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: 1 day learn more
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 century fled from the Spanish inhabitants of the city of Cartagena. And under Benkos Biohó they achieved their freedom.
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 inhabitants of the city of Cartagena. And under Benkos Biohó they achieved their freedom.

The palenques were impaled by Africans to take refuge from those who persecuted them. This Colombian people still retain many of the African cultural traditions, such as language, social organization, cultural rites, medical practices, dance and food, all due to the isolation in which people live. In this city they have developed their own language, a mixture of African, Spanish and Portuguese languages called PALENQUERO.

Location
San Basilio De Palenque
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
3.7
(3 Ratings)
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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
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