5 nights / 6 days
Explore the magical universe of Gabriel García Márquez, where Colombian landscapes, people, and traditions converge to bring Macondo to life.
What Inspires this Journey?
Colombia is a land where reality and magic coexist seamlessly, echoing the world imagined by Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel García Márquez. From the rhythms of gaitas and drums to Afro and Indigenous traditions, every corner of this country whispers stories of memory, myth, and imagination. This journey invites travelers to walk through the landscapes and towns that inspired Macondo, immersing themselves in the literary magic that defines Colombia’s cultural heartbeat. It is a voyage that blends history, gastronomy, art, and storytelling into a living tapestry of sights, sounds, and experiences.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Cartagena opens this literary adventure, a walled city whose colonial streets and plazas pulse with the same vibrancy that inspired Gabo. Explore Getsemaní’s murals, enjoy street food tastings, and visit the crypt at the Sofitel Santa Clara, which sparked the tale of Of Love and Other Demons.
Next, journey to Santa Cruz de Mompox, a colonial treasure on the Magdalena River, where time seems to stand still. Wander cobblestone streets, admire baroque churches, and discover the artisanal art of filigree under the guidance of a master craftsman. Glide through the serene Ciénaga de Pijiño, home to vibrant flora and birdlife, in a setting that evokes the Caribbean’s literary magic.
On the way to Santa Marta, stop in Aracataca, Gabo’s birthplace and the real-world inspiration for Macondo. Explore the house museum, historic church, railway station, and vibrant streets, connecting with the stories, landscapes, and characters that shaped Colombia’s most celebrated literary universe.
ESSENTIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Cartagena’s Literary Streets and Flavors:
Explore colonial plazas and vibrant alleys while tasting local street foods that bring the Caribbean spirit to life.
Sofitel Santa Clara Crypt:
Discover the legend that inspired Of Love and Other Demons, a unique glimpse into the stories that fueled Gabo’s imagination.
Mompox Filigree Workshop:
Learn the intricate art of gold and silver filigree from a master artisan and create your own piece, blending craft with literary magic.
Ciénaga de Pijiño Canoe Ride:
Glide through calm waters surrounded by lush vegetation and abundant birdlife, experiencing the Caribbean landscapes that inspired Gabo.
Aracataca – Birthplace of Gabo:
Stroll through streets, houses, and landmarks that sparked the imagination of Gabriel García Márquez and witness the roots of magical realism firsthand.
