San Basilio de Palenque Tour: Journey through the First Free Slave City in America

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of San Basilio de Palenque, the first free slave city in America. Discover the African traditions, language, and heritage that have been preserved in this unique Colombian village.

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • San Basilio De Palenque - San Basilio de Palenque, is a village in the Bolivar region located 60 minutes from Cartagena. It was declared a Cultural and Intangible Heritage of Humanity for being the first slave city in America to be considered free. San Basilio de Palenque, was the refuge of many blacks who were enslaved and who in the sixteenth…
What's Included
  • Lunch included
  • Air-conditioned transportation
  • Expert local guide
  • Traditional dance performance
  • Bilingual guide services
Additional Information

San Basilio de Palenque, is a village in the Bolivar region located 60 minutes from Cartagena. It was declared a Cultural and Intangible Heritage of Humanity for being the first slave city in America to be considered free. San Basilio de Palenque, was the refuge of many blacks who were enslaved and who in the sixteenth century fled from the Spanish…

Location
San Basilio De Palenque
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.3
(6 Ratings)
5 stars
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1 star
Brittany
Dec 18, 2025
Rich Culture with an AMAZING guide! - Authentic culture with a great guide! I’ve worked with Marlon and Local Cartagena Tours since 2019 and it never disappoints. Marlon is kind and informative about his country. I’ve enjoyed every tour, but something is particularly special about visiting Pelenque. The locals are welcoming and the history is rich. I highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tommysha
Nov 19, 2025
I’ll be back - This was the best part of my trip to Columbia. The tour guides were amazing. They were very knowledgeable and friendly. The town was so special is was an honor to be amongst their community and share space with them. I would’ve done this town 1,000 times
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Phillis
Nov 16, 2025
This tour is a must! - Marlon took such great care of our group! The tour was amazing; the dancers, food and people we highlights! The price was great and our guide, Issac, was a native from Palenque and he was awesome! I felt very safe the entire time and will be back!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tarabrowns
Jun 4, 2024
A UNESCO World Heritage Site - Our group of ten travelers frequently encountered the Palenqueras in Cartagena. This day trip took us to their home with our tour guide, Legacy. When we arrived, Gladys, shared the history regarding the emancipation of former slaves. This is the only one of the communities of escaped slaves (palenques) that survived. The customs, language and music have also survived. We were entertained by youthful dancers, introduced to a member of the hip-hop group Kombilesa Mi, participated in a boxing lesson in the gym where Antonio Cervantes Reyes trained, ate sweets prepared by Roberta and ate lunch. I ordered the traditional dish, pescado frito y arroz with a side of patacones. Please contact Marlon and book this tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Flyer784258
Oct 5, 2021
Marlon & Local Cartagena Tours - Marlon Mendoza- the Tour Guide and owner was AMAZING. He was knowledgeable, energetic, professional, funny and all around a GREAT tour guide. I traveled solo on this tour and he made me feel safe and protected. I couldn’t have asked for a a better experience. Thank you Marlon for making my trip to Cartagena one of best trips ever!!! Highly recommend this gentleman for all your tours in Cartagena .
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lorraine_d
Dec 12, 2022
Never Received a Pick Up or Refund - I tried repeatedly to arrange a pickup from my hotel by calling the tour guide. I also sent messages the day before with no response to either. It's been 3 weeks and I am still awaiting a refund. 1st time I've had difficulty with a Viator tour linkup. I've used this company for tours all over the world. So disappointed as I and my son were looking forward to this tour.
Review provided by Viator
From $135
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).