colombia historical tour

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Historical Tours & Trips in Colombia

Step back in time and learn the secrets of ancient times on a historical tour of Colombia. With 31 adventures, you're sure to visit the best historical places packed full of stories from days long ago.

31 Historical tour packages in Colombia with reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Premium Colombia

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

COLOMBIA – 8 Days Santa Marta to Cartagena with The Lost City Trek

Colombia Highlights 15 Days Tour

We took an 18-day guided tour in Colombia with GuidEcuador. Three days exploring the Caño Cristales area based out of La Macarena was our favorite part of the trip. It is spectacularly beautiful and very unique! In Bogotá, we had lots of fun on the city bike tour, and seeing the city from the top of Monserrate is not to be missed, either! Other highlights during our tour were the hike in Tayrona Park, seeing the wax palms in Cocora Valley, climbing the rock at El Peñol which provided a terrific view of the area, seeing all the colorful zocalos in Guatapé, a very informative and fun tour in Medellín, and some unique experiences getting to Cartagena that weren't planned! Colombia is a huge and very interesting country and we enjoyed the sampling! The local guides in different areas we visited were a tremendous asset. The Lost City Trek was hard for me (at age 76), but with great support from the guides and the others in our group, plus riding a mule on 2 stretches and a moto for the final descent, I made it!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Jewels of Colombia

• Sightseeing

Colombia: Andean Vistas to Guatapé & the Caribbean

• Coach / Bus

Hola Colombia (12 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Colombia: Culture, Coffee & Caribbean

Bogota to Tayrona - 10 days

• Local Living

Myth Eldorado: Culture, Coffee and Caribbean

Bogota & Cano Cristales Experience 7D/6N

Colombia Encompassed - 17 days

• River Cruise

Wonders of Colombia 2024

Magic of Colombia 2025

Taironaka Natural Experience 3D/2N

We enjoyed our experience very much. It was as described in the tour, and was well organized. Various activities were available, and the whole atmosphere of the resort was relaxing & welcoming.

Wonders of Colombia 2025

What people love about historical tours in colombia.

We took an 18-day guided tour in Colombia with GuidEcuador. Three days exploring the Caño Cristales area based out of La Macarena was our favorite part of the trip. It is spectacularly beautiful and very unique! In Bogotá, we had lots of fun on the city bike tour, and seeing the city from the top of Monserrate is not to be missed, either! Other highlights during our tour were the hike in Tayrona Park, seeing the wax palms in Cocora Valley, climbing the rock at El Peñol which provided a terrific view of the area, seeing all the colorful zocalos in Guatapé, a very informative and fun tour in Medellín, and some unique experiences getting to Cartagena that weren't planned! Colombia is a huge and very interesting country and we enjoyed the sampling! The local guides in different areas we visited were a tremendous asset. The Lost City Trek was hard for me (at age 76), but with great support from the guides and the others in our group, plus riding a mule on 2 stretches and a moto for the final descent, I made it!

We enjoyed our experience very much. It was as described in the tour, and was well organized. Various activities were available, and the whole atmosphere of the resort was relaxing & welcoming.

Regions in Colombia

• Caribbean Coast Colombia (8)

Travel Styles

• Colombia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

Book with confidence.

We are still taking new bookings for future travel, now with our new flexible 'Book with Confidence' terms and conditions. See Details

SOUTH AMERICA - COLOMBIA

Historical Colombia Tour: Megaliths, Museums and Heritage Sites

ESSENTIAL MUST-SEES

PRIVATE TOUR - 10 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

From £ $ 3872, private tour highlights.

• Witnessing the elaborate architecture of San Agustin Archaeological Park, with its corridors, columns and statues of stone found within its many tombs.
• Eyeing up curious artifacts at the Museo Paleontologico, including the remains of a giant sloth - megaterio - that reached up to 5 meters in size!
• Marveling at the sublime colors of the Tatacoa Desert, with its russet red earth, green cacti and undulating golden sand dunes.
• Peering down the strait at Magdalena River, a rocky gorge that forces the water into a tiny space just over 7ft wide.
• Listening to stories about the “walled city” of Cartagena at the Museo de Las Fortificaciones, before strolling along cobbled streets that reflect a time gone by.
• Exploring Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, on a private city tour, encompassing fascinating museums like the Emerald Museum and Gold Museum; to name a few.

Tour Overview

Get ready for adventure and history with Yampu’s Historical Colombia Tour: Megaliths, Museums and Heritage Sites! On this Colombia tour you’ll explore Bogotá, Colombia’s capital; Cartagena, a city filled with historic streets, alley ways and stories; the Tatacoa Desert, known for its eroded rock formations, red earth, cacti and yellow sand dunes; AND the largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America.

This Colombia tour begins in Bogotá (the capital city). Set high in the Andes (at more than 8,000 feet), Bogotá is replete with culture and rich colonial heritage. You’ll see main squares, churches and museums, such as the Museum of Botero (home to the artwork of Picasso, Renoir, Matisse and Monet, to name a few). From there, you’ll head to Cartagena, a city filled with historic streets, alley ways and stories. Take in the old, walled city’s tiled roofs, balconies and courtyard gardens, and be sure to pack your camera. Words don’t seem to do Cartagena justice.

Next up: the department (or state) of Huila, next to the Alto Magdalena River, where you’ll see the largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America (from the 5,000-year-old, Augustinian civilization). It’s no shock that this collection constitutes a UNESCO World Heritage site; the preservation of the details of the monuments and sculptures is almost unbelievable. You’ll wrap up your tour in the Tatacoa Desert, or the Valle de la Tristeza, where you’ll see eroded rock formations, red earth, many cacti and yellow sand dunes.

Country Notes:

Best time to travel.

Best Good Consult

Pricing Details

Package price: from £ $ 3872.

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Bogota is a modern capital city with stand-out cultural, intellectual and social draws as well as rich colonial heritage.

Bogota City Tour

After breakfast start a guided tour to the Colombian capital starting in the Plaza de Bolivar (the city’s main square), which is surrounded by federal government buildings, and continues into the old colonial part of the city better known as "La Candelaria", the San Francisco Church and the Gold Museum (closed on Mondays). The tour finishes with a trip in a cable car to the top of the Monserrate Hill, which offers a spectacular view of the city. Afternoon at leisure. (If possible, it is recommended to read more...

After breakfast start a guided tour to the Colombian capital starting in the Plaza de Bolivar (the city’s main square), which is surrounded by federal government buildings, and continues into the old colonial part of the city better known as "La Candelaria", the San Francisco Church and the Gold Museum (closed on Mondays). The tour finishes with a trip in a cable car to the top of the Monserrate Hill, which offers a spectacular view of the city. Afternoon at leisure. (If possible, it is recommended to check out another city museum) ...read less

After read more...

Bogota – Neiva – Tatacoa Desert

Transfer to the airport and flight to Neiva. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. After that, set off on a private tour to the Tatacoa desert (named by the conqueror Jimenez de Quesada in 1538). The climate there is hot and dry, and the temperature tends to be around 27 degrees (80F). That wasn't always the case though. In the Tertiary period, the Tatacoa was a garden with thousands of flowers and trees to its name, and to this day, it's not uncommon to come across petrified mollusks. Formerly inhabited by read more...

Transfer to the airport and flight to Neiva. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. After that, set off on a private tour to the Tatacoa desert (named by the conqueror Jimenez de Quesada in 1538). The climate there is hot and dry, and the temperature tends to be around 27 degrees (80F). That wasn't always the case though. In the Tertiary period, the Tatacoa was a garden with thousands of flowers and trees to its name, and to this day, it's not uncommon to come across petrified mollusks. Formerly inhabited by the Totoyoe and Doche Indians, the Tatacoa extends from the middle of the fertile valley to the banks of the Magdalena River and boasts eroded rock formations, red earth (known as "Cuzco") and many types of cacti. In “Los Hoyos,” the landscape changes, and yellow sand dunes, not rock formations, prevail. After exploring the desert, transfer to San Agustin. ...read less

Transfer read more...

San Agustin

After breakfast, take private visits of the San Agustin Archaeological Park; the Mesitas A, B, C, and D; the Fuente Ceremonial del Lavapatos; and the Museo Arqueológico. In the afternoon, head to Colombian massif and the strait of the Magdalena River, a rocky gorge that forces the river to pass through a space that's only 7.22 feet wide. Return to San Agustin, and take a short visit of the town.

San Agustin – San Jose de Isnos – San Agustin

After breakfast, (privately) visit two other parks listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites: Alto de los Idolos and Alto de las Piedras. Later that day, visit the Colombian Massif, the Mortino waterfalls (600 feet) and Salto de Bardones (1,050 feet). After visiting the waterfalls, return to the hotel.

San Agustin – Neiva – Cartagena

After breakfast transfer to Neiva’s airport to take the flight to Cartagena. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.

Cartagena City Tour

After breakfast, take a private tour of the tour of the Old City. Start off in Parque Bolivar, a central part of the district, surrounded by large trees and four fountains with a statue of El Libertador at their center. Around the square, see the Museo del Oro and the Palace of the Inquisition distinguished by its baroque entrance door. The meetings of the tribunal took place in the palace, and the palace also housed the prison and torture chambers for the alleged opponents of the Catholic Church. The tour read more...

After breakfast, take a private tour of the tour of the Old City. Start off in Parque Bolivar, a central part of the district, surrounded by large trees and four fountains with a statue of El Libertador at their center. Around the square, see the Museo del Oro and the Palace of the Inquisition distinguished by its baroque entrance door. The meetings of the tribunal took place in the palace, and the palace also housed the prison and torture chambers for the alleged opponents of the Catholic Church. The tour continues to the Santo Domingo church and the cathedral and ends in the Ramparts and the Museo de Las Fortificaciones. Afternoon at leisure. ...read less

Day at leisure. An excursion to the Rosario Archipelago is highly recommended.

Day at leisure. Explore Cartagena.

Cartagena – Bogota

After breakfast transfer to the airport for the flight to Bogota. Once in Bogota, take the international flight back home or overlap with an add-on of one’s choice.

Bogotá - Bogota, Colombia

Tatacoa Colombia, Huila, Colombia

Cartagena - Bolivar, Colombia

Places You'll See

Located in the center of Colombia, the city of Bogota appeals to all types. The La Candelaria area draws in the lovers of art and culture with its many museums including the Botero Museum and the Gold Museum. Other notable attractions include botanical garden Jose Celestino Mutis, the National Observatory, and over 100 shopping malls.

The provider of Colombia, the Magdalena River, gives life to Neiva, the capital of the department of Huila. This city of southwestern Colombia, founded in 1612, grows in a fertile valley consisting of arid plains and fertile lands which offers a number of interests to travelers. Travelers can visit the desert of La Tatacoa, where the dry cilia makes it easy to observe stars on clear nights. Visitors should be sure to stop by the local museums in the city and learn of the area’s history and culture.

Known for its pre-Columbian archaeological sites, known as the San Agustín Archaeological Park, San Augustin is the gateway for visiting numerous stone statues. Stones cast from the nearby, now inactive, volcanoes are carved in many shapes from contorted humans to sacred animals like frogs and jaguars.

The walled city of Cartagena, with its cobblestone streets and gorgeous colonial architecture, is full of exciting and engaging sites and activities. Visit the Palacio de la Inquisicion, where the Spanish Inquisition condemned men accused of crimes against religion. Or spend the day at the Playa Blanca beach, enjoying the surf and the sand.

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Hotel Options

3 star properties.

Bogota : Hotel Casa Deco

Hotel Casa Deco

Hotel Casa Deco emerges in a wonderful Decó refurbished building. The inside has a pleasant Italian touch with lovely details. It offers the perfect combination between discrete service with a personal, cozy and artistic touch. The interior of the hotel has generous spaces, wooden floors, big windows and balconies to look out over the nearby pedestrian streets. The hotel has 21 rooms, each with its own color and fully equipped with Italian furniture, private bathroom, Cable TV, WIFI and Room service 24 hours. The social areas include a lovely tearoom, a breakfast lounge with fireplace and an amazing terrace where guests can have a drink at the bar while enjoying a breathtaking view.

Bogota : Abadia Colonial

Abadia Colonial

The Abadia Colonial is an intimate hotel in La Candelaria. The hotel has just 12 elegant and tidy, colonial style rooms, with colorful bedding. They are equipped with heating, Cable TV, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and large windows making them bright. The hotel also offers an elegant and inviting restaurant with views of Monserrate Hill, one of the main touristic attraction of the town. The restaurant serves charming and delicious Italian cooking, as well as traditional Colombian dishes. Guests can also enjoy a daily American style breakfast.

Cartagena : Hotel Bantu

Hotel Bantu

The Bantú by Faranda Boutique invites guests to discover one of the most amazing accommodations in the Caribbean, full of warmth and authenticity. A charming boutique hotel in the historic center of Cartagena de Indias, the Colombian colonial city par excellence. Bantú By Faranda Boutique offers an avant garde interior design, eighteenth-century colonial architecture and unique services such as a colonial courtyard, a chill-out terrace, solarium area and swimming pool, spa, sauna, Jacuzzi, and a bar and lounge area. The Cabildo restaurant offers Caribbean and Colombian cuisine.

Cartagena : Alfiz

The Alfiz Hotel is located in a XVII century colonial house in Cartagena’s historical quarter. The restoration and decorative design of the eight rooms take in to account the most important periods of Cartagena’s history in order to provide a stylish getaway and encounter with Colombia’s historic city. The hotel offers 8 rooms featuring modern comforts such as air conditioning, Satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. The hotel also features a beautiful garden, a library, a rooftop terrace, and an outdoor pool. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast, served daily, a coffee shop, and a bar and lounge area.

4 Star Properties

Bogota : Hotel de la Opera – standard Room

Hotel de la Opera – standard Room

The Hotel de la Opera is located in La Candelaria, next to the Cristobal Colon Theater. The generous interior spaces have been beautifully renovated and designed to provide some of the best accommodation in the city in a magnificent historic setting. Guests can enjoy the exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at La Scala, or regional cuisine at El Mirador. The Hotel de la Opera has 42 rooms decorated with fine Italian-made furniture, central heating, Wi-Fi, cable TV, minibars, and all the comforts of the best luxury boutique hotels. Guests can also enjoy services such as a bar and lounge, and a Thermae Spa offering body treatments and therapies.

Bogota : Andino Royal

Andino Royal

The Andino Royal Hotel, offers a cozy atmosphere that make guests feel right at home. Located in a landscape of business, meeting and pleasure travel pursuits. This hotel stands in a beautiful cobblestone street that invites guests to take walks and visit the various famous boutiques, upscale restaurants, and luxury shopping centers. The 70 comfortable rooms are specially designed for business and leisure. Among the services and amenities offered are: complimentary buffet breakfast, complimentary wireless Internet access throughout the property, 24 hour Business Center, Restaurant, 24 hour rooms service, meeting facilities, dry cleaning service, gym and sauna.

Bogota : Sonesta

Sonesta Hotel Bogota is a modern and exclusive hotel in northern Bogota, with a cutting edge design and sophisticated customized service. The hotel has 126 spacious and contemporary rooms offering oversized soundproofed windows and natural light, writing desk, 40″ LED Cable TV, complimentary high speed Internet access, minibar, and private bathroom. The hotel also features a charming fireplace in the lobby, a fitness center, therapeutic massage treatments, and a lobby bar. Restaurant Cook’s brings together the most authentic taste of Colombia to a higher level.

Cartagena : Sofitel Santa Clara (Classic)

Sofitel Santa Clara (Classic)

A perfect blend of vintage and contemporary, striking a balance between art and beauty to accommodate modernity and technology in unique surroundings. Each detail tells a story. The Sofitel Santa Clara hotel offers the perfect combination of age-old tradition, local hospitality and French luxury. The hotel offers 122 rooms, including 19 suites. With its blend of colonial architecture and modern comforts, the hotel offers comfortable rooms, personalized service, gourmet cuisine, a first-class spa, meeting rooms and cutting-edge technology for events, conventions and weddings.

Cartagena : Hotel Casa Pestagua

Hotel Casa Pestagua

Casa Pestagua Hotel Boutique Spa, known as “the most beautiful house in Cartagena”, belonged to the 18th Century Count of Pestagua. Distinguished by its exquisite architectural and artistic harmony, today the Casa Pestagua Hotel Boutique Spa offers luxury hotel services, with the comfort and technology expected by the most demanding hotel standards. Casa Pestagua Hotel Boutique Spa is a boutique hotel with its exclusive offer of 11 rooms housed in spacious grounds, worthy of a first rate luxury hotel. Enjoy the privilege of being attended to in the Casa Pestagua Hotel Boutique Spa and receiving a totally personalized service in an oasis of peace and tranquility.

5 Star Properties

Bogota : The Orchids Real – Suite

The Orchids Real – Suite

Strategically located in the heart of the cultural and diplomatic life of Bogota, the Orchid Hotel is a neoclassical house that dates back to 1892 and showcases a welcoming contrast between functionality and sophistication. The backyard invites a haven of fresh air and sunshine with a water fountain. All the suites at The Orchids Hotel have generous and inviting spaces, full of the sophistication and comfort of a modern hotel, and are equipped with fireplaces, internet, TVs, and private bathrooms. Besides the fine cuisine, The Orchids Hotel provides the option of savoring the well-known gastronomy of its associate Chef Harry Sasson.

Bogota : Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia – Superior Room

Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia – Superior Room

The name Victoria Regia refers to an elegant Colombian water lily that floats in the Amazon and it is known for the strength of its leaves. The hotel reflects its beauty and vigor. True to its architectural concept of elegant lines and rich materials, this beautiful hotel is the ideal combination of the classic and contemporary. Renowned architect Miguel Soto has achieved a fine blend of elegant and modern French style, with characteristic local features, creating a welcoming and distinctive design. The hotel’s 102 rooms, including 5 private suites, offer a luxurious stay. The gourmet restaurant awakens the culinary senses and the three French-style meeting rooms are perfect for any event.

Cartagena : Ananda Hotel Boutique

Ananda Hotel Boutique

Ananda Hotel Boutique is located in the heart of the walled city of Cartagena de Indias. The hotel offers 23 spacious rooms, each one individually furnished and equipped with free Wi-Fi, Cable TV, minibars, and private bathrooms. The hotel also features a beautiful outdoor pool, an outdoor Jacuzzi with a comfortable lounge area, a massage room for total relaxation, and a gorgeous rooftop terrace. Carmen Cartagena offers contemporary cuisine with a fusion of ingredients and preparations from all over the world.

Cartagena : Sofitel Santa Clara (Superior)

Sofitel Santa Clara (Superior)

Cartagena : Casa del Arzobispado

Casa del Arzobispado

Located in the center of the walled city of Cartagena de Indias, Casa del Arzobispado is the perfect retreat to relax, and soak up the charm of the city. At Casa del Arzobispado, guests can experience the magic and style of colonial times within the original architecture of the beautiful house. The 10 comfortable and attractive rooms feature antique pieces and modern amenities needed to provide the perfect combination of rest and relaxation in a luxurious atmosphere. The hotel also offers an outdoor pool with Jacuzzi, a steam room, and a solarium. There is also a complimentary breakfast served daily, as well as an onsite restaurant serving regional cuisine.

Luxury Properties

Bogota : Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota

Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota

With its stone columns and handsome brick façade, Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá has been declared a monument of cultural interest by the Colombian Ministry of Culture. Step through the doors and be enveloped in welcoming residential comfort, with Spanish colonial accents. The Hotel’s flagship restaurant and bar adds an elegant new destination to the exciting Bogota restaurant scene in the Zona G, featuring the best of Spanish cuisine and cutting-edge mixology. Its lively streetside terrace and sheltered courtyard will feature some of the district’s most desired tables. All this is complemented by a serene and intimate spa and the intuitive, personalized care for which Four Seasons is known.

Cartagena : Hotel Casa San Agustin

Hotel Casa San Agustin

A luxurious small hotel lovingly restored and reimagined for a new generation of travelers, exquisite Casa San Agustín echoes Cartagena’s fresh contemporary style and colorful Caribbean sensibility. From original frescoes in the library to centuries-old wood-beamed ceilings in the guest rooms, Casa San Agustín’s art and architecture evoke the city’s rich history as 17th century Spanish stronghold. The hotel’s 30 beautifully decorated guest rooms and spacious suites showcase an authentic Colombian style while seamlessly incorporating the modern services and amenities that contemporary travelers seek. Guests can also enjoy the swimming pool with poolside bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Cartagena : Charleston Santa Teresa

Charleston Santa Teresa

Charleston Santa Teresa, in Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is where a regal mix of historical grace and contemporary cool, meets the warmth of Colombian hospitality. After exploring the sites of the city, relax in the sumptuous and chic guest rooms, unwind in Cartagena’s most luxurious hotel spa offering number of therapies and body treatments, and then experience the magic of a Caribbean sunset over dinner in La Terrazza, one of the best restaurants in Cartagena serving a daily buffet breakfast as well as a broad menu with unique flavors.

Testimonials

Caroline t..

Traveled January, 2016

Our trip was excellent!

Highlights from our trip: Bogota museums and the Sunday bike ride (absolutely fabulous guide for that), Hotel in Villa de Leyva (the best!), Medellin (wonderful Aquarium, also visit to Level 1 neighborhood, also great restaurant), Botero sculptures and museum, walking around in Cartegena, hotel in Cartegena, great restaurants in Cartegena, snorkeling.

Traveled To

Traveled February 2016

First and foremost, we had a fabulous trip!

Thank you and the whole local team so much!! We truly appreciate the immediate attention and swift action due to the missed flight connection. It was handled very professionally with lots of communication, so we had no anxiety, and while we missed some sleep since we arrived in San Agustin quite late, we were very pleased not to have to sacrifice any of the planned tour as a result of it.

It was a most memorable trip and we enjoyed every minute of it

It was a most memorable trip and we enjoyed every minute of it, thanks to the impeccable Yampu’s organization and the great support offered by your local agents. Claudia is feeling much better and thinks it was thoughtful of you to send her some teas.

COLOMBIA PERU

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Immerse Yourself in Colombia’s Rich, Romantic History

Enjoy everything from cartagena’s colorful coastal lifestyle along the caribbean to the dazzling urban vibes of bogotá and medellín on a trip through colombia filled with history and culture..

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El Peñón de Guatapé outside of Medellin, one of the many astounding sights you’ll marvel at on this cultural tour of Colombia

Photo by Felipe Selgado/Unsplash

This Colombian adventure inspires travelers through its unparalleled diversity, traversing the vibrancy of Cartagena’s culture and the sophisticated and mountainous cities of Bogotá and Medellín . From journeys to a countryside coffee plantation that awakens the senses to feasting on the distinctive local specialties of Caribbean coastal cuisine and five-star fine dining found in the country’s Andean cities, you’ll experience true culinary immersion when you travel with Kensington Tours . And here, cuisine meets history, with excursions doubling as compelling deep dives into Colombia’s rich customs and traditions. What’s more, you can customize your journey according to your passions for a trip that suits you.

Trip Highlight

Colombian coffee tour and tasting.

Trip Designer

Kensington tours.

An aerial view of the Monserrate Mountain over Bogotá

Photo by Gabriel Porras/Unsplash

Day 1-2 Explore Bogotá and its Salt Cathedral

The historic city of Medellín

Photo by Kobby Mendez/Unsplash

Day 3 Discover Medellín History

The working-class neighborhood of San Javier is known for its social initiatives and hip-hop music.

Photo by Michael Pointer/Unsplash

Day 4 Art and Music in Medellín

Colombian coffee beans like these can be tasted on coffee plantation tours.

Day 5 Visit the Coffee Farm, Hacienda Ora Molido

Colorful Cartagena is known for its nightlife.

Photo by reiseuhu/Unsplash

Day 6 Spa Treatments and Salsa Dancing in Coastal Cartagena

Visiting Cartagena markets for grocery shopping can yield colorful surprises.

Photo by Ricardo Gomez Angel/Unsplash

Day 7-8 Explore Cartagena’s Caribbean Cuisine and Sail the Caribbean Sea

THE 10 BEST Colombia Historical & Heritage Tours

Historical & heritage tours in colombia.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Guatapé Tour: Piedra del Peñol with Boat Tour, Breakfast, Lunch

2. Guatavita and Salt Cathedral - Group tour and daily departure

3. Guatapé Piedra del Peñol excursion + Gastronomic tour and cruise on the dam

4. Private Walking Tour in Cartagena (Walled City & Getsemaní)

5. Guatape Rock & Coffee Tour & Picturesque Town: Private Tour

6. Pablo Escobar Shared Tour of Medellin

7. La Candelaria, Optional Monserrate and Optional Gold Museum Bogotá City Tour

8. Pablo Escobar Private Historical Tour with Pickup

9. Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H

10. Cultural Small Group Tour in San Basilio De Palenque

11. Day Trip To Guatapé with Boat Ride and Lunch

12. Freedom Tour of Palenque

13. Salt Cathedral Zipaquira - Group tour and daily departure

14. Half-Day Coffee Tour at Family Farm Close to Medellín

15. Experience Bogota visiting: Monserrate, City tour, Food and Museo Oro or Botero.

16. Pablo and Comuna 13 with Cable Car

17. Guatapé & Coffee farm, all in one day

18. Private Tour of the City of Neiva

19. Bogotá Bike Tour

20. Walking Tour in La Candelaria Bogotá

21. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá & Lake Guatavita Private Tour

22. City Tour from Medellín

23. Electric Bike City Tour Medellin, Viewpoints, Local Snacks and Drink tastings

24. Private Tour To Guatape From Medellin

25. Cartagena Coffee Master

26. Medellín Tour: Themed Vehicles, Tram Ride and Metrocable

27. Cartagena Unforgettable: Half Day Private City Tour (Also for Cruisers)

28. Palenque History Tour

29. Full Day Private Medellin City Tour and Fernando Botero´s Plaza

30. Walled City and Getsemani Cartagena City Tour 4H

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History, Culture & Cuisine Tour of Colombia

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• Trip Overview

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, bogota – arrive to the contrasts of historical and contemporary bogota.

High-rises soar into the sky with the verdant Andean summits edging the borders of Bogota. Cobblestone streets and colonial architecture decorate the northern districts of the city that lead to the foothills of Cerro de Monserrate, a cathedral-topped hill that offers stunning views of the sprawling cityscape. Your flight will descend into El Dorado Airport, and you will see the rosy hues of the brick rooftops peppering the hills that border the outlying streets along the low-lying mountains. Your private transfer will greet you at baggage claim and escort you to your lavish hotel near the historical city center that blends the cultural elements of the city’s history while focusing on the pleasures of contemporary luxury.

Fruit vendors post their stands in Plaza de Bolivar, filling the antique public square with the vibrant hues of the country’s tropical fruits, embellished by the enticingly sweet aroma of the produce. The vendors squeeze fruit fresh for passersby, blending the flavors to balance sweet and tart, from pineapple to tangerines. The district of Santa Fe-Los Martires surrounds the historical center of La Candelaria with a mixture of financial culture, bohemian art galleries, cozy cafes, and a youthful ambiance emanating from the students that linger in the charming restaurants. The Museum of Modern Art presents galleries of the country’s most famous artists, including Alejandro Obregon and Fernando Botero. For the best view in the city, you can venture to the top of Torre Colpatria, the tallest building in Bogota at the height of more than 640 feet, providing a perfect panorama of the distant mountains.

What's Included:

Bogota – Discover the Vibrant Streets, Markets, and Museums of Bogota

The traditions of the Andean spirit continue on the streets of Bogota amidst the colonial structures and luxurious, modern skyscrapers. At breakfast, the aroma of fresh arepas —a corncake cooked on a griddle—fills the dining room, accompanied by the refreshing scent of Colombian coffee. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and lead you through the perfect display of the thriving Andean traditions in Bogota at the Paloquemao Market. Sands spread beneath the arching, grated rooftop of the arcade as produce, meat, and fish vendors showcase their freshest wares and call to passersby. The aroma of anise emanates from a stand that offers medicinal herbs, still used by many locals around the outer rims of the city.

Florists draw your attention to their colorful displays of blossoming orchids and roses, birds of paradise and delicate crocuses. Exotic mangoes and rambutan are piled side-by-side in elegant pyramids beneath dangling banana bunches. You will continue out into the streets of La Candelaria, the historical colonial district, to explore the beautiful bordering structures of Plaza de Bolivar. The Cathedral of Sagrario has a Baroque façade, often overshadowed by the magnificent structure of the Catedral Primida. The structure was built in the 17th century with aged brickwork embellishing the church’s significance. The bells adorning the façade sway in the mountain breeze as the interior features six paintings crafted by Gregorio Vasquez, a Colombian painter of the Baroque movement known for grand projects humanizing divine figures.

Bogota – Explore the Tunnels and Halls of the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

At breakfast, the pleasing aroma of arepa con queso, a corn cake with cheese, emanates from the cafes that pepper the colonial structures of La Candelaria. After your meal, your guide will collect you at your hotel and lead you outside of the city to the former salt mines in the colonial town of Zipaquira. The wide cobblestone avenues lead to the main entrance to the mines. The cave mouth connects tunnels that wind more than 620 feet into the mountain, where miners removed more than 250,000 tons of salt to create the subterranean cathedral. Voices bounce off the stone walls and echo down the cavernous tunnels.

The smooth rock keeps the temperatures cool throughout the year to bring a near ten-degree difference between the deepest cavern and the outdoors. Following the path takes you along an artistic interpretation of the 13 stages of Jesus’ final day. The air contains an element of salt, making it dry and cool. The original mine was constructed in the 17th century with the cathedral taking shape more than three centuries later. The hollowed cross in the main altar reaches a height of 16 feet, adding to the already dramatic ambiance of the subterranean network of chapels and tunnels.

Pereira – Venture to Pereira for a Coffee Tour and Exotic Fruit Sampling

In the morning, the sunlight washes over the inspiring murals of Bogota. Local artists tell stories through their works, symbolizing the life of the city, the politics of the country, and the importance of community. You will notice similarities in the colors and the shapes inspired by Andean tradition. After breakfast, your private transfer will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the airport for your flight to the Quindio region. Your plane will descend into Matecana International Airport in Pereira, providing you with the perfect panorama of the abundant mountain summits that shape the valley floor.

Your transfer will meet you at baggage claim before escorting you to your charming boutique hotel that combines the comforts of wide-open space with the luxury of a hotel located in the heart of a city. You will continue to a celebrated plantation known for cultivating coffee along the Andean plain and foothills. The plant thrives in a particular tropical climate for which Colombia is known. Eucalyptus trees grow along the surrounding forest, towering above sugarcane crops and banana plantations while the crops grow in long rows with plants resembling shrubs. The coffee plantation has planted the crops between 4,920 and 5,920 feet above sea level, allowing the rich soil to feed nutrients into the Arabica bean.

The labor-intensive harvest selects the finest crop by hand. After strolling along the plantation, you will see how workers strip the outer layer of the grain until it resembles a large cranberry. They then dry the coffee before it can be roasted. Roasting the coffee releases the natural oils from the beans, which accounts for both flavor and aroma. Once in the tasting room, your guide will pour you a sample of one type of coffee produced on the plantation, teaching you the proper way to discover the subtle aromatics of the blend, from soft hints of chocolate to caramel notes.

Pereira – Traverse the Landscape of Cocora Valley and Colonial Salento

In the morning, you will find the exotic flavors of guanabana and lulo lingering on your palate from the previous day’s tasting of the exotic fruits growing wild around Colombia. At breakfast, similar fruits, including pitahaya , also known as dragon fruit, adds bright hues to your breakfast. The scent of cocoa and nutmeg drifts upwards from your coffee cup as a hummingbird shimmers in the morning light as it flutters around a blossoming flower dangling from the canopy around the hotel. After your meal, your guide will lead you into the protected landscape of the Cocora Valley. En route to the valley, you will find Brahman cows grazing on the lush grass that overtakes the valley floor and surrounding foothills.

Once in the nature park, the eucalyptus forests shine above the trickling rivers. Tapirs graze on the underbrush as yellow-eared parrots linger on the tree branches browsing for nuts and fruits. You will stop at a small farmhouse that offers a panorama of the valley floor and the encircling mountains. The grass flushes the landscape with emerald that drapes the rolling foothills beneath the towering, slender figures of wax palms, Colombia’s national tree. They can grow to nearly 200 feet tall and resemble the twisting, unique plants from a Dr. Seuss book. After wandering the wilds of Cocora Valley, you will venture to the charming colonial town of Salento to traverse the cobblestone streets and relish a refreshing café latte.

Medellin – Fly to Medellin with an Introductory Tour to its Tumultuous Past

In the morning, you will spot another hummingbird whizzing around the flowers blossoming outside of your hacienda. The iridescent plumage of the tiny bird captures your attention with feathers glowing blues and green that border neon hues. After breakfast, your private transfer will escort you to Matecana International Airport for your flight to Medellin. The city once known for its troublesome past has focused on community efforts, bringing it into one of the most popular and enjoyable cities in Colombia. Homes rise along the bordering hills as the mountains frame the high-rises of the country’s second largest city.

Your private transfer will meet you upon your arrival and escort you to your luxurious hotel in the heart of the city that offers views to the mountains and the skyline decorated with crisscrossing gondolas. Meet your guide in the lobby to begin your historical tour of the city’s complex relationship with its past, beginning with the Monaco Building, the non-descript five-story structure with a white façade. The exterior has cement walls, adding to the fortress-like ambiance that once protected to the drug lord Carlos Escobar and his syndicate. Escobar lived on the top floor with his family and recruited members for his organization from the poorest neighborhoods of the city. This unique tour traces the history of Escobar in relation to Medellin allows you to ascertain the shift from a city once known for violence, into a city now referred to as the “Eternal Spring.”

Medellin – Visit Penol Stone, Guatape and Ancient Penol on a Guided Tour

Medellin averages a temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year, providing a perfect climate along the valley floor and in the surrounding mountains for the tropical fruits of Colombia to thrive. At breakfast, the brilliant hues and enticing aromas of the surrounding produce bonanza fills the dining room. Star fruit and passion fruit combine for a sweet and tart cocktail, whether in juice or a creamy smoothie made with homemade yogurt. After breakfast, you will venture into the hills with a guide eager to show you the captivating landscape and history edging the bustling streets of Medellin.

You will travel through the trees to reach the town of Guatape. The trees will fade into the rolling plain and offer a remarkable view to the unique monolith known as the Penol Stone. The rock reaches a height of more than 620 feet above the supporting floor with a staircase of 740 specially crafted steps traversing the rock split, resembling stitches holding the rock together. You have an unobstructed view of the plain below, water, islands, and trees stretching to the mountains on the horizon. Upon reaching the grassy floor beneath the monolith you continue to explore Guatape, wandering along the colorful colonial structures decorated with intricate wainscoting and colorful windows, creating a jovial and inviting ambiance.

Cartagena – Travel to Cartagena for a Historical Culturally Immersive Tour

Cartagena is a city of Caribbean delight, Colombian passion, and Spanish charms. Old fortress walls create a unique path to the past accentuated by the sapphire Caribbean Sea and cool coastal breeze. Your private transfer will escort you to Jose Maria Cordova International Airport for your flight to Cartagena. As the plane descends onto the runway you find the sparkling waters lapping against stretches of gold sand. The skyline undulates between the luxurious high-rises of Bocagrande and the colonial church spires of the historical city center.

You will meet your private transfer at baggage claim before embarking on a brief ride through the elaborate cobblestone streets that wind around inside the antique city walls. The aged stone supports the flickering yellow façade of the Clock Tower, which features a Swiss timepiece crafted in the early 20th century. After taking a moment to settle into your beautiful accommodations with colonial embellishments and contemporary comforts, your guide will meet you in the lobby eager to lead you through a remarkable introductory tour of the coastal city. Bougainvillea dangles over the balconies and brightly colored rooftops of the vintage homes. Magazine stands that highlight current pop culture lean against the mustard yellow walls. Orange vendors set their carts along the edges of the road to offer fresh fruit or pressed juices to passersby.

You will enter into the Church and Convent of San Pedro Claver, a 17th-century construction named after a local monk who lived inside the convent walls and preached the gospel to the slaves brought by the Spanish. The gigantic three-story building rises out of a blossoming courtyard. The museum contains religious and pre-Colombian ceramics, along with artifacts shedding light on the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. A narrow staircase leads to the choir loft, offering a tranquil view of the adjacent church.

Cartagena – Delight in the Cuisine of Cartagena with a Half-Day Food Tour

The cultures and peoples of Cartagena have had nearly 500 years to marinate together, shaping the fusion of Afro-Caribbean, Spanish, and pre-Colombian flavors accentuated by the abundant sea and tropical climate. At breakfast, you will find the delicate aroma of griddled arepas filling the streets. Vendors stuff the corncakes with egg and top the fluffy concoction with marinated red peppers. The flaky golden exterior and burning red hues of the peppers create a mixture of intoxicating colors. Your guide will meet you at your hotel ready to take you back through the charming streets of Old Town to discover the thrilling blend of cultures through the unique regional cuisine. Fruit vendors once more set their stalls alongside the walkways, showcasing pyramids of produce ranging from pineapple to passion fruit.

You will soon find another arepa vendor standing beneath the draping bougainvillea, and cooking stalks of corn over a charcoal grill. Turn the corner to discover one of many carts offering papas rellenas , deep-fried and stuffed potatoes. The offerings include a variety of sauces, from sweet chili pepper to spicy ketchup, along with achiote , a spice used similarly to saffron. Your guide will explain that you cannot visit Cartagena without a stop for ceviche. You can sit in a popular local restaurant to end your tour and order the traditional citrus-cured seafood dish in the true Caribbean ambiance of colorful tables and seductive music. The finely chopped seafood is dressed with fresh herbs and a hardy squeeze of lime and mandarin orange, offering a surprisingly sweet zest to the delicious dish.

Cartagena – Depart for Home

In the morning, locals and visitors alike venture to a café where baristas are known for their knowledge in crafting a perfect morning coffee, driven by a passion for the bean and an urge to show off their treasured skills. The cafe fills with a selection of aromas emanating from the roasted coffee beans and fresh-brewed tea, blending jasmine, chocolate, and minty aromatics into a single sensational fragrance. The sunlight glints off the sapphire Caribbean Sea, showcasing the kite surfers that skitter along the water’s wake. When you are ready, your private transfer will meet you at your hotel and escort you to Rafael Nunez International Airport for your flight home.

Trip Highlights

• Venture deep beneath the hillside in Zipaquira to explore the historical salt mine, which was converted into a stunning subterranean church
• Discover the thrilling culture of Bogota, which embodies the variety of Colombia’s traditions on display in the Paloquemao Market
• Enjoy an immersive cultural tour of Cartagena by sampling the diverse cuisine shaped by the blending of Afro-Caribbean, Spanish, and Pre-Colombian peoples
• Witness the awe-inspiring Penol stone, a monolith that rises 620 feet above the valley floor
• Traverse the eucalyptus forest and the meandering rivers of the opulent plains of the Cocora Valley to find the remarkable wax palm, a 200-foot tall palm tree
• Wander along the charming cobblestone streets and colonial homes of the historical Spanish settlements found across Colombia
• Visit a traditional coffee plantation to learn the secrets to cultivating the temperamental crop, along with properly producing a perfect cup of coffee

Detailed Description

Colombia is a country unlike any other in the world, boldly stepping out from the shadow of its tumultuous past and showcasing the beauty its heritage, traditions, and blending of cultures. Your 10-day tour will embody Colombia’s history and atmosphere, allowing you to discover the true stories of the people both past and present through the markets and museums, cityscapes and country haciendas. Your journey will begin with your arrival at El Dorado Airport in Bogota. Your private transfer will meet you at baggage claim to escort you to your luxurious hotel near the historical city center.

The next day, your guide will meet you after breakfast eager to lead you through the exuberant daily life of Paloquemao Market. Visit the colonial streets of the La Candelaria district before entering the exhibits at the Gold Museum and Botero Museum. Wake the next morning to travel across the Bogota Savanna to the town of Zipaquira. Spend time wandering the tunnels and elaborate galleries of the Salt Cathedral before returning to Bogota for the evening. Your private transfer will meet you at your hotel to escort you to the airport for your flight to Pereira. Upon your arrival, you will meet your transfer for a private escort to a coffee tasting, following by a sampling of locally harvested exotic fruits.

Traverse the hidden trails and inspiring scenery of the Cocora Valley the next day in search of wax palm, after which you discover the charming colonial town of Salento. Fly next from Pereira to Medellin, a city known as the “Eternal Spring.” You will take a moment to settle into the grandeur of your centrally located hotel before taking a tour of the city as seen through a historical lens. Visit the former home of Pablo Escobar before exploring the vibrant, positive changes the city has made over the last two decades. Travel next to the mountains to see the magnificent Penol Stone and town of Guatape before finding the rebuilt ancient town of Penol. Fly next from Medellin to Cartagena.

Your private transfer will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in the heart of Old Town. Your guide will meet you in the lobby before leading you on an introductory tour to take in Castillo de San Felipe, Convento de la Popa, and Convento San Pedro de Claver. The following day, you can wander the meandering cobbled streets of Old Town during a guided food tour that will highlight the mixture of Colombian traditions and cultures embodied in the cuisine. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax on the golden shores and visit the distinctive neighborhoods outside of Old Town. Conclude as your private transfer will meet you at your hotel and escort you to Rafael Nunez International Airport for your flight home.

Starting Price

$4,545  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Reclaiming Colombia’s Black history, one tour at a time

Alex Rocha, a tour guide in the city of Cartagena, says his goal is to provide visitors with historical facts and show the city through “a Black man’s perspective.”

• By Manuel Rueda

A mural in Cartagena’s Getsemani Neighborhood celebrates the city’s Afro-Colombian heritage and the natural hairstyles of Black women.

Tour guide Alex Rocha stops at a large square flanked by stately colonial buildings while leading a group of tourists through the historical center of Cartagena, Colombia. 

The group looks at a marble statue of Christopher Columbus and a government-issued sign that explains how the largest building on the square was used by the Spanish colonial government as its customs office. 

But there’s nothing that explains the square’s connection to the slave trade — except for Rocha’s voice:

“This is where they auctioned our people. They brought them here and sold them as merchandise.” Alex Rocha, tour guide in Cartagena, Colombia

“This is where they auctioned our people,” Rocha tells a group of Black American travelers, through a speaker. “They brought them here and sold them as merchandise.” 

Amid anti-government protests that swept over Colombia this summer, some demonstrators also set their sights on public monuments and plazas, igniting a debate over who is celebrated with monuments and place names. 

Related:   Colombian Deportado Coffee’s founder hopes to open a conversation about US immigration

In southwest Colombia, Indigenous protesters knocked down statues of a Spanish conquistador who founded the cities of Cali and Popayan, while in Bogotá, the government removed a Christopher Columbus statue after riot police stopped demonstrators from taking it down themselves. 

In Cartagena, Rocha has been trying to change the historical narrative for several years using less radical methods: He leads tours that focus on the city’s Afro-Colombian history, and tries to show visitors how Cartagena’s past connects with the present.

“First of all, we show people the historical center of Cartagena, which was built on the backs of Africans,” Rocha, 51, said.  “We talk about how we got here, but at the same time what is going on with Afro-Colombians today.”

Rocha’s tour takes visitors to an 18th-century wall built by the Spanish to stop pirates from attacking the city. Here, he tells the story of an Afro-Colombian naval commander who was whitewashed in many historical paintings. 

Related:   ‘The way they silence us is by killing us’: Armed conflict returns to Colombia’s port city of Buenaventura

The tour passes colonial-era churches where Rocha talks about how the Catholic Church punished slaves who held onto their religious beliefs. Then he heads to Bazurto, a chaotic street market where Afro-Colombian vendors hustle to sell fruits, vegetables and fish.

Rocha also takes visitors to Getsemani, a neighborhood of narrow streets and 200-year-old homes. It held a reputation for drug and crime problems — until recently. 

Investors have been buying up the historical homes and turning them into restaurants and boutique hotels.  Murals that celebrate the city’s Black heritage have been painted by street artists and bars featuring live salsa music welcome tourists.

But Rocha points out that the neighborhood’s turnaround has also been driving out many of its Black residents, who are no longer able to afford the rent. 

Rocha said his goal is not just to provide visitors with historical facts, but to show the city through “a Black man’s perspective.” 

“It is time for us to claim our rights.” Alex Rocha, tour guide in Cartagena, Colombia

“It is time for people out there — especially minorities — to come together and have a voice, so that this society understands that they have caused a lot of damage to these ethnic groups,” he said. “It is time for us to claim our rights.”

While Colombia was a Spanish colony, from the early 16th-19th centuries, at least 250,000 slaves were shipped into the area, which was then known as the viceroyalty of New Granada. Most arrived through the port of Cartagena, where, in the early 17th century, 25% of the population was made up of African slaves, according to historical records .

Slavery was abolished in 1851, 30 years after Colombia gained its independence from Spain. Today, however, Colombia’s Black population is still behind in areas like educational achievement and access to basic services like the internet. According to a national census conducted in 2018, 30% of Afro-Colombians live in “multidimensional poverty,” meaning they lack access to adequate housing, formal employment and basic schooling. In that same census, 3 million people around the country self-identified as Black. Afro-Colombian organizations, however, have complained about the census’ methodology, and estimate that the number could be up to three times higher , with descendants of Africans making up anywhere from 15% to 20% of the population .

Related:   In Colombia, companies expedite vaccine rollout with private funds

Rocha, who is a native of Cartagena, grew up in one of the low-income neighborhoods on the city’s periphery, and started out working as a guide after he learned to speak English on his own.

Initially, he worked for companies that offer walking tours of Cartagena’s historic district, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, thanks to its colorful, well-preserved colonial architecture.

But he encountered Black tourists who encouraged him to veer “off the script” and turn his sights to Afro-Colombian heritage. A new business idea flourished as more Black Americans encouraged Rocha to conduct tours focused on Black culture in Colombia, he explained.

“I started doing private tours until people started to put my name in Black travel groups and that’s how everything started,” he said.

Rocha now runs his own tour company, which also takes visitors to nearby locations like the island of Baru and San Basilio de Palenque, a village founded in the early 1700s by runaway slaves.

Everyone is welcome on his tours, he said, but Rocha admits that 99% of his clientele are Black Americans and Black travelers from Canada and Europe, who are curious to see how the African diaspora has fared in different parts of the world.

Related:  Colombia loosens COVID restrictions to save the economy as deaths soar

Some travelers said they joined Rocha’s tour because it shows a side of history not often told in textbooks. 

“We’re taught about the Spaniards, and the different places they colonized. But what we aren’t taught is the history of the enslaved people that built these countries.” Norelle Combest, tourist from Chicago

“We’re taught about the Spaniards, and the different places they colonized. But what we aren’t taught is the history of the enslaved people that built these countries,” said Norelle Combest, a visitor from Chicago, who recently took Rocha’s tour of Cartagena.

“I just wanted to hear the experience of a place where there are lots of Blacks from a Black person’s point of view.” Mac Shed, tourist from Maryland

Mac Shed, from Maryland, said that he joined the tour because it provided a unique perspective. “I just wanted to hear the experience of a place where there are lots of Blacks from a Black person’s point of view,” he said.

Rocha said that through activism and art, the city’s Afro-Colombian population has become increasingly visible. That is now reflected in murals, statues and public spaces named after Black Colombians.

While many Afro Colombians have stood out in fields, such as music and sports, Rocha points out that discrimination is still prevalent.

“We live in a country that, for generations, has been controlled by the powerful, so it is hard for minorities to succeed,” he said.  “But little by little, we are making changes, and we hope things get better for our people.”

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Historic City Tour Bogota

From $0 - 7 hours.

Cerro de Monserrate

Majestically overlooking the city of Bogota, Cerro de Monserrate is an iconic symbol in Colombia’s capital. A historic white church sits at the top of the mountain, more than 3,152 metres, or 10,341 feet, above sea level. This religious and cultural landmark allows for beautiful views of the city below and can be reached by train, cable car or by foot.

La Candelaria

This is the oldest and most historic part of Bogota. The streets are lined with colourful, colonial-style houses and the main square, Plaza Bolivar, is where the most important government buildings are located. La Candelaria holds rich history, beautiful architecture and fascinating Colombian culture.

Botero Museum

This museum is dedicated to Fernando Botero the Colombian most famous painter and sculptor. This museum was created after Fernando Botero gave his own personal collection of artwork to Bogotá in 2004. The museum also includes several works by Picasso, Chagall, Renoir, Monet and Pissarro.

Gold Museum

On display at the Gold Museum is the largest collection of gold pieces as well as other artefacts from the pre-Hispanic societies who live in the land today known as Colombia. The gold collection started with one single piece, the poporo quimbaya. Today there are more than 55,000 pieces in exhibition.

Detailed Itinerary

Departure Time: 9am

After picking you up from your hotel in Bogota. We will visit some of the most iconic places in Bogota's historic centre starting with Cerro de Monserrate.  We will take a cable rail to up to the top of the hill to visit the famous church and capture spectacular panoramic views of the city.

Then, we will have the chance to admire the world's largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold at the Gold Museum, and check the artistic work of Fernando Botero, Colombia's most famous painter and sculptor at the Museo Botero. We will glimpse the diversity of architectural styles on display at the historic neighbourhood of La Candelaria. 

Note: Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and Botero Museum is closed on Tuesdays

Finish Time: 4 pm

What's Included

• Private transfer to and from the hotel
• Guided tour in English
• Entry tickets to museums and places mentioned in the itinerary
• Ticket for Monserrate’s cable car or Funicular (railway)
• Day tour insurance

What's Not Included

• Any other personal expenses and tips

How to Book

If you wish to book this tour, please click on the yellow "Book Now" button, select the date, number of people, complete the details and go through a secured online payment platform.

If you have any question, please do not hesitate to contact us .

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Uncover Colombia is the best travel agency we have ever used, and we have traveled to many different countries and used many different agencies... The standout person was Nidia. She organized our trip to Colombia perfectly. We asked for different things to be done in our 11 days in Colombia. She included every place using aeroplanes and cars as modes of transportation. – Marla, January 2020

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I can highly recommend Uncover Colombia. I used the company for a week-long solo trip to Colombia spanning three cities: Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena. They did a wonderful job for me, providing English-speaking guides in each of the cities and arranging transportation to various sites and internal flights from city to city... – Will, December 2019

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We used this company for two tours while in Bogota. They are great to work with and communication was amazing. If looking for someone to see Colombia definitely check out this company. – Kevin, October 2019

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We had a private tour with guide, Camilo, and driver also called Camilo. We were picked up from our hotel on time, and immediately camilo started to tell us interesting information on Colombia, nature etc. Our walk was amazing - we saw a condor and hummingbirds and Camilo was very knowledgeable about nature, history and politics... – Catrin, July 2019

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For the third year in a row, we have used the very knowledgeable and friendly professionals at Uncover Colombia to plan our trip to that very beautiful country. We toured in and around Bogota our first trip and for the last 2 years we have been going to Cartagena. The hotel reservations, the transfers, and the tours are always done in a flawless manner... – James, February 2018

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Guides were excellent and spoke good English which helped as my Spanish is, shall we say, developing! The places for accommodation were also good, but ask if you would prefer smaller hotels as the company are very flexible. We had good communication with the local representative from Uncover Colombia while we were in the country, and very quick, helpful responses while planning from England. – John, April 2018

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My husband and I recently visited Colombia for 28 days. The whole trip was organized by Uncover Colombia and they did a great job. This was a customized trip for just the 2 of us. We visited Bogota, Salento, in the Coffee Region, Cartagena, Santa Marta, the El Dorado Reserve and Leticia in the Amazon... – Lee C, March 2018

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We went on a grand tour of Colombia, visiting all the places my daughter (who lives there) recommended over a couple of weeks...Our trip couldn't have been any better. We were treated like royalty from start to finish - excellent hotels, guides and great places to visit. Thoroughly enjoyed every moment. What a beautiful country! – Mary, January 2018

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My wife and I wanted to visit Colombia. We travel independently or with an agent who only deals with one country. From our first contact to a final meeting after our 3 week trip they performed brilliantly...Colombia exceeded our expectations and anyone wishing to go should choose to travel with Uncover Colombia. – Peter, March 2017

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Take a walk: downtown Bogotá history tour

Mar 4, 2019 • 5 min read

Walk the historic streets of La Candelaria on our history tour © Jacqui de Klerk / Lonely Planet

Downtown Bogotá is a treasure trove of historical sites, colonial architecture, ornate churches and some of the country's best museums: the perfect place to wander for those enthralled by the evolution of a capital. Sometimes it's hard to know where to start in a city of this size, so we've come up with the perfect walking tour for the traveling history buff.

Start: Casa Museo Quinta de Bolívar

End: Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo

Length: 3.7 km ; two-three hours, (depending on how long you stay at the museums)

Begin at the 19th-century Casa Museo Quinta de Bolívar to explore the home of "The Liberator" Simón Bolívar. At the foot of  Cerro de Monserrate , hidden among a well-tended garden, this historic colonial estate offers a calm escape from the restless metropolis. The lush property and mountain backdrop also make the house museum an ideal location for birdwatchers wanting to spot endemic species.

Exit the museum and walk down Calle 19A towards La Candelaria, Bogotá 's historic center, popular with tourists because of its colonial architecture, museums, restaurants and bars. After passing the Los Andes University and Parque Germania, you’ll approach Plazuela de La Aguas. A little further down the hill, on the left, you can take a photo at the statue of Policarpa Salavarrieta , a heroine of the independence of Colombia. “La Pola” as she was affectionately called, worked as a spy for the Revolution, secretly recruiting men and passing on information overheard by Spanish Royalists.  

Follow the same road, passing by the Parque de los Periodistas,  where a statue of Simón Bolívar stands tall in a Roman-inspired circular templar. The park was renamed in the 1940s due to its role as a meeting place for poets and writers. Snap a shot of the iconic mountaintop Sanctuary of Monserrate, which looks down from above.

Head west along Avenida Jiménez de Quesada – a street built over the San Francisco River, which flows down from the mountains – to the  Iglesia de San Francisco . The lavishly decorated church was built between the 16th and 17th centuries and is the oldest preserved church in Bogotá.

Stroll along the La Septima, one of the city's most important streets that has witnessed several historical events. It was along this avenue that Colombia’s first tramway operated in the early 20th century – try and spot the few remaining tracks. Next to the McDonalds is Gaitan’s Corner , a wall monument with chiseled obituaries dedicated to populist Liberal leader Jorge Eliécer Gaitán, who was assassinated in this exact spot in 1948. Upon hearing the news, Gaitan’s supporters virtually destroyed downtown Bogotá during the three-day “Bogotazo” riots – thousands of people were killed, streetcars were set ablaze, shops were looted and fires burned for days.

Along the next three blocks, enjoy street artists, dancers and musicians or watch old men playing intense games of chess. On the corner of the avenue and Calle 12a, you can sign up for a  Tranvía Tour of the city center in an original tram.

La Septima crosses  Plaza de Bolívar , the historic heart of the city where public circuses, bullfights and markets used to take place. Up a side street, the 200-year-old cafe  La Puerta Falsa  merits a visit, if only to try their famous tamales (corn dough filled with meat, potatoes and vegetables all wrapped in a banana leaf).

Back in the Plaza de Bolivar, take a selfie with a llama or peek inside the city’s largest cathedral, the neoclassical  Catedral Primada . The buildings lining the southern and western borders of the plaza house the Parliament of Colombia ( Capitolio Nacional ) and the Mayor’s Office ( Edificio Liévano ), respectively. On the northern side is the  Palacio de Justicia , the country’s Supreme Court, which was taken by the M-19 guerrillas in 1985 with tragic consequences.

Exit the southern corner of the plaza and walk behind the Capitolio Nacional for two blocks to the  Casa de Nariño, where the president lives and works. Visit on Wednesdays, Fridays or Sundays at 3:30pm to watch the changing of the presidential guard.

Turn left onto Calle 7 and follow the road to take another left onto Carrera 6. After a couple blocks, take a right onto Calle 10 and you’ll find the Italian-style  Teatro Colón and opposite, the colossal 16th-century  Palacio de San Carlos , the city’s oldest palace and now home to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Simón Bolívar narrowly escaped an assassination attempt here. A few meters away, explore Colombia’s military history at the  Museo Militar, set in a Republican-style building. It’s free to visit and displays a host of weaponry and war-related memorabilia.

Continue along Calle 10 for two blocks lined with well-preserved Spanish colonial houses with red-tiled roofs, protruding balconies and wooden doors; they're now occupied by universities, theaters, libraries and museums.

Take a left onto Carrera 2 and stroll along until you reach  Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo , a pretty little square popular with students, tourists, guitarists and live storytellers. Leading off to the north of the square is the colorfully painted, narrow, cobblestone Calle del Embudo (Funnel Street). Pick up handmade arts and crafts or tie-dyed t-shirts here.

Cap your walk with a glass of chicha , a traditional indigenous drink made of fermented corn, at La Bendita Museo de la Chicha ,  hidden in the northeastern corner of the plaza.

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Colombia Tours

Colombia through a lens: the ultimate photographer’s expedition.

Colombia, cradled between the Caribbean’s turquoise embrace and the majestic Andes’ crest, offers an awe-inspiring palette for every photographer. As more travelers seek authentic and mesmerizing experiences, Colombia tours have evolved, bridging the worlds of travel and artistry.

Best Colombia Tours

Colombia is a living canvas, pulsating with color, rhythm, taste, and history. With Colombia photo tours, photographers get the privilege of weaving these elements into stories. From nature's serenades to cultural celebrations, and from tantalizing culinary tales to ancient heritage, Colombia is an artist's dream.

Cartagena Photo Tours: Capturing the Essence of Colombia

Embark on a colombia photo odyssey.

Diverse and enchanting, Colombia’s myriad landscapes provide infinite inspiration. From the lush vistas unveiled by Colombia nature tours to the dynamic, colorful bustle of its cities, every click encapsulates a unique tale.

A Walk on the Wild Side

Venturing into Colombia’s heart, wildlife tours stand as a testament to the nation’s biodiversity. Whether you’re photographing the elusive jaguar lurking in the dense rainforests or the elegant pink dolphins dancing through Amazonian waters, Colombia’s fauna is nothing short of a visual symphony.

Culinary Chronicles

Colombia’s rich culinary tapestry comes alive in food tours. Stroll through bustling local markets, capture the vivid colors of exotic fruits, indulge in traditional dishes, and let your lens narrate Colombia’s gastronomic saga.

Cultural Canvas

Colombia’s historical and cultural essence is best experienced through cultural tours. Traverse the cobbled streets of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, basking in its colonial elegance. Dance to Cali’s electrifying salsa beats and experience festivals that breathe life into Colombia’s ancient traditions.

More Than A Mere Tour

Colombia photo tours go beyond conventional sightseeing. They offer an intimate communion with nature during nature tours, an immersion into the vibrant rhythm and colors during cultural tours, and an exploration of taste and texture during food tours.

Colombia’s Legacy in Stone

Apart from its natural beauty and vibrant culture, Colombia is also home to significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The San Agustín Archaeological Park and the historic centers of Santa Cruz de Mompox, to name a few, are sites that resonate with ancient tales and architectural marvels. These sites offer an additional dimension to the photographic journey, connecting the present with whispers of the past.

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11 Best Cartagena Tours and Excursions to Consider Adding to Your Visit

To do tours or not to do tours in Cartagena, Colombia?

That’s a question I know I find myself asking a lot when visiting a new place.

On the one hand, I really like going at my own pace and feeling like I’m not just seeing the “tourist trap” sites.

On the other hand, I’ve done some awesome tours and excursions in Cartagena, not to mention elsewhere, that I got a lot out of.

In those cases, not only did I get to see places or things I might not have otherwise, but I also got great insight about the history or culture or just fun tidbits.

I can also often get a lot more into a day with organized tours and experiences than if I am just exploring on my own, a key advantage if you have limited time.

So, even if you’re more of a DIY type of traveler like me and want to do more than the average whistle stop tour that everyone else does, you can still get a lot out of doing some tours in Cartagena. And, well, yes, sometimes the typical tourists tours are popular for a reason and are even worth doing!

There are a lot of fun things to do in Cartagena , including a lot you can do on your own, but there is also a lot to be gained by doing some Cartagena excursions or guided experiences.

Even after living in Cartagena for 11 years, there were still times I learned something new on a Cartagena tour. There is a good reason after all that Cartagena is considered one of the best places to travel in South America !

I’ve got a whole list of more than 75 things to do in Cartagena I put together myself, a lot of them geared towards exploring on your own.

However, there are some things that are really only recommendable to do with an organized Cartagena excursion as well as some things that can be done on their own but really are better to do with a tour.

Many of them are especially great choices for those with limited time, those who like to learn a bit more, and those who want access to some places outside the city that are hard to do on your own.

So read on to learn my picks for the 11 best tours in Cartagena, Colombia you could consider adding on to your itinerary for your visit.

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I am a member of Amazon Associates, LLC and other affiliate programs and earn from qualifying purchases made after clicking those links. There is never any additional cost to you. To learn more please consult our Disclosure Policy.

* Want to take the hassle of out planning your trip?

Let the experts at our partner BnB Colombia Tours help you! Check out their predesigned packages or fill out this form and they will work with you to design a truly unforgettable, custom made trip. Especially nice, nearly all their tours are private with great, bilingual guides. Packages start at $250 USD a day per person.

And if you’re more interested in just doing a few day tours like those on this list, I’m happy to say BnB Colombia also offers Cartagena Explorer readers a 20% discount on all their day tours. Click here to see all their tours in Cartagena (plus other places in Colombia) and use the discount code ExploreColombia20 for your exclusive discount off the listed prices!

Best Tours in Cartagena, Colombia Quick Tips

I’ll be going into more detail about each of these tours and excursions in Cartagena below as well as go over some different options for doing them.

However, if you want a quick guide, here is a quick summary of the 11 Cartagena, Colombia tours I’ll be discussing in more detail below:

• Tour to the Rosario Islands – This is an absolute must do Cartagena excursion. The top ways to do it are in a private boat rental , a catamaran boat tour , or a day trip to our favorite place in the islands .
• Cartagena City Tour – Your standard city tour of Cartagena hits all the highlights, including the historic Castillo San Felipe and the Walled City.
• Walking Tour of the Walled City – Take a walking tour of Cartagena’s historic center to learn even more details on the historic charm of the Walled City.
• Walking Tour of Getsemaní – A great way to learn more about the history and see the cool street art of this historic district considered the cradle of Cartagenero culture is to go on a Getsemaní walking tour or Getsemaní graffiti tour .
• Bike Tour of Cartagena – A unique way to do a city tour of Cartagena is a bike tour .
• Sunset on the Bay – A great way to end the day with terrific views is a sunset cruise on a catamaran .
• Tour the Bazurto Market – A unique look into the less touristy side of Cartagena is a tour to the bustling Bazurto Market . Best part is it includes food!
• Do a Cooking Class – A neat way to learn more about the culture and culinary traditions of Cartagena is doing a cooking lesson . Plus, you get more food!
• Take a Dip in a Mud Volcano – Cartagena’s oddest attraction is taking a dip in the mud volcano , which can be combined to include a bonus trip to a pink sea nearby.
• Take a Day Trip to Palenque – Another chance to see the less touristy side of Colombia and learn about this unique historic community .
• Take a Ride on the Hop on and Hop Off Bus – A surprisingly good value and way to see lots easily is buying a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off Cartagena .

Got your Cartagena hotel reservations yet? If not, be sure to check out my guide to the best areas to stay or see the best luxury hotels , best beach hotels , best boutique hotels , or best hostels .

In Depth Look at the Best Excursions in Cartagena, Colombia

Ok, let’s dive into each of these top tours in Cartagena de Indias in more detail.

For each, I’ll run down what to expect, why you should consider doing it as a guided experience, and some options for booking it. While I’ll try to mention it below where I link to them, please keep in mind that any of the tours offered by my partner BnB Colombia can be booked with a 20% discount with the code ExploreColombia20.

1. Rosario Islands – The One Cartagena Excursion You Can’t Miss

A visit to the Rosario Islands is an absolute must in Cartagena!

Yes, there are beaches in Cartagena proper, but they tend to be crowded and have lots of vendors. They also aren’t nearly as pretty as the islands! Playa Blanca is another popular choice, but in my opinion, it’s become way too crowded in recent years too.

So, it’s well worth spending the little bit extra to go out to the islands!

Since they are roughly an hour boat ride away, even if you are a DIYer and don’t like doing organized tours, you will need to do something organized to the islands, whether it be a day pass at a resort or a ticket for a tour or excursion.

Undoubtedly the coolest way to do a Cartagena island tour is via private boat . Having dance parties at party spot Cholón , stopping for snorkeling at the reef or site of a submerged plane, and checking out secluded beaches are the advantages of doing a private Cartagena boat tour.

While more affordable than you might think, it is of course, most cost effective if you are traveling with or can put together a group.

If you can’t manage to swing the private boat, there are some other great options for Cartagena tours to the islands.

However, a word of warning: Be wary of cheap tours to the Cartagena islands sold by street vendors.

They are notorious for packing lots of people on tiny boats and having lots of upsells along the way like paying for chairs at the beach or paying extra to enter the oceanarium. Be sure you have clear what your tour will and will not include. Unless you really want to see the oceanarium, I’d avoid booking one that stops there.

My second choice for a Cartagena islands tour is to do the day trip on the Bonavida Catamaran . It’s a great boat and it includes lunch and snorkeling gear.

It’s without a doubt the best choice for a shared boat tour in Cartagena.

For those who want a proper beach, a day trip to IslaBela is also great. If you book at that link use the code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount! You can get the same discount on this day pass at a nicer place in the islands too.

By the way,if you have the time, say more than 4 nights total in Cartagena, I’d also encourage spending the night here or at one of the other resorts in the Rosario Islands .

Some other possible fun ways to do the islands are with a multi-island boat tour or on a shared party boat with open bar to Cholón . A day pass at Bora Bora beach club is another popular option for those looking for a bit more party vibes.

You can see even more options for Cartagena island excursions at my guide to the best Rosario Islands day trips and learn more about doing a day trip versus spending the night in my complete guide to the Rosario Islands .

2. Cartagena City Tour

Well, what would a list of the best tours in Cartagena be without your classic Cartagena city tour!

This is a great way to see the highlights and main historic sites of the city and learn a lot about Cartagena’s history in a day or half day, depending on which of the tours of Cartagena, Colombia you pick.

I often recommend doing this your first day as it can be a great introduction to getting around and give you some valuable background and insight into the city’s culture and history.

There are, of course, different variations of this tour, so be sure to find out what is and is not included on any city tour of Cartagena you book.

Typically, they will include a visit to the Castillo San Felipe Fort , the convent atop the hill known as La Popa, and a walking portion of the Walled City.

Some may include stops like the San Pedro Claver Church , the Palacio de la Inquisición Cartagena history and Inquisition Museum, or the Cartagena Gold Museum , although I’d try to maximize your time with a guide and do those things on your own later. Oh, and if you like museums, the Cartagena Naval Museum is my favorite for learning more about the city’s history.

You can book a private city tour with our partners BnB Colombia Tours (be sure to use the discount code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount!) or book one via GetYourGuide or via Viator .

I like the idea of doing this private so you aren’t stuck with a big group which either always seem to move too slow or too fast. You can go at your own pace, get the photos you want, not wait for the photos you don’t want, and get to ask your guide all the questions you have!

There is also this shared tour that includes some street food tastings, about as good of an added bonus as there is, if you’re looking to save some pesos on a shared tour though.

3. Walking Tours of Cartagena’s Historic Areas

Perhaps you’d like to get the benefit of a guided tour in the historic city but explore the fort and other sites on your own?

If so, you might want to opt for a Cartagena walking tour of the historic districts rather than the full city tour. You can get 20% off a private walking tours in Cartagena with the code ExporeColombia20.

That tour not only includes a longer walking tour in Cartagena’s Walled City but also a tour of the adjacent district of Getsemaní, home of the colonial era artisan class and considered to be the birthplace of Cartagena’s culture (and the next place on this list, so you can’t beat the value!).

You can also book a shared walking tour via GetYourGuide or a private walking tour via Viator .

There are also some free walking tours of Cartagena. Just keep in mind though advertised as “free,” the expectation is that you do pay something at the end. I believe they do give you a suggested price. It’s an interesting business model, and we’ve enjoyed free walking tours before.

4. Tour of Getsemaní

As mentioned above, Getsemaní was the home of the colonial artisan class, many of them former slaves. In fact, the area remained a largely working class neighborhood into the opening years of the 21st century.

While there are still some long time resident holdouts, it’s now also home to lots of trendy bars, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and hostels. It’s still managed to keep a local vibe that isn’t quite as evident in the Walled City though.

By the way, do feel free to check out my guide to the Cartagena nightlife . You’ll see plenty of places from Getsemaní mentioned there!

It’s a great place to learn more about the history of the city, especially Cartagena’s independence , as the support of the artisan class for independence was crucial.

There is also some terrific graffiti and street art.

Not to mention, there are lots of neat photo ops with colorful umbrellas, flags, or both over several streets.

In short, whether you decide to explore here on a tour or on your own, it’s a can’t miss area of Cartagena.

While Getsemaní can be explored on your own, there’s some good benefits of doing it with a tour. Much like the Walled City, you’ll get lots more valuable insight on the area’s and the city’s history, like for example the role played by mulatto leader Pedro Romero in independence.

A guide will also make sure to point out all the best street art and photo ops.

Once again, you can book a private walking tour of the Walled City and Getsemaní together or just a private walking tour of Getsemaní via our partners BnB Colombia and get 20% off with ExploreColombia20 discount code.

Another fun option would be this unique tour that focuses on the graffiti . There is also this neat tour that includes rum tastings . Drinking rum and talking history, what could be more fun! (Yes, I was a history major and I also like rum).

5. Bike Tour of Cartagena

If you’d like to do a guided experience to Cartagena’s historic highlights that isn’t quite your typical Cartagena walking tour, consider doing a bike tour!

Keep in mind Cartagena gets really hot, and you’ll definitely want to do this earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.

It’s a neat way to do a Cartagena tour while also being active. In fat, this would be one of my top recommendations for excursions in Cartagena for families.

You can book a private bike tour with our partners at BnB Colombia (use the ExploreColombia20 discount code) or a shared one via GetYourGuide .

It is also possible to rent bikes hourly if you’d prefer to do this on your own or you would prefer to do one of the walking tours and just enjoy cruising.

6. Sunset on the Bay

Outside the more traditional Cartagena city tours and Cartagena walking tours noted above and doing a trip to the islands, this would be my top choice for a fun excursion in Cartagena you should absolutely consider doing.

There’s nothing quite like a beautiful sunset over the Caribbean.

While Cartagena has some great sunset spots , doing a sunset cruise on the bay is also a lot of fun. This is one of those things that we would do periodically and always enjoyed time and time again while living in Cartagena.

In addition to getting a great view of the sun setting over the ocean, you also get a unique perspective of the city, which is particularly pretty lit up once it gets dark on the return trip.

My top choice for a sunset cruise is on the Bona Vida Catamaran . Susana and I have done this and agree it’s the coolest boat ( see our review here ). It includes a couple drinks and snacks.

For those looking to do a bit more imbibing, there is also an open bar sunset cruise on the Sibarita . We’ve also done that one on the smaller Sibarita Express boat and enjoyed it a lot ( see our review here ). Sibarita also has a dinner cruise that looks like it would be a lot of fun.

Finally, the pirate boat also offers a sunset cruise with an open bar that looks like it would be good fun! I’m hoping to do it on our next return visit, and pretty much all I’ve heard about it has been positive.

Or for something unique and active, you could do a kayak tour at sunset .

7. Tour to Cartagena’s Bazurto Market

If you’ve seen the Anthony Bourdain episode where he visits Cartagena, you got to see him head to the hectic Bazurto Market of Cartagena to get fresh ingredients with one of the chefs he visits. While there he marvels at the fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish and even has a fresh lunch from a small food stall.

After Bourdain’s visit, a place that does not look like your typical tourist attraction became one. Recreating his experience is what these tours attempt to do.

I’ll never forget walking by the market nearly every weekend to catch the bus back out to Barú where I worked as a volunteer teacher my first year in Colombia in 2011. It was definitely dodgy and even walking along the edge was a bit of an assault on your senses.

While Susana would occasionally go and buy fresh shrimp or lobster at the market, I mostly just avoided it during my time in Cartagena.

Honestly, I never would have expected it to become a tourist attraction, much less one of the top tours in Cartagena.

But, well, here we are.

Tours to the market are quite common now, and given its location away from the tourist areas and the fact that parts can still be a bit dodgy, I would not recommend going here except with a tour.

However, if you do go with a tour, you should feel safe doing so. It is a neat experience to see all the fresh fruits and vegetables, not to mention the fish mongers, and you can really get some very delicious fresh cooked meals.

I would give the caveat that even though it’s become a common tourist stop, it is still definitely not exactly your yuppie, granola mom’s idea of a farmers’ market. It’s the city market for the city, one that draws more of Cartagena’s underprivileged than its well off, and it is still very much an assault on the senses (especially if it’s rained!).

It’s a very neat way to see the less touristy side of the city and have a unique experience, but if you have a sensitive nose, have a weak stomach, or are a hygiene freak, it’s probably best avoided.

There are a few variations of the Cartagena Bazurto Market tour, but usually they include fruit tasting and a fresh lunch prepared with fish and/or shellfish caught that morning (I’m sure all can arrange a non seafood and vegetarian friendly option too).

You can book a private a tour to the market with out partners BnB, or for a better value book a half day experience that includes a walking tour of Getsemaní and the tour to the market (use discount code ExploreColombia20 for 20% off on either!). You can also book a tour to just the market on GetYourGuide .

8. Do a Cooking Class

If the Cartagena market tour interested you, you might also enjoy a cooking class.

I guess this isn’t a Cartagena tour or excursion per se, but it’s a neat and organized experience that is a bit different and allows for some hands on fun and learning.

Plus, the best part is you get to eat what you make!

The best cooking class in Cartagena is at Cafe Lunático. You can book a spot via GetYourGuide or via Viator .

It includes preparation of several dishes, which vary according to the day of the week. It’s a fun way to combine a bit of learning about culture and tradition with one of everyone’s favorite activities on vacation, eating!

If you want to do a Cartagena food tour that doesn’t require you to do any work or head to the hectic market, you could also consider doing a street food tasting tour .

Or for dessert, consider a rum and chocolate tasting (use discount code ExploreColombia20).

And, be sure to check out my guide to the best restaurants to try in Cartagena too!

9. Tour to the Mud Volcano (and Pink Sea depending on season)

The Totumo Mud Volcano is probably Cartagena’s oddest attraction!

My experience is usually this is a love it or hate it kind of experience.

I remember going here during my first year in Cartagena. It was, well unique. Not something I’d repeat to be honest, but it was neat, and is certainly a good story.

Supposedly, the mud is great for your skin too.

While it is possible to do this on your own by hiring a taxi or doing a combination of bus and motorcycle taxi, there are plenty of tours to the Cartagena mud volcano that are reasonably priced, so I’d recommend just doing it that way.

Depending on season, some tours here also include a visit to the Pink Sea of Galerazamba , which is itself a unique attraction. The only issue is the pink effect can be a bit unpredictable, so treat it more as an added bonus.

Our partners BnB Colombia offer both shared and private tours to the mud volcano as well as shared and private tours to the mud volcano and to the mangrove forests north of Cartagena (use that discount code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount on any of them).

You can also book this Cartagena tour via GetYourGuide .

Read more about this unique Cartagena attraction at my complete guide to the mud volcano .

10. Do an Excursion from Cartagena to Palenque

The town of San Basilio de Palenque, often just called Palenque, was a colony of runaway slaves.

They were so successful at repelling Spanish attempts to destroy them and at carrying out raids to free other slaves in Cartagena, that the Spanish crown actually negotiated a peace treaty that granted them legal recognition as a free town, the first town of runaway slaves to receive such recognition.

This designation is why it is often called the first free black town in the Americas. While it was the first town of its kind to be recognized by a European colonial power, it was far from the first town of its kind.

In fact, there is a fair amount of myth about Palenque. I did a deep dive researching it for this site and you can read more about Palenque’s history here .

Still, it remains a culturally and historically significant site, and is pretty fascinating. While it used to be quite off the beaten path, it’s really grown as a tourist destination in recent years, and is a common excursion from Cartagena today. In fact, after the islands, I’d say it’s one of the very best day trips from Cartagena .

Located in the Montes de María region that was site to some of the worst violence of Colombia’s internal conflict, it’s a neat and largely community driven type of tourism that highlights Colombia’s under-recognized Afro-Colombian cultural traditions. It also offers a glimpse of the neglected state of much of rural Colombia.

I remember finding our visit here fascinating.

Many of the town’s colonial era residents kept alive their West African traditions, including traditional belief systems and language. In fact, the language that is still spoken by many of the town’s elders is the only known Spanish-African blended creole language, sort of akin to a Spanish patois.

I thought the most interesting thing was their unique justice system. For minor offenses, village elders decide the punishment rather than the normal legal system.

You can book a private tour with BnB Colombia (one final time, use that discount code ExploreColombia20!). You can also book a private tour via Viator .

You can read more about Palenque and why it’s worth visiting in my complete guide to San Basilio de Palenque .

11. See Lots at Your Own Pace on the Hop On Hop Off Bus

I know, I know, your first reaction here is probably similar to mine: this looks and sounds like the ultimate in tourist trap cheese.

However, the Cartagena Hop On Hop Off Bus is actually not a bad value, especially because the ticket is good for 2 days.

It has stops at a lot of Cartagena’s top attractions, including the Castillo San Felipe, and can be a much cheaper way to get to these sites than doing individual taxis.

If you want to see the main sites in Cartagena without necessarily doing a full guided experience with a guide but just get easy transportation there, it’s a decent option.

For that reason, I’m ending this list of the best Cartagena tours with it.

Some More Honorable Mentions for Tours in Cartagena

Here are handful more Cartagena tours I considered for this list that may make for some more fun ways to explore the city:

• Salsa Lessons – book this private lesson to get ready for hitting the dance floor.
• Colombian National Aviary – the Cartagena Aviary is really well done, and you can book a private tour that includes transportation and a guided experience.
• Playa Blanca – I still think you’re better off doing the Rosarios for a Cartagena islands tour or beach tour in Cartagena, but if you really want to do Playa Blanca or perhaps do both, this tour that includes lunch is a good option.
• Bioluminescent plankton tour – Seeing the bioluminescent plankton doesn’t look quite as cool as in the pictures, at least in my experience, but it is neat.
• Horseback riding on the beach – this would be especially fun for families or as a couple. Book with our partners or via GetYourGuide .
• ATV Tour – This ATV tour is a pretty recent thing, but it’s got tons of great reviews and would be a bit more extreme way to explore the beach for a unique Cartagena excursion.
• Paratriking Over the Beach – a unique and more extreme experience is this paratriking over the beach tour .
• Nightlife and barhopping tour – this tour that includes drinks at several bars would be a fun way to meet some other travelers to party with.
• Cruise excursion – this tour is designed for those arriving to Cartagena on cruise boats and is a good way to see the highlights similar to what you’d see on a Cartagena city tour if you are arriving by cruise for the day.

Which of these Cartagena tours will you do?

There you have it, my picks for the best tours in Cartagena, Colombia!

All of these are good ways to see different attractions in the city while learning more about its fascinating history and culture.

Whichever of these Cartagena tours you do, I hope this guide was useful and, most importantly, you enjoy them and your entire time in Cartagena!

Cheers and Happy Exploring!

Did you like this post?

Check out these others you might like: Guide to Tayrona National Park Guide to the San Bernardo Islands Getting Around Cartagena Cartagena Safety Tips Cartagena Nightlife Guide including the Best Bars and Clubs

Planning a trip to Cartagena?

Be sure to check out the rest of the site to help you plan!

In particular, you might want to check out my complete guide to planning a trip to Cartagena , my guide to the best areas to stay , my list of over 75 things to do , my picks for the best Cartagena tours , the best day trips from Cartagena , my suggested packing list , my guide to the Rosario Islands , and my guide to all the beaches of Cartagena .

• Destinations

The 7 best road trips in Colombia: family drives, historic tours, and cruising the coastal highways

Unique biodiversity, historical sanctuaries, and unexpected landscapes are just a few of the incredible things that await you in Colombia. There is no better way to become acquainted with all the natural beauty this country – home to some of the world’s rarest species of birds, flowers, and amphibians – has to offer than to take an unforgettable road trip along its scenic routes and through its quaint towns.

Really get to know the the warmth of its people and the gastronomic variety that comes from being surrounded by ocean and jungle by hitting the open road. Here are the seven best road trips to take in Colombia.

Drive through history and culture on the Golden Door to the Walled City road trip

Barranquilla – Cartagena; 130km (80 miles); allow 5 days

Barranquilla, dubbed “The Golden Door” for being the first major port of Colombia, is known for its Carnaval, a celebration of Colombia’s African, Spanish, and indigenous roots. Music, costumes and dances show the influence each culture has on the history of the Caribbean part of the country. For an insight into the city’s Carnaval festivities, visit Museo del Caribe, La Casa del Carnaval, and Museo del Carnaval to learn about folklore rhythms such as cumbia and mapale. Stroll the Malecón del Rio, a lively 5km (3-mile) walking and cycling path that stretches alongside the Magdalena River, lined with restaurants and live music. Before you hit the road, grab a street snack of arepa de huevo (corn cake with a fried egg inside) or butifarra (peppery sausage).

Follow the Autopista highway (also called Via Paralela Al Mar) to Cartagena, a landmark city enclosed by well-preserved colonial walls and architecture. The controversial history of the Spanish conquest, slavery, and inquisition is depicted across the buildings and monuments of this pedestrian-friendly city.

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• Best things to do in Cartagena – Go to the Jewel of Colombia
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Enjoy breathtaking views from atop the fortress of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, where the Spanish battled the English and French. You can also admire the inside of the Catedral de San Pedro Claver, spend a day at the beach drinking fresh coconut water, and visit the Old City at night to watch Las Murallas (the walls) light up while taking a horse-drawn carriage tour around town.

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For beaches and water sports, cruise along the Caribbean Coast

Puerto Velero – Coveñas; 326km (203 miles); allow 6 days

Road conditions in Colombia have improved, meaning more places are accessible for adventurous travelers. This road trip takes the Autopista Paralela Al Mar from Barranquilla to Puerto Velero and Salinas del Rey, a new base for those ready to hit the waves.

If you prefer to rest and recharge, you can also take the Autopista to Santa Veronica and spend the day tanning at the beach, eating mojarra frita (whole fried fish) with patacones (fried plantains).

Continuing on the Autopista, stop in Salinas de Galerazamba to admire the salty pink-colored beaches before heading to the Volcán de Lodo El Totumo for a day of soaking – not sinking – in healing mud and swimming at the nearby lagoon.

Sufficiently relaxed, drive toward the turquoise waters of Islas Barú in Cartagena, making a rest stop in the city and from there taking a boat tour to Parque Nacional Islas del Rosario, a coral sanctuary where you can kayak through mangroves and snorkel above the reefs.

Following the highway from Cartagena, the go-to spots are Tolú and Coveñas, two destinations that are great for families and couples looking to relax and enjoy activities on the water. The tranquil beaches have shallow access, making them ideal for children to experience the coral and fish without swimming too far from the shore.

Explore indigenous heritage on a road trip through natural parks

Santa Marta – Cabo de la Vela; 473km (294 miles); allow 6–8 days

On the Caribbean coast of Colombia, Santa Marta and Guajira are home to many ancestral indigenous tribes that have preserved their traditions and lifestyle. Drive around the city of Santa Marta and head to the Sierra Nevada, one of the few coastal mountains in the world with snowy peaks. In this serene location, the beaches of the Parque Nacional Tayrona are concealed from the rest of the city, while the swaying palm trees and crystalline waters heighten the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred ground.

Hiking through the jungle to the “Ciudad Perdida” (Lost City) inside Parque Tayrona can take a few days, but it’s a must for observing endangered species of birds and exploring hidden Pre-Columbian archeological ruins.

Hit the road again, taking the Avenida Troncal del Caribe highway from Santa Marta toward Riohacha in La Guajira, a bustling commercial city with many beautiful beaches. Stop to rest before heading to Cabo de la Vela, located in Uribia, the northernmost part of Colombia. It’s a secluded destination where the endless desert and bright blue Caribbean Sea meet.

The roads are not completely paved, so unless you have 4WD, it is recommended that you hire a local tour guide in Riohacha to take you to Cabo de la Vela, and to the indigenous reserves of the Wayuu people, the dunes of Punta Gallinas, and the Parque Natural Macuira.

You can support the women of the Arhuaca and Wayuu tribes by purchasing handwoven mochilas (bags) or chinchorros (hammocks), one-of-a-kind artisanal accessories made from sheep’s wool or thread, that are a representation of their culture and a contribution to their economy.

Make memories on the coffee route road trip, the best choice for family travelers

Cali – Villamaria; 434km (270 miles); allow 8 days

If you’re traveling with your family and looking for special spots to explore together, head to the Eje Cafetero (coffee axis) zone in Colombia, where the coffee is just as special as the places where it is made. Be enchanted by lush mountains, exceptional wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Nestled in the Cauca Valley, Cali is a historical city close to the mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Take a tour of the stunning neo-Gothic church La Ermita, soak in the breathtaking views of the city from the hilltop statue El Cristo Rey in the Cerro de Los Cristales, and dance salsa in Plaza Caicedo.

Follow Route 23 from Cali toward La Tebaida, and in about three hours you will arrive in the city of Montenegro, where you can stay at a finca (countryside house) decorated with vibrant hanging flowers. Spend the night looking at a clear sky full of stars and wake up to the sounds of the birds before having a fun day on the roller coasters and rides at Parque del Café and letting eye-catching butterflies fly around you at the Jardín Botánico del Quindío.

An hour’s drive away from Montenegro on Via a Circasia, you will encounter scenic towns like Salento and Finlandia, where the adults in your group can sip authentic Colombian coffee while visiting the fields and learning about the coffee-making process. Head into the incredible Valle del Cocora with scenery that inspired the 2021 movie Encanto. Here, the Quindío wax palm trees – the tallest in the world – are the backdrop to a collection of never-ending clouds and endangered wildlife, such as the Andean condor, Andean tapir, and the puma.

About two hours away on the same route, stop to experience the remarkable Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal, waterfalls with cold and hot springs, before concluding your journey by traveling to Villamaria on Route 29CL to practice year-round winter sports on the slopes of the glacier-covered volcano of the Nevado del Ruiz at Parque Nacional de Los Nevados.

Drive between prehistoric and archaeological sites to the rare macarena flower

Neiva – La Macarena; 864km (537 miles); allow 5–7 days

Rich with history, Neiva has fascinating archeological monuments and sites, as well as festivals dedicated solely to the city’s dance of bambuco. The showstopper of this area is the Desierto de La Tatacoa, a magnificent dry tropical forest an hour away from the city on Route Neiva-Tello, where specimens of fossils remained hidden for thousands of years. You can drive your car inside without paying a fee and stargaze or camp under its orange-hued landscape. Learn more about the area’s paleontological contributions, which includes one of the largest accumulations of vertebrae fossils in the world, at the Museo Arqueológico Regional del Huila.

Taking Route 37 from Neiva to San Agustín, you will encounter two Unesco World Heritage Sites. Continue your exploration of the past at Parque Arqueológico Nacional de Tierradentro, an exquisite underground site with tombs and funerary temples adorned with colorful geometric murals. Get back on the road and head south for about four hours to reach Parque Arqueológico San Agustín, a ceremonial site that encompasses burial grounds surrounded by megalithic sculptures and carved monuments.

An excursion from San Agustín to the Serranía de la Macarena, where the unique biodiversity of the Andes and Amazon merge, is not an easy trip. Many of the roads from Route 20 to Route 65 are unpaved, and it will take about 11 hours. Luckily, towns like Florencia and San Vicente in between are rest stops that make the trip easier. Stop here to eat caldo de cucha (fish broth) or empanadas (fried, filled pastries).

Known as the “River of Five Colors,” Caño Cristales located in the Serranía de la Macarena is one of the few places in the world where the macarena flower blooms. From June to November, this rare plant mixes with the unique algae and minerals of the soil making the water have striking shades of red, blue, magenta, yellow, and green.

Link up charming small towns on a heritage road trip

Bogotá – Chichamocha; 471km (293 miles); allow 5 days

This road trip begins in Bogotá, the capital of Colombia and the epicenter for colonial architecture and history. Bogotá’s roads can become congested so the city has implemented a system to prevent heavy traffic and help with pollution by limiting days you can drive based on your number plate. Before heading out, check whether the license plate of your vehicle has any blocked dates.

Before you get on the road, stretch your legs on a walking tour around the public square Plaza de Bolívar, where historical and government buildings are located. Stop by Catedral Primada (a colonial-era church), Casa de Nariño (the presidential residence) and the renowned Museo del Oro, which has more than 30,000 pieces of jaw-dropping pre-Columbian gold artifacts and jewelry on display.

Begin your road trip down the Autopista Norte highway with an hour-long drive toward the town of Zipaquirá and its Catedral de Sal, a remarkable underground church built entirely with salt. From there, take Route 45A to the majestic Laguna de Guatavita. This lake is the birthplace of the famous legend of “El Dorado” (the gilded one), which originated from the story of the Muisca indigenous tribe covering their king in gold dust during their ceremonies before he leapt into the lake.

Many beautiful small towns dot Route 55, but it’s Villa De Leyva, less than three hours away from Guatavita, that wins hearts with its combination of history and extreme sports. You can soak up the architecture walking around the white cobblestoned Plaza Mayor, taste delicious vino at one of the up-and-coming wineries, or venture out to do rappelling and zip-lining over the mountains.

From Villa De Leyva, you can take Route 62 to Route 45A and arrive at Barichara. Regarded as Colombia’s most beautiful town, this city has maintained its colonial edifices and churches, including the 18th-century Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción.

Continue on Route 45A to finish up this road trip in Cañón del Chicamocha, a spectacular steep canyon where you can take a horseback tour of the surroundings, drive a buggy through the Parque Nacional del Chicamocha, or admire the mountain views aboard the teleférico (cable car).

Get a dose of Colombia’s incredible nature on the Pacific coast road trip

Medellín – Nuquí; 229km (142 miles); allow 6–8 days

Begin this trip in Medellín, a city known for its forever-spring weather and picturesque mountains. Visit the Plaza Botero and the Museo de Antioquia to appreciate sculptures and paintings by the famous artist Fernando Botero, known worldwide for depicting voluptuous figures of people and animals.

The Pacific coast of Colombia remains one of the least touristy regions of the country, but it is absolutely worth visiting for its remarkable fauna, flora, and private beaches.

Drive down the Autopista del Sur highway from Medellín, following Route 60 for about six hours, toward Quibdó, the capital of the state of Chocó. On the way, make a stop in Cascadas Sal de Frutas. These waterfalls have natural slides surrounded by lush vegetation, which combined with the sounds of the river and jungle, will help you experience the peacefulness of the area.

Once in Quibdó, get acquainted with the city’s incredible African-influenced culture. As you take a walk down the Malecon you’ll see it in dance and music performances, and in the architecture of the Catedral San Francisco de Asis.

Some of the beaches and state parks are less than an hour away from Quibdó but accessible only by boat or small-engine planes, making them quiet and seemingly untouched. Among these are the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano, which have an exceptional ecosystem that welcomes humpback whales during their mating season from July to November.

Another spot less than an hour away from Quibdó is the Parque Nacional Natural Ensenada de Utría, a striking union between rich rainforest, paradisiac beaches, and extraordinary wildlife including sharks, stingrays, and native birds.

Source: lonelyplanet website

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THE 10 BEST Cartagena Historical & Heritage Tours

Historical & heritage tours in cartagena.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Private Walking Tour in Cartagena (Walled City & Getsemaní)

2. Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H

3. Cultural Small Group Tour in San Basilio De Palenque

4. Freedom Tour of Palenque

5. Cartagena Coffee Master

6. Cartagena Unforgettable: Half Day Private City Tour (Also for Cruisers)

7. Palenque History Tour

8. Walled City and Getsemani Cartagena City Tour 4H

9. Private Walking Tour: Walled City and Getsemaní

10. Barranquilla and Santa Marta Tour from Cartagena

11. Historic Center & Getsemaní Shared Tour in Cartagena

12. Palenque African Roots Day Tour

13. 4-Hour Tour of the Best of Cartagena in an Air-Conditioned Van

14. Private City Tour in executive vehicle

15. Historical tour in Palenque with a native guide!

16. Cartagena Photo Experience

17. Island Beach Trip on a Pirate Sail Boat Drinks Included

18. Self-Guided Audio Tour - The Great Battle: Fort of San Felipe

19. Walking Tour Cartagena Old City with Gold Museum and Plaza de Bolivar

20. Private Walking Tour Old City with Street Food

21. Emerald Jewelry Making Class in Cartagena

22. Half Day City Tour Castillo San Felipe and Cerro de la Popa

23. Tour to San Felipe Castle and the Walled City Cartagena

24. Full-Day Tour Baru - National Aviary and Playa Blanca + Bioluminescent Plankton

25. 4-Hour Private Tour of the Emblematic Sites of Cartagena

26. Popular Tour San Basilio De Palenque

27. 4-Hour Tour of the Best of Cartagena

28. Historic and Movie Bike Tour

29. Private Tour with Certified Guide of San Basilio De Palenque

30. Emerald Museum and Factory Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Private Walking Tour in Cartagena (Walled City & Getsemaní)
• Historic Center & Getsemaní Shared Tour in Cartagena
• Freedom Tour of Palenque
• Cultural Small Group Tour in San Basilio De Palenque
• Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H
• NEXPERIENCE
• The Experience Travel
• Natal Concierge Service
• La Perla Viajes y Turismo
• Luz Angelica Gomez
• Cartagena Mr Tours By sandy Cuadrado
• Cartagena E Brasil
• Scarlet Macaw Trips
• Gran Colombia Tours (Cartagena)
• Cartagena Freelance

Historical Walking Tour

From: $ 45

We accept credit / debit card payments in dollars or Colombian pesos.

Description

You’ll see and learn the significance of several famous spots. The iconic fortifications, Las Bovedas (The Vaults), two of the most beautiful Colonial mansions, Casa Pombo and Casa Pestagua.  Furthermore we will also take you to the renowned church of San Pedro Claver. Along the way, we’ll walk through several charming plazas, stopping to chat with the local characters who really make the old city the beauty that it is. Finally, we’ll go somewhere special for some tasty Colombian coffee or make a pit stop for an ice cream.

What's Included

• A three-hour tour which takes you to the major landmarks in Cartagena’s Old Town with an experience bilingual guide
• Information about the history and culture of the places you visit
• Visit the most recognizable churches including Iglesia San Pedro Claver and Iglesia de Santo Domingo
• Get a glance at some of Cartagena’s most beautiful colonial houses
• Water bottle(s) to beat the heat

PROVIDE YOUR DETAILS

Book the 'historical walking tour', vip services.

• Hands-free and enjoy your party at your house
• Your favorite songs pre-selected and ready to play when you arrive
• Amazing playlists curated by our Dj’s
• 4hrs $250 | 8hrs $450

Private Chef Experience

• 3 & 4 course menu available
• Enjoy your favorite dishes
• Any kind of cuisine available

6hrs $150 Groceries not included in the price

• Enjoy your favorite Drinks
• Margaritas, Mojitos, Cuba Libre, Moscow Mule
• Signature Cocktail
• Soft Drinks, Sodas and Waters
• Open Bar – 4hrs $300,  8hrs $550
• Packages for Groups
• Bachelorette Party
• Concierge Services
• Bachelor Party
• Dental Tourism
• Boat Rentals

THINGS TO DO

• Restaurants
• Places to Visit
• City Guides
• Cartagena Tours
• General Enquiries & Bach parties
• [email protected]
• Weddings & Bachelorette
• [email protected]
• +573218294476
• Edificio Andian, Centro, Office 608 Cartagena
• Terms & Conditions

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