Cultural excursion to Palenque from Cartagena
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
Experience a unique and transformative adventure in Palenque, the first free town in America! Immerse yourself in the history of the struggle for freedom of enslaved Africans and discover the cultural traditions that have endured for generations. This tour is an authentic connection to the rhythms, flavors, and ancestral knowledge of this emblematic community.
Available schedules with departures from Cartagena:
Morning: 8:00 - 8:30 a.m. Return 1:30 - 2:00 p.m.
Afternoon: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. Return 4:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Includes: ✔ Guided tour by a local Palenquero ✔ Live cultural showcase: music, traditional dances, and ancestral storytelling. ✔ Tasting of traditional sweets, traditional rum (ñeque), and a delicious lunch prepared by Palenquero women. ✔ Workshop on Palenquero language, traditional medicine, and production of traditional rum.
✅ Do you prefer the morning or afternoon departure? Choose your schedule and live this unforgettable experience!
Available options
A corner of Africa in Colombia
Pickup included
What's included
Tour of the community where you will discover the emblematic places of San Basilio de Palenque.
Bottled water
Traditional rum tasting (Ñeke)
Traditional Palenquero lunch
Historical discussion about the leader Benkos Bioho
Air-conditioned vehicle
Presentation of the different traditional Palenque dances
Tasting of sweets
Detailed itinerary
1
In the company of a bilingual native guide, you will start this journey at the iconic Monument to Benkos Biohó, where you will relive the history of resistance and freedom that marked our continent.
Music and Tradition:
Visit the house of the famous group Kombilesa Mi and dare to play their ancestral instruments alongside local musicians and enjoy the presentation of different traditional dances and a drum show.️
Living Heritage:
Explore the Casa Museo with traditional objects (stools, mortars) and the Medicine Patio Sikito, where you will discover the healing power of plants.
Flavor and Sport:
Taste and participate in the preparation of typical sweets and the authentic traditional rum (ñeke).
Experience a fun boxing class inspired by the legacy of champion Kid Pambelé.
Nature and History:
Get to know the creek, a source of water from Palenque.️
Enjoy a typical lunch (coconut rice with fish). Do you prefer chicken, pork, or a vegetarian option?
What's not included
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
22 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
