Tour to San Basilio Palenque with Bilingual Native Guide
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Tour to San Basilio Palenque with Bilingual Native Guide

Active
(27 reviews)
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

With this great experience, you will learn about the culture, roots, and struggle of the Palenqueros to obtain their freedom, ensuring that their cultural and indigenous traditions continue to be a significant legacy for Colombia and the world. You will explore the streets of San Basilio de Palenque, visit iconic places, and discover a museum dedicated to Afro-Colombian heritage.

You will receive ancestral education about medicinal plants, savor the local cuisine and sweets, appreciate the typical houses, listen to Palenquera music, and learn about their dialect. The entire experience is an adventure called Palenque.

Available options

Tour to San Basilio Palenque with Bilingual Native Guide

Pickup included

What's included

Typical liquor
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Umbrella lending service

Detailed itinerary

1

You will be able to see the Palenquera culture live and in person, including their cultures, traditions, home museums, their native language, typical houses. This tour has an estimated duration of 2 hours, plus an additional 2-hour journey from Cartagena and back

2

The Benkos Biohó Monument honors the legacy of Benkos Biohó, an African slave who led a rebellion against Spanish colonial forces in the 17th century and founded San Basilio de Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas. The monument stands as a symbol of resistance, freedom, and the enduring spirit of the Palenquera people. It typically includes statues, plaques, and other commemorations to honor Biohó's courageous leadership and the community's struggle for emancipation.

3

"Casa Kombilesa Mi" is a cultural center in San Basilio de Palenque, Colombia, dedicated to preserving Afro-Colombian heritage. It serves as a gathering place for the renowned musical group "Kombilesa Mi," where they rehearse, perform, and engage with the community. The space is adorned with vibrant murals, traditional instruments, and artwork depicting local legends. Visitors can experience the energetic rhythms of Palenquera music, influenced by African and indigenous Colombian traditions. Members of the group offer demonstrations of drumming, dancing, and singing, inviting guests to join in the celebration. Casa Kombilesa Mi also hosts workshops, lectures, and educational programs, promoting cultural exchange and pride in Afro-Colombian identity.

4

Boxing school Antonio Cervante gym San Basilio de Palenque
"Gimnasio Antonio Cervantes" may refer to a boxing gym in San Basilio de Palenque. Antonio Cervantes, also known as "Kid Pambele," was a famous Colombian boxer. If this gym is named after him, it could be a tribute to his legacy. However, without more specific information, it's challenging to provide further details.

5

San Basilio de Palenque medicinal house:
In San Basilio de Palenque, traditional medicinal practices are often deeply rooted in the community's cultural heritage. While there might not be a specific establishment called "Casa Medicinal," residents may consult local healers or traditional medicine practitioners for remedies and treatments. These remedies often draw on knowledge passed down through generations and may include the use of medicinal plants, herbs, and rituals for healing various ailments. If you're interested in traditional healing practices in Palenque, connecting with local community members or organizations dedicated to preserving cultural heritage could provide valuable insights

What's not included

Service not included in the tour

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.5
2 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
25 reviews
5★
25
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund
In this activity, it can be done for an individual or a group, depending on reservation requests
We require full name and passport number information to add it to the traveler insurance assistance.

Meeting point

The guide will call you a few minutes prior to notify you of the exact time they will pick you up. For this, please provide a contact number/WhatsApp that we can reach you on.

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

Adults
Age 9-60
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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