Cartagena : Private freedom tour in Palenque
Active
4h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour highlights the African legacy in Cartagena and in Colombia, highlighting the influence of the Afro-descendant community in music, dance, gastronomy, sports and the history of our city and our country. Palenque being the first free town in the American continent since 1713. You will visit the houses of the most representative people of the population where you will be able to interact with them while listening to the living history of this population. You will also be able to appreciate part of the culture of this population through a music and dance show (of which you will also be the protagonist) and end up enjoying the delights of the Palenque gastronomy. This population was declared oral and intangible heritage of humanity by UNESCO in 2005, thanks to the fact that they still preserve their African roots such as their Palenquera language, their religious rites, their traditional medicine, music and dance.
Available options
If you are 4 to 15 people
Private tour<br/>Go<br/>Pickup included
If you are 1 to 3 people
dance show<br/>Private<br/>Typical Palenquero lunch<br/>Van or car: Private vehicles which may vary depending on the number of people in the reservation: car, truck, van or bus.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Typical lunch of palenque (Rice with coconut and fish in widow) served in its native form.
Bottled water
Music Show
Detailed itinerary
1
We will pick you up at your hotel and we will travel 65km for 1 hour and a half to reach Palenque de Benkos. Upon arrival in Palenque we will have a talk about its history and culture at the home of our host and local guide. And a summary of the visits that will be made during the guided tour.
2
We will take a tour of the town of Palenque visiting the monuments, the houses of the most representative characters and interacting with them in their day-to-day life. To learn more about the language, everyday life, and African culture of this unique place in Latin America.
3
We will visit the monument of Pricipe Benkos in which we will talk about his history, birth, death and how he organized the Palenque de San Basilio so that even today we can visit it and enjoy its ancestral culture.
4
After finishing our walk through the town, we will visit the house of the palanquera culture where the locals will delight us with music and dance, to learn about their African roots from the very heart of Africa, the drum. There you will be able to join in dance or music and participate in musical cultural expression.
5
Finally, we will delight our palate with the palanquera gastronomy as they used to eat, using the utensils that they used to use and that are still part of their day to day. And you can participate if you want in the preparation of it (you must request it in advance)
What's not included
What is not indicated is not included.
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessible
Bring sunscreen and comfortable clothes
About Cartagena
Cartagena, a vibrant city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is renowned for its colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning beaches. Known as the 'Pearl of the Caribbean,' it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, lively nightlife, and tropical charm.
Top Attractions
Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
The historic center of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and colorful buildings.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to enter, individual attractions may charge admission
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A 17th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate
Playa Blanca
A beautiful white-sand beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Full day
Budget to moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche de Camarones
Shrimp ceviche made with fresh shrimp, lime juice, and various spices.
Appetizer
Contains seafood
Arepas
Cornmeal patties that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter with rice, beans, meat, plantains, avocado, and more.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Exploring historic sites
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers sunny skies and lower humidity, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the city.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
UTC-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Stay vigilant and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Getting there
By air
- Rafael Núñez International Airport • 3 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte Terrestre
Getting around
Public transport
A modern bus rapid transit system with air-conditioned buses and dedicated lanes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada)
Getsemani
Bocagrande
Day trips
Isla Barú
15 km from Cartagena • Full day
A beautiful island with stunning beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation and water activities.
Mud Volcanoes (Volcanes de Lodo)
45 km from Cartagena • Half day
A unique natural phenomenon where mud volcanoes can be climbed for therapeutic mud baths.
Palmar
20 km from Cartagena • Half day
A beautiful nature reserve with mangrove forests and a variety of wildlife.
Festivals
Hay Festival Cartagena • January
Carnaval de Barranquilla • February/March
Pro tips
- Visit the Walled City early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the neighborhoods of Getsemani and Bocagrande for a mix of history and modern luxury.
- Use the Transcaribe bus system for affordable and convenient transportation.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water for exploring the city.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
