San Basilio de Palenque History Tour
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Cartagena, Colombia
- 6 to 7 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Discover the fascinating and often-overlooked history of Palenque on a private tour from Cartagena. You'll learn about the Palenqueros' fight for freedom and the cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations. Highlights include the museum dedicated to the town's Afro-Colombian heritage, seeing the traditional houses, and witnessing the vibrant music and dance that are an integral part of daily life in the village.
- Get the personalized experience of a private tour in Colombia
- Visit a destination in Colombia that most tourists miss
- Travel comfortably in air-conditioned transportation
- Enjoy a traditional regional lunch during the tour
What's Included
- Native trilingual tour guide
- Music show
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- LunchPlato de libro de cocina ganador de premio Confucio organizado por la UNESCO en 2014
- BreakfastEnsalada de frutas
- Alcoholic BeveragesRon ñeke, the moonshine from Palenque
- Bottled water
- Cooking class and sweet tasting wiht a native cook
- WiFi on board
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
We offer pickup service throughout Cartagena. If your location isn't listed, please contact us; we'd be happy to assist you.
Operating hours.8:00 am
Itinerary
1
Cartagena
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
2
San Basilio De Palenque
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
3
Monumento a Benkos Bioho
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
4
San Basilio De Palenque
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
5
San Basilio De Palenque
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
6
San Basilio De Palenque
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
7
San Basilio De Palenque
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
8
San Basilio De Palenque
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
9
Paletur
1 hour • Admission Ticket Included
10
San Basilio de Palenque
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats available
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.9
based on 320 reviews
Jaxon_w, Apr 2026
The experience was amazing! The community is super welcoming, the food was great and the tour is more interactive than any I’ve ever done.
Deitrick_F, Apr 2026
I was so grateful that friends of mine who visited Colombia mentioned this tour and encouraged me to learn more about the Afro-Latino culture of Colombia. While Colombia is rich with vibrancy & life, there's so much more to their history and how they've become who they are. Even though the tour pick up started so early in the morning, it was completely worth the lack of sleep. To see how African roots have impacted such a resilient community within this country, was astonishing. Learning about how they became the first free African settlement in the Americas left me with such pride for my people. In addition to the food at the end of the tour being soooo delicious! I highly recommend anyone who wants to learn about African culture and it's influence on Latino/Caribbean culture to go on this tour.
Dominique_K, Apr 2026
I took this tour of San Basilio de Palenque from Cartagena, which was a unique, semi-immersive experience, but it fell short of expectations based on the “what’s included” portion of the tour description.
The Highlights:
* Cultural Connection: Meeting a local Palenque chef/candy maker and watching the community’s youth perform traditional dances were standout moments.
* Medicine, Language and Food: Learning about herbal medicine from local doctors and picking up dialect phrases was fascinating. The fresh-caught fish for lunch was excellent.
* Logistics: The hotel pickup/drop-off was only a few extra dollars and made the day stress-free.
Expectation vs. Reality (The Callouts):
While the people are incredibly friendly, the tour didn’t fully deliver on the advertised activities:
* Historical Depth: I expected a deep dive into the struggle for freedom and the formation of Palenque, but I left without a real understanding of its history.
* Missed Hands-on Activities: At the "House of Knowledge," I watched a performance but never actually learned to play the drums. Similarly, I tasted candy but didn't learn about gastronomy or prepare a recipe as described.
* Monument vs. Activity: The "Kid Pambele" Boxing Gym was just a quick stop at a monument, not a visit to an active training session.
Final Verdict:
This tour is owned/operated by a local family but be prepared for frequent solicitation from local vendors. I understand the need to make a living, but it felt off-putting to be pressured to buy the same souvenirs found elsewhere in Cartagena, especially since the tour itself is already a way of supporting the local community. Ultimately, I’m 'middle of the road' on this one—it’s a 6.5/10 experience that (in my opinion) is really only worth it if the operators follow through providing what they’ve outlined in their tour description.
Xiomara_L, Apr 2026
I will say that this tour was the highlight of our trip to Cartagena. It was authentic, engaging, and very informative. Our tour guide, Victor, was extremely knowledgeable and clearly very proud of his culture. It showed in the way he shared the historical facts, the town, the people, and their way of life.
The tour was about six hours long, but it went by very quickly, even in the blazing heat. We were really happy that we booked a tour with an actual resident of the town who was so respected by everyone. It made us feel welcomed and almost like we were part of the community for the day.
The food was amazing as well. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone traveling to Cartagena who wants to learn more about the Afro-Colombian community there.
Stephanie_T, Apr 2026
This experience was absolutely amazing! Victor and Carlos were the best tour guides, the food was delicious and the whole community was so welcoming. I met some of the most inspirational and kind women I’ve ever met in my life. A definite must for anyone visiting Cartagena!!
Sophia_O, Apr 2026
This was honestly one of the best tours I’ve ever taken in my life.
Visiting San Basilio de Palenque was such a powerful, moving experience. Known as the first free Black town in the Americas, its history is deeply rooted in resistance, strength, and the fight for freedom led by Benko Biohó. Being there and learning about this legacy felt incredibly grounding and emotional, like returning home in a way I can’t fully put into words.
The culture, the people, the spirit of the town… everything about it is rich, alive, and unforgettable. Not to mention the incredible food, the warmth of the locals, learning from a herbal medicinal practitioner, and experiencing a beautiful, vibrant dance performance. I left feeling so full in every sense of the word.
My guide, Sofia, was absolutely amazing. Her passion, knowledge, and storytelling brought everything to life. I could have listened to her speak for hours. She made the entire experience feel personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.
If you’re visiting Colombia, this is a tour you have to take. Truly a beautiful experience, and I already know I’ll be back🤎
Arlene_H, Mar 2026
Great tour. I did this during black history so it just felt so appropriate. Learned some different historical facts on the slave trade. Food served was good. Be prepared to be out the entire day. It’s very hot , some walking is involved. They provide you with water , fruit and lunch.
SuiteLyfe_T, Mar 2026
Such a rich experience! Victor gave a very intimate cultural experience for all interested in learning the story of the Palenque people. The authentic food, historical dances, up close candy and sweets tutorial, and introduction to homeopathic medicines felt very familiar and like home! I would take this tour again!
Damian_B, Feb 2026
This was my introduction to Cartegena. Victor and his family and everyone associated with the tour to Palenque are absolutely amazing. I left with a deep appreciation and feeling of great acceptance. Please book this tour, please tap in and please allow yourself the opportunity to have an appreciation for something so uniquely historical.
Sharlee_H, Feb 2026
If you are visiting Colombia and don’t take the Palenque tour with Sophia and Victoria… what are you even doing?!
This experience was hands down one of the most powerful, eye-opening, and inspiring parts of my trip. I had no idea that San Basilio de Palenque was the first free Black town in the Americas. Learning how the people there fought for and secured their freedom from slavery completely shifted my perspective. The resilience, pride, and strength of the Afro-Colombian community is something you feel the moment you arrive.
Sophia and Victoria were phenomenal guides — knowledgeable, warm, and deeply passionate about their heritage. They didn’t just give a tour; they told a living story. Hearing about the shared cultural roots between Afro-Colombians and African Americans was especially meaningful. It felt like discovering family you didn’t know you had.
And the FOOD. Whew. It wasn’t just delicious — it felt like Sunday dinner at grandma’s house. Every bite was made with love, tradition, and generations of history.
This tour is more than sightseeing. It’s culture, education, connection, and heart. I would recommend it to anyone coming to Colombia — don’t miss the opportunity to experience something this authentic and powerful. It will stay with you long after you leave. 💛
Melissa_J, Feb 2026
Highly recommend! Authentic experience from a family business that is one of the main providers of the tour. I actually went twice two years in a row and realized it was the same company. If you're on the fence. Choose them.
sharon_b, Feb 2026
Sophia was excellent! She gave us an authentic insight into her culture starting with an impressive historical overview. I have had many guides throughout the world and she was one of the top professionals I have encountered.
When Victor first said 3 hours in the community for the tour I thought I would get bored, but far from the case, enjoyable day.
The lunch (fish) was very good.
Wait to buy your souvenirs here. The town has everything.
Naija_R, Feb 2026
10/10!!! This is a must see! Victor was so amazing and attentive. He gave us the history of Palenque on the ride there, and we even met some of his family members! His cousin Victor was amazing as well!!! Book the tour, you won’t regret it!
Nathalie_R, Jan 2026
Wonderful experience learning about the culture and being able to participate. Our tour guide Victor was amazing! Very knowledgeable, intentional and patient with all the questions we asked. I highly recommend.
Sharon_C, Jan 2026
The Palenque tour experience exceeded my expectations. From the moment we arrived at the meeting point, we were warmly welcomed by our guide, who delved deeply into the rich history and story of the Palenque people. Learning about the language, experiencing the strong sense of community, and enjoying the food was truly enlightening.
Lanyse_R, Jan 2026
The history lesson was excellent, the food was amazing, the dancing was very fun. I chose to do this solo for my 25th birthday and ended up with my birthday twin who was also traveling solo. The guide was very receptive to questions and did pick up and drop off with excellent communication. Definitely glad I chose to do this tour.
Charlene_C, Jan 2026
The tour was amazing. Victor arrived on time, had a lot of knowledge to share and made sure my group felt welcome and comfortable. The lunch was great too! Order the stewed fish, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
LILA_B, Jan 2026
This tour to Palenque was outstanding. Our guide picked us up in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, and the drive took about an hour. The town itself was incredibly colorful and vibrant. We learned how to make sugarcane candy, explored traditional medicine, and enjoyed a full dance exhibition. The experience felt very interactive and intimate.
The history was fascinating, and we loved learning how this community plays such an integral role in Colombia’s identity. During the tour, we had a medical emergency in our group, and the guide was exceptionally helpful—personally taking me to a clinic to get checked out while ensuring my family was able to enjoy their meal.
This is an absolute must-do tour in Cartagena.
Meron_M, Jan 2026
Victor was our host a local tour guide he was so knowledgeable about his community taught us the rich, deeps and powerful history. A must do tour for people visiting Cartagena that want to learn the history of Afro-Colombians. We were all able to experience first hand the culture music, food and dance! Support local business !!
Gwen_S, Dec 2025
The drive from Cartagena is about 90 mins which gives you a good look at the countryside. My tour guide was Victor, a serious young Palenque. He was well spoken about his people’s history and gave a great tour of the village. The tourhighlighted music, herbal medicine , historic structures, traditional candymaking . The people were very friendly. The tour ended with the best meal I had in Colombia!
Travis_M, Nov 2025
This was the highlight of our trip to Colombia. Our guide Sofia greeted us the moment we stepped out of the car and accompanied us the whole day. This was a great trip learning the history of the Palenque and getting to meet the locals was great from sampling candies and sweets to our visit with the medicine men. Also the dance presentation was so much fun and all who want to get to participate. If there is one day trip to take away from your time in Cartagena it is this one I already have plans to bring additional family members back so they can have the same experience.
Vladimir_A, Nov 2025
We really enjoyed our trip to Palenque. We got picked up and dropped off at our hotel by our guide, Victor, and his taxi. As a Palenque native Victor gave us a personal tour of the village and allowed us to meet with several local people and groups. We got to see and participate in a dance, help stir a pot of local treats cooking over a fire, met a traditional medicine doctor, and got to ask questions of all of them. Victor also allowed us to ask any questions we had and gave us the full run down of the village history and current workings. We came away with a greater understanding of the Palenque people.
The reason I take away a star is because when you're a small group you kind of feel pressured to give tips to every group and person that's part of the tour presentation and walk. For larger groups you can rely on other group members to bear the load of tipping, but with small groups all eyes are on you. I wish they just included a pre-paid tip option. We spent more cash than expected. It felt rude not to tip each presenter as we felt they expected it.
Also, the lunch was really tasty, but I wish the hand washing part was more sanitary. Our group and others washed our hands with a community bowl of water with soap pumped from a soap dispenser that wasn't very clean. And the toilet had no water tank or seat. It is just a village afterall, but just sharing as FYI.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Hi Vladimir, We're glad you enjoyed the experience
The tips are voluntary, that is one of the recommendations we gave before starting the tour. Each place we visit during the tour receives a contribution from us.
Briana_A, Nov 2025
Sofia was an excellent host. She speaks English and I appreciated her willingness to translate during the tour. She taught us a lot about the history of palenque. We experienced drums, dance, and tour which included viewing a historical home, Candy making, natural medicine & more. The lunch was DELICIOUS! While optional, you are asked to tip at each stop so just be prepared for that and bring pesos if you’d like to buy souvenirs.
dOROTHY_w, Oct 2025
Wonderful experience! Sophia was very knowledgeable! She was patient and was trying to her best to make sure our needs were met.
sylvia_c, Oct 2025
Omg! This tour was AMAZING and we learned so much about the Palenque history. Sophia was amazing and the village is full of kind hearted and amazing people. The dancing was fun and the lunch was GREAT! I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone!
Samuel_P, Sep 2025
The tour was fun and we learned a lot about the history of Palenque. The food was decent and we had a good time with our group.
Carla_J, Sep 2025
The Palenque History Tour was an unforgettable and enriching experience. The program offered deep insight into the African diaspora and its lasting influence, presented with clarity and passion by knowledgeable, professional, and welcoming guides. It was a privilege to learn directly from Palenque natives, which brought an authenticity and depth that made the experience truly unique.
Although travel time was approximately two hours each way, it was well worth it. The tour provided the opportunity to enjoy authentic cuisine and local sweets, participate in traditional dance, and even learn ancestral cooking practices. Every aspect of the experience was thoughtfully curated and deeply meaningful.
This tour is a rare gem that combines history, culture, and community in an extraordinary way. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a profound and memorable journey.
Rashad_C, Sep 2025
Great experience. The guide was very knowledgeable and informative. The town has a lot of beautiful art work, beautiful buildings, History, and Culture.
Linett_B, Sep 2025
I was an excellent tour and I am so grateful that I decided to do this. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about what she was talking about. I will definitely recommend this to all my friends.
Abriana_H, Sep 2025
This experience is highly recommend for anyone who wants to learn more about African history and how these beautiful people from Palenque came to be! From Elki, our driver, to Sophia our guide, the whole experience for me was 10/10 🙌🏼 The passion Sophia has for her community is so beautiful and the pride she holds def reflects when she speaks of her town. Benkos Bioho I know for a fact would be proud Palenque is still thriving today 💯 Make a stop here and enjoy yourself 🔥🔥🔥
From $110.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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