Exploring Cartagena: Colombia's Vibrant Coastal Jewel adorned with Golden Artifacts and Pastel Hues

From conquistadors to Carnaval, the coastal city of Cartagena encapsulates the rich history and lively Latin culture that make Colombia so special. The blend of Caribbean and Latin influences has created a seaside melting pot unlike any other city in South America. Trace Cartagena’s centuries-long journey from a Spanish colonial stronghold to the jewel of Colombia’s coastline by adding our exclusive Cartagena land package, a unique opportunity available only to our esteemed travelers prior to your Wonders of Colombia journey!

Photo by sara.illustration on Unsplash

Caribbean Pirates and Colonial Power
Cartagena was formally founded by the Spanish in 1533, though indigenous peoples inhabited the area for several centuries prior. It wasn’t soon that Cartagena became a central port for exporting gold and silver to Spain, making it an attractive site for treasure seekers and plundering pirates alike. After decades of fending off pirate raids – Sir Francis Drake once held the entire city for ransom – the Spanish Crown constructed imposing walls and rows of forts to defend Cartagena’s innumerable treasures. The 11 kilometers of walls cordoning the town are among the best-preserved fortifications in the world, and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cartagena’s walls are one of the most significant attractions available to visitors. You can visit Cartagena’s Historical Center to witness the walled city at your leisure after your initial arrival there.

The Fortress on the Sea
As part of our optional land package, you will embark on a thrilling journey through history. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local tour guide, you will explore the hilltop fortress that defended Cartagena and its riches from naval assaults by the French and British Empires between the 17th and 19th centuries. This immersive experience at the UNESCO-designated San Felipe Castle is a unique opportunity to enter the past and witness the grandeur of the Spanish Empire’s defensive network in Cartagena.
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The City of Silver and Gold
​Cartagena’s rise to power was largely owed to the massive shipments of gold and silver exported from Colombia to Spain. On your included excursion to the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Zenú,) you will delve into the heart of this history. You will examine firsthand the plethora of ancient gold artifacts that launched Cartagena from a modest port city to a principal seat of Spanish colonial power. These beautifully preserved trinkets showcase the incredible goldsmithing culture native to the region. Housing hundreds of priceless relics from indigenous cultures prior to European settlement, the Gold Museum is a treasure trove of history and a testament to the material wealth that the Spanish were so intent on defending in Cartagena.

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Photo credit Leandro Loureiro -J0suKy48jfk-unsplash

Later, on a guided tour, you will delve into the impregnable safehouse of the Spanish Empire, The Vaults of Cartagena. Constructed between 1789 and 1795, The Vaults’ golden arcade of bombproof columns and arches dared challengers to penetrate the 15-meter-thick walls that protected Cartagena’s core military storehouse. The Vaults were a locus of power for whoever controlled Cartagena, serving as a garrison and prison for both sides of Colombia’s struggle for independence. Today, The Vaults have transformed into a bustling marketplace: its dour cells now house brightly colored artisanal shops, and its stunning view of the Caribbean Sea conveys a sense of freedom to all its visitors.

A Colorful History Come to Life
After settling into your stateroom for the river cruise portion of your journey, a local tour guide will lead you through the sights and sounds of Getsemani, a neighborhood unlike any other in the world. Known for its egalitarian spirit, Getsemani is a refuge for artists, musicians, and other creatives. Its vibrantly colorful architecture and the irresistible aroma of delicious local cuisine ensure that Getsemani will become a central memory of your time in Colombia.

What’s Included in Your Optional Land Package

• Enjoy 2 nights of luxury in a world-class 4- or 5-star hotel as part of your Cartagena land package. Our carefully selected hotel offers [insert details about the hotel’s amenities, location, or unique features], ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in Cartagena. As part of your Cartagena land package, we have taken care of your transportation needs. You will enjoy convenient transfers between your hotel and the river cruise ship, ensuring a seamless transition between your land and river cruise journeys. Daily breakfast at the hotel

​During your Cartagena land package, you will be accompanied by knowledgeable local guides who will bring the city’s history and culture to life. You will explore the San Felipe Castle, the Gold Museum, the Caribbean Naval Museum, The Vaults, and the neighborhood of Getsemani and enjoy a sunset cruise on Cartagena’s shores, all with our local guides’ expert guidance. 

Contact me today to find out more about how you can add our Cartagena land package to your Wonders of Colombia journey. We understand that every traveler is unique, so we are happy to tailor the package to your preferences and schedule, ensuring you get the most out of your time in Cartagena.

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Sheyla Paz, Verified Luxury Travel Advisor

Cuban-born adventurer & storyteller, Sheyla guides you through vibrant Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe. Award-winning journalist, actress, and travel expert, bringing the magic of diverse cultures to life. SHEYLA ADVENTURE TRAVEL, LLC, in business since 2016, is your one-stop shop for unforgettable adventure travel experiences. Specializing in group tours to Cuba, ocean and river cruises adventures, we cater to affluent travelers over 35 who seek to give back to local communities.
With access to over 500,000 hotels worldwide and a bilingual travel advisor who personally guides you, we ensure a memorable experience from start to finish.

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