Cartagena Discovery

Arrive in the vibrant city of Cartagena, where a private transfer will greet you at the airport and take you to your stylish hotel in the heart of the historic center or along the breezy Bocagrande coastline. After settling in, head out on a panoramic afternoon tour, perfect for an introduction to the city’s stunning mix of colonial charm and Caribbean flair. Drive along the bayfront, visit the San Felipe Fortress, and soak in sweeping views from the La Popa Monastery. End the tour with your first glimpse of the walled city, where cobbled streets and colorful facades await your footsteps.

Today is a deep dive into Cartagena’s soul. Begin with a walking tour inspired by Gabriel García Márquez, tracing the real-life streets, plazas, and hidden corners that shaped his stories and magical realism. In the afternoon, explore the city's rich cultural layers — from colonial grandeur at the Palace of the Inquisition to Afro-Caribbean rhythms and traditions that pulse through the historic neighborhoods. Enjoy local cuisine, vibrant art, and perhaps end the evening with music under the stars. It’s a day where Cartagena’s past and imagination come brilliantly to life.

Immerse yourself in Cartagena's rich culinary heritage with a hands-on cooking experience. Begin your day with a visit to the bustling Bazurto Market, where you'll select fresh ingredients and discover the vibrant local food culture. Then, under the guidance of a skilled local chef, learn to prepare traditional Colombian dishes, such as ceviche, coconut rice, and plantain fries. Alternatively, venture to the nearby fishing village of La Boquilla for a cooking class that offers insight into Afro-Caribbean culinary traditions, set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. This gastronomic adventure not only tantalizes your taste buds but also connects you deeply with Cartagena's diverse cultural tapestry.

Today offers two unforgettable ways to unwind and connect. For a unique wellness experience, visit the Totumo Mud Volcano, where you can float in warm, mineral-rich mud and rinse off in a nearby lagoon — pure relaxation, Colombian-style. Or, journey to San Basilio de Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas, for a powerful cultural encounter. Learn about its resilient history, vibrant music, and Afro-Colombian traditions still alive today. Whether you seek soothing stillness or soulful storytelling, this day promises a deep and meaningful connection to Colombia’s rich spirit.

After breakfast, your private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey. As you leave the sun-soaked streets behind, carry with you the vibrant colors, rich rhythms, and warm spirit of Cartagena — from the charm of its colonial plazas to the flavors of its kitchens and the stories of its resilient people. Whether this was your first visit or one of many, Cartagena lingers in memory like the sea breeze at dusk — unforgettable, soulful, and ready to welcome you back.