Exploring Cartagena, Colombia: 5 Must-Try Activities for an Unforgettable Trip

Make your trip to Cartagena, Colombia unforgettable with these activities! 

I recently returned to Cartagena, Colombia for the second time, five years after my initial visit. Each trip was unique, and I was excited to explore this incredible country once more. 

This particular trip I was intentional about centering relaxation, great food and exploring and I can say that was a success. 

If you're looking to visit Cartagena, here are 5 must-try activities for your stay:

1. Visit Palenque 

Palenque is the first "free town" for Africans in the Americas. This Afro-Colombian community was founded by those who were enslaved as a refuge in colonial times. 

The experience was beautiful - the culture, the history, the food, the language...the JOY. Can’t even put into words what this meant to me. 

The 4 to 5 hour tour included roundtrip transportation, drinks (water and beer), lunch, a bilingual tour guide and the tour itself (note: these details may vary by tour company; this is what was included in our tour when we booked through our concierge; see his details below). 

mural in Palenque in Colombia

@everydayyyytay in front of Palenque sign in mural in Palenque in Colombia

mural in Palenque in Colombia

women posing in front of mural in Palenque in Colombia

Tip: bring cash to ensure you are able to tip community members along the tour who provide entertainment or handmade goods. 

Check out a video of my experience on my Instagram. 

2. Charter a Boat or Catamaran for the Day 

Picture a day out on the water, island hopping, soaking up the sun and creating some of the best memories with your people! 

This was a full day adventure, but will depend on what your package offers. We went with a 44ft yacht (it was 6 of us) just to have a little more room to move around. 

boat day in Cartagena

@everydayyyytay posing on a boat in Cartagena

boat day in Cartagena

boat day in Cartagena

Tip: I recommend a small yacht or catamaran for your travel group vs. a speed boat (depending on the number of people). While speed boats are more economical, they usually lack a bathroom, space to move around or lay out and may include other travelers who are not part of your group. If you prefer these things, a speed boat may suit you!

3. Explore Getsemaní

There's a little something for everyone in Getsemaní - from street food, colorful art, bars and restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. The beautiful street art also makes for some good photo opps.

@everydayyyytay posing against a mural wall in Getsemani in Cartagena

@everydayyyytay and friends in Getsemani in Cartagena

@everydayyyytay posing on umbrella street Getsemani in Cartagena

@everydayyyytay posing against a mural wall in Getsemani in Cartagena

@everydayyyytay posing against a mural wall in Getsemani in Cartagena

4. Private Chef Dinner

After a long day of travel, exploring or excursions, sometimes a night in is needed. We stayed in on a Friday night after our visit to Palenque to enjoy a home cooked meal together. 

Our chef, Rodrigo Gonzalez (IG: @chef_rodgonzalez), was PHENOMENAL! The menu consisted of: ceviche, beef tenderloin, sea bass filet in creole sauce, creamy coconut rice, fresh salad, and some of the best fresh fruit dessert I've ever had (I have never tasted an all fruit dessert that was tasty enough to trump my love for cake…until that night)!

5. Discover Some Tasty Dining Spots

There are so many restaurants, for all price ranges, to try in Cartagena! We visited two in the Walled City and between the ambiance, food quality and drinks, I would definitely recommend both Carmen and Candé.

We also stopped on the side of the road after one of our tours for chicharrón, so I do encourage you to try different things vs. just the nice restaurants in the city. 

Bonus: after dinner, check out Alquímico Bar. Set within a beautiful mansion-like location with 3 floors, great cocktails and good vibes! 

dish at Cande in Cartagena

dish at Carmen in Cartagena

dish at Cande in Cartagena

drinks at Carmen in Cartagena

Additional Details

Our Stay

We stayed in a beautiful fully equipped colonial Airbnb in the heart of the Walled City and it was one of the best places I've stayed during my travels. 

Some of the highlights: 

• Can fit up to 10 people with 4 bedrooms + 4 baths

• Housekeeping + breakfast included everyday with your booking

• House concierge 

• Rooftop terrace + pool 

• Free Wi-Fi 

• Location, location, location! Near great restaurants, main sites and shops 

Check out my reel/review of Casa Siete Infantes and the Airbnb listing. [update: the place is now called Casa Lujo Colonial Pool Jacuzzi Centro Historico on Airbnb] 

Tip: don't answer the door if anyone knocks that you do not know. This is typical for places in the Walled City as it is a busy area so just be diligent as you would anywhere else. We did not feel unsafe in any way. 

Concierge

Sure, you can plan your trip yourself, OR you can use a concierge to help make your stay magical and stress-free. 

Our concierge, Rodo (IG: @graurodo), was the absolute best and I recommend him to anyone. He took such great care of the group, anticipated our needs, planned our tours, and kept us in the loop at all times. We truly didn't want to part ways with him, he was that good! 

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What do you enjoy doing most when you're on vacation? Share your thoughts in the comments.