Colombia, we will be back! We recently took a trip to Cartagena, Colombia which is a gem of the Caribbean, known for its vibrant culture, colonial architecture, and sun-soaked beaches. But beyond the charm of its city walls lies an often-overlooked treasure that’s perfect for adventurous families looking to dive deeper into Colombia’s rich history and Afro-Colombian heritage: Palenque de San Basilio.
Our family set off on an unforgettable journey to Cartagena. We wanted to explore the heart of Afro-Colombian culture, and what better place than Palenque, the first free town for formerly enslaved Africans in the Americas. The town’s history, its strong community spirit, and its traditions would not only captivate us but teach our children valuable lessons about resilience, identity, and freedom. And of course, we made sure to enjoy plenty of fun activities along the way.
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Day 1: Arriving in Cartagena
We touched down in Cartagena with excitement buzzing in the air. The boys were thrilled, especially as we drove past the colorful buildings and heard the beats of salsa and champeta music. After checking into our family-friendly hotel in the historic walled city, we took a short walk to get our bearings. We explored Plaza Santo Domingo, marveled at the ancient fortresses, and let the kids run around in Parque Centenario, where they spotted iguanas lounging in the sun.
Dinner that night was a treat—Colombian arepas filled with cheese and meats, and freshly squeezed fruit juices that had our boys asking for seconds.
Day 2: Exploring Palenque de San Basilio
We woke up early the next morning, eager for our day trip to Palenque de San Basilio, about an hour’s drive from Cartagena. Our tour guide was incredibly informative and gave us an engaging introduction to the village’s history. Founded by runaway slaves in the 17th century, Palenque was declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It’s a place where the language, music, and traditions have been preserved for generations.
Our boys, fascinated by the stories of rebellion and strength, quickly made friends with local children. The highlight of our time in Palenque was the drumming workshop, where we all got to try out traditional instruments. The boys beat their drums enthusiastically while we learned about the importance of music in Palenque culture. My husband and I even jumped in to dance along with the vibrant rhythms. Who knew we had some hidden moves?
Fun and Active: Boxing Class in Palenque
One of the most unique experiences we had was taking a family boxing class. Boxing has deep roots in Afro-Colombian culture, and our instructor made sure it was a fun, kid-friendly session. We all got to learn basic punches, footwork, and even some light sparring. The boys, always full of energy, loved pretending to be little champions. And for me? It was a great excuse to break in my new sports bra—perfect for staying cool while keeping up with the action!
If you’re planning your own trip, I highly recommend packing sports bras for this type of activity, especially in the heat of Colombia. Staying active in Palenque’s warm climate was definitely easier in comfortable gear, and it gave us a great excuse to sneak in some fitness as a family.
Day 3: Family Fun in Cartagena
After our cultural deep dive, we returned to Cartagena for more family-friendly adventures. One of the biggest hits with our boys was a trip to Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a massive fortress with tunnels to explore and lots of room for them to run around and let their imaginations run wild.
Later, we hopped on a Chiva bus tour—a colorful, music-filled bus that took us around the city. The live music had us all dancing in our seats, and it’s the perfect way to keep kids entertained while learning about the city’s history. Plus, they got to snack on local treats like bollo de yuca and coconut candies.
That evening, we walked along the beach at Bocagrande, letting the kids splash in the waves and chase crabs under the sunset. We finished the night with seafood at a beachfront restaurant, listening to live music as our boys drifted off in their seats.
Day 4: A Boat Tour to the Rosario Islands
Our final full day was all about relaxation. We booked a boat tour to the Rosario Islands, where we spent the day swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. The islands are just a short boat ride from Cartagena and offer calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for families with young children. The boys loved spotting fish while snorkeling, and we had a peaceful afternoon enjoying a fresh seafood lunch on the beach.
Helpful Itinerary for Your Cartagena and Palenque Adventure:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Cartagena, settle into your hotel, and explore the walled city.
- Visit Plaza Santo Domingo, Parque Centenario, and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2:
- Take a day trip to Palenque de San Basilio (arrange a guided tour to learn about its history).
- Participate in a drumming workshop and try a family boxing class.
- Explore the town and chat with locals.
Day 3:
- Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas for some fort exploration.
- Take a Chiva bus tour around Cartagena.
- Relax at Bocagrande beach, and enjoy a seafood dinner with live music.
Day 4:
- Take a boat tour to the Rosario Islands.
- Snorkel, swim, and relax on the beach.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch and soak in the island vibe.
Final Thoughts
Cartagena and Palenque offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and family-friendly fun. Our boys had an incredible time learning about the Afro-Colombian heritage while enjoying active adventures like boxing and drumming. This trip reminded us of the importance of exploring beyond the usual tourist spots and diving into the local culture. We left with full hearts, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for Colombia’s rich, diverse heritage.
So if you’re planning a trip to Cartagena with your family, don’t miss the chance to visit Palenque. And for those action-packed days? Make sure to bring your favorite sports bras—trust me, you’ll need them!
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