Tour to San Basilio de Palenque your History Dances and Lunch

Cartagena , Colombia

Tour to San Basilio de Palenque your History Dances and Lunch

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About this experience

Embark on a unique and enriching experience with the Tour to San Basilio de Palenque, the first free town in America and a World Heritage Site. Accompanied by local guides, you will learn about the history of resistance of people of African descent who managed to free themselves from slavery and form a community with its own cultural identity. Walk its streets, visit the cultural center, Benkos Biohó Square and other iconic sites while discovering a language, music and customs that you won’t find anywhere else. Admire the Palenquera women in their colorful costumes and their fundamental role in the living history of the village. Enjoy a delicious typical lunch and, if you wish, a vibrant African drum show. This experience not only connects you to Colombia’s African root, but also allows you to directly support this community proud of its legacy. Book now and live a day that touches the soul!

Available options

Tour to San Basilio de Palenque your History Dances and Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Optional: African drum show

Transportation to and from your hotel

Local English-speaking pallet guide.

Local Typical Lunch

Palenque City Tour

Detailed itinerary

On this unique tour of San Basilio de Palenque, you will live a deep and authentic cultural experience. You will leave from Cartagena accompanied by a local Palenquero guide who will welcome you with the warmth and pride of his community. When you arrive, you will visit the cultural center of the town, where you will learn up close the history of the Afro-Colombians who, after escaping slavery in the 17th century, founded the first free people in America.

You will walk through its historic streets, visiting iconic sites such as Benkos Biohó Square, while learning about the Palenquera language, its African roots and its brave struggle for freedom. You will have the opportunity to interact with the villagers, see women dressed in colorful costumes and participate in a show of their traditional dances.

The tour includes a delicious typical lunch prepared by local cooks, and you can close the experience with an optional African drumming show.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

As soon as you make the reservation you must write to us on WhatsApp number +57 317 7374981 for us to send you the corresponding Ticket or voucher to carry out the activity.

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.