Cartagena, the vibrant coastal city in Colombia, captivates visitors with its rich history and stunning architecture. The Cartagena City Tour & Convento De La Popa offers an immersive exploration of this enchanting destination. Travelers embark on a guided journey, discovering the city’s iconic landmarks, from the imposing Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas to the breathtaking vantage point of the Convento de La Popa. With comfortable transportation, delectable local cuisine, and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the true wonder of Cartagena lies in its ability to transport visitors to a bygone era, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive Cartagena city tour highlighting historical sites, cultural influences, and panoramic views, including visits to Monastery of La Candelaria and Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas.
- Tour provides in-depth exploration of Cartagena’s history, customs, music, gastronomy, sports, politics, and economy with knowledgeable guides.
- Includes air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and alcoholic beverages for an enhanced cultural experience.
- Tour duration is approximately 2 hours, starting at 9:00 am with multiple meeting point options.
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions due to the historical and physical nature of the sites.
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Tour Overview and Highlights
The Cartagena City Tour provides travelers with a rundown of the historic city, covering its rich history, customs, music, gastronomy, sports, politics, and economy.
The tour includes guided visits to the Monastery of la Candelaria, the imposing San Felipe Fort, and the picturesque La Popa Convent.
With 31 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence from travelers.
The experience is further enhanced by the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who offer a personal and informative exploration of Cartagena’s diverse cultural landscape.
Tour Details and Inclusions
An air-conditioned vehicle transports participants to the tour’s key attractions, which include the impressive Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas and the picturesque Convento de la Popa.
The tour includes:
- Entrance to Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, where visitors spend 45 minutes exploring this historic fortress.
- Entrance to Convento de la Popa, allowing 30 minutes to admire this stunning 17th-century monastery.
- Lunch and alcoholic beverages, enhancing the overall experience.
The tour duration is approximately 2 hours, ensuring a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of Cartagena’s highlights.
Meeting Information
The tour starts at 09:00 am. Guests can select from various meeting points around Cartagena to begin their journey. Once the tour commences, the activity ends back at the original meeting location. Confirmation of the booking is received upon completion.
| Meeting Point | Address | Latitude | Longitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plaza de los Coches | Calle del Arco del Reloj, Cartagena | 10.4244° N | 75.5441° W |
| Hotel Cartagena Plaza | Calle del Guerrero, Cartagena | 10.4221° N | 75.5440° W |
| Puerta del Reloj | Plaza de los Coches, Cartagena | 10.4242° N | 75.5439° W |
Accessibility and Participation
According to the information provided, the Cartagena City Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
However, the tour is located near public transportation, making it accessible for those who can navigate on their own.
It’s also not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, though most travelers can participate.
The reasons for these accessibility limitations aren’t explicitly stated, but may be due to the historical and physical nature of the sites visited, such as the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas and the Convento de la Popa.
Participants should consider their own mobility and health status before booking this tour.
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
Customer Reviews and Feedback
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 41 reviews, the Cartagena City Tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from travelers.
Highlights of the tour include the knowledgeable and engaging guides, the personal and informative experience, and the catering to small groups. Reviewers have also praised the air conditioning, the well-structured tour, and the bilingual support provided.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and the price starts from $40.00 with a lowest price guarantee.
Cartagena’s History and Culture
Cartagena, a coastal gem in Colombia, boasts a rich and storied history that has shaped its vibrant culture. Founded in the 16th century, the city was a strategic hub for Spanish colonial rule, where influences from Europe, Africa, and indigenous peoples converged.
Today, this historical legacy is evident in the city’s architecture, music, and cuisine. Visitors can explore:
- The UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its colorful colonial buildings and fortified walls
- The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a towering fortress that guarded the city from pirates and invaders
- The Convento de la Popa, a hilltop monastery offering panoramic views of Cartagena‘s skyline and harbor.
Monastery of La Candelaria
The Monastery of La Candelaria stands as a testament to Cartagena’s rich religious heritage. This 17th-century structure was once home to a community of Augustinian friars and is known for its stunning colonial architecture.
Visitors can explore the monastery’s grand facade, intricate carved doors, and serene cloisters. Inside, they’ll find beautifully preserved frescoes, altars, and religious artifacts that offer a glimpse into the region’s devotion.
The monastery’s hilltop location also provides panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea beyond. With its historical significance and captivating design, the Monastery of La Candelaria is a must-see stop on any Cartagena city tour.
Castillo De San Felipe De Barajas
One of Cartagena’s most iconic landmarks, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas stands as a formidable fortress that has guarded the city’s strategic coastal position for centuries.
Visitors to the city’s renowned Cartagena City Tour have the opportunity to explore this impressive fortification, which features:
- Massive stone walls and impressive architectural design
- Intricate network of tunnels and passageways
- Stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding cityscape
During the tour, guests can spend up to 45 minutes exploring the Castillo, seeing the rich history and military significance of this important landmark.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it may be suitable for some travelers with mobility issues. Participants should check with the tour operator for specific accessibility details before booking.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?
The tour can accommodate special dietary needs with prior notice. Guests should notify the tour provider at the time of booking so appropriate arrangements can be made for any dietary restrictions or preferences.
What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?
The tour guides speak both English and Spanish, allowing them to provide a bilingual experience for participants. They are knowledgeable about the local history and culture, and can cater to the needs of the group.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The standard tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, which includes visits to the Castillo de San Felipe fort and Convento de la Popa monastery.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention discounts for children or seniors, but it’s worth contacting the tour operator to inquire about any applicable discounted rates or package deals. Many tours offer reduced pricing for certain age groups.
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The Sum Up
The Cartagena City Tour & Convento De La Popa offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural treasures. Travelers can marvel at the impressive Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, admire the breathtaking views from the Convento de La Popa, and gain insights into Cartagena’s past through the expertise of knowledgeable guides. This tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the essence of this historic Colombian destination.