Cartagena

What we love about Cartagena

"Cartagena de Indias is one of the most beautiful cities in the Americas. Located in the North region of Columbia, on the coast, the stylish city offers a Tropical climate, a cultural diversity and a rich historical patrimony. Around 80% of the population is Afro-Columbian. Indeed Cartagena was historically the largest slavery trade marketplace in mainland Spanish South America. It is believed that at least a million slaves entered the port of Cartagena. Slaves were sold at the Plaza de los Coches. Palenque de San Basilio located southeast of Cartagena, it was the first village of free slaves in the Americas. Until now they kept African's ancestral rituals and cultural heritage and have their own dialect. They absolutely love when Africans people come to visit them. Barrio Getsemani is the coolest neighbourhood to stay. It is walking distance the Old City. With a flourish. street-art scene, plenty of trendy bars and amazing boutique hotels, and the lovely Plaza Trinidad very animated and full of locals and street artists every night that hang out together, all in a laid-back vibe.

Travel tips and Must Things to Do in Cartagena

Some of our favorite sites: -Walled City of Cartagena -Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas -Palenque San Basilico -Playa Blanca -Museo de Oro -Caribe Jewellry Museum -Plaza de la Trinidad

Top Sights in Cartagena

Walled City of Cartagena

Wander the historical streets of Walled City of Cartagena, an old district full of vibrant colonial architecture and heritage sites.

Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

For a sense of Cartagena’s colonial past, take two short taxi rides from the old city. Built in the 17th century, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas was an impregnable, tunnel-filled Spanish fort that kept both pirates and the English Navy at bay.

San Basilio de Palenque

Few people know the history of San Basilio de Palenque: the first free slave town in the Americas. It doesn’t appear in many guidebooks, and few tourists take the time to visit. However, this small settlement of 4,000 people is one of the most important historical villages in the Americas.

Getsemani

This colonial district allows you to discover a different, more popular and mixed Cartagena. During the day, stroll through the colorful alleys to discover the young and bohemian spirit of Getsemani, between boutique hotels, vibrant street art & late-night bars around popular hangout Holy Trinity Square.