Zenú Indigenous Heritage Tour in Cartagena

Cartagena , Colombia

Zenú Indigenous Heritage Tour in Cartagena

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

This tour is part of our H.E.A.R.T. Experiences at Impulse Travel - Go deep into indigenous Zenú culture and learn directly from them about their heritage, history, and most recognized handcrafts in a weaving workshop and visit to Cartagena's Gold Museum.

Available options

Zenú Indigenous Heritage Tour in Cartagena

Pickup included

What's included

Donations to ASOMAIZ and FEM (local indigenous development organizations)

Impulse Insurance

Knowledgeable guide in English and/or Spanish.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Entry tickets to attractions mentioned.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

On this tour, you will be picked up at your hotel to take you to Zenú Gold Museum where you will see amazing gold ornaments crafted by ancient Zenú indigenous. The Zenú indigenous guide will give you a deep insight and further information of the pieces and their iconography full of meaning and history that reflects Zenú’s worldview.

Stop 2

After the visit, you will head the 20 de Julio neighborhood, a peripheral area in Cartagena, where the Ninha workshop takes place. When you arrive, you will meet resilient indigenous women who lead this weaving project and workshop as a way to support their families and keep alive their endangered indigenous heritage. Through this group of women, you will get to know the history of the Zenú people, the struggles they have faced, and their story of resilience. Also, you will learn the process of Caña Flecha, the primary raw material used to make their woven crafts, on how to weave with this material, and which are the symbolic meanings of the famous Sombrero Vueltiao. During the workshop, you can enjoy a traditional maize and coconut beverage and a snack.

What's not included

Food and beverages

Optional tips and gratuities.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes as well as taking sunscreen and a hat or cap.

Minimum age requirement is 5 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Changes on the tour may occur due to external factors. These changes will be notified to you with anticipation.

This tour includes insurance. Please send passport number to tour operator to make it effective.

Important notes

• Note: Please email Impulse Travel at info@impulsetravel.co to confirm your pickup time and location
• The price you paid for the service does not include 19% V.A.T. This benefit only applies to foreigners entering as tourists, so it is necessary that you send us as proof a copy of your passport and the photo of the entry stamp to the country. As required by the national tax authority.

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.