Colombia II (July 25th - August 2nd)

After the wonderful (and terribly humid) experience from Parque Tayrona, the adventurers continued to Cartagena, allegedly the most beautiful city in Latin America. The vibe there really was unique - combination of modern part (Boca Grande) dotted with skyscrapers and high-class shops and historic center packed with colonial architecture surrounded by fortification.

Photo from the historic part of Cartagena, modern Boca Grande on the horizon

Traditional fruit vendors in Cartagena

After spending a long night in overpriced bus from Cartagena, the expeditioners woke up in Medellín, once the most dangerous Colombian city, infamously known for Pablo Escobar and his drug cartel. Local administration did a hell of a work since the early 90's when Escobar was killed and the city is now on the move, being one of the most important industrial and educational centers in Colombia. Day in Medellín was special particularly because of meeting Jirka Smoldas (who is working there for half a year already) who showed us majority of the main sights. Highlight of the day was taking a cable car above the slums, where it would normally be impossible to visit.

Saying bye to Jirka in Medellín subway

Slums in Medellín (photographed from cable car)

Next stop was the chilly capital, Bogotá. Two-day long intensive city sightseeing was complemented with one-day trip to Zipaquirá, where a famous underground salt cathedral is located. Looking over the huge city nested between the Andes from the top of Cerro de Montserrat (3.030 m) was an unforgettable view.

Armed forces around Bogotá keeping an eye on law and order

Inside the underground salt cathedral in Zipaquirá

Bogotá (8 mil. citizens) from Cerro Montserrat

Last stop in Colombia was San Agustín. A relaxed small town in the hills, San Agustín was special for two things - stone sculptures (ceremonial funeral sites) and horses. The crew hired one horse each and without a guide and much knowledge of how to ride them set off to explore archaeological sights scattered around the region. Riding a horse proved not to be that difficult and all were soon trotting in full speed through the hills - an amazing experience.

Don Madonarra and Miguel on their horses

El Fredovito taming his beast

Expedition Maya on horses asking for direction

Archeological sights around San Agustín

From San Agustín, the journey continued through Pitalito, Mocoa and Pasto to Ipiáles/Tulcán border with Ecuador. Worth mentioning is the ride between Mocoa and Pasto - 5 hours at the back of a truck, inhaling dust, exhausts and maybe a bit of air as well. Combine this with crazy driver, lack of space and unsealed winding road and you get the worst drive of your life.

Trying to protect against the dust-poison truck ride to Pasto

May the Maya be with you! :)