2026 Colombia Trip

Celebrate 60 Years of Friendship

Tampa & Barranquilla | May 9 – May 18

In 1966, Tampa and Barranquilla officially became Sister Cities — beginning a relationship built on cultural exchange, business collaboration, education, and lifelong friendships.

In May 2026, we invite you to join us in Colombia as we celebrate 60 years of partnership with a special delegation trip to Barranquilla, Cartagena, and Bogotá.

This once-in-a-generation anniversary journey will combine cultural experiences, historic milestones, official engagements, and unforgettable moments across three of Colombia’s most vibrant cities.

Trip Dates

May 9 – May 18, 2026

Cities Included:

  • Barranquilla

  • Cartagena

  • Bogotá

Why Join the 60th Anniversary Delegation?

This trip is more than tourism — it is a celebration of diplomacy, culture, and community.

  • Participants will have the opportunity to:
  • Strengthen ties between Tampa and Barranquilla
  • Engage in meaningful cultural and diplomatic experiences
  • Explore three of Colombia’s most important cities
  • Travel stress-free with a fully curated, all-inclusive package
  • Connect with fellow Tampa business, civic, and community leaders

Whether you have been involved with Sister Cities for years or are exploring participation for the first time, this anniversary trip offers a meaningful and memorable way to be part of history.

Current Itinerary

Please note: The land tour agenda may evolve, particularly with participation from City Hall in Barranquilla.

Barranquilla

May 9 – May 12

Our journey begins in Tampa with international air service to Barranquilla via Bogotá.

Upon arrival, delegates will enjoy a private airport transfer, hotel check-in, a hosted group lunch, and an official welcome dinner.

Cultural & Historical Highlights:

  • El Prado District

  • Founders Park

  • Amira de la Rosa Theater

  • Carnival House Museum

  • Former Customs Building Cultural Complex

  • Montoya Station & Railroad Plaza

  • Window of Champions Monument

  • Gran Malecón Riverfront Promenade

  • Shakira Monument & Window of the World

Carnival Heritage Experience

A guided educational visit to the world-famous Barranquilla Carnival House provides insight into one of UNESCO’s Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Puerto Mocho Coastal Excursion

Enjoy a scenic train transfer to Puerto Mocho for a beachside lunch and coastal relaxation experience.

Cartagena

May 13 – May 16

Following ground transfer from Barranquilla, delegates will arrive in Cartagena, one of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in the Americas.

Rosario Islands Experience

Spend a full day at Bora Bora Beach Club in the Rosario Islands:

  • Roundtrip boat transportation

  • Exclusive beach club access

  • Lunch included

Cartagena Heritage Tour

Explore:

  • Bocagrande, Laguito & Castillo Grande

  • San Felipe de Barajas Castle

  • Clock Tower & Convention Center

  • Old Shoes Monument

  • India Catalina Monument

  • Historic Walled City

The Cartagena program concludes with an official closing dinner in the historic district.

 Bogotá

May 16 – May 18

The delegation concludes in Colombia’s capital city.

City Highlights:

  • Bolívar Square and surrounding government buildings

  • Gold Museum

  • Botero Museum

Monserrate & Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

  • Visit Monserrate Sanctuary for panoramic views of Bogotá

  • Guided excursion to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

  • Traditional Colombian lunch included

Accommodations

Delegates will stay at premier hotels (double occupancy):

  • Barranquilla: Crowne Plaza Barranquilla
  • Cartagena: InterContinental Cartagena
  • Bogotá: Best Western Plus 93

What’s Included

Total Investment: $3,550 per person

This comprehensive package includes:

  • International and domestic airfare (Avianca Airlines)
  • Hotel accommodations (double occupancy)
  • Daily breakfast
  • Specified lunches and dinners
  • Guided cultural tours
  • Entrance fees
  • Private airport and ground transfers
  • English-speaking professional guides

All logistics are handled — allowing you to focus on connection, culture, and collaboration.

Be Part of History

Sixty years of partnership deserves to be celebrated in a meaningful way.

Join us in honoring the legacy of those who built this relationship — and help shape the next chapter of friendship between Tampa and Barranquilla.

Reserve Your Place

Space is limited for this official Tampa Sister Cities delegation.

If you are a business leader, civic official, educator, or community stakeholder interested in representing Tampa abroad while experiencing the richness of Colombia, we invite you to join us.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone together in Colombia.