The walled city of Cartagena, Colombia boasts a rich history that captivates visitors from around the world. Explore the stunning colonial architecture, stroll through the charming plazas, and uncover the city’s captivating past on a comprehensive tour. Marvel at the impressive San Felipe Castle, a 17th-century fortress that offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean. And for those seeking an even deeper dive into Cartagena’s heritage, an optional visit to the Popa Convent provides a unique glimpse into the city’s religious roots. With expert guides leading the way, this immersive experience promises to transport you back in time and leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H - Key Points

  • This 5-7 hour Cartagena city tour explores the historical walled city, San Felipe Castle, and the optional Popa Convent, providing insights into the city’s captivating past.
  • The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, skip-the-line tickets, and all-risk insurance, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive experience.
  • Guests can savor authentic Colombian cuisine, such as corn cakes and coconut water, while learning about the local culture and traditions from knowledgeable guides.
  • With a 5.0 rating and 256 reviews, the tour is highly praised for the guides’ expertise, attentiveness, and ability to provide insightful commentary on Cartagena’s history and architecture.
  • The tour offers flexible pricing options and the ability to customize the experience based on group needs, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Tour Overview

Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H - Tour Overview

The Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour is a comprehensive 5-7 hour experience that allows visitors to explore the historical locations within Cartagena’s walled city, as well as the iconic San Felipe Castle and the panoramic views from La Popa.

This highly-rated tour boasts 256 reviews with a perfect 5.0 rating, earning it the Excellence badge. Guests can expect knowledgeable guides to share insights into the city’s rich history and culture, while also indulging in traditional Colombian cuisine.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, skip-the-line tickets, and all-risk insurance included, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the best of Cartagena.

Highlights of the Tour

Guests can explore the historical locations within Cartagena’s walled city, including visiting the iconic San Felipe Castle and taking in the panoramic views from La Popa. They’ll also have the opportunity to taste traditional Colombian cuisine, such as corn cakes stuffed with egg and coconut water, while learning about the city’s rich history from knowledgeable guides.

This tour offers a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to:

  • Explore the captivating past of the walled city

  • Marvel at the stunning vistas from the hilltop La Popa

  • Indulge in the vibrant flavors of local Colombian fare

  • Gain insightful historical knowledge from expert guides

Inclusions and Exclusions

Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H - Inclusions and Exclusions

What does the Cartagena city tour include?

The tour package provides hotel pick-up and drop-off, guided services from knowledgeable local experts, and all-risk insurance coverage.

Lunch is also provided, though the specifics aren’t detailed.

Participants won’t have to worry about waiting in lines, as the tour includes skip-the-queue tickets to the historical sites.

However, any extra purchases, such as souvenirs or additional food and drinks, aren’t covered in the tour price.

Guests should come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves a fair amount of exploration on foot.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H - Meeting and Pickup Details

To begin the tour, participants can be picked up from various locations within Cartagena, including their hotels, hostels, Airbnb accommodations, and even the Rafael Núñez International Airport.

The tour guide will contact guests the day before to address any questions they may have.

The tour is offered in a private format, meaning your group will be the only participants.

However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking through the historic city.

Customer Feedback

Customers frequently praised the knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly tour guides, including Arturo, Nicanor, Nico, John, and Fabian, for providing insightful commentary on the local culture and history.

While some guests felt the pace was a bit rushed, leaving limited time for exploring certain sites, others appreciated the comprehensive nature of the tour and the tips shared for navigating the city.

Several customers recommended wearing comfortable shoes and staying hydrated due to the walking required in Cartagena’s warm climate.

Pricing and Booking

Walled City + San Felipe Castle + Optional Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour 5-7H - Pricing and Booking

The tour’s starting price is $97.00, though this varies depending on the size of the group. Customers have the option to reserve their spot and pay later, and they can take advantage of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience begins. Upon booking, participants receive immediate confirmation of their reservation.

The flexible payment and cancellation options allow for greater convenience and peace of mind when planning the trip.

The transparent pricing structure ensures customers know what to expect upfront, without any hidden fees or surprises.

The confirmation upon booking provides assurance that the reservation has been successfully secured, allowing customers to focus on preparing for the tour.

The variable pricing based on group size offers a customized experience tailored to the needs and budget of each traveler.

Historical Significance

Cartagena’s walled city and historic sites hold a rich tapestry of stories, providing visitors with a glimpse into Colombia’s captivating past.

The tour explores the fortified walls, constructed in the 16th century to protect the city from pirate attacks. Visitors will discover the impressive San Felipe Castle, a formidable Spanish colonial fortress that once guarded the harbor.

The optional Popa Convent, perched atop a hill, offers stunning panoramic views and a chance to learn about the city’s religious heritage.

Through the knowledgeable guidance of local experts, travelers will gain a deeper understanding of Cartagena’s role in the country’s history and the cultural influences that have shaped this vibrant coastal destination.

Immersive Cultural Experience

Immersing visitors in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Cartagena, the tour offers a multisensory exploration of the city’s rich heritage and traditions. More than just a sightseeing trip, this experience delves into the heart of local culture, inviting travelers to:

  • Savor the flavors of authentic Colombian cuisine, from hearty corn cakes to refreshing coconut water

  • Engage with knowledgeable guides who share captivating stories and insights about Cartagena’s storied past

  • Witness the architectural grandeur of the walled city and San Felipe Castle, relics of the colonial era

  • Appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views from the hilltop Popa Convent, offering a unique perspective on the city

This immersive cultural journey promises to leave a lasting impression, immersing visitors in the vibrant spirit of Cartagena.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Historical Sites?

Photography is generally allowed inside the historical sites, but visitors should check with their tour guide or site staff for any specific restrictions. Some sites may have limited or no photography permitted in certain areas.

What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?

The tour guides for this Cartagena city tour are fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing them to provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the excursion for both English and Spanish-speaking participants.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Dietary Needs?

The tour can be customized for special dietary needs. Guests should inform the tour provider in advance, and the guide will work to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options for the included lunch.

What Is the Cancelation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Guests can cancel their booking without penalty during this time frame. This provides flexibility for travelers’ plans.

How Long Is the Walking Portion of the Tour?

The tour involves a walking component, though the exact duration is not specified. The listing recommends wearing comfortable clothing and shoes, as the tour involves exploring historical sites on foot in the Cartagena heat.

Recap

The Walled City, San Felipe Castle, and optional Popa Convent tour offers an immersive journey through Cartagena’s rich history and culture.

Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture, explore iconic landmarks, and gain insights from expert guides.

With captivating stories and authentic Colombian cuisine, this comprehensive tour promises an engaging and memorable experience for those seeking to discover the treasures of this vibrant coastal city.