Port
Cartagena, Colombia
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$150
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Set out with a unforgettable small group tour (maximum 16 privileged guests) for a more personalized experience. From a hilltop monastery to the fortified Old Town, Cartagena's treasures old and new await you on this guided tour.
Begin with a visit the ancient monastery atop La Popa Hill, where you’ll take in a sweeping view of Cartagena. Built at the beginning of the 17th century and still inhabited by monks, the monastery houses a chapel and a colonial museum. While there, also visit the La Popa Church with its ornate, 22-karat gold-leaf altar and lovely, flower-filled courtyard.
Continue along to San Felipe Fortress for a photo stop. This formidable castle defended the city from many attacks and withstood the bloodiest assault from the British Admiral Vernon. The pirate activity of the 17th century caused the Spanish Crown to engage prominent European military engineers to design the stunning defensive walls that are now Cartagena's very hallmark. Over the course of 208 years, seven miles of imposing walls, numerous fortifications, and the stunning San Felipe Fortress were knit together to form the most impregnable city on the Spanish Main.
Next you’ll visit the Old Town (Walled City), where you will walk approximately five blocks, with many places along the way to contemplate the nearly 500 years of history that surrounds you. You’ll see Saint Peter Claver Church, built in tribute to the protector of slaves, and Plaza Bolívar – the main square of the city. With the cathedral on one side and the Inquisition Palace on the other, this plaza is full of history.
Finally, visit the Pastelillo Fort. This fortress was constructed in the mid-1700s on the site of the oldest fort of Cartagena demolished during the siege of 1741. Today, the fort is home to the Club de Pesca Restaurant, famous for its excellent view of the Old Town and the bay. Finish your tour with a delicious Caribbean snack here, created with a contemporary twist.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.