The Popa Hill & San Felipe Castle Tour

The Popa Hill and San Felipe Castle Tour offers visitors an enriching cultural and historical experience in the vibrant city of Cartagena. For just under $50, this 3-hour guided excursion takes travelers on a journey through the UNESCO-listed Castillo San Felipe, the serene Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa, and more. Though the itinerary may seem straightforward, the tour’s true value lies in the knowledgeable bilingual guide, the stunning panoramic views, and the opportunity to savor local culinary delights. Those seeking an immersive glimpse into Cartagena’s storied past and present would be wise to consider this well-rounded tour.

Key Points

• The tour package offers a 3-hour exploration of Cartagena’s Castillo San Felipe and Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa, priced at $49.49 per person.
• The itinerary includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castillo San Felipe, featuring its intricate network of tunnels and defenses.
• Participants can enjoy a culinary experience with regional sweets, exceptional Colombian coffee, and a surprise signature drink.
• The tour provides panoramic city views from the hilltop locations of Castillo San Felipe and Cerro de la Popa.
• The experience includes a guided tour of the Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa, highlighting the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour-package known as the Popa Hill & San Felipe Castle Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Cartagena’s historical landmarks and cultural experiences.

Priced at $49.49 per person, the 3-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour offers a diverse itinerary, including visits to the 17th-century Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa on Cerro de La Popa, with panoramic city views.

Plus, guests will savor regional sweets, exceptional coffee, and a surprise signature drink, all while learning about the rich history and local myths.

Itinerary Summary

The Popa Hill & San Felipe Castle Tour offers a well-curated itinerary that immerses participants in Cartagena’s rich history and cultural heritage.

The tour begins with a pick-up from your accommodation and a visit to the iconic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a 17th-century fortress recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will explore the castle’s intricate tunnels and defenses while learning about its strategic significance.

The tour then transitions to a culinary experience, where you’ll savor regional sweets and exceptional coffee, capped off by a surprise signature drink.

Castillo San Felipe De Barajas

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a 17th-century fortification, stands as a testament to Cartagena’s strategic military might.

Visitors can explore its intricate network of secret tunnels and passages, learning about the castle’s historical significance and formidable defenses.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, the castle offers a glimpse into Cartagena’s rich colonial past:

• Discover the ingenious engineering that made the castle virtually impregnable
• Admire the castle’s impressive architecture, blending Spanish and Caribbean influences
• Uncover the role Castillo San Felipe played in protecting Cartagena from foreign invasions
• Marvel at the panoramic city views from the castle’s hilltop location

Culinary Experience

After exploring the historic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, visitors can look forward to a captivating culinary experience.

The tour includes a tasting of regional sweets, which provides a delightful introduction to the local flavor profiles. Exceptional coffee is also served, allowing travelers to savor the rich aromas and distinct taste of this Colombian specialty.

Complementing the sweet and caffeinated delights, visitors will receive a surprise signature drink, further enhancing the sensory exploration of the region’s culinary traditions.

This well-rounded food and beverage experience promises to leave a lasting impression, seamlessly blending the tour’s historical and cultural elements.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Cerro De La Popa

Following the tour’s exploration of the historic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, visitors are then transferred to the picturesque Cerro de La Popa, where they can marvel at the panoramic vistas of the city.

At the summit, they’ll visit the Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa, learning about its historical and religious significance.

The tour also allows guests to:

• Explore the convent’s architectural features and local myths
• Discover the city’s skyline from the hilltop’s strategic location
• Gain insights into the area’s rich cultural and religious heritage
• Experience the tranquility of the convent’s peaceful grounds

Convent of Santa Cruz De La Popa

At the summit of Cerro de La Popa, the Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa stands as a testament to the city’s rich religious history. Founded in the 17th century, this iconic structure was once a strategic vantage point for the city’s defense.

Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved architecture, which blends colonial and religious elements. The convent’s religious significance is also a focal point, with guided tours delving into its role in the community’s spiritual life.

From the convent’s hilltop perch, guests are treated to panoramic views of Cartagena, adding to the overall experience. The Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa offers a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant past and present.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package’s inclusions encompass comprehensive services, providing visitors with a well-rounded experience. These include:

• A professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English) to share their expertise and insights throughout the tour
• Pick-up and drop-off service from designated locations in Bocagrande, Laguito, and Castillo Grande
• Entrance fees to the iconic Castillo San Felipe and the historic Monastery of La Popa
• Tastings of delectable regional sweets and exceptional local coffee, along with a surprise signature drink

While the tour covers a lot, the exclusions are limited to breakfast or lunch, tickets to any other sites not mentioned, and gratuities. This allows guests to focus on the core highlights of the experience.

Customer Reviews

Consistently, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from travelers.

With a 5/5 overall rating based on a single review, it’s clear that the experience leaves a lasting impression.

Customers praise the quality of the guide and driver, highlighting the excellent service provided.

One reviewer specifically recommends the tour, emphasizing its well-curated itinerary and ability to provide an exceptional experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum group size. Travelers can book the tour for themselves or as part of a group of any size, and the tour will proceed as scheduled.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Private tours offer more flexibility and personalized experiences, allowing group members to tailor the itinerary to their interests and needs. Tour operators typically accommodate these requests for an additional fee.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for students or seniors, but travelers can check if they qualify for any general discounts or promotions. Group rates may be available for private tours, so it’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator.

Will the Tour Guide Be the Same Throughout the Entire Experience?

Yes, the same professional bilingual guide will lead the tour throughout the entire experience. They’ll provide in-depth commentary on the historical sites and share local insights, ensuring a consistent and informative experience for participants.

Can Participants With Mobility Issues Fully Participate in the Tour?

Participants with mobility issues may have some challenges during the tour, as it involves walking through historic sites and up hills. The tour operator offers pick-up and drop-off services, but visitors should inquire about accessibility accommodations.

Recap

The Popa Hill & San Felipe Castle Tour offers an exceptional cultural and historical experience in Cartagena. Guests can marvel at the UNESCO-listed Castillo San Felipe, savor regional delicacies, and explore the serene Cerro de la Popa Convent – all while benefiting from the expertise of a bilingual guide. This tour provides an immersive and affordable way to discover the rich heritage of this captivating Colombian city.

You can check if your dates are available here: