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Immerse yourself in the romance and charm of Cartagena, where the timeless allure of the Caribbean intertwines with vibrant Colombian culture. On this trip, you’ll explore the cobblestone streets and hidden gems of the city, discovering how they survived from Pirate attacks—a true journey through time. Relax on pristine beaches, explore the coral islands of Rosario, and uncover the white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters of Barú. Delight in the mouth-watering local dishes that have made “The Gateway to South America” a coastal haven for centuries. Embrace the opportunity to learn how to dance Champeta, as the city’s beautiful rhythms move your body and soul in unexpected ways.
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6 days
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8 - 22 spots
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Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
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5 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 2 Dinners
Activities Included
- Walled City Tour & San Felipe Fortress
- Cartagena Walking Food Tour
- Champeta Dancing Class & Cocktail
- Caribbean Islands Exploration
- Colombian Cooking Class
- Getsemani Graffiti Tour
- Beach Day at Baru Island
Other Inclusions
- Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
- Local Guide throughout trip
- All city transfers
Exclusions
- Flights (except as noted)
- Food and alcohol (except as noted)
- Visas and Travel Insurance
- Airport Transfers
- Tips and Gratuity
Itinerary
Day 1
info
Day 1
Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to the welcome meeting. At 6:30 pm be ready to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into CTG.
meal
dinner
Let's toast to the exciting journey ahead at your welcome dinner! A 15-minute transfer will take you to a cozy local restaurant featuring an à la carte one-dish menu, including one soft drink. Seize this opportunity to savor traditional Colombian seafood and fresh fish dishes. Please be aware that the menu may change based on the confirmed restaurant.
accommodation
Hyatt Regency Hotel, or similar
Overnight in Cartagena de Indias. Standard hotel option
Day 2
info
Day 2
Today, you will experience the magic of Cartagena de Indias. In the morning, you'll take a brief transfer to San Felipe Fortress, where you'll discover how the Spaniards defended against the pirate attacks 350 years ago. Following that, you will explore the walled city on foot, with its picturesque cobblestone streets filled with history and art. You'll have some free time for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, you´ll take a short transfer and get ready to explore the hidden alleys of the old city and sample fresh cocos, cheese arepas, ice cream, and other delightful local snacks. At sunset, get your groove on with a Champeta dancing class at a local studio! As the weather may be hot, we recommend bringing a bottle of water, and wearing comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, and a hat.
meal
breakfast
Breakfast is included at the hotel. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast which includes a variety of options such as scrambled eggs, a variety of breads, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and fresh fruit, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
activity
APPROX. 3 HOURS
Walled City Tour & San Felipe Fortress
Following a brief 15-minute transfer, you'll step into the imposing San Felipe Fortress, known locally as the "guardian of Cartagena." Perched atop San Lorenzo Hill, this historical site offers strategic views of the city and the bay. Visiting the fortress is a journey through time, showcasing how the Spaniards defended against pirate attacks by the British and French in 1657. Next, you'll continue with a 15-minute transfer to the summit of Mount La Popa to explore a historical convent with incredible views and a fascinating past. Learn about how this religious complex endured constant pirate attacks. Finally, a 15-minute transfer will take you to the renowned walled city, globally acclaimed for its protective walls against pirate assaults. This part of the city is incredibly attractive, and your guide will regale you with memorable histories. Here, you'll explore the cobblestone streets on foot, covering approximately 0.5 to 1 mile during the tour. After the tour, you'll be transferred back to the hotel, with some free time for lunch on your own. Entrance fees to San Felipe Fortress and La Popa convent are included.
activity
APPROX. 3 HOURS
Cartagena Walking Food Tour
In the afternoon, you will have a street food tour activity. Accompanied by your guide, you'll explore the historical area on foot, making several stops to savor Colombia's most traditional street food. Immerse yourself in the colorful street markets of Cartagena, where energetic vendors create a lively atmosphere. Witness the impressive sight of women carrying trays of fruits on their heads. This tour includes a fresh coco, a cheese arepa, and an ice cream per person. Additional snacks and drinks can be purchased on-site, so we recommend bringing cash. The tour covers flat terrain and spans between 0.5 and 1 mile. There will be restroom facilities available during the tour with a fee. After concluding the tasting tour, you will proceed directly to the Champeta Dancing class.
activity
APPROX. 1 HOUR
Champeta Dancing Class & Cocktail
The tasting tour will leave you at Salsa Crazy, a lively dancing studio situated in the heart of Cartagena. In Colombia, dance is an integral part of daily life, it runs through their veins. As you arrive at the studio, you'll be greeted with a cocktail and a warm welcome from the staff. It's then time to groove with a Champeta dancing class. Embrace the opportunity to learn the basic steps of this vibrant and joyful dance. This class is designed for beginners, so feel free to let loose, move to the music, and enjoy the experience. The studio room is private for the group, adorned with mirrors, and equipped with special lighting and a sound system. The class lasts for one hour, and afterward, a quick 15-minute transfer will take you back to your hotel.
accommodation
Hyatt Regency Hotel, or similar
Overnight in Cartagena de Indias. Standard hotel option
Day 3
info
Day 3
An unforgettable day awaits to explore the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea alongside your fellow travelers. A short transfer separates your hotel from the port, where the adventure commences. Board a shared boat for a scenic 1-hour sail to reach the Rosario Islands. Upon arrival, spend the day at a beachfront hotel with beach amenities, optional activities, and a provided lunch. The return journey is in the afternoon, so it's advisable to pack a backpack with essentials such as a swimsuit, flip-flops, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and an extra change of clothing.
meal
breakfast
Breakfast is included at the hotel. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast which includes a variety of options such as scrambled eggs, a variety of breads, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and fresh fruit, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
activity
APPROX. 6 HOURS
Caribbean Islands Exploration
Visiting the Rosario Islands is a must when in Cartagena, and today, you'll experience it to the fullest. Prepare for an early morning pick-up at your hotel and a short 10-15 -minute transfer to the port to begin your adventure. Please note that the boat is shared, with a maximum capacity of 50 people. As you set sail, the initial part of the journey offers breathtaking views of Cartagena and remnants of Spanish buildings. Gradually, the stunning collection of 27 islands, known as the Rosario Islands, will come into view—each surrounded by corals, teeming marine life, and pristine white sand beaches. The boat cruise lasts approximately one hour until you arrive at "Isla Grande". Here, you'll spend the day at a beachfront hotel with amenities such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels. For additional costs, you can enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling tours, a visit to the Oceanario, or explore mangroves with locals. Relax on the beach with fellow travelers and relish a complete three-course lunch featuring delightful Colombian flavors. Please note that extra activities, as well as additional food and drinks, can be paid for on-site using credit cards or cash. The plan is to spend approximately five hours at the hotel, returning to Cartagena in the afternoon.
meal
lunch
Enjoy a Caribbean-style lunch in the serene sea-view restaurant on Isla Grande. Lunch, served at the hotel restaurant, includes a 3-course set menu with green plantain chips, grilled lobster, coconut rice, and typical Colombian papaya sweets. One soft drink or one national beer is included. After lunch, savor a traditional Colombian coffee. Please be aware that the menu may change based on the confirmed restaurant.
accommodation
Hyatt Regency Hotel, or similar
Overnight in Cartagena de Indias. Standard hotel option
Day 4
info
Day 4
Today's adventure begins with a brief transfer to Bazurto, a local market, where, accompanied by an expert chef, you'll gather all the necessary ingredients for traditional Colombian dishes. Then, you'll head to the chef's atelier, for a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare these authentic dishes. Afterward, you'll have the chance to relish your own culinary creations. Later in the afternoon, you'll take another short transfer to visit the vibrant Getsemani neighborhood. This area is famed for its bohemian atmosphere and vivid street art, with colorful graffiti embellishing houses and walls. Guided by your expert, you'll explore and delve into the history behind each painting. As the weather may be hot, we recommend bringing a bottle of water, and wearing comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, and a hat.
meal
breakfast
Breakfast is included at the hotel. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast which includes a variety of options such as scrambled eggs, a variety of breads, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and fresh fruit, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
activity
APPROX. 4 HOURS
Colombian Cooking Class
Begin the day with a short 15-minute transfer to Bazurto market, an authentic local market where locals do their daily shopping. Accompanied by a professional chef, you'll explore the market, engaging with local vendors about their products. The chef will help select the freshest fish and various local vegetables for today's cooking. Spending approximately 45 minutes at the market, once all necessary ingredients for the recipe are acquired, you'll head to the chef's atelier. The kitchen is part of a hotel restaurant, where, under the chef's guidance, you'll cook the traditional coconut rice with seafood. After the cooking, you will relax on the terrace, tasting your own creations and sharing a delightful lunch with your fellow travelers. Vegetarian/vegan options can also be accommodated.
meal
lunch
Enjoy a Caribbean-style lunch featuring your own creations on the serene terrace of the hotel. Lunch is served at comfortable tables on the terrace and includes one dish and one drink per person. Restrooms are available for your convenience. Please be aware that the menu may change based on the chef´s decisions.
activity
APPROX. 3 HOURS
Getsemani Graffiti Tour
You will have a graffiti tour in the vibrant Getsemani neighborhood, a preferred area for local artists and artisans. Guided by an expert, you'll stroll through the colorful streets adorned with graffiti on houses, walls, and buildings. Each piece of street art portrays different cultural and historical events, and your guide will share the meaning and history behind each one. Don't forget your camera, as these paintings make for fantastic photos. During this tour, you'll be walking approximately 1 to 1.5 miles on flat streets. Restrooms are available during the tour for a fee. You'll be transferred back to the hotel by sunset, allowing for free time to enjoy dinner on your own, with numerous good restaurants options within walking distance of your hotel.
accommodation
Hyatt Regency Hotel, or similar
Overnight in Cartagena de Indias. Standard hotel option
Day 5
info
Day 5
It's never too much beach when you're in the Caribbean. Today, you'll explore the paradisiacal beaches of Baru, an exotic peninsula located 18 miles south of Cartagena. Following an early pick-up and a 1.5-hour transfer, you'll arrive at an exclusive resort, offering beach amenities, delightful swimming pools, a complete lunch, and enjoyable activities. You'll return to Cartagena in the late afternoon to freshen up before indulging in a memorable farewell dinner. The return journey is in the afternoon, so it's advisable to pack a backpack with essentials such as a swimsuit, flip-flops, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and an extra change of clothing.
meal
breakfast
Breakfast is included at the hotel. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast which includes a variety of options such as scrambled eggs, a variety of breads, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and fresh fruit, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
transfer
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
Transfer to Barú Beach Resort
After breakfast, take a private transfer to the breathtaking beaches of Barú.
activity
APPROX. 7 HOURS
Beach Day at Baru Island
Following an early pick-up at the hotel, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour transfer with breathtaking ocean views until you reach the exclusive Sofitel Baru resort. Nestled on the shores of Calablanca beach, this stunning beachfront hotel offers a vast expanse of white sand. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with a refreshing cocktail and have the freedom to indulge in the hotel's amenities, from swimming pools and beach chairs to kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to explore the surrounding areas. At midday, a delicious lunch with stunning sea views will be served at the hotel restaurant. Additional food and drinks can be purchased on-site, with payment via credit card or cash. Some activities, such as paddleboarding and kayaking, are subject to availability. You willl return to your Cartagena hotel in the afternoon, providing time for freshening up before the farewell dinner.
meal
lunch
Savor a Caribbean-style lunch while you enjoy the tranquil sea-views. Lunch is served buffet-style with two different stations: one offering typical Colombian fried foods, and the other featuring a wide variety of tacos. Two non-alcoholic drinks are included per person. Please be aware that the menu may change based on the confirmed restaurant.
transfer
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
Transfer to Cartagena Hotel
After a relaxed day at the beach, take a private transfer to return to your hotel in Cartagena.
meal
dinner
The farewell dinner will be held at an intimate restaurant, located approximately 15 minutes away from the hotel by transfer. Throughout the dinner, you'll relish a feast of traditional Colombian cuisine. The dinner includes a 4-course set menu with a cup of wine or soft drinks. Please be aware that the menu may change based on the confirmed restaurant.
accommodation
Hyatt Regency Hotel, or similar
Overnight in Cartagena de Indias. Standard hotel option
Day 6
info
Day 6
All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of CTG.
meal
breakfast
Breakfast is included at the hotel. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast which includes a variety of options such as scrambled eggs, a variety of breads, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and fresh fruit, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Itinerary Details
Itineraries may change throughout the year due to several factors
including logistical issues, Traveler feedback, or operational changes.
The provided itinerary, including estimated times, serve as guidelines
only. As your date of travel approaches, our Operators will amend the
itinerary to include more details, adjust activities and provide updated
information.
TrovaTrip and our Operators reserve the right to alter itineraries as we
deem necessary before and during your experience in-destination.
Our 1% Promise
In partnership with The Cool Effect, 1% of your booking will be donated to reduce carbon emissions through community-based initiatives around the globe. Learn more at cooleffect.org.
$1974+ USD
per traveler