Cartagena Unveiled: A Colonial Charmer Along the Caribbean Coast. (Quick Getaways)

Escape to the enchanting rhythms of Colombia on an unforgettable four-day getaway to Cartagena and the historic village of Palenque. Dive into the vibrant colors and rich history of Cartagena’s old town, where cobblestone streets whisper tales of colonial splendor. Discover the secrets of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, standing proud as a sentinel of the city’s past. Feel the pulse of Getsemaní’s artistic soul, adorned with stunning street art and buzzing with local flair. But the journey doesn’t end there. Venture to Palenque, a living testament to Afro-Colombian heritage and the first free town in the Americas. Immerse yourself in its traditions, music, and warmth as the rhythms of champeta fill the air. Join us on this captivating excursion, where every step reveals a new chapter in Colombia’s captivating narrative, promising an adventure steeped in culture, history, and endless fascination. Cartagena is less than 3 hours from Miami.

DESTINATIONS:
  Cartagena – Palenque

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✤ Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada): : Explore the walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the colorful streets, visit historic sites like the Palace of the Inquisition, and admire the colonial architecture.

✤ Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: Visit this impressive fortress, an icon of Cartagena’s history. Take a guided tour to learn about its strategic importance and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its ramparts.

✤ Getsemaní Neighborhood: Experience the vibrant and artistic side of Cartagena in this bohemian neighborhood. Explore street art, visit local cafes, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

✤ Cartagena’s Gastronomy: Indulge in delicious Colombian cuisine. Try local dishes like arepas, ceviche, and bandeja paisa. Don’t miss enjoying a meal at one of the city’s excellent seafood restaurants.

✤ Sunset in Cartagena: Head to this iconic cafés located on the city walls to catch a breathtaking sunset while sipping on a cocktail.


✤ Cartagena’s Coastal Allure: Our grand finale takes us to the enchanting Cartagena, where history and modernity converge. Explore the walled city’s alleys, savor exquisite cuisine, and revel in the fusion of cultures that have shaped this coastal gem.

✤ Embark on a Quick Getaways of a Lifetime: Join us and Let the rhythm of this land capture your soul and create memories to last a lifetime. Book your spot today and be part of this memorable weekend adventure!

Itinerary

DAY 1: Arrival to Cartagena Flight and Sunset Walk.  Guests will take a morning flight to Cartagena and check-in at your hotel. After check-in you will have the opportunity take an obligatory walk on the fortified walls. The historic center is surrounded by seven miles of imposing stone walls, complemented by fortifications and bastions, from which you will enjoy a fascinating sunset over the Caribbean Sea.  

DAY 2: Bazurto Market and Getsemani Neighborhood. 

The morning is devoted to the Bazurto market, a great opportunity to get out of the charming old city and into the depths of local life in Cartagena. A tour through the rowdy, frenetic, vibrant, and labyrinthine market is guaranteed to provide a taste of sensory overload, even to the most experienced travelers. The place is dirty but friendly, and most of the locals working the market are happy to show off the catch of the day, the recent butcher cuts, or the fresh and colorful fruits and vegetables that abound.

The visit to the market is followed by a nice lunch at one of the last remaining 100% authentic eateries in town. After lunch, some time to escape the heat at the hotel pool or unwind while it cools off enough to stroll around in Getsemani. Just outside the hotel, the very authentic neighborhood offers a glimpse into every day life in Cartagena: local food vendors, graffiti art, galleries, public plazas , and kids being kids along the narrow streets.

DAY 3: Palenque Village 

This day is devoted to the village of Palenque: the first free slave town of the Americas. Four centuries ago, escaped slaves built the village in the jungles that surround Cartagena. Today, the Afro-Colombian inhabitants of Palenque have preserved many of the customs of their African ancestors, including their music. In Palenque you can listen to many rhythms including lumbalu, bullerengue, la chalupa, mapale, puya, catalina and culebra. 

The village is also considered the birthplace of a genre of music called champeta, a percussion-heavy mix of African and Colombian musical styles, and our visit will give us the opportunity to visit local recording studio Kombilesa Mi to learn about the musical history of Palenque and visit with local artists. There is no doubt that this new generation of Palenquero musicians have a very distinctive vision and voice of their own. 

DAY 4: Magical Realism in the Historic Center and Depart Cartagena in the afternoon. The morning will start with a talk on Magical Realism, a literary style whose defining author is Colombia’s own Gabriel Garcia Marquez. A nice parallel can be drawn between what travelers can experience in Colombia and his style, which expresses a primarily realistic view of the real world while also adding or revealing magical elements. You will also learn from our local expert about the history of Cartagena, one of Colonial Spain’s important ports, before setting out to explore its narrow streets that burst with colors and charm. 

A walking tour of the city will allow you to explore the beautiful and elaborate colonial architecture of the churches, plazas, monasteries, palaces and mansions as we navigate the labyrinth of cobble-stoned streets in the historic center. Lunch will be at one of the local eateries before returning to the hotel for check out and afternoon fights home. 

 

Our Four Day Getaway includes:

• All Lodging (Double Occupancy) 
• All Meals From Lunch on Day 1 to Lunch on Day 4 
• Potable Water Throughout the Trip 
• All Activities Listed in Itinerary 
• Internal Terrestrial Transport From Airport Pickup to Airport Drop-off 
• Limited Health and Accident Insurance 

Our Trip Does Not Include

• Tips 
• Alcoholic Beverages 
• Airfare to Colombia 
• Covid Test if Necessary 
• Items of Personal Nature