San Basilio de Palenque Free Tour: Ancestral Traditions
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Discover the magic of San Basilio de Palenque! On this unique tour, you’ll explore the first free town in the Americas. Experience its history of resistance, learn about its ancestral traditions, and connect with its people.
Haytana Aves de Colombia and José Keiner, your local guide from San Basilio de Palenque, a proud descendant of the first free community in the Americas.
You’ll discover the rhythms of the drum, the secrets of the braids, the spirituality, the Palenquero language, and the memory of our ancestors.
Discover San Basilio de Palenque, the first free community in the Americas and a symbol of Afro-descendant resistance. On this free tour, you’ll walk through its history-rich streets, learn about its traditions, and discover how this town has preserved its language, music, and identity for over 400 years.
What will we see? Benkos Biohó Monument: the story of the leader who achieved freedom. Palenquera House Museum: culture, artifacts, and identity. Streets and Kuagro: the town’s unique social organization. Learn phrases in the Creole language. Main Square: daily life and living traditions. Casa de las Palenqueras: traditional sweets (tasting available). Boxing School: the birthplace of Colombian champions.
Meeting point
San Basilio de Palenque
Before you go
- Length
- About 2h 30min
- Languages
- English, Spanish
- Usual start times
- 10:00, 13:00, 14:00 (Cartagena (CO) time)
- Coming up
- 120 departures in 3 months, 28 this week
Questions about this tour
How much does this tour cost?
Nothing up front. You book for free and tip your guide at the end. Many travellers tip around €5 to €15 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
How long does it take?
About 2h 30min.
Where does it start?
The meeting point is San Basilio de Palenque. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
What languages is it in?
Upcoming departures are in English and Spanish. Pick your language in the calendar to see only those.
When does it run?
120 departures are listed in the next three months, 28 of them in the next 7 days, usually at 10:00, 13:00 and 14:00. Times are local to Cartagena (CO).
Do I need to book?
Booking is a good idea: groups are limited and popular times fill up. Create a free Tripsora account, pick a day and time, and press Book to finish with the tour provider.
Is it accessible?
The tour provider has added accessibility information for this tour. Check the details with them when you book, and tell your guide about any needs on the day.
Can I bring my dog?
The tour provider lists this tour as pet friendly.
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Accessibility information availablePet friendly
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