Bogotá in Light: Art, Culture & Noche de Velitas

Thu, Dec 3

Arrival in Bogotá & Welcome Dinner Guests arrive in Bogotá and are welcomed with private airport transfers to the hotel. The afternoon is left open to settle in, rest, and acclimatize to the city. In the evening, the group gathers for an intimate welcome dinner introducing Bogotá’s contemporary art scene, the people and places that will shape the journey, and the cultural context behind the week ahead.

Fri, Dec 4

Inside Bogotá’s Contemporary Art Scene The journey begins with a curated introduction to Bogotá’s contemporary art ecosystem through visits to leading galleries and cultural spaces. The day combines exhibitions with conversations with gallerists, curators, and cultural figures, offering insight into the evolution of Colombian contemporary art and Bogotá’s place within the Latin American art scene. A selected lunch is included, followed by an evening experience or dinner in one of Bogotá’s most distinctive neighborhoods.

Sat, Dec 5

Behind the Work: Artists & Collecting A day dedicated to experiencing art beyond the exhibition space. Guests visit selected Colombian artists in their studios for private conversations about their work, materials, ideas, and current projects. The program continues with a curated gallery or private collection experience, introducing guests to the relationship between artists, galleries, collectors, and curators within Bogotá’s art ecosystem. The evening is free or may include an optional cultural activity.

Sun, Dec 6

Bogotá Beyond the White Cube Bogotá itself becomes part of the journey. The day explores the city through architecture, food, history, design, and culture, offering a broader understanding of the context in which its contemporary art scene exists. The pace is intentionally slower, combining a cultural neighborhood experience with a long lunch and time to discover another side of the city.

Mon, Dec 7

Art, Tradition & Noche de Velitas The final full day brings together contemporary art and one of Colombia’s most beloved traditions. The morning and early afternoon include a special artist encounter, private visit, or curated cultural experience. As evening approaches, the focus shifts from the art world to the city itself. Every December 7, Colombians welcome the Christmas season by lighting candles and lanterns in homes, streets, balconies, parks, and public spaces. Guests will experience Noche de Velitas as part of the journey — an evening centered on light, community, food, music, and Colombian tradition. Rather than simply observing the celebration, ARVIA will create an intimate experience that allows guests to take part in it alongside local hosts. The evening concludes with a special farewell celebration.

Tue, Dec 8

Farewell Bogotá A relaxed final morning following the celebration of Noche de Velitas. Guests gather for a farewell breakfast or brunch before returning to the hotel and departing for the airport according to their individual flight schedules. Private airport transfers are provided.