Day 1 | First Encounters with Cartagena´s History
Upon arrival at Rafael Nuñez International Airport, a member of the Metropolitan Touring team will meet you and accompany you on a private transfer to your hotel in Cartagena. During the drive, your guide will provide an introduction to the city, assist with hotel check-in and share itinerary details along with contact information for 24-hour assistance.
Founded in the sixteenth century, Cartagena de Indias was one of the most important ports of the Spanish Empire in South America. Its walled historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserves cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies and plazas that reflect centuries of history. Today, the city blends this legacy with its cultural and culinary scene.
Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Day 2 | Colonial Memories and Caribbean Sunsets
The day begins with a guided exploration of Cartagena’s most important historical landmarks. The visit starts at the Convento de la Popa, located on the highest hill in the city and offering panoramic views of the historic center, modern districts and the Caribbean Sea. Built in the seventeenth century, the convent remains an important religious and cultural symbol.
The tour continues with a visit to the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the Americas. Rising above San Lazaro Hill, this complex defensive structure once protected the city from invasions. Its internal tunnel system reveals the strategic military design used for communication and defense.
The experience continues with a walk through Las Bovedas, originally constructed in the eighteenth century as military storage vaults and later used as prisons. Today, the area hosts artisan shops, galleries and cultural spaces.
A guided walk through the Historic Center follows, allowing you to explore plazas, churches and colonial houses with flower-filled balconies while learning about the city’s architectural and cultural evolution.
In the afternoon, enjoy a shared catamaran sailing experience across the bay. From the water, admire the Cartagena skyline at sunset. On board, enjoy selected drinks, light snacks and Caribbean music in a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 3 | Afro-Caribbean culture, rhythms, and tradition
The morning is available for you to enjoy the city at your own pace, relax or join optional activities.
In the afternoon, travel to La Boquilla, a traditional fishing village north of the city, known for its Afro Colombian heritage. Here, you will participate in a drum workshop led by young, local musicians and learn about traditional Caribbean rhythms and instruments such as the alegre, llamador and tambora.
The experience continues with a guided walk through Getsemani, a neighborhood that once housed artisans and workers during colonial times. Today, it is one of the most charming areas of the city, combining historic architecture, street art, lively plazas, restaurants and cultural venues. The walk offers insight into the neighborhood’s transformation and its role in modern Cartagena.
A softdrink is offered at the end of the tour.
Day 3 | Departure from Cartagena
At the scheduled time, your guide will accompany you on a private transfer from the hotel to Rafael Nuñez International Airport and provide assistance with airline check-in for your onward journey.
Important notes
Regular accommodation is provided at a 4-star hotel at OSH Hotel Getsemani or Hyatt Regency Cartagena.
A 5-star accommodation upgrade is available at Nacar Hotel Cartagena Curio Collection by Hilton and Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, subject to availability and an additional charge.
The order of activities is suggested and may vary due to operational considerations.
Transfers include one suitcase per person up to 50 lbs (approximately 23 kg) and one carryon bag. Additional luggage may incur an additional charge.
Shorts and short skirts are not permitted when visiting churches and convents.
