Colombia
Journey into the “Heart of the World”
An exclusive encounter with the indigenous people of Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Spring 2025
The Kogi, direct descendants of the Tayrona people, are one of the last surviving pre-Colombian civilizations never to have been colonized. They believe Colombia’a Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest coastal mountain on earth, to be the living heart of the world. The Kogi see their mountain as the divine Great Mother from which they are born, and believe that their purpose in life is to look after her. For over 400 years they have lived in seclusion on their mountain, guarding their ways. But now they have a message for us all…
Join Will Monroe Whittle on an exclusive transformational retreat style adventure to vibrant Cartagena and the stunning, wild Caribbean coast and mountains near Tayrona National Park. Here we’ll experience the colorful colonial charm of Cartagena in style as we learn of Colombia’s enchanting, storied past. Then it’s off to explore the wisdom and insights of the indigenous people of Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, first hand, in a private invitation and direct exchange with Kogi and Arhuaco elders and communities. During this once in a lifetime experience, we’ll explore new perspectives in breathtaking surroundings and discover how we might live in greater harmony with the natural world and with each other. This experience will be both inspiring and powerful and something you will carry with you for the rest of your life.
TRIP ITINERARY
DAY 1 ARRIVAL: CARTAGENA — WELCOME AND ORIENTATION / Sunset Reception
Overnight: Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Cartagena
DAY 2 CARTAGENA: Seminar / WALLED CITY
Overnight: Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Cartagena
DAY 3 CARTAGENA: Seminar / La Boquilla Drum Safari
Overnight: Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Cartagena
DAY 4 cartagena to Tayrona: Minca Highlands and the Caribbean coast
Overnight: Casa Tayrona, Los Naranjos
Day 5 Sierra de Santa Marta: Encounter with the arhuaco
Overnight: Casa Tayrona, Los Naranjos
DAY 6 Sierra de Santa marta: Encounter with the kogi
Overnight: Casa Tayrona, Los Naranjos
Day 7 Tayrona National Park
Overnight: Casa Tayrona, Los Naranjos
Day 8 Caribbean coast to Cartagena: final celebration
Overnight: Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Cartagena
Day 9 Cartagena: Departure
TRIP ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Cartagena
Originally built as a convent in 1621, the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is a legendary landmark in the heart of Cartagena's walled city. Transformed into a luxury hotel in 1995, the Sofitel Santa Clara, unique in style, combines the allure of history with local hospitality and the art of French savoir-faire. Mixing Colonial and Republican-style architecture with modern comfort, the hotel features gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, a world-class spa, meeting facilities and state of the art technology.
Casa Tayrona, Los Naranjos
Uniquely located on private Los Naranjos beach where the river Piedras meets the sea, Casa Tayrona is a world away, yet in close proximity to Tayrona National Park. This exclusive sea front Boutique-hotel, has considered every detail and is located in a similar environment to Tayrona National Park. On one side, Los Naranjos beach and on the other side the river Piedras reaching down to the sea. The hotel, is surrounded by a forest of beautiful palms and in the distance you can see the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. An incredible place that stands out for its location and design, as well as its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
Apply Now!
Feeling inspired about your Journey to Colombia?! Click the button below to learn more about applying for your place on this adventure.