepared to cater all type of social and corporate
events, as well as festivals and fairs.
The most important convention center, the Cartagena
de Indias, is a well shown proof of that matter, holding
events from 12 up to 2.000 people simultaneously.
MACONDO DMC SEP
Min
Cartagena is well known for receiving visitors from
around the world and as it holds many conventions and
festivals, it also welcomes a large number of tourists. Visitors can enjoy all sorts of spaces that include various
hotel boutiques (mainly in the antique city center) and a
large selection of resorts and large beach hotels (mainly
outside the city center).
The city has over 5.500 hotel rooms and this number is
rapidly increasing.
24
AUG
Max
ACCOMmODATION
VENUE CAPACITY
JUL
Min
113
85
88
124
199
113
25
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
Cartagena Music Festival:
Over 20.000 people come to this event from all parts of
Colombia, Europe, the United States, and the rest of the
world. During the Festival, more than 400 young artists
have the opportunity to interact with their role models
and take music lessons. it’s been called “The most magical festival of the world” and it is, certainly one of the
great spectacles of classical music not to miss.
DAY ONE | Hotel Check in and invitation to a magnificent Cartagena tour in a nostalgic coach (horse drawn
carriage). Sense the refreshing sea breeze while admiring Cartagena’s colonial architecture and colorful night
life. After this wonderful experience we welcome you in
a restaurant where you can taste the local cuisine and
savor a folkloric show.
Return to hotel.
ADD THE WOW FACTOR
With a gala dinner private at the Fortress
DAY TWO | Start your day with a panoramic view from
“La Popa” Monastery and Church. During a visit of the
San Felipe Fort on San Lazaro Hill you learn that this
castle had been built to protect and defend the city from
pirate attacks. After a tasteful seafood lunch you continue to Walled City and visit San Pedro Claver Convent and
Church. At the end of this tour you have the opportunity
to appreciate local craftwork at “The Vaults”, an artisan
center. Return to the hotel and free afternoon.
DAY THREE | Full day tour to The Rosario and Baru,
an archipielago in the Caribbean Sea which is located 45
km southeast of Cartagena. Enjoy beautiful white sandy
beaches, crystal clear water and colorful corals.
The tour includes a typical lunch.
At night invitation to a private Cocktail Party including
contemporary and traditional entertainment.
*Private parties for groups with a minimum of 50 guests
DAY FOUR | Visit the fishermen village La Boquilla and
enjoy a boat ride through the mangroves. Inside this intact ecosystem a large variety of birds and fishes found
their natural habitat. A native guide leads you through
this amazing labyrinth of mangroves and swamp. Be prepared for a fantastic nature experience. After the tour a
local family welcomes you for lunch.
Built by the Spanish during the colonial era, the
San Felipe fortress was declared by UNESCO as a
World Heritage Site. Since 1990, the castle has
served as a location for social and cultural
events offered by the Colombian government and
now it can be used to organize the most impressive private events in the city such as, for example,
an unforgettable GALA DINNER OR PARTY.
Return to the hotel and Transfer to the airport.
www.macondodmc.com
25
1. CLUE RACE AT THE WALLED CITY: This is an excellent alternative
to test the cleverness and imagination of your team while you travel
the most important sights of the city. This will be a fun activity, with different challenges, benefits for those serving different goals and prizes
awarded during the race.
2. CARIBBEAN FLAVORS: In the company of a quality local chef who is
an enthusiast for local markets, visit “La Plaza de Mercado de Bazurto”.
This is the city’s largest market and where one can find all the fresh
products available in the Caribbean region. Try some of the exotic fruits
and follow this expert, through this area as they welcome him to their
barrio. For this reason this visit feels very much a true local experience.
In the market, you will choose and buy the necessary available products
to cook delicious Caribbean meals with the help of your own personal
chef.
3. GALA DINNER: Surprise your guests with a conference at the Adolfo
Mejia Theater, one of the most beautiful in Latin America. When the
conference ends, surprise them revealing behind the curtain of the stage, a fabulous setup for a memorable dinner with this majestic theater
as scenery. It is also possible to add a live performances or shows for
your guests.
Without doubt it will be a memorable experience for your guests.
4. CULTURAL ROOTS AT PALENQUE: This village is located in the
southeast of Cartagena. The Cultural Space of Palenque, encompasses
specific social, medical and religious practices as well as musical and
oral traditions, of which many have African roots. Learn how to carry
fruits in your head as the Palenquera woman does, take a percussion
lessons with the local musicians, get close to his authentic community and let the people of Palenque show and share with you, their rich
culture.
5. PIRATE EXPERIENCE: Located at the top of South America, Cartagena was a major Spanish port in the early days of the New World
conquest. Cartagena became a popular pirate target nearly as soon as
it was founded in 1533. Tales of buccaneers and plunders of this city
filled with gold, bring out the adventurer in all of us. Become a part
of Cartagena´s pirate history, sailing on board this pirate ship replica
across the Cartagena´s bay, and enjoy a cocktail themed party.
Fun for groups that can play all together or by teams.
6 CORAL REEF RESCUE: The rise of global temperatures, warmer seas
and the spread of ocean acidification due to greenhouse gas emissions
are a major threat to coral ecosystems. Become a part of a very special
cause, adopting a coral reef at the Rosario Islands. You can contribute
with a donation and active participation at the “coral reef plantation”
helping experts to grow different species. We will name your coral, take
care of it, and send you updated pictures periodically so you can see its
development.
NOTE: for a full experience of coral reef underwater rescue it is required
to have a Scuba Certification.
26
MACONDO DMC 27
MACONDO DMC MEDELLIN
CATEGORY
28
TEMPERATURE
18º C (64º F) to
28º C (82º F)
ALTITUDE
1479 meters
above sea level
TOTAL AREA: 380,64 km²
MACONDO DMC “the city of eternal spring”
Medellín, capital of Antioquia department, is located deep in the fertile mountains of Aburra valley in the Central Andean highlands, and is known as the ‘Eterna
Primavera’ – Eternal Spring - city with its 20°C year-round temperature. The city
was founded in 1675 as “Villa de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Medellín”.
POPULATION
2.499.080
(6925/km²)
ACTIVITIES:
CITY CENTER
With great street food, fresh flowers street
shops and a nice array of Medellin “personalities,” the city center is a great place
to get a taste of the mix that makes up
the heart of the city. Old clay and mud
houses were converted into modern buildings through a re-gentrifying process has
brought a new and vibrant life to the city
center.
LLERAS PARK
Parque Lleras is the heart of
Medellin’s Zona Rosa in the
upscale Poblado neighborhood.
It is the most known choice for
nightlife in Medellin as block
after block, it is packed with
bars, clubs, hotels and restaurants and the streets and park
itself are filled with locals and
tourists.
CITY CENTER
LLERAS PARK
MILLA DE ORO
MILLA DE ORO
AIRPORT AREA
This is the area where the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport and is situated
a 35 minutes from Medellin in the most
beautiful region of Eastern Antioquia, in
the midst of lush nature, with the ideal climate that ranges between 18 and 24 ° C;
Account several hotels, traditional restaurants and some tourist attractions.
CONVENTIONS AREA
It is one of modern architectural and a vital area of
Medellin. A strategic location that allows easy access from anywhere in the city. Near the Convention
Center is the Alpujarra Administrative Center, home
of the municipal government.
In its surroundings the visitor finds financial services, restaurants and retail establishments, and access to public transportation.
It is a commercial and tourist
area located to the south-center
of the city. It is notable for its
buildings of contemporary architecture, which provide both business services and tourism scenic
attractions.
In addition to the financial service buildings, trade in the Golden
Mile offers a variety of options,
items and goods, restaurants and
cafes for fine tastes.
CONVENTIONS AREA
AIRPORT AREA
MEDELLIN
ACCESS
The cartel days are gone, and parks, museums, hotels and events have arrived.
With a renowned leadership in finance, banking, services, politics, art, culture, communications, fashion, and entertainment industries, the city is a true development axis.
Events, congresses, fairs, and seminars in
Medellín, on topics like the clothing industry,
medicine, construction, and education have
become international benchmarks.
Medellín has two airports. The new José María Córdoba airport, 35km
southeast of the city, near the town of Rionegro, takes all international and most domestic flights, except for some flights on light planes
which use the old Olaya Herrera airport right inside the city.
01:00 h from Quito (EC)
01:15 h from Caracas (VE)
01:00 h from Curazao (CW)
01:50 h from Lima (PE)
02:15 h from Mexico DC (MX)
* National flights available from
all Colombian cities
WEATHER
MONTH
Temperature°F
Temperature°C
Precipitation(mm)
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
58,8
14,9
81,7
27,6
59,7
15,4
82,6
28,1
60,4
15,8
83,1
28,4
61,3
16,3
81,7
27,6
61,3
16,3
81,1
27,3
60,4
15,8
81,5
27,5
59,4
15,2
82,6
28,1
59,7
15,4
82,2
27,9
59,7
15,4
81,7
27,6
60,3
15,7
80,4
26,9
60,8
16
80,4
26,9
59,4
15,2
80,1
26,7
52
66
100
181
200
ACCOMmODATION
Due to its variety of visitors, both for business and pleasure, Medellin offers a wide range of accommodation
centers, with luxurious hotels, executive rooms, hostels
and boutique hotels, providing each visitor with a space
to fulfill its needs. Approximate number of rooms:7300.
VENUE CAPACITY
Medellin holds numerous facilities for congress and
fairs, being an important cultural and business center,
with important convention centers such as Plaza Mayor Convention Center, with capacity for 3000 people,
and the Palacio de Exposiciones, with a covered area of
12.000 square feet for exhibition, distributed in four pavilions, with accommodations for 450 stands or up to
8.000 visitors. Medellin also has a space offer that ranges
every type of event, like the Atanasio Girardot Stadium
available for 52,872 people, among others
30
JUL
Min
MACONDO DMC 142
119
144
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
164
207
155
82
Flower Festival:
In August, Medellín blooms in all its splendor and balconies, terraces, gardens, and billboards get flooded with
flowers. The festival is centered around the flower parade, during which flower growers carry elaborate flower
arrangements known as “silletas” on their backs.
Additionally, the city will host several orchid and parrot
exhibitions and an abundance of concerts.
DAY ONE | Upon arrival at Rionegro Airport, transfer to
the city (40 minutes) and Welcome drink.
ADD THE WOW FACTOR
A ride above nature and floral experience
Enjoy an unforgettable evening in an emblematic restaurant and experience the essence of the “paisa” people
while savoring traditional shows, food and drinks.
Return to the hotel and overnight stay.
DAY TWO | During a Medellin City Tour you will understand the importance of the urban-social regeneration
projects.
Marvel at the impressive Botero sculptures in San Antonio Park, visit San Ignacio church, the oriental inspired
Bare Feet Park, the Cable Car (Metrocable) that connects
the city center with the surrounding mountain area (i.g.
Santo Domingo) and of course, Pueblito Paisa.
DAY THREE | Leave the city behind you and enjoy a trip
to Guatape, a fantastic town that is borderd by Atioquia’s
green hills and shimmering lakes.
Explore one of Colombia’s most picturesque towns and
visit the famous El Peñon Rock (7000 ft above sea level). Stroll along Guatape’s historic heart and admire the
beautiful paintings covering many of the building walls
of this unique place.
DAY FOUR | Breakfast and Check out.
Before heading to the airport, you will visit Llano Grande, an important flower growing region whose roads are
lined by the most beautiful flowers. A local family will
explain you the floral tradition and entrust you with the
art of “silletas”.
Transfer to airport and flight.
From the heights of the Metrocable –a Gondola lift
transportation -, you will get a mighty eyeful of
the City of Eternal Spring. As you climb higher and
higher, you will see neighborhoods such as Santo Domingo Sabio and its majestic España Library Park. It
then ascends more into the mountains, to give you
a birds-eye view of this breathtaking fog forest.
As you start to descend from the highest point
and get closer to the park, you’ll be welcomed by a
cool breeze that carries in it the sweet scent of
flowers. Once there, you can live a magical experience into the flower culture of Medellín.
www.macondodmc.com
31
1. GO WITH THE FLOW: The vocalists are its stars, predominantly
male; they sing, they rap, they are the new Latin players. But it’s
the beat that makes it go, a dirty growling deep bass bump that
creeps along at a sordid pace and sets up shop somewhere down
in your lower hips and thighs: Reggaeton. By including elements
from a wide catalog of Colombian rhythms that includes Vallenato, Cumbia and Salsa, local artists are creating a unique sound that
is extending the limits of how far this music can go. Learn how to
dance this music and have fun with your group designing a Reggaeton choreography and taking “the flow” to another level.
2. PARAGLIDING: Fly in Medellín, surrounded by an amazing
landscape and beautiful waterfalls and city views. Located 50
minutes away from the city, the mountain area brings ideal conditions. Fly accompanied by an experienced and professional paraglide pilot. Security is high with a back protector for the passenger, an emergency parachute, helmet and everything needed to
make the flight more enjoyable and safe.
3. FONDAS: In Antioquia, “Las Fondas” used to be the places where the farmers made their stops after long journeys with their
donkeys or horses. They served as shelters and liquor stores, and
meeting points to listen the “guasca” or “popular music”. In Medellin it is possible to live this experience and become a part of the
local traditions by touring different fondas, with a “chiva” bus in
the town of Sabaneta.
4. SURROUNDED BY NATURE: The Orquideorama at the Botanical Garden is a space that brought pride to the city. Designed by
local architects, the place has a number of wood and metal panels
that simulate hives from which hang off trees and flowers, including orchids, birds, butterflies and squirrels. An amazing place to
host a gala dinner to be ` etched in the minds of all your guests.
5. FLORAL TRADITIONS: The “silleteros” created and art by which,
with the simple use of flowers, they could express their perspective on local and national issues. Social messages developed through
decorations of flowers exposed during the fair which became a traditional art form. Groups can become part of this tradition, learning how to build a “silleta” in a contest full of colors, traditions,
and teamwork that will set apart in participant’s memories.
6. ROLLING DOWN THE HILL: In Medellin was common to see
kids joining together, each one bringing something to the group,
being it knowledge, materials, or even the leadership needed for
the group to get the best result. The objective was to build the best
“Balinera” (a self-made roller car) to run down the streets faster
than any other kid in the block. This was, and in some parts still
is, life in Medellin for kids. In this occasion, everyone in the group
will scream at least once “move over…here I go!” and feel one of the
kids of the group.
32
MACONDO DMC CALI
CATEGORY
34
TEMPERATURE
26º C (79º F) to
34º C (93º F)
ALTITUDE
1003 meters
above sea level
“the salsa music capital”
Santiago de Cali is located in southwestern Colombia and it is the third largest city,
after Bogotá and Medellín. The city enjoys a year round spring-like weather and
is known for its friendly and hospitable inhabitants. Salsa music echoes through
Cali’s streets and, for this reason, it is known as the world capital of Salsa.
MACONDO DMC POPULATION
2.325.705
(4099,8/km²)
ACTIVITIES:
NORTH AREA
This is the heart of Cali’s developing business and commercial
district.
In the north of the city is Sixth
Avenue, famous to “caleños” for
its nightclubs and discos, there
are also numerous shopping
centers including Chipichape
mall.
HISTORIC CENTER
GRANADA
It is an area that, through the years, has
grown into a commercial, gastronomic and
touristic destination. This recognition has
been built with the help of each and every
commercial establishments that exist there, restaurants, designers, boutiques, hotels, bars and nightclubs.
NORTH AREA
GRANADA
HISTORIC
AREA
EL PEÑON
CALIMA
HISTORIC CENTER
The Historic Center of Cali has a main area
that corresponds to the Avenida Colombia,
Carrera 10, Calle 5 and Calle 15. This area
contains the most important buildings of
heritage value of the city, such as squares,
public and private institutions, both religious
and civil.
EL PEÑON
The Traditional Neighborhood “El Peñon”
is known for its varied cuisine, has a park
that, on Sundays, is used by local artists
and craftsmen to expose their work to
the public. The area is now developing
its gastronomic offer and houses many
restaurants owned by the “young chefs”
of the city
Lake Calima is located in the municipality of Darien, Valle del Cauca. It is
one of the largest artificial lakes in Colombia and has become a major tourist site of the country. With its strong
and steady winds of up to 43 knots,
Lake Calima is ideal for water sports
like windsurfing and kiteboarding.
The lake offers a diverse selection of
hotels and vacation lodges, cottages
and cozy chalets.
CALIMA
CALI
ACCESS
Cali´s airport is located in the municipality of Palmira, a thirty five
minute drive north of the city. You can also reach the city by land,
through an extensive road network, which includes the Pan-American
Highway that connects Cali to the rest of the country.
Today, the capital of the Valle del Cauca is a
modern, dynamic and fun city. It has well run
public services and the best road network in
the country. The city offers excellent hotels,
meeting rooms and multifunctional event
centers.
In the outlying areas, you can choose from
various adventure sports, tour beautiful colonial haciendas, visit the sugar cane museum
or practice water sports on Lake Calima.
NATIONAL FLIGHTS
01:00 h from Guayaquil (EC)
02:09 h from Lima (PE)
00:45 h from Quito (EC)
00:45 h from Barranquilla
00:30 h from Bogota
00:59 h from Cartagena
00:30 h from Medellín
00:30 h from Pasto
01:40 h from San Andrés
WEATHER
MONTH
Temperature°F
Temperature°C
Precipitation(mm)
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
65,1
18,4
85,1
29,5
65,3
18,5
85,6
29,8
66
18,9
86
30
66,2
19
84,9
29,4
66,2
19
84,7
29,3
65,5
18,6
84,6
29,2
64,6
18,1
86,5
30,3
64,6
18,1
86,9
30,5
64,6
18,1
85,6
29,8
64,9
18,3
83,8
28,8
64,9
18,3
83,1
28,4
65,1
18,4
83,8
28,8
66
78
90
142
125
ACCOmMODATION
Cali is the third most populated city in Colombia and welcomes a wide variety of visitors, hosting corporate and
sport events, as well as festivals and fairs, making the
accommodation spree a versatile and broad brochure of
various hotels and hostels. APROXIMATE NUMBER OF
ROOMS: 4452
VENUE CAPACITY
Cali has numerous events and fairs around the year, and
outstanding venues that offer the perfect accommodation for such purpose. The main convention centers are
Alferez Real, that can cater from 260 to 4.000 people, and
Valle del Pacifico Center of Events that can hold from 25
up to 5.000 people. For other type of events the Sports
Stadium of Cali holds capacity for up to 52.000 spectators, and the Pascual Guerrero stadium available for
45,625 people offers a wide variety of spaces.
36
JUL
Min
MACONDO DMC 72
42
56
76
163
119
89
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
Cali´s fair:
Every year, immediately after Christmas, between December 25 and 30, the city of Cali fills up with tourists
from all over the country and abroad who come to participate in this great fair, famous for its horse riding parades, bullfights, the best salsa orchestras, multitudinous
concerts, dances, and delicious gastronomy.
DAY ONE | Arrival and check in.
ADD THE WOW FACTOR
Impress with private salsa spectacle
Enjoy a Welcome Party with a Salsa Show in one of the
most famous Salsa nightclubs.
Possibility to book the transfer in a Chiva bus including
drinks & snacks.
DAY TWO | A half day tour offers a visit to historic and
cultural sights. The Community Theater; the cultural center; the Calima Gold museum, exhibiting gold ornaments
created by the Calima people before Hispanic colonization; “San Antonio” antique church and the historical
district with well-preserved art work and wooden sculptures.
Further places of interest are the architectural complex
“la Merced, “La Tertulia” Museum and the “Cristo Rey”
monument.
DAY THREE | Today’s tour introduces you into sugar
cane production.
Visit a traditional hacienda with beautiful gardens and
original furniture inside the houses. In the “Casa Museo
de la Caña” you learn about the natural, scientific and
cultural stories behind the process.
Dinner at the hotel and overnight stay.
DAY FOUR | Visit at Buga (one hour away from Cali),
a city that delightfully preserved its original urban flair
from the seventeenth and eighteenth century. Combine this tour with a visit of the Calima Lake. Besides the
splendid scenery it offers the possibility to practice water
sports. There is a museum devoted to the Calima preColumbian culture in Darién, a village at the edge of the
lake.
Return to the hotel in the afternoon, check out and transfer to the airport.
Cali is recognized as “the world capital of salsa”
and “the city of musical memory.” Add a wow factor to your event, bringing this recognition to
another level: one private presentation for all
your guests, where acrobats will dance in the air
as they sing the salsa classics. Dozens of dancers will appear as if from nowhere and take over
the night with the rapid movement of shoulders
and feet.
Let this salsa fever that has gripped the city,
catch you too.
www.macondodmc.com
37
1. SALSA FEVER: If you are looking for an exciting activity that elevates your
vibes and your physical, mental, emotional and social energy to your highest
frequency; an activity that challenges your fitness level, your mental power and
your body coordination; one that makes you feel and look great, fantastic, distressed, young, healthy, talented, attractive and lets you manifest your authentic
and unique self as you move at your soul rhythm, then you must learn how to
dance salsa!
2. GUARAPO TOAST: El Trapiche experience, will give you the opportunity to
understand the process involved in growing sugar cane, natural history and also
provides an opportunity to taste the sugar cane and its various derivatives. After
the explanation of ancient artifacts we move properly to the area where artisans
process the sugar cane into different products.
This experience could be enhanced by participating in teams to extract the sugar
cane juice, known as “guarapo”. Then toast with the wining team with the best
“caleño” style.
3. CRISTO REY: The monumental figure, hugging Cali from the west, is part of
the city’s spirit. In photos, videos, tours, advertising or just in the landscape that
can be seen from almost anywhere its presence is always there. It was erected to
celebrate 50 years of peace after the War of the Thousand Days. Although the war
ended in 1902, it was on the 25th of October 1953, 51 years later, that the monument was officially opened as a sanctuary in the heart of Cerro Los Cristales.
4. OCEAN BALLET: Observe how 40 tons of life emerge hastily from the bottom
of the ocean and disappear again into the depths, in seconds.
Beaches, cliffs and bays become the natural bleachers to see this unique spectacle of nature. Buenaventura, 4 hours by land from Cali, is the perfect venue to
watch the whales and their calves swim in this extraordinary water ballet.
5. BRUJAS IN SAN CIPRIANO: San Cipriano is a small town on way to the
Buenaventura, on the Pacific coast, at about 4 hours from Cali.
Because of the lack of other means of transportation, the only way to reach this
town is by train rail and even so there aren’t a lot of trains going by per day, so
the locals improvised their own railway service of motor propelled carts. The
ride on this improvised motored carts makes getting there a real adventure. The
little town has a large river with crystal clear water, and amazing waterfalls. The
award, after a long ride, is a bath in the cold refreshing waters of San Cipriano.
6. WET COMPETITION: Extreme sports are very popular in the Calima lake, as
the winds allow for a wide variety of water sports. Courses of windsurf, kitesurf,
canoe, sunfish, optimist, paragliding, and many others are available at Lake Calima. Additionally, it is ideal for practicing other sports that do not require strong
winds as Skiing, Sailing, canoeing among others.
Calima Lake is a great location to bring your guests and have fun with wet wet
competitions!
7. PARTY!: Cali is known in Colombia as the capital of fiestas, street partying,
dancing, and salsa as Cali’s Salsa Clubs are among the most famous in the entire
continent. Among many other things you can experience on your visit to this
city, is a ride through its night life. In a “Chiva” or just on any transportation,
jump from one night club to the other to visit the continent in just one night.
38
MACONDO DMC COFFEE ZONE
CATEGORY
40
TEMPERATURE
18º C (64º F) to
20º C (68º F)
ALTITUDE
900 to 2150 meters
above sea level
“the heart of colombia”
Most coffee production in Colombia is based here and for that reason the region is
named as the “Coffee Axis” or “Coffee Triangle”. The visitor will appreciate observing the fertile valleys, with their seemingly endless coffee plantations, the traditional wooden houses, with brightly colored balconies and constructions in
‘guadua’ – bamboo, all of which blend together to create the typical and vibrant
landscape of this region.
TOTAL AREA: 13.873 km²
POPULATION
1.148.000
URBAN AREA: 1.673,84 km² (1.587/km²)
MACONDO DMC ACTIVITIES:
FILANDIA & SALENTO
Salento was founded in 1842 and is the
oldest town in the department of Quindio.
It has around 7.000 inhabitants. The town
is one of the major tourist attractions of
Colombia, thanks to its peaceful nature,
impressive scenery, easy access to the
Cococra Valley, and the retention of much
of its original architecture typical of the
Coffe Region.
HOTSPRINGS
Santa Rosa de Cabal is located
just 15 kilometers away from
Pereira. It is known as the “Ciudad de las Araucarias” for the
beautiful evergreen trees that
grace its main park.
Close by, at the foothills of the
Parque de los Nevados, lies
the Balneario de Santa Rosa,
a resort with a lovely waterfall,
thermal water pools, and other
services.
SNOW PEAK
COCORA VALLEY
FILANDIA & SALENTO
SNOW PEAK
“LA VIEJA” RIVER
La Vieja River is crosses different Colombian departments, Quindío, Valle del Cauca and Risaralda.
Recreational use of the river includes the
increasingly popular tourist activity “balsaje”, in which groups of up to 16 people
explore the slow-flowing river in large rafts
made of guadua.
COCORA VALLEY
Cocora Valley is regarded by Colombians as the
cradle of the WAX PALM (Colombia´s national tree).
These palm trees are now protected and grow to 60
meters tall and can live for up to 120 years. The valley of Cocora is also the department of Quindio`s
entrance to Los Nevados National Park, allowing for
soft treks in the forest.
HOTSPRINGS
Los Nevados National Natural
Park is located at 4.500 meters
above sea level and is one of the
highest mountain refuges in Colombia. This park, with tall majestic summits, allows for different
adventure trekking, which can be
as short as a day tour or include
overnight stays.
“LA VIEJA” RIVER
www.macondodmc.com
41
COFFEE ZONE
ACCESS
The Coffee Triangle is easily accessible through any airport of three
main cities of the region: Armenia, Manizales and Pereira, all of which
have multiple connections to Bogota. Some international airlines also
offer direct flights from the U.S.A. They are also connected by a good
road network and are only a short distance apart.
Three departments, Caldas, Quindío, and Risaralda make up the coffee region. Towns are
similar in their architecture, color, and the
kindness of their people that seem to blend,
aided by the delicious, characteristic aroma of
Colombian coffee. This region is a splendid fusion where Mother Nature herself made sure
to give them many things in common: rivers,
snow peaks, lakes, guadua bamboo forests,
and scenic routes lined by coffee fields.
03:45 h from Armenia to Miami (US) 01:05 h from Manizales to Bogota
00:30 h from Manizales to Medellin
NATIONAL FLIGHTS
00:20 h Pereira-Medellin
01:00 h from Armenia to Bogota
00:45 h Pereira-Santa Marta
00:30 h from Pereira to Bogota
01:00 h Pereira-Cartagena
WEATHER
MONTH
Temperature°F
Temperature°C
Precipitation(mm)
JAN
Min
58,8
14,9
FEB
Max
79,5
26,4
139
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
59,4
15,2
80,1
26,7
60,4
15,8
80,2
26,8
60,1
15,6
78,8
26
60,3
15,7
78,3
25,7
59,5
15,3
78,1
25,6
59,5
15,3
79,7
26,5
59,2
15,1
79,5
26,4
58,8
14,9
78,6
25,9
58,5
14,7
77,2
25,1
59
15
77,2
25,1
59
15
78,3
25,7
154
198
265
279
191
141
155
190
282
270
177
*This table correspond to Risarald´s weather, where the city of Pereira is located.
ACCOMmODATION
Because of its Estate like organization, a lot of farms and
haciendas will provide accommodation, surrounded by
nature and an important number of coffee, banana and
other types of crops. Gathering the rooms of all three
departments, accommodation reaches 4.574 currently
available rooms, but this number is divided into mostly
very small hotels and rapidly growing.
VENUE CAPACITY
The Coffee region welcomes visitors from all over the
globe, for both touristic and business affairs, as well for
cultural purposes. In each city there are a variety of convention centers; for example in Pereira, the events center Expofuturo can cater up to 7.000 people, while in Armenia, the Metropolitan Cultural Center can host 1.200
and, in Manizales the Teatro Los Fundadores theater will
allow 1.232 people, this city also counts with the popular
Palogrande Stadium a sport facility that hosts 28678.
42
MACONDO DMC HIGHLIGHT EVENT
Yipao Parade:
Every year, the inhabitants of a small, but picturesque
town named Calarcá, decorate their streets, houses,
and balconies with elements of their culture. This is the
preparation for a celebration full of applause, laughter,
and music, which climax is reached with the the Yipao
parade and contest. This event pays due homage to the
region’s icon, the Willys Jeep, for its performance up and
down the coffee mountains of Colombia carrying people,
coffee, products, and many kinds of objects.
DAY ONE | Arrival at your hotel and Check in.
ADD THE WOW FACTOR
With a self-drive to the valleys in “yipao”
Welcome Diner at a traditional hacienda that is surrounded by ancient trees. Learn about the hacienda’s interesting history and enjoy the rhythm of “guasca” music.
DAY TWO | Provided with smocks you have now the
unique opportunity to go out in the harvest and pick coffee beans.
Learn about Colombian coffee culture and traditions and
familiarize with the whole process of coffee production
and the knowledge of coffee tasting.
DAY THREE | Enjoy a magical journey through the beautiful landscape of the Palma de Cera (the wax palm). The
Palma de Cera is considered Colombia’s national tree and
is defended by environmentalists by plantation activities
After a typical lunch you visit Salento, a traditional town
with colorful architecture, leading back to the Antioquenian colonization. In other words, the heart of Colombia.
Return to hotel and overnight stay.
DAY FOUR | Today a breathtaking adventure lays ahead
of you: A flight in a hot-air balloon overviewing the most
wonderful landscapes of Colombia. Free your soul and
live this unique experience with all your senses.
Return to the hotel and transfer to the airport.
Every year, the inhabitants of a small, but picturesque town named Calarcá, decorate their
streets, houses, and balconies with elements of
their culture. This is the preparation for a celebration full of applause, laughter, and music,
which climax is reached with the the Yipao parade
and contest. This event pays due homage to the
region’s icon, the Willys Jeep, for its performance
up and down the coffee mountains of Colombia
carrying people, coffee, products, and many kinds
of objects.
www.macondodmc.com
43
1. COFFEE EXPERIENCE: With smocks over their casual business clothes,
guests at the coffee plantation, near Pereira in the coffee zone, go out in the
harvest and pick coffee beans. They will learn about the coffee culture and
traditions, and the whole process of coffee, from the harvest, picking coffee
beans, to the branding, designing labels and market their finished product
in an exercise called “Coffeemaker for a Day.”
2. HACIENDAS: One of the charms of the Coffee Triangle is that, many
haciendas, still maintain the original architecture of the period of colonization of Cauca, characterized by the indigenous colonization from Antioquia. As remarkable as the houses, is the landscape that surrounds these
Haciendas full of history, where everything is antique, even trees. A magical
location to impress your travelers with unforgettable lunches or dinners.
3 & 4. SOFT EXTREME: Colombia’s rugged topography encloses an infinite number of environments that invite the visitor to explore, thanks to
varied landscapes and regions, rich in flora and fauna, which are an invitation to experience unforgettable thrills. Travel adventure full of adrenaline,
generating activities as agility and dexterity tests, Canopy and Rafting. A
demanding physical activity to end the day resting peacefully in one of the
traditional Haciendas.
5. HORSE RIDE & “DONKYTHEQUE”: From the massive “Cabalgata” horse parades during the Calarca’s annual fair, to the mustangs and mules that
still act as a primary means of transportation in the surrounding pueblos, it
is clear that Paisa identity remains harnessed to horses.
A mule strapped with speakers is becoming a new tradition at the coffee
zone, this eccentric walking discotheque is being used by locals for their
weekends scapes with friends and this activity can be organized for groups
to live a real local experience.
6. GUADUA BOAT: An interesting ecotourism adventure is rafting down
a river on a raft made of guadua. (The guadua is a thick bamboo cane very
common in Colombia.) The rafts of La Vieja River are a very safe means of
transportation. They are made from guadua and reinforced by a pipe on
each side. In this activity, the group, divided by teams will built their own
boat. Answering different questions and with a contest, each team will win
the materials to build the rafts.
7. RELAX PLAN: Natural pools of hot springs where rest and recovery is
achieved physically and mentally, that also offer a wonderful ecological
path. The Santa Rosa de Cabal hot springs are located in the municipality of
Santa Rosa de Cabal, department, located in the Coffee Triangle, 20 minutes
from Pereira.
The thermal waters of San Vicente are also in the area and offer relaxation
therapies, mud baths, a steam chamber, hydrotherapy, and lodging, a perfect activity for a great relaxation afternoon.
44
MACONDO DMC www.macondodmc.com
45
SAN ANDRES
CATEGORY
TEMPERATURE
31º C (88º F)
ALTITUDE
16 meters
above sea level
TOTAL AREA:
26 km²
(only San Andres island)
“the SEA OF SEVEN COLORS”
San Andres is 700 km from the Colombian mainland, a miniature paradise with
influences from England and Spain, pirates and corsairs, blended into a rich culture which moves to the beat of reggae. Perfect beaches, excellent water-sports,
diving and ecotourism.
Your first glimpse of San Andres island is the sea of seven colors, home to manyhued fish and coral, working their magic on the visitor.
POPULATION
75.000
(2.131/km²)
ACTIVITIES:
PROVIDENCIA
JOHNNY CAY
Johnny Cay is a small island located opposite San Andres Town. It has perhaps
the best beach anywhere in San Andres
and contains a few bars and restaurants
catering to the day visitors.. There are a
number of open air bars and a couple restaurants which all use the same kitchen to
cook the food over open coals..
Located 72 kilometers (20 minute
flight) north of San Andrés, Providencia Island is a unique destination declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
For its geographic isolation, primitive
infrastructure and a population of just
four thousand inhabitants is an ideal
place to relax in a completely natural
environment.
Surrounded by a coral reef 20 kilometers offers great conditions for diving.
Its beaches are secluded, beautiful
and very quiet.
NORTH END
NORTH END
This is the most populous area
of the island and it is where most
of the schools, businesses and
local government entities are
located. Downtown is the ideal
place for shopping, dining, sea
bathing and partying.
SAN LUIS
JOHNNY CAY
WEST VIEW
This is a point located west of
the island where you can snorkel
Aquanauta arranging the tour.
The place is designed for snorkeling, as there is a tremendous
amount of fish waiting to be fed
and photographed!
EL ACUARIO
SAN LUIS
San Luis Beach is located only ten minutes
by car or bus from downtown San Andres island. This beautiful area is full of history and
culture, in the past it was an important port
where boats full of coconuts shipped, now
is a very quiet place, away from the noise of
the city, with beautiful long beaches, typical
restaurants and a beautiful environment.
EL ACUARIO
A 10 minute boat ride, you get to an island that has a group of colorful kiosks,
where you can take a refreshing cocktail
after snorkeling and see the playful fish
swimming in the shallow waters of the
Aquarium.
WEST VIEW
SAN ANDRES
ACCESS
From Bogotá and Cartagena, Satena, Viva Colombia, Avianca and Aero
República provide direct flights arriving at Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport.
Airlines with international direct flights are Copa Airlines, LAN and
Avianca
San Andres offers a unique experience to visitors who will be enchanted by its beaches with
clear, warm sea waters and by large areas of
coral reef. It is a destination filled with striking
contrasts, amazing scenery and natural diversity.
The Island also has excellent tourist services,
trade and logistics for events that allow the organization of conferences and conventions in
an extraordinary environment.
NATIONAL FLIGHTS
02:10 h from Bogota
02:05 h from Cali
01:50 h Medellin
01:30 h Cartagena
02:00 h Pereira
WEATHER
MONTH
Temperature°F
Temperature°C
Precipitation(mm)
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
02:10 h Barranquilla
02:10 h Bucaramanga
00:35 h Providencia Island
01:12 h from Panama (PA)
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
Min
Max
72
22,2
89,2
31,8
72,3
22,4
88,9
31,6
71,8
21,1
81,7
31,5
68,8
21
87,8
31
19
66,2
29,8
25,7
62,4
16,9
83,8
28,8
60,8
16
85,1
29,5
62,6
17
88
31,1
66,7
19,3
92,1
33,4
70
21,1
91,6
33,1
70,7
21,5
91,6
31,1
71,8
22,1
90
32,2
40
72
82
ACCOMmODATION
81
64
San Andrés has an extraordinary hotel infrastructure located in a quiet environment, with excellent beaches on
the Caribbean Sea.
National and international hotel chains are present on
the island, assuring excellent service, hospitality and
comfort.
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37
32
45
64
57
50
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
Greenmoon Festival:
During the day as well as during the night, music and
dance troupes representing the islands with very different styles in order to remember the secret meetings between slaves at the plantations, out of sight of the English
during colonial times.
It takes place every year in September, for three days, and
represents the history of the contrasts between the local
San Andres Island features 3 Convention centers, that indigenous communities and the British who brought
belong to the largest hotels of the island: Decameron African slaves to work at the island’s plantations.
Isleño, which is also the newest, with capacity of 854
guest, Cotton Cay at the Sunrise Hotel with capacity of
500 guests in auditorium, Sol Caribe Centro with capacity of 400 guest and Decameron Marazul with a convention center with capacity of 220 guest in auditorium.
VENUE CAPACITY
48
MACONDO DMC SAMPLE ITINERARY - 4 DAYS
DAY ONE | Enjoy a unique sky view on the Seven Color
Ocean. Arrival in San Andres and transfer to the hotel.
An extraordinary Welcome Diner awaits you on board of
a pirate ship. Live music and unlimited drinks are included.
ADD THE WOW FACTOR
Exploring the submarine world
DAY TWO | Today you visit the area of San Luis, which
is also known as Sonora Bay, describing the sound of the
waves breaking onto the reef. San Luis is famous for its
long, white sandy beaches and also for its wooden houses, the remains of English settlers. Explore the interior
of the island and visit the Old Church, Morgan’s Cave
and the Blowing Hole, a geological formation that allows
water to exit upwards under high pressure.
Free afternoon.
DAY THREE | Full day tour to Haynes Cay. Enjoy a snorkeling trip in this coral ring that has created a natural
aquarium and is home to thousands of colorful, tropical
fishes. The next stop is Johnny Cay, a white sandy beach
bordered by coconut palm trees and beautiful crystal
clear water. The island is inhabited by Rastafarian natives listening idly to melancholic Caribbean rhythms.
Traditional lunch and return to San Andres Island.
DAY FOUR | An unforgettable tour is taking you to a
semi-submersible submarine with a glass bottom, that
allows you to observe and admire marine life from a different perspective.
Return to the hotel, lunch and time to do some shopping
before leaving to the airport.
A spectacular submarine walk in San Andres and
the most impressive and simple way to interact
with the wonders of the aquatic world. With an
innovative helmet you can breathe naturally in
the water.
Unlike snorkeling, this system does not require
any previous training and, therefore, it can be
enjoyed by the entire group.
Underwater teaming, will be the new experience
and your group will not forget this experience.
www.macondodmc.com
49
1. PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: The history of both, San Andrés and
Providence is replete with adventures of pirates, their invasions and occupation of the islands. The pirate Henry Morgan secretly used San Andrés as
his base of operations for many years. Legend has it that this is where he
buried the fabulous treasures he stole from the Spanish, which have never
been found to this day. Explore the island around the pirates stories and
enjoy a cocktail party aboard. As on any good pirate ship, the rum will runs
freely.
2. SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS: It is one of the most intense experiences you will have in the sea, interacting with dozens of stingrays that
allow you to caress and hug them and frolick between your legs. The touch
is soft and silky and the setting is beautiful, in a sandy islet a few hundred
meters from the island of San Andres.
3. SNORKEL IT!: Imagine, a true paradise ... An afternoon of sun and a
deep blue sea. This paradise become real when you head to the natural
aquarium and when the sun goes down at the end of the day. The Aquarium
of San Andrés is one of the most important tourist attractions of the archipelago, where you can swim with hundreds of multicolored fish.
It is a small island of coral sand and coral stone, which some years ago was
much larger, but due to wind has been reduced to the state. It is a fascinating by the different shades of blue from the sea.
4. REGGAE DANCING: The soundtrack in the island is reggae and the colors are those of the rastafarians. San Andrés is an invitation to join in the
beat with the islanders who attend to their visitors with a smile on their faces and a joke on their lips. And the palm leaves provide more than shade:
before your eyes the local people the make them into hats, baskets and any
number of woven objects.
5. INMERSE ON A LIVING MUSEUM: Have fun in our Magnificent underwater reefs and adventure trails to admire during these ecosystems hour
and a half to go from the reef off the main beach to Punta Hansa (The Pyramid), with all its treasure and color bio diversities watching comfortably
through large windows of life, color and beauty impassive and happy living
marine species in San Andrés submerged.
6. SELF DRIVE IN PARADISE: Drove around the entire island which took
probably about two and a half hours stopping and starting. You’ll get the
opportunity to see the entire coastline of the island and the smaller towns,
shops and homes along the way. This is a great way to begin your stay in
San Andres so you can get a better feels for the size of the island and where
everything is. As well as the golf buggies, you can also hire bikes to ride
around the island on.
50
MACONDO DMC YOUR DMC PARTNER IN
PANAMA AND VENEZUELA
52
MACONDO DMC www.cacaotravel.com
www.cacaopanama.com
OTHER
DESTINATIONS
For incentive travel
SANTA MARTA
SANTA MARTA
Main activities/interests: Relax - Ecotourism - Culture
Founded on July 29, 1525 by spanish conquistador Rodrigo de Bastidas; Santa Marta was the first city founded in Colombia and second-oldest in America.
The city is a popular tourist destination due to its wealth of history, colonial
architecture, beaches and nearby Tayrona National Park, which make it a supremely attractive and desirable place to visit.
Santa Marta is an adventure destination, with stunning natural parks, beautiful beaches and colonial architecture that make it suitable for conducting
business and major events.
Santa Marta has incredible natural attractions and archaeological relics, excellent beaches and landscapes, nature reserves, a national park and the Sierra Nevada, the highest mountain in the country with perpetual snow covered peaks. They inhabit two important pre-Columbian cultures and Pueblito
called Ciudad Perdida, Tayrona culture heritage.
This city is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure and sports, but at
the same time, it offers a superb infrastructure services, trade, restaurants,
meeting rooms and sufficient hotel capacity to serve large groups of conventions, international conferences and congresses.
Accommodations
SANTA MARTA
Zuana Beach Resort****
Tamacá Beach Resort***
La Casa de Santa Marta Boutique
La Casa del Farol
NEAR SANTA MARTA
Irotama Resort*****
Decameron Galeon***
BELLO HORIZONTE
Santorini Hotel Boutique****
Hotel & Resort Santorini****
TEMPERATURE
28 °C (82,4° F)
54
ALTITUDE
2 meters above sea level
MACONDO DMC TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK
Ecohabs in Cañaveral
Cabañas in Arrecifes
SIERRA NEVADA
Posadas Ecoturisticas Hostel
BEACHES NEAR TAYRONA PARK
Playa Koralia Hotel Boutique
Merecumbè Hotel Boutique
BARRANQUILLA
BARRANQUILLA
Main activities/interests: Nightlife
Barranquilla , known as The Golden Gate of Colombia , is the main sea and river
port in the country and the fourth largest city of Colombia . Its economic activity
is dynamic, concentrated mainly in industry , commerce , finance and fisheries.
This city is the heart of the Caribbean, and has a large variety of hotels , restaurants and clubs where Caribbean music every night revives the most anticipated
event in the city: the Carnival of Barranquilla.
This Carnival, declared by UNESCO a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity , is representative for its diverse culture , dance , choreography
, folk groups and unbelievable costumes that make this festival a unique spectacle in the world .
Each year , Barranquilla became the venue for major events like the Jazz Festival
Barranquijazz , attracting renowned exponents of this musical genre from Havana, New York , Los Angeles and San Juan . In addition, the Taste Festival and
Ottawa Storytellers are other events that fill the city magic and culture .
Accommodations
EL PRADO AREA
Smart Suites Royal*****
Country International*****
Estelar Alto Prado****
Barranquilla Plaza****
El Prado Hotel***
Majestic Hotel***
Howard Johnson Versalles***
Barranquilla Plaza***
TEMPERATURE
28 °C (82,4° F)
BUENAVISTA C.C. AREA
Dann Carlton Barranquilla*****
Sonesta Barranquilla*****
BW Atlantis Suites****
Dorado Hotel & Suite***
ALTITUDE
2 meters above sea level
www.macondodmc.com
55
THE AMAZON
THE AMAZON
Main activities/interests: Ecotourism - Culture
Located on the Amazon River at the heart of the most resplendent and exuberant forest on earth, Leticia is the departure exploration point. As capital
of Colombian Amazon, founded in 1867, it is port to flights from Bogotá and
Colombia’s access to “Earth’s Green Lung”. An imaginary line is drawn here
creating a frontier between three countries: Colombia, Brazil and Peru (Amazonian Trapezium).
It is easy to see tropical rainforest animals and reach most places by boat.
The driest months are july and august. Rivers are at the lowest level from
August to November, when many beaches are created by retreating waters
at the riverbanks, and river turtles lay their eggs.
Numerous indigenous communities live in these areas including the Huitotos, Yaguas and Ticunas, who passed-on their culture and traditions,
knowledge of medicinal plants, ceremonies and aptitudes for survival from
generation to generation.
TEMPERATURE
27°C (80,6° F)
ALTITUDE
96 meters
above sea level
Accommodations
LETICIA
Decalodge Ticuna***
Waira Suites Hotel***
Hotel Anaconda**
Malokamazonas Hotel*
The Amazon B&B*
AMACAYACU NATIONAL PARK
Hotel Amacayacu
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MACONDO DMC NATURAL RESERVES
Ecolodge Palmari Reserve
Heliconias Reserva Natural
PUERTO NARIÑO
Casa Selva*
SANTANDER
SANTANDER
Main activities/interest: Adventure - Culture - Ecotourism
The department of Santander is located in the northeast of the country and is
known for being a welcoming , it offers its visitors the opportunity to meet
amazing cultural attractions , architectural and gastronomic .
Its capital is Bucaramanga. Located on the eastern range and also known as
the City of Parks , is representative for its industrial development , education
and business .
Santander has an excellent tourist infrastructure and offers an interesting
addition to tourism, recreation and business .
One of the sights is Barichara , a town declared a National Monument since
1978 and is considered the most beautiful of Colombia , thanks to the skilled
craftsmen who built stone houses and churches . There, visitors are transported in time to the colonial era .
Santander to live an entirely new experience , where extreme adventure , beautiful landscapes and enclosures become the perfect setting for conducting memorable events.
Accommodations
BUCARAMANGA
Dann Carlton Bucaramanga*****
Hacienda El Roble
Eco posada Viña de Aldana
SAN GIL
Mesón del Cuchicute.
Verano Hotel
BARICHARA
La Nube Posada
Hostal Misión Santa Bárbara
TEMPERATURE
ALTITUDE
Bucaramanga:24°C (75,2° F)
San Gil: 23° to 29°C (73° F to 84° F)
Barichara:21°C (70° F )
Chicamocha:24 °C(75° F)
Bucaramanga:959 masl
San Gil:1117 masl
Barichara: 1280 masl
Chicamocha: 1803 masl
*Meters above sea level
www.macondodmc.com
57
WEDDINGS
“ROMANTICISM WITH MAGICAL REALISM”
Walk on Caribbean beaches, escape in an Amazon safari, explore archaeological ruins,
hike on high-mountain treks…today’s Colombia offers you the opportunity to be immersed in the dream-like quality of South American culture. The diversity and beauty
of Colombia provides an eloquent backdrop for a romantic beach wedding or exclusive
getaway. The warmth of the locals, heart-stopping vistas and magical realism welcome
you to the new Colombia.
ACTIVITIES FOR COUPLES:
www.macondodmc.com
58
BEACH
SAN ANDRES, GUAJIRA
SANTA MARTA, CARTAGENA
The Caribbean coast of Colombia offers
wide kilometers of beach: White sand
beaches of San Andres, the desert
scenery beaches in la Guajira, virgin
exotic beaches in The Tayrona park and
Santa Marta, and the most turistic and
charming ones at Cartagena.
GUAJIRA
TAYRONA
SAN ANDRES
SANTA
MARTA
COUNTRY
CARTAGENA
COFFEE ZONE, BOGOTA
MEDELLIN, CALI
Surrounded by plush green mountains, these destinations offer amazing
culture and wonderful warmth of its
people. Beautiful venues, surrounded by
gardens or haciendas with impressive
houses are available for the most creative and rustic style weddings.
SANTANDER
MEDELLIN
BOGOTA
COFFEE
ZONE
VILLA
DE LEYVA
POPAYAN
CALI
EXOTIC
GUAJIRA, TAYRONA, THE AMAZON
These destinations are ideal for those
who dream with an exotic ceremony, for
those who believe in the spiritualism
of the indigenous communities and
want to have an intimate event with a
extraordinary connection between believes, exoticism, symbolism and nature
surrounded by an unforgettable scenery.
COLONIAL
CARTAGENA, POPAYAN
SANTANDER, VILLA DE LEYVA
The beautiful maze of walls, forts,
bastilles and pebbled stoned streets of
Cartagena; The white city of Spanish
colonization of Popayan, and the stonemade villages of Villa de Leyva and
Barichara, all provide the perfect backdrop to romantic weddings and family
celebrations.
UNIQUE
THE AMAZON
BOGOTA, CARTAGENA, MEDELLIN
Unique stunning venues for a dreamed
wedding. Bogotá with its impressive
Salt Cathedral carved 180 meters under
a salt mine, Cartagena with the most
romantic walled city and the imponent
San Felipe Fortress. And Medellín,
with its fairy tale castle surrounded by
gardens.
www.macondodmc.com
59
WEDDINGS
We make every effort to give our clients the
very best of Colombia, providing services that
can make that special day an unforgettable
memory for all couples!
Our qualified team will work on every detail
to fulfill your needs. We create memorable
weddings, offering a wide range of services,
with personalized packages to choose based
on your budget and preferences.
DESTINATIONS
Its easy to love most of the destinations that Colombia has to offer,
but the following are the most recommended ones, because of their
infrastructure and on-site facilities for the organization of events:
Cartagena: Is the most popular destination for weddings in Colombia with lovely boutique hotels and romantic colonial streets, as well
as beautiful Caribbean beaches nearby.
Medellin: The land of flowers, with great infrastructure and event
services, beautiful summer houses and a perfect weather.
Bogota: A cosmopolitan city with breathtaking venues and endless
activity options.
Santa Marta/Tayrona: Perfect for indigenous ritual ceremonies.
Beach and nature location, with limited but charming infrastructure.
SERVICES
ACCOMMODATION
From beach resorts and trendy buildings to romantic
boutique hotels, we will suggest you the best accommodation in Colombia for a perfect wedding. The selection
also includes private villas, beach houses and tropical
bungalows.
60
MACONDO DMC VENUE SELECTION
According to the wedding style, at Macondo DMC we
offer a wide variety of venues, not only for the wedding
party but also for different kind of ceremonies:
-Underground mine
- Public plazas
-Indigenous ruins
- Historical buildings
-Fortress
- Botanic Gardens
-Modern Castle
- Antique theatres, etc.
ENTERTAINMENT
WEDDINGS
EVENT DESIGN
Their dream will come true with endless possibilities for
the event set up, from traditional and elegant environment to the most creative, dreamed and themed event.
Our team will work in every single detail to make possible any idea of wedding.
CATERING
Catering is an important part of every wedding event.
Our chefs will design the menu according to the guests´
needs with personalization touches.
- Wedding cakes
- Breakfasts, brunches, lunches, dinners
- Cocktails and welcome drinks
- Finger food, canapes, desserts and more.
- Ceremony musicians
- Welcome performances
- Folcloric shows
- Dj´s
- Artists booking, etc
CREATIVE
- Wedding invitations and personalized websites
- Floral design
- Dress, jewelry, shoes, hair and make up consulting
- Wedding collateral
- Wedding favors
- Professional wedding photography
- Honeymoon escapes.
www.macondodmc.com
61
Itinerary Ideas
Macondo DMC is about creating the best travel experience for every visitor. Here are some itinerary examples which can respond to travellers
different needs and expectations.
DISCOVER
COLOMBIA
6 Nights / 7 Days
DANCING
IN COLOMBIA
4 Nights / 5 Days
A package with the essential destinations for any first time visitor.
The contrasts of the country will be evident from visiting the modern and cosmopolitan Bogotá, the tranquil and traditional Coffee
Zone, the essence of Spanish colonialism in Cartagena and, finally, the indigenous cultures that still live in the Santa Marta area.
This is the perfect experience to discover Colombia´s nightlife and
entertainment. Visit the main dancing destinations and enjoy Salsa, Vallenato, Cumbia, Mapale and more. Start from Cali, called
“Heaven´s Branch”, where people feel salsa in their heart. Then
move to Barranquilla, vibrant during the day and unstoppable at
night, a very well-known city for the ‘’Vallenato’’. Whether you are
in the south of the city or the more sophisticated north, particularly
at the weekend, nightlife in Barranquilla is varied and enjoyable.
BOGOTA (2N)
City Tour
Salt Cathedral and Guatavita Tour
COFFEE ZONE (2N)
Valle del Cocora & Salento Tour
Coffee Process Tour
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CARTAGENA (1N)
Half Day Panoramic Tour
SANTA MARTA (1N)
Full Day to Playa Neguanje
MACONDO DMC CALI (2N)
Bar Hopping Tour
Salsa Tour
BARRANQUILLA (2N)
Bar Hopping Tour
Vallenato Tour
NOTE: It is suggested to begin the package on a Wednesday
CULTURES
& TRADITIONS
10 Nights / 11 Days
IDYLLIC
FOR TWO
11 Nights / 12 Days
Discover the many ethnic backgrounds of Colombia. First, visit the
Gold Museum at Bogotá and live El Dorado legend at Guatavita. Then,
move to San Agustin to visit the Park of the Stone Gods, where volcanic
rock statues tell us about ancient indigenous rituals. Continue to Cartagena, a colonial city where history is kept in its walls, balconies, doors
and narrow cobbled streets. Finish at la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
and experience a complex network of ecosystems and the archaeological remains of the Tayrona culture at ‘’El Pueblito’’ and “The lost city”.
A package with no stress! The most romantic and relaxing Colombian
destinations for couples willing to share unique moments of romance
and tranquility.
Start by celebrating the arrival with a night out in Bogotá. Then move
to the nearby Villa de Leyva with its antique colonial atmosphere, before arriving to the Coffee Zone for some peaceful walks in the green
and red coffee fields. Continue to Cartagena with its unforgettable
sunsets on the antique walls, and finish the trip with a massage on
the beaches of Barú or Playa Koralia.
BOGOTÁ (2N)
City Tour
Guatavita Tour
SAN AGUSTÍN (3N)
San Agustín Arqueological Park
(Mesitas, Bosque de las Estatuas, Fuente de Lavapatas and
Alto de Lavapatas)
‘’El Alto de los Ídolos’’ &
‘La Cascada del Mortiño’’
CARTAGENA (2N)
City Tour
SANTA MARTA (3N)
Full Day Tour Tayrona Park
Trekking to Pueblito
BOGOTÁ (2N)
Emerald Museum
Dinner at Monserrate
VILLA DE LEYVA (1N)
Visit to the vineyard
Horse back riding
COFFEE ZONE (3N)
Valle del Cocora and Salento
CARTAGENA (2N)
Horse Carriage Night tour
BARÚ OR PLAYA KORALIA (3N)
Massage on the Beach
www.macondodmc.com
63
BEACH &10SUN
IN COLOMBIA
Nights / 11 Days
RICH & FERTILE
COLOMBIA
10 Nights / 11 Days
A sun & beach package for travellers that want to enjoy the best
of the Colombian Caribbean Sea. Start from the famous 7 colours
sea of San Andres and follow to the unspoiled beaches of Providencia, both islands with a strong british influence. Continue to
the main coast to visit Cartagena, the Caribbean jewel that has
fascinated visitors for centuries, and end up in Barú or Santa Marta, both with a combination of tropical beaches and jungle paths.
Colombia is known for its rich store of natural resources, ranging
from minerals to agricultural products. The journey begins exploring the emerald mines of Chivor with a firsthand experience in
an emerald mine. Continues to the legends of precious gold, preserved in Guatavita, and the Salt Mine of Zipaquirà, built in gratitude to salt production in the area. Next, follows a visit to a flower
hacienda in Medellin, to learn how the country creates one of its
main incomes, together with Coffee produced mainly in the coffee
triangle. The tour ends visiting Cali for its Sugar Cane plantations.
Arrival city in Colombia (1st night Bogotá/Cartagena or any other arrival city) (1N)
SAN ANDRÉS (3N)
Nautical Therapy
Submarine Tour
PROVIDENCIA (3N)
All Day boat tour
64
CARTAGENA (2N)
Boquilla or Punta Icacos Tour
CHIVOR (2N)
Emerald Mine
MEDELLÍN (2N)
Flower production hacienda
ROSARIO & BARÚ ISLANDS OR
SANTA MARTA (2N)
Casa navegante (Barú)
Playa Cristal (Santa Marta)
BOGOTÁ (2N)
Gold Museum
Guatavita and el Dorado Legend
Zipaquirá Salt Mine
COFFEE TRIANGLE (2N)
Coffee Farm
MACONDO DMC CALI (2N)
Sugar Cane Plantation
Colombian Main Festivities
JANUARY
Carnival of Blacks and Whites – Pasto
January 4th to 6th
Bambuco National Folk Festival and Beauty Pageant
Neiva / San Agustín – June 22nd to July 2nd
The Joropo International Tournament - Los Llanos
June, dates vary every year
The Manizales Fair – Manizales
January 4th to 11th
JULY
The Hay Festival – Cartagena
January 29th to February 1st
Yipao Parade and Contest – Calarcá, Coffee Zone
June, dates vary every year
Classic Music Festival – Cartagena
January 14n to February 1st
Colombiamoda – Medellín
End of July, dates vary every year
FEBRUARY
AUGUST
The Barranquilla Carnival – Barranquilla
Four days before Ash Wednesday, lasts 4 days
The Flower Fair – Medellín
First weeks of August, dates vary every year
International Film Festival of Cartagena – Cartagena
Dates to be defined every year
Wind and Kite Festival – Villa de Leyva
A weekend in August, dates vary every year
SEPTEMBER
MARCH
Holy Week in Pamplona – Santander
According to Christian calendar
Jazz in the Park Festival – Bogotá
September, dates vary every year
Holy Week in Mompox – Mompox
World Salsa Festival – Cali
August, dates vary every year
NOVEMBER
Holy Week in Popayán – Popayán
National Beauty Pageant – Cartagena
First 2 weeks of November
Holy Week in Sabanalarga – Caribbean coast
APRIL
International Amazonian Folk Music Festival
The Amazon – Late November, dates vary every year
Festival of the Vallenato Legend – Valledupar
April 26th to 30th, or the last week in April.
DECEMBER
JUNE
Wayúu Culture Festival – Guajira
Between May and June
Festival of the Lights – Villa de Leyva
December 7th to 8th
The Cali Fair – Cali
December 25th to 30th
www.macondodmc.com
65
Colombian Official Holidays
2015
JANUARY
June 29th – Monday
San Pedro y San Pablo (Feast of
Saint Peter and Paul J
JANUARY
January 12th – Monday
Día de Reyes Magos (Epiphany)
JULY
Monday, January 11th
Día de los Reyes Magos
(Epiphany)
January 1st - Thursday
Año Nuevo (New Year’s Day)
MARCH
March 23th – Monday
Día de San José (Saint Joseph)
July 20th – Sunday
Grito de Independencia (Colombian Independence Day)
AUGUST
Friday, January 1st
Año Nuevo (New Year’s Day)
MARCH
Sunday, March 20th
Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday)
March 29th – Sunday
Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday)
August 7th – Thursday
Batalla de Boyacá (Battle of
Boyacá)
APRIL
April 2nd – Thursday
Jueves Santo (Maundy Thursday)
August 18th- Monday
Asunción de la Virgen (Assumption of Mary)
Thursday, March 24th
Jueves Santo (Maundy Thursday)
April 3rd – Friday
Viernes Santo (Good Friday)
OCTOBER
Friday, March 25th
Viernes Santo (Good Friday)
April 5th- Sunday
Domingo de Pascua (Easter)
MAY
May 1st – Friday
Día del Trabajo (Labour Day)
May 18th – Monday - La Ascensión del Señor (Ascension Day)
JUNE
66
2016
October 13th – Monday
Día de la Raza (Columbus Day)
NOVEMBER
November 3th – Monday
Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day)
November 17th – Monday
Independencia de Cartagena (Independence Day of Cartagena)
DECEMBER
June 8th – Monday
Corpus Christi (Corpus Christi)
December 8th – Monday
Día de la inmaculada concepción
(Immaculate Conception)
June 15th – Monday
El Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
(Sacred Heart)
December 25th – Thursday
Navidad (Christmas)
MACONDO DMC Monday, March 21st
Día de San José (Saint Joseph)
Sunday, March 27th
Domingo de Pascua (Easter)
MAY
Sunday , May 1st
Día del Trabajo (Labour Day)
Monday, May 9th
La Ascensión del Señor (Ascension Day)
Monday, May 30th
Corpus Christi (Corpus Christi)
JUNE
JUNE
Monday, June 6th
El Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
(Sacred Heart)
JULY
Monday, July 4th
San Pedro y San Pablo
(Feast of Saint Peter and Paul)
Wednesday, July 20th
Día de la Independencia (Colombian Independence Day)
AUGUST
Sunday, August 7th
Batalla de Boyacá (Battle of
Boyacá)
Monday, August 15th
Asunción de la Virgen (Assumption of Mary)
OCTOBER
Monday, October 17th
Día de la Raza (Columbus Day)
NOVEMBER
Monday, November 7th
Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day)
Monday, November 14th
Independencia de Cartagena (Independence Day of Cartagena)
DECEMBER
Thursday, December 8th
Día de la Inmaculada Concepción
(Inmaculate Conception)
Sunday, December 25th
Navidad (Christmas)
F.A.Q
When deciding to include Colombia into your offering and when selecting your partner to help you on this, there are some questions
which you would probably ask:
WHY VISIT COLOMBIA?
Colombia, for many, is a new destination. Travellers have visited most
Latin America countries and are waiting for the right opportunity to
travel to Colombia. The country offers a unique mix of cultures, landscapes and activities that will exceed most travellers’ expectations.
WHEN IS IT THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE COUNTRY?
therefore we do respect each country’s travel advice.
In conclusion, while we believe that most of the country is safe, we
will be as strict as possible when providing our personalized advice to
our clients, and will not recommend or organize any visit to areas not
considered 100% safe.
There are two main factors to take into account when planning a visit
to Colombia. The weather and local seasonality and festivities.
In terms of weather, the driest months are December to March and
June to August.
Local seasonality is mainly affected by traditional vacation periods
like Easter Week, June (school vacations) and Christmas, on which
availability of hotels and services might be a problem. Local festivities, on the other hand, can be an opportunity to experience some
unique festivals and local traditions (see local festivities calendar).
However, as most festivities are moved to Mondays, they are also occasions on which most Colombians will travel to short distance destinations within the country.
WHY WORK WITH MACONDO DMC?
IS IT SAFE?
•
We cannot say that the whole country is totally safe, but we can surely
affirm that all the destinations included in this catalogue, and others,
are constantly visited by foreigners whose feedback, when they return, is always positive. However, we believe that it is our responsibility not to rely on personal opinions when it is a matter of safety, and
Reasons that make Macondo DMC the right choice when selecting a
partner in Colombia are many, we will list five:
•
•
•
•
The owners of the company are directly involved in day to day
operations and have a combined experience of over 20 years in
tourism .
We are a small company that pays attention to every detail and
we have the ability to modify our processes to respond to clients’
needs.
We have direct knowledge of product and services offered, as
we constantly inspect properties, interview guides and visit new
destinations.
We have exclusive guides and an owned fleet of vehicles in Bogota, and well established alliances throughout the country with
partners that work with our same standards.
We are able to innovate and surprise every client with new travel
ideas.
www.macondodmc.com
67
68
MACONDO DMC www.macondodmc.com
Supported by:
Ministry of Trade,
Industry, and Tourism
Republic of Colombia

C O L O M B I A

Transcription

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