Are you planning a trip to Colombia and looking for more than just pretty colonial balconies? If you want to dive deep into the soul of the Caribbean, the Cartagena Palenque tour is an absolute must. Just 90 minutes away from the bustling streets of the Walled City lies San Basilio de Palenque, a place where history isn’t just kept in books—it’s lived every single day.
Known as the “first free town in the Americas,” this UNESCO-recognized site offers a powerful look at Afro-Colombian resilience. Here are the top highlights you can expect on your journey.
1. The Legacy of Benkos Biohó
Every Cartagena Palenque tour begins with the story of Benkos Biohó. He was an African king who escaped slavery in the 17th century and led a group of cimarrones (runaways) to establish this fortified community. Standing in the main square next to his statue, you’ll feel the weight of a freedom that was fought for long before the rest of the continent followed suit.
2. A Language Found Nowhere Else
One of the most fascinating aspects of Palenque is its language, Palenquero. It is the only Spanish-based Creole language in the world that mixes African Bantu with Spanish, Portuguese, and even French. During your tour, local guides often teach visitors basic phrases, giving you a literal voice into their unique heritage.
3. The Rhythm of the Drums
In Palenque, drums are the heartbeat of the community. You’ll visit local music houses to witness live performances of Bullerengue and Sexteto. These rhythms were once used to communicate secret messages between escaped slaves. If you love wildlife and nature as much as culture, you might also enjoy a Barbados small group monkey feeding experience during your Caribbean island hopping.
4. Authentic Afro-Caribbean Flavors
Forget the standard tourist menus. A real Cartagena Palenque tour includes a traditional lunch served in a “bijao” leaf. You’ll likely taste:
- Coconut Rice: Sweet, savory, and perfectly toasted.
- Fresh Fish: Caught and prepared with local spices.
- Enyucado: A delicious cake made from cassava and anise.
5. The Art of Braiding
Did you know that hairstyles were once maps? Local women in Palenque explain how intricate hair braids were used to signal escape routes through the jungle. Many tours offer a chance to sit with these artisans and learn about this survival art form firsthand.
6. Meeting the Real Palenqueras
You’ve seen them in Cartagena wearing bright dresses and carrying fruit bowls on their heads. In San Basilio de Palenque, you meet them in their home environment. This is where you learn about their social organization, called Ma Kuagro, which fosters intense community loyalty.
7. UNESCO World Heritage Status
In 2005, UNESCO declared the cultural space of Palenque a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. This isn’t just a village; it’s a living museum that preserves African traditions that have been lost elsewhere.
Plan Your Visit
If you are traveling from the USA, most tours depart daily from Cartagena around 8:00 AM and return by mid-afternoon. Wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and carry cash if you want to buy the famous handmade sweets (cocadas) directly from the source.
