San Basilio de Palenque Day Tour

From$26

6 hours

Cartagena, Colombia

About this activity

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of San Basilio de Palenque on this immersive day tour from Cartagena, featuring a guided exploration and traditional lunch.

Highlights

Explore UNESCO World Heritage site
Learn about Afro-Colombian culture
Visit historic slave trade center
Enjoy traditional music and dance
Savor authentic local cuisine

Full description

Step into the heart of Colombia's Afro-Colombian heritage with a day trip to San Basilio de Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This vibrant village, founded by escaped slaves in the 17th century, offers a unique glimpse into a rich cultural tapestry. Your journey begins with comfortable round-trip transportation from Cartagena, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the village, sharing captivating stories of its history and significance. Immerse yourself in the rhythms of traditional music and dance, and witness artisans crafting time-honored goods. The tour culminates with a delectable Colombian lunch, allowing you to savor authentic flavors that have been passed down through generations. This excursion is a must for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, offering an enriching experience that connects you with Colombia's deep-rooted traditions.

Included / Excluded

Round-trip transportation from Cartagena
Guided tour of San Basilio de Palenque
Traditional Colombian lunch

Personal expenses

Important information

Know before you book

Tour operates rain or shine; dress accordingly.
Photography is permitted; ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

Infants Required On Laps

Traveler reviews

3.0

1 review

San Basilio de Palenque - a bit of a disappointment

We were on a trip to San Basilio de Palenque. The tour was a bit of a disappointment. Problems arose right from the start. The driver was supposed to pick us up at 8:30 AM, in the morning we received a message saying he would be there at 9:00 AM, but he finally arived at 10:00 AM, after an hour of waiting at the hotel entrance. When the driver took us to San Basilio de Palenque, a young local guide, Moises Abraham, was waiting for us. It started well; the guide was engaging and told interesting stories. Towards the end, however, he focused more on his smartphone than on the group and his mind became increasingly elsewhere. Our biggest disappointment was the complete lack of local music and dance, which was mentioned in the tour program. The only "cultural element" of this kind were three women in traditional costumes waiting to pose for photos for a small fee. The tour concluded with lunch – delicious fish prepared according to a local recipe. The tour simply happened, but it didn't evoke any emotions in us or leave any special memories.

Wojciech HFeb 3, 2026TRIPADVISOR