From Cartagena: San Basilio De Palenque Tour

Enjoy the captivating world of Afro-Colombian heritage on the "From Cartagena: San Basilio De Palenque Tour." This immersive 6-hour journey takes you to the historic town of San Basilio de Palenque, where you’ll uncover the unique language, customs, and traditions that have endured for generations. From savoring a delicious local lunch to witnessing the rhythmic beats of an African drum show, this tour promises an enriching cultural experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the resilience and diversity of Colombia’s people. Explore the fascinating story behind this remarkable UNESCO-recognized community, and discover why it’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with the heart of Afro-Colombian culture.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Afro-Colombian town of San Basilio de Palenque, established by escaped slaves in the 17th century, on a 6-hour guided tour from Cartagena.
• Immerse in the unique Palenquero language, a Spanish-based Creole, and learn about traditional African hairstyles and local historical figures like Benkos Biohó.
• Enjoy a local Colombian lunch and optional African drum show to experience the vibrant musical traditions of the Afro-Colombian community.
• Benefit from a small group size of up to 10 participants, roundtrip transportation, and an English-speaking guide for a personalized cultural experience.
• Take advantage of flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and high customer satisfaction based on positive reviews.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The San Basilio de Palenque tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience, departing from Cartagena and lasting approximately 6 hours.

Priced at €77.78 per person, it’s a great value with up to 10% off the regular rate. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation, a local English-speaking guide, and a traditional Colombian lunch.

Small group sizes are limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

With an overall rating of 4.2/5 from 26 reviews, the tour is highly regarded for its insightful culture and welcoming local interactions.

Cultural Experience and Activities

Visitors enjoy the rich Afro-Colombian heritage of San Basilio de Palenque, a 17th-century town founded by escaped slaves. The cultural experience highlights:

1. The unique Palenquero language, a Spanish-based Creole tongue.

2. Traditional African hairstyles and the legacy of local figures like Benkos Biohó.

3. An optional African drum show that showcases the vibrant musical traditions.

4. Opportunities to learn about Afro-Colombian cuisine and participate in cooking demonstrations.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable local guide provides insights into the community’s resilience and preservation of its African roots, offering a deeply enriching culture.

Tour Inclusions

The San Basilio de Palenque tour includes roundtrip transportation to and from the hotel, an English-speaking local guide, and a delectable local lunch featuring meat, chicken, or vegetarian options. Plus, the tour provides access to the cultural center and historic sites like the Benkos Bioho plaza, with no hidden charges for tickets or entrances.

Included	Description
Transportation	Roundtrip from hotel
Local Guide	English-speaking
Lunch	Local cuisine options
Cultural Sites	Free access
No Hidden Fees	Transparent pricing

The tour offers a comprehensive culture, ensuring participants have an enlightening and enjoyable experience exploring the 17th-century town founded by escaped Afro-Colombians.

Participant Information

Small group tours are limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to travelers of all abilities.

Recommended items to bring include:

1. Comfortable clothes
2. Drinks
3. Sunscreen
4. Comfortable shoes

This thoughtful consideration for participant needs and comfort allows visitors to fully enjoy the cultural exploration of San Basilio de Palenque.

The small group size and inclusive accessibility guarantee an enlightening and memorable tour for all who embark on this journey.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Glowing accolades and high ratings from previous participants underscore the tour’s appeal.

With an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 26 reviews, the San Basilio de Palenque tour delivers an enlightening cultural experience.

Travelers praise the tour’s transportation, which earns a stellar 4.8 out of 5 rating, and the value for money, rated 4.3 out of 5.

Reviewers highlight the welcoming locals, delicious food, and the tour guide Alberto’s insightful and engaging presentation of Afro-Colombian heritage, language, and traditions.

The tour’s small group size, accessibility, and comprehensive inclusions further contribute to its positive reputation among past participants.

Departure Details

Departing from Cartagena, the San Basilio de Palenque tour provides roundtrip transportation for participants. Guests can be picked up from their hotel, hostel, or Airbnb accommodations.

The tour includes:

1. Transportation via air-conditioned vehicle to and from San Basilio de Palenque.
2. An experienced, English-speaking local guide who shares insights about the town’s rich Afro-Colombian heritage.
3. Flexibility, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
4. A "reserve now, pay later" booking option for added convenience.

This all-inclusive experience immerses visitors in the vibrant culture of one of Colombia’s most historic Maroon communities.

Highlights of San Basilio De Palenque

Nestled within the lush Colombian countryside, the historic town of San Basilio de Palenque stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural richness of Afro-Colombians.

Established by escaped enslaved Africans in the 17th century, the town offers visitors an immersive glimpse into its vibrant heritage. Highlights include the Palenquero language, a unique Creole dialect, and the iconic African hairstyles that adorn the locals.

Visitors can also learn about influential figures like Benkos Biohó, a leader in the fight against slavery. An optional African drum show provides a captivating musical experience, while a local lunch showcases the delectable Afro-Colombian cuisine.

Why Choose This Tour

Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Afro-Colombian heritage will find the San Basilio de Palenque tour a compelling choice.

The tour offers:

1. A deep dive into the history and traditions of the 17th-century town, founded by escaped enslaved Africans.
2. Opportunities to engage with the local community, learn about their language, cuisine, and music.
3. Hassle-free logistics, with roundtrip transportation, a local guide, and an included lunch.
4. Excellent value, with discounted pricing and flexible booking options.

With its intimate group size, accessibility, and highly-rated customer feedback, this tour provides an authentic and enlightening glimpse into Afro-Colombian culture, making it a standout choice for visitors to Cartagena.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in Cartagena?

Yes, you can combine this tour with other activities in Cartagena. The tour’s flexibility allows visitors to incorporate it into their overall Cartagena itinerary, ensuring a comprehensive cultural experience during their stay.

Is There Any Dress Code or Special Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Participants should bring sun protection and any personal items they may need during the 6-hour cultural experience.

How Physically Demanding Is the Walking During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, as participants explore the historic town of San Basilio de Palenque. While the terrain is generally flat, participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for periods of walking during the cultural experience.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider, who will tailor the experience to their needs and ensure they get the most out of the cultural exploration.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Suitability for Families?

The tour is suitable for all ages and families. There are no age restrictions, and the small group size and wheelchair accessibility make it ideal for a wide range of participants.

Recap

The "From Cartagena: San Basilio De Palenque Tour" offers an immersive cultural experience in the historic town of San Basilio de Palenque. Visitors can explore the unique Afro-Colombian heritage, including the Palenquero language and traditional customs, while enjoying a delicious local lunch and optional African drum show. With comfortable transportation and a small group size, this tour provides an enriching opportunity to deeply engage with the vibrant cultural traditions of this remarkable community.

You can check if your dates are available here: