- Discover the historical centers of Cartagena and Santa Marta and get to know its colonial past
- Explore coral reefs and the ecosystem of the crystal clear Caribbean waters
- Follow the footprints of Simon Bolivar and Colombia’s Independence
- Visit the exotic Totumo Volcano
- Discover ancient indigenous ruins hidden in the jungle
- Enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches of South-America

Abstract
Explore the beauty of Cartagena de Indias and experience the colonial atmosphere that brings you closer to the Caribbean Soul, then learn more about its colorful colonial history that is visible everywhere in the old city.
Discover the Caribbean National Park Islas del Rosario that is less than one hour by boat from Cartagena and enjoy the white sandy beaches and crystal clear water while snorkeling through coral reefs full of exotic fishes. On your way to Santa Marta, you get to see the exotic Totumo volcano before arriving to Colombia’s first colonial city. Here you will learn more about Colombia’s history and its famous “Libertador” Simon Bolivar as well as see the colonial center.
Visit the famous National Park Tayrona, known as one of the top nature destinations on the Caribbean Coast of South America, and go hiking in the tropical forest to get to Tayrona’s impressive beaches. There you will also explore ancient indigenous trails in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Itinerary
Day 1: Beautiful Cartagena
Upon your arrival at the Rafael Nunez Airport of Cartagena, there will be a driver awaiting you to bring you to your hotel.
Cartagena de Indias is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in America. Its historic centre, walled by the fortifications built in the colonial era, conserves its original architecture and is full of colours that will fill the visitors with the Caribbean life and joy.
The City-Tour will start visiting the Cerro de La Popa, a former Augustinian convent rising 150 meters above the city, where you will have the best view of Cartagena. After that, visit the largest military construction ever built by the Spaniards in their colonies, the Fort of San Felipe de Barajas. Then, head to the historic centre where you can visit the plazas, churches and the most beautiful and important streets and buildings of the city.
Hotel Boutique Tres Banderas*** / Hotel Boutique Bantu*****
Day 2 : National Park Islas del Rosario (B,L)
Today you will enjoy a full day on the Caribbean islands. The Islas del Rosario are ideal for watching colourful coral reefs in shallow waters. Located 45 km from Cartagena Bay, the park protects underwater ecosystems, mainly coral reefs, inhabited by a multitude of invertebrate species and a big variety of fish. Extensive kelp and seagrass are also found in the park. Beautiful beaches are another hallmark of the park. A speedboat will take you to Isla Grande (1 hour), where you will have a typical lunch. Once you are on the island you will have time to go swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking. Explore this fascinating place and return to Cartagena in the evening.
Hotel Boutique Tres Banderas*** / Hotel Boutique Bantu*****
Day 3: Totumo and transfer to Santa Marta (B)
45 minutes from Cartagena, driving on the coastal road between Barranquilla and Santa Marta, you will make a stop to get to see a really unique volcano. The mud volcano Totumo is a 20 meter high exotic and natural wonder, surrounded by numerous lakes that can be seen with a beautiful view from the top of the volcano. Afterward, you will drive up the coast to visit the colonial city of Santa Marta.
Boutique Don Pepe*****/ Boutique Casa del Farol***
Day 4: Santa Marta
The tour begins with a visit to La Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, a place of historical importance where Simon Bolivar died in December 1830. You will get to know the former sugar cane hacienda of Don Joaquin de Mier and have a look at objects and tools of the era, including the bed where the Libertador Bolivar died. In the Bolivarian Museum, you will learn about the most important events of Simon Bolivar’s life and the historical context of Colombia during that time. We continue to the centre of Santa Marta with a visit to the oldest cathedral in the country, then you have time to enjoy the afternoon in the colonial centre.
Boutique Don Pepe*****/ Boutique Casa del Farol***
Day 5: National Park Tayrona
With its white sandy beaches surrounded by rocky atolls and tropical forests, washed off by the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Tayrona Park is one of the most impressive destinations of Colombia. It offers a variety of trails that infiltrate the rainforest and archaeological sites, which were of great importance for pre-Columbian Cultures. After arriving at the entrance of the national park, we begin the hike from Canaveral through the tropical forest and along some beaches up to Arrecifes and continue to paradise like beaches of Arenillas, Piscina, and Cabo San Juan, where we have time to enjoy a swim in the sea. Afterward, we will bring you back to Santa Marta, where your trip ends.
Include
- Pick-Up Service from your hotel & private transport
- Entrance Fees (*The tourist tax for Islas del Rosario not included)
- Bilingual Attendance
- Travel-Insurance
- Taxes
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Snacks (like indicated in the description)
Not Include
- Services not mentioned in the program
- Tips to driver / guide
- Alcoholic beverages
Observations
In case of unforeseen circumstances and to assure the passenger’s comfort and safety the itinerary might be subject of change.
Information for the client
- Phone: +57 (4) 312 89 65
- EMail: contacto@palenquetourscolombia.com
Cancellation policies
- Payment when booking
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Contact us by phone to cancel or ask about a cancellation. If you do not show up, you will be charged the full price