tour palenque cartagena

Tour to Palenque: The Other History Of Cartagena

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Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of San Basilio de Palenque , the first free town of formerly enslaved Africans in the Americas and a UNESCO-declared Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity . Just 90 minutes from Cartagena , this day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the roots of Afro-Colombian culture , its enduring traditions, and the inspiring history that continues to shape this extraordinary community.

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a local Palenquero guide , who is a proud resident of the town. Your guide will lead you through Palenque’s cobblestone streets , sharing fascinating stories of the town’s heritage. One of the first landmarks you’ll visit is the Monument to Benkos Biohó , the courageous leader who founded Palenque after escaping slavery in the 1600s and led a movement that helped liberate enslaved Africans across Colombia.

Throughout the tour, you'll discover the three cultural pillars that define Palenque : language, music, and religion. You’ll hear the unique Palenquero language spoken by many of the town’s older residents—a language that has been preserved for centuries and is the only Spanish-based Creole language in Latin America. Next, experience the powerful rhythms of Afro-Colombian music as you visit the homes of local musicians and learn about traditional instruments. Don’t miss the chance to witness or participate in lively performances that capture the essence of African rhythms and storytelling.

Religion in Palenque is unlike anywhere else, blending spiritual practices that celebrate death, mourn birth, and encourage living life like a perpetual celebration. These unique customs offer a profound insight into the worldview of the Palenquero community .

As part of the experience, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch featuring. This is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that reflects the community's deep-rooted traditions.

This day tour offers a profound connection to the Afro-Colombian heritage and the enduring spirit of San Basilio de Palenque . Whether you’re passionate about history, culture, or simply looking for an enriching experience during your time in Cartagena , this tour provides an unforgettable journey through one of Colombia’s most significant communities.

Book your tour to San Basilio de Palenque today and take a step back in time to discover the resilience, culture, and history of the first free town in the Americas.

Includes: Water Private roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Cartagena Lunch with a drink Local bilingual guide

Not included: Personal costs

Schedule: Monday to sunday pick up at 08:30am

Duration: 5 hours

Additional Information: Minimum two people required for the private tour. The prices is per person. The Private tour will only take place with a minimum of two participants By taking part in this activity, you are helping to develop responsible tourism with the inhabitants of this community. To take the best opportunity of this activity, we recommend that you engage with the guide and the environment. Bring water, comfortable clothes, and sunscreen Don’t forget your camera!

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

Who we are?

Juan Ballena is a trusted online travel agency for people around the world who wish to discover the amazing city of Cartagena. We focus on showing you the local and authentic side of Cartagena, giving you a full picture of our culture and lifestyle throughout our professional travel experiences. There are amazing things to see and do out here. Let’s go exploring!

Useful information

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+57 311 786 4041

123 John Doe Street Your Town, YT 12345

Store Hours Sun: Closed Mon-Fri: 9:00 - 17:00 Sat: 10:00 - 13:00

What to expect at pickup

Closing at 5pm

Closing at 1pm

• (+57) 316 - 373 -3364

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Palenque Cartagena tour

from 2 reviews

English, Espanol

Description

San Basilio de Palenque Cartagena, is a small town (4,000 people) that was declared a World Heritage Site in 2005 by UNESCO for being a community that for more than 400 years has preserved its culture through oral tradition, generation after generation.

Being a family and social task to teach young people religious, medicinal, funerary rituals, language, history, music, dance and gastronomy; which has made palenque Cartagena an international attraction and an example to emulate that has survived generation after generation.

Palenque Cartagena is a UNESCO destiny

Now you can enjoy this African legacy in America, where you will have the best cultural tour experience through Palenque Cartagena, and visit the houses of the most representative people of the town and participate in activities such as:

1. Cook or prepare deserts that are representative of Palenque and can be found anywhere in the city. 2. You will attend a community music and dance show where the reasons for music and dance will be explained to you, and you will participate in it (dancing). 3. Tour around the town, where we will visit the most representative places of the community, such as: Bencos Bihojo main square, Pambele Gymnasium where we will talk about the most important athlete in the history of our country (Colombia), The queen of KONGO where we will talk of the importance of hairstyles and if you want you can make one. 4. We will visit the main square, where we will have an introduction to the history of the palenquera community, and we will have a traditional drink of palenque (Ñeque). 5. At the end You will be able to enjoy the gastronomic delicacies of Palenqueras, served as the ancestors used to eat, in bijao leaves (plate) and totumo shells (spoon), so that you live a unique experience in Latin America.

Includes: Private transportation Hotel/Palenque/Hotel, Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English), Local guide (Palenque), Dance Show, Bottled water, Lunch, and tour of Palenque.

Does not include: Additional services not described.

• Music and Dance

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult, included/excluded.

• Bilingual tour guide
• Private transportation
• Lunch at palenque style
• Dance and music Show

Tour's Location

Palenque best tour

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Information Contact

https://www.cartagenafortravelers.com/

+57-3163733364

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• USD $ US Dollar

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