The Journey
An 8-Day Catholic Pilgrimage Through Colombia
DAY 1 — WELCOME TO COLOMBIA
📍 Bogotá
Your journey begins in Bogotá. Meet Joe & Bella at El Dorado International Airport and join the rest of the group as we make our way to our lodging.
That evening, we'll gather for our first group Rosary, entrusting the week to Our Lady, followed by a private welcome dinner where you'll meet your fellow pilgrims and get to know the Via Maria community.
Highlights
Airport pickup
Group Rosary
Welcome dinner
Overnight in Bogotá
DAY 2 — HERALDS OF THE GOSPEL
📍 Tocancipá
Begin Sunday with Mass at the beautiful Caballeros de la Virgen Church, home of the Heralds of the Gospel. Explore the grounds, enjoy traditional food, and spend the afternoon getting your first taste of Colombian life before gathering for dinner and reflection.
Highlights
Sunday Mass
Explore the Heralds of the Gospel grounds
Traditional Colombian food
Group reflection
DAY 3 — ABOVE THE CITY
📍 Bogotá · Monserrate
Rise above Colombia’s capital and visit the iconic Monserrate Sanctuary, a historic pilgrimage site perched high in the Andes. After Mass, enjoy breathtaking views of Bogotá, explore local artisan shops, and take in the beauty of the city from above.
We’ll then make our way into historic Bogotá to discover another beautiful church before gathering for our final evening in the capital.
Highlights
Monserrate Sanctuary & Mass
Panoramic views of Bogotá
Local crafts & artisan shops
Historic Bogotá
DAY 4 — MIRACLES IN STONE & SALT
📍 Sopó · Zipaquirá
Today takes us through two remarkable expressions of Colombian faith. In Sopó, walk through a peaceful path marked by the Stations of the Cross and discover the story behind the miraculous image of Our Lord.
Later, journey to Zipaquirá to explore the incredible Salt Cathedral, a former salt mine transformed into one of Colombia’s most unique Catholic landmarks.
Highlights
Daily Mass
Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
Colombian countryside
DAY 5 — THE HEART OF MARIAN DEVOTION
📍 Chiquinquirá
Welcome to Chiquinquirá, Bella’s hometown and one of the most important Catholic destinations in Colombia. Here we’ll encounter the story of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá, the Patroness of Colombia, whose miraculous image has been venerated for centuries.
After exploring the town and experiencing its authentic Colombian character, we’ll gather for Mass at the Basilica before sharing dinner together.
Highlights
Basilica of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá
Evening Mass
🇨🇴 Authentic Colombian culture
Time together as a group
DAY 6 — COLOMBIAN CULTURE & COUNTRYSIDE
📍 Villa de Leyva · Ráquira
Step into the heart of Boyacá and experience two of Colombia’s most charming destinations. Begin the day with a short hike and panoramic views of the countryside before exploring the historic streets of Villa de Leyva and the colorful artisan town of Ráquira.
From colonial architecture to handmade crafts, this day is all about experiencing the beauty, creativity, and traditions of Colombia.
Highlights
Countryside hike
Villa de Leyva
Ráquira artisan village
🇨🇴 Colombian traditions & crafts
DAY 7 — ADVENTURE & REFLECTION
📍 Boyacá · Bogotá
Our final full day brings together adventure, faith, and reflection. Depending on the group, choose between a mountain pilgrimage to the Hill of the Cross, featuring Stations of the Cross and spectacular views, or a visit to a Colombian emerald mine.
We’ll then return to Bogotá for a special farewell dinner, where we’ll reflect on the experiences, friendships, and graces of our journey together.
Highlights
Hill of the Cross pilgrimage
Colombian emerald mine option
Farewell celebration
DAY 8 — UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN
📍 Bogotá
After one final breakfast together, we’ll make our way back to El Dorado International Airport. As our journey comes to an end, we’ll say our goodbyes and carry home the memories, friendships, and moments of faith we shared along the way.
The pilgrimage may be ending, but the journey continues.
Highlights
Final group breakfast
Airport transportation
Farewell to the Via Maria community