San Felipe Castle & Getsemani Walking Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore historic San Felipe Castle
- Wander through vibrant Getsemani streets
- Learn about Cartagena's rich history
- Enjoy panoramic city views from the castle
- Discover local art and culture in Getsemani
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of San Felipe Castle
- Walking tour through Getsemani neighborhood
- Entrance tickets to San Felipe Castle
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Meet at Plaza de la Trinidad, the heart of Getsemaní, where your guide will introduce you to the neighborhood’s rich history and its significance during Cartagena's fight for independence. The plaza is lively with local vendors and street performers, setting the tone for the tour.
Explore the vibrant streets of Getsemaní, known for its colorful murals and colonial architecture. Your guide will share stories of the area’s rebellious past, while you take in the local culture and energy. There will be plenty of opportunities to snap photos and appreciate the street art.
After Getsemaní, enjoy a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to the impressive Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. During the walk, the guide will explain the historical importance of the castle and how it played a crucial role in defending Cartagena from pirate invasions and military threats. Explore the intricate tunnels and ramparts of San Felipe Castle. Learn about the fortress’s strategic design and key battles it faced. Your guide will highlight its role in Cartagena’s history while offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean from the observation points.
Meeting point
Start Location
Plaza de la Trinidad, Esquina con, Calle 29, Getsemani, Cartagena Province, Bolivar, Colombia
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in Spanish; consider a translator if needed.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Photography is allowed; however, tripods and professional equipment may be restricted.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and attire suitable for the weather.
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
- Be prepared for some uneven terrain and stairs at the castle.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- This is a moderately active walking tour, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Traveler reviews
The best way to discover Getsemani and El Castillo de San Felipe
Carlos was a fantastic tour guide, very professional and engaging. Perfect level of information and fun for our family! We truly enjoyed the walking tour of Getsemani, the castle visit and the overall experience, plus the sunset from the Castillo was the best!
Carlos was an EXCELLENT guide!!!
Carlos was an excellent guide. He took us to all of the main sights and explained Colombia’s history throughly. He was very personable and anyone would be very lucky to have him as a guide!!
Guide note 10
"The visit to the Castle of San Felipe was the highlight of the trip, thanks to our guide Carlos!!! He has the gift of telling stories in a light and fun way, making the rise under the sun of Cartagena not even felt. The details he shared about the secret tunnels were fascinating. If you want to understand the soul of the city, take the tour with him!"
Amazing experience
This tour was amazing, Carlos created a great experience with historical information, examples to understand better and all about the Getsemaní and San Felipe castle. After complete the guided tour you can stay inside the castle if you want to explore more.
Living the History
Visiting the castle was quite interesting, despite the heat!!! Gethsemane was guided free by Hop ON Hop, the very good guide!!!