Itinerary of the month
Inspiration for your next adventure
Welcome to Cartagena, Colombia's coastal gem adorned with flower-accented balconies, colonial churches in pastel hues, and a sixteenth-century Old City still encircled by towering walls built to ward off pirates.
Check into your boutique hotel set within the old walled city and composed of just 31 rooms spread across three exquisitely restored, 17th-century colonial-era homes. Evoking this Spanish stronghold are original frescoes in the library, wood-beamed ceilings, elegant tile accents, and a central pool set against an ancient aqueduct.
The colorful streets are made for exploration on foot, and as you walk around your guide will bring the history and legends of Cartagena to life.
Discover one of the most beautiful areas of Cartagena, Barrio de Getsemaní. a neighborhood frozen in time. Evoking a bygone Colonial age, it is now one of the most visited places where you will find bars, restaurants, lovely people and beautiful murals.
Taste your way through the city today. For breakfast, try the Típico Cartagenero – a sampling of Colombian staples such as arepas con huevo (fried corn cakes stuffed with egg) and carimañolas (yucca fritters filled with meat or cheese).
Be adventurous and lunch your way through the alleys of Cartagena on a street food tour. Still hungry? Line up for the ceviche and tropics-inspired paella at La Cevicheria. On the way back to your hotel, stop for a craft cocktail at El Barón.
This morning, you’ll leave the historic center and head to Convent de la Popa. Founded by Augustine fathers in 1607 atop a 492-foot hill–the highest point in Cartagena–with spectacular views of the entire city.
Then, you’ll continue on to San Felipe de Barajas, the largest fort built by the Spanish in South America. You’ll have as much time as you like to explore the fortress with your guide, including its tunnels!
Leave the city behind and head south to Isla Barú. Make your way in style on your own private motorboat. Cruise through the Rosario Islands off the coast of Colombia.
Relax and watch the seawater as it changes color right in front of your eyes, stopping to swim and snorkel as much as you like. When you've had your fill of sun and sea, then arrive to Isla Barú.
Spend the day by one of the resort's 5 alluring pools with a good book or maybe catch a wave in the warm Caribbean waters.
Tonight, experience a magical swim among the natural wonder of “glowing” plankton, tiny marine organisms that light up, most visible in ocean water under the dark night sky.
This morning, visit the National Aviary of Colombia, home to more than 190 species of birds. The Aviary resides on seven hectares of wilderness that allow visitors to observe a unique and wonderful collection of birds from Colombia and Latin America.
If you need a pick-me up in the afternoon, consider a coffee tasting, Colombia's most well-known beverage. Awaken your senses with the aroma of this delicious coffee experience.
After breakfast, make your way to the airport by private car for your onward flight home.
Travel Theory's take on Cartagena
Don't miss a sailing to the Rosario Islands, a coral reef comprising 27 islands, located about one hour by boat from Cartagena.
Its natural landscapes, crystal clear water and coral reefs, home to diverse flora and fauna making for excellent snorkeling and diving.
- Casey
Cartagena is one of the cultural epicenters for Colombia. The welcoming people, colorful streets with vibrant music and dancing within the walled city are not to be missed.
If you can get a reservation at Carmen, one of the most exclusive restaurants in the city, you will be in for a treat!
- Kitte
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