Cartagena: An Afro Caribbean Experience

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Overview

Cartagena: An Afro Caribbean Experience
Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia
Jan 21 - 27, 2027
INSTYL LUXE CUSTOM TRAVEL image
INSTYL LUXE CUSTOM TRAVEL
$2,800
Deposit: $350

About this trip

Escape to Cartagena for 7 days of culture, flavor, and coastal beauty. Stay at the Hyatt Regency Cartagena and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and immersive experiences.

From a welcome dinner to exploring the historic city and San Felipe Castle, every moment is curated with intention. Dive into the culture with a salsa class, empanada cooking experience, and a rum & chocolate tasting.

Connect with history during a powerful visit to San Basilio de Palenque, then unwind with a beach day at the stunning Rosario Islands.

This is more than a trip—it’s culture, connection, and Caribbean energy all in one unforgettable experience.

Before You Travel – Cartagena

Travel Requirements

  • A valid passport is required and should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

  • Travelers are responsible for ensuring all travel documents and entry requirements are met prior to departure.

Flights

  • The airport code for Cartagena is CTG (Rafael Nunez International Airport.

  • International flights are not included unless otherwise stated.

  • Please submit your flight information once booked.

  • Helpful flight apps:

Packing & Preparation

  • The local currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP).

  • The airport code for Cartagena is CTG (Rafael Nunez International Airport.

  • Cartagena is warm and humid year-round, so lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a portable fan are recommended.

  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates before departure.

  • WhatsApp is widely used for international communication, so downloading it before travel is encouraged.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Unexpected delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage can happen while traveling internationally. Protecting your investment with travel insurance offers added peace of mind before and during your trip. A travel insurance link will be provided, though travelers may purchase coverage through any provider of their choice.

Please fill out the registration link:

https://travefy.com/a/library/form-editor/565185

PAYMENTS

The monthly payment amounts are suggested, and you have options on how you want to pay. As long as you have the total amount by the final deposit date, you are in the clear.

What's included

Hotel accomodations

Hyatt Regency (Bocagrande Beach)

Meals, as indicated

Breakfast, 3 Lunch and 1 Dinner

Tours and entrances

English speaking private guide

What's not included

International flights

Personal Items

Optional Tours

Meals unless listed

Tips & Gratuities

Increase in local tax

Early check in, late che

standard time is 2pm and checkout is at 10am

Travel insurance

Passport handling fee

Colombia VAT

as long as we have a copy of passport as proof of nationality, it is waived.

Day 1: Thursday

Day 1: Thursday image

Flight to Cartagena / Arrival Day and Welcome Dinner

Airport pickup with a private vehicle and an English-speaking guide; hotel check-in at the Hyatt Regency Bocagrande.

You can relax, then prepare for a welcome dinner at the hotel around 8 pm — appetizer, main course, dessert, plus a glass of wine and water.

Day 2: Friday

Day 2: Friday image

Half Day City Tour w/ San Felipe Castle

We will get a little bit of culture in on this day. We will be visiting Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the largest colonial fortress in the Americas,  Cerro de la Popa (the highest point in the city with 360° views), and a walk through the Historic Center with its colorful streets and plazas.

The afternoon and evening are free after returning to the hotel.

Day 3: Saturday

Day 3: Saturday image

Salsa Dance/ Empanada Cooking Class/ Rum and Chocolate

After breakfast, the group will be picked up for a full day of Latin cultural immersion.

Kick off the morning with a 2-hour Salsa Class — learn basic steps and signature moves with expert local instructors, whether you're a beginner or seasoned dancer. Feel Cartagena's festive spirit come alive through rhythm and Caribbean music.

Next, dive into a 3-hour Empanada Cooking Class with local chefs. Learn dough techniques, explore traditional ingredients, and master the secret to a crispy crust with fillings like beef, chicken, or cheese — then enjoy your handmade creations.

At 5:30, close the day with a 2-hour Rum & Chocolate Tasting. Guided by an expert, explore premium Colombian rums paired with locally sourced artisanal chocolates — a sensory experience rooted in Caribbean history and craft.

All these tours are included but they are optional.

Day 4: Sunday

Day 4: Sunday image

Full Day Visit To SAN BASILLIO DE PALENQUE

Get your rest the night before because we wll be on a full day (8 hrs, pickup at 8am) trip to San Basilio de Palenque — a UNESCO-recognized town considered the first free African settlement in the Americas.

The tour covers the history, Creole language, music, and cultural traditions with local guides. Typical lunch included, plus a refreshment at the end of the day. Back to the hotel for a free evening.

Day 5: Monday

Day 5: Monday image

Free Day

You have a full day to do whatever your heart desires,

Day 6: Tuesday

Day 6: Tuesday image

FULL DAY VISIT TO ROSARIO ISLANDS

After breakfast, set off for a full day in the stunning Rosario Islands, one of Colombia's most beautiful Caribbean archipelagos.

Cruise across crystal-clear waters and spend the day at Makani Beach Club, where relaxation and island vibes await. Unwind on the beach, take a refreshing swim in the Caribbean Sea, enjoy tropical cocktails, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.

Your day pass includes:
✨ Roundtrip boat transportation
✨ Access to Makani Beach Club
✨ Beach time & swimming
✨ Caribbean-style lunch included
✨ Live music and island ambiance

After a day of sun, sea, and relaxation, return to Cartagena and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day 7

Day 7 image

Departure back to the States

Breakfast at the hotel. The group will be picked up and transferred back to the Rafael Nuñez Airport for their return flight home. 

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1. Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia

Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia

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