Private Half Day Tour to San Basilio De Palenque with Lunch
Active
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
The people of Palenque invite you to get to know this cultural wonder declared by Unesco as the first town free from slavery in Latin America. This 100% African-American town still preserves those ancestral customs which the elderly are transferring to the young so that their culture is never lost. Come to see their dance, eat their food, visit the traditional doctors who cure all kinds of diseases with medicinal plants. Come they will fall in love.
This town was the first town free from slavery in Latin America. It is a corner of Africa in Colombia where the elderly still preserve their customs and try to transfer them to the youngest so that the legacy lasts. It is a town full of colors and a lot of culture.
Available options
Private Half Day Tour to San Basilio De Palenque with Lunch
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Local guide
Bottled water
Lunch
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
The town square. Here we meet the local guide, we will see the statue of Benkos Biojo the founder of the town.
2
Dance school. Here we will see the traditional dance show of the town. Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with the dancers and learn to dance like them.
3
The Culture House. In this place, visitors will see a replica of the houses from before, that is, what material they were made of, how they were divided, how they cooked and a little more about the history of the town.
4
traditional doctors. During the visit to the traditional doctors of the town, visitors will interact with the elders who cure diseases through plants and drinks. In this place there were no patients with COVID 10 thanks to the wisdom of the doctors with plants.
5
The candy store. Here you will see the preparation of the traditional sweets of the town such as alegría, cocadas de coco, caballito and fruit sweets.
6
Tours through the streets of the town. We will take a tour of the colorful streets of the town. Taking pictures with the people and with the palenquero traditions with the colorful dresses and if we have the opportunity to see that the men are gathered drinking the typical rum of the towns, we will ask them for a drink.
7
Time for lunch. At the end of the tour we will go to have lunch at the house of the mother of the local guide. Where visitors will taste a delicious fried mojarra in coconut sauce, coconut rice, a delicious stamina salad and a refreshing panela water.
What's not included
Tipping to locals is voluntary
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
In the town square
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
