Things to do in

Plaza de la Aduana

Cartagena, a city that bewitches, welcomes you to the best tour of the beautiful and magical city of Historic Cartagena full of stories, sayings and fascinating myths of its walls, streets, convents and houses of the walled downtown and San Diego that transcends the city limits. Discover the secrets, customs and legends of the tradition inherited from the Spaniards and popular from our Caribbean miscegenation, among which Gabo (Nobel Prize for Literature) accompanies us through his writings, such as his book "One Hundred Years of Solitude", one of the most read in the world. We start, at the agreed time, the shared tour, in the Camellón de Los Mártires - Plaza de Cervantes where we will learn about the indigenous people who were before and during the arrival of the Spanish. We move to the "Golden Key of Cartagena" or Clock Tower entering the Plaza del Ecuador, before the Plaza del Esclavo, a prelude to continue part of the enslavement route through Porto Carrero and Candilejo streets. But first, Pedro de Heredía welcomes us. We continue to the Portal de Los dulces, a symbol of female activity in times of slavery and that their descendants still continue their traditions. The process of commercialization of merchandise, including that of the enslaved, in the old "Plaza de la Aduana", has been historically important. In "Plaza de la Aduana" we will see important buildings such as the Municipal Hall. Of course, art is no stranger to the tour, the Museum of Modern Art, an exponent of Caribbean and Latin American art from the 50's, the Gold Museum opens its doors with samples of indigenous pieces from the Colombian Caribbean and the Emerald Museum, stones of beautiful considered the most beautiful in the world, worn by celebrities. Religion is present with San Pedro Claver, Slave of the Slaves, we will see the Architecture of the Church and Museum-Monastery that bear his name and is the Headquarters of Human Rights. Then we go to the San Ignacio Bastion which was built to defend the "Bay of Souls" from any pirate attack. On this tour we will see the history behind the walls of Cartagena. Do you like the feats of pirates and corsairs? We count them when visiting a Bastion, as a sample of Spanish military constructions and strategies, we continue to Plaza Bolívar, in homage to the precursor of Independence, a place to refresh ourselves. Do you know the sloths, the squirrels, the iguanas? You will see them in one of the most important Lungs of Cartagena, Centennial Park, former Railway Station, which is a relic of the Tropical Dry Forest where we refresh under the shade of beautiful trees. We will enjoy one of the most important and colorful cultural corridors of Getsemaní, due to the umbrellas (symbol of the advertisement), the graffiti and the unique architecture. Finally, we enter the Callejón Ancho, to reach the end of the route at Calle San Juan to the sound of salsa and the African champeta.

The Walled City and Getsemani neighborhood are a must-see in Cartagena and the best way to get an introduction is by taking this free walking tour. Join our friendly local guide and a group of fun travelers at Plaza de la Aduana. Walk along the main streets and discover the fascinating contrast between history and the youthful spirit the place is known for. Visit Las Bovedas, Plaza de la Trinidad, Plaza Santo Domingo, and more. You will start strolling around the colonial and colorful houses as you know more about the main squares and bastions that traced our path to independence. You will visit Santo Domingo’s square and church, the Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandría (Saint Catherine of Alexandria) among others of great cultural importance. Afterwards, you will be headed to Getsemani neighborhood which is knowing for having a bohemian spirit. Its streets and alleys boast colors and the lively, friendly, and charismatic spirit of locals who gather outside their houses and welcome everyone who walks by. Stroll around picturesque pieces of street art paintings along some of the most important streets Calle de la Sierpe, Calle San Juan, Calle de la Media Luna, Calle Larga, among others. You’ll get to see some of the best graffiti authors.

THE HISTORY HAD NEVER BEEN SO ALIVE AND COLORFUL IN AN OLD CENTER. This is the best introduction to Cartagena: the Walled City, a Unesco World Heritage site and a fairy-tale city of romance, legends, and beauty within an old colonial stone wall. Join us for a fun-filled walk to understand and to learn about the origins of the so-called "crown jewel of the coast", the Caribbean storehouse for all the gold and other treasures that conquerors stole from the continent. On our walking tour, you'll relive the battles and victories of the Europeans, the empowerment, and influence of Afro cultures, explore the narrow colorful colonial streets, see the contrast of antique-modern areas, and so much more! From its history, to its food and nightlife, to its beaches, Cartagena’s got it all. Important info: this Tour is a shared experience called "Free Walking Tour" and our job is based on tips, which means that you are the one who decides how much your Guides deserve for their work. We suggest $50,000 COP per person which we consider is a fair value for your Freelance Guide considering the cost of a regular Walking Tour. This voluntary tip that you give to your guide is their way of making a living and maintaining this exciting job.

EXPLORE BOTH HISTORICAL DISTRICTS IN ONE TOUR! Visit the Great Center of Cartagena: Santo Domingo and Getsemaní neighborhoods together in one tour. A different perspective of our historical but current social and economical contrasts! Visiting both Santo Domingo and Getsemaní districts will give you a bigger picture about how our lives during colonial times were divided by social classes but connected for achieving local independence. We will experience Cartagena in a different way once we cross the Camellón de los Mártires square, the antique bridge that allowed two sides of the society to come together and build a proper identity. Revolts, independence, revolutions and uprisings are the basis of a resistant and fighting Colombian culture that you will be able to see and feel. Travel through time, step the historical path of freedom and be part of the essence of “La Fantástica”. Cross from north to south until San Felipe Fortress viewpoint and understand the mighty power Cartageneros keep, the jewel of the old Spanish Crown. Important info: this Tour is a shared experience called "Free Walking Tour" and our job is based on tips, which means that you are the one who decides how much your Guides deserve for their work. We suggest $50,000 COP per person which we consider is a fair value for your Freelance Guide considering the cost of a regular Walking Tour. This voluntary tip that you give to your guide is their way of making a living and maintaining this exciting job.

Discover the diverse allure and captivating history of Cartagena beyond its famous Walled City with our Grand City Tour. Led by an experienced guide, this extensive excursion unveils the city's most notable treasures, unveiling the charm of its streets, churches, architecture, and plazas. Embark on your journey with a hotel pickup, traversing through the dynamic districts of Bocagrande and Manga for a panoramic overview. As part of the tour, you can opt to explore Bazurto, a local market bursting with vivid hues, tantalizing flavors, and authentic Cartagenian culture, where you can delve into an array of fruits and immerse yourself in local life. Following lunch, delve deeper into Cartagena's historical heart, meandering through the enchanting lanes and bustling squares of the Old City and Getsemaní. Uncover the architectural marvels and captivating past of the city as you visit the iconic Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the largest Spanish military structure in the Americas, and Cerro de la Popa, home to a centuries-old monastery boasting breathtaking views of Cartagena. Amidst your exploration of the Old City, make a stop at Plaza de Bolívar and pay a visit to the historic San Pedro Claver Church, a 17th-century masterpiece showcasing religious art and artifacts that narrate Cartagena's rich cultural tapestry. Please bear in mind that the tour encompasses 4 hours of transportation to visit Isla de Manga, Castillo de San Felipe, and La Popa Covent. The tour concludes with a walking exploration of the historic center, with transportation back to the hotel not included. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking to uncover Cartagena's hidden gems, our Grand City Tour promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this captivating city.

The African Culture Tour in Cartagena offers a comprehensive exploration of the rich history and influence of African culture in the vibrant city of Cartagena, Colombia. This tour provides a deep dive into African traditions, music, dance, and cuisine, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of African culture. From learning about the impact of the slaver trade, headwrap workshop to experiencing a Champeta session, this tour combines history, cultural engagement, food tasting as snack, and dancing into one enriching experience. Participants will have the opportunity to visit historical sites, interact with local communities, and gain a deeper understanding of how African heritage has shaped Cartagena's identity. By the end of the tour, you will have a newfound appreciation for the colorful and diverse cultural tapestry of Cartagena.