Cartagena

Traditions of Cartagena: Drums, Devotion & Daily Rituals

Traditions & Heritage • 3 hours 5

(89)

Traditions of Cartagena: Drums, Devotion & Daily Rituals

Explore Cartagena’s layered identity through rhythm, belief, and memory. Your host adapts the day to what you’re most drawn to.

Escape the scorching heat by planning an early start each day and visiting museums during the hottest times of the day

What makes this experience special

Experience Cartagena’s heritage where it lives today, in rhythm, art, and faith. Your host helps you engage at your own pace, with space to reflect or participate.

Key highlights

Choose to explore how rhythm shaped Cartagena’s Afro-Caribbean identity
Follow your curiosity through Getsemaní’s murals and layered street art
Pause at altars or symbols that feel meaningful to you along the way
Let your host guide you through spiritual spaces that match your pace
Spend time in a quiet plaza reflect, wander, or chat, as you prefer
Shape the experience around what moves you, heritage, mood, or moment

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

What’s included Things to know

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Monumento Torre del Reloj, Boca del Puente, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, 130001, Colombia

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Monumento Torre del Reloj, Boca del Puente, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, 130001, Colombia

Rhythms and Stories in a Courtyard Studio

Drumbeats linger where stories are passed on

Traditions of Cartagena: Drums, Devotion & Daily Rituals

Just beyond the plaza, you may step into a local space where rhythm and oral tradition meet. Your host might explain how drumming has shaped community life.

Getsemaní’s Layers of Art and Memory

Walls that speak of faith, pride, and protest

As you wander Getsemaní’s quieter streets, your host may point out murals, altars, or markings rich with personal and political meaning. You could pause for a story or follow your instinct to whatever draws your eye next.

Glimpses of Spiritual Practice in Everyday Places

Where belief blends with the everyday

In a tucked-away spot, your host might point out objects or spaces tied to Cartagena’s layered spiritual traditions. Whether you step inside or simply observe, it’s a quiet moment to reflect on how belief shapes daily life.

A Pause in Plaza de San Diego

A quiet square with room to choose your pace

This plaza offers a slower rhythm to end the experience. Some guests choose to sit under a tree and reflect, while others explore the edge of the square or continue a conversation with their host. It’s your time, there’s no fixed way to spend it.

Optional Close: Calle de la Sierpe

One last moment of reflection on a symbolic street

If there’s time and interest, your host may suggest a walk along this narrow street once used for secret gatherings. With soft candlelight or quiet murals, it’s a subtle close to a day shaped by Cartagena’s enduring spirit.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

A colorful embrace against iconic tiles

City strolls and bright conversations

Tasting local flavors, one bite at a time

Relaxing on the water with friends

Exploring grand architecture together

Balcony views and happy family vibes

Capturing memories inside a stunning landmark

Immersed in Latin America's Colorful Fiesta Spirit

Laughs on the move

Sun-Soaked Stroll Through Historic Latin America

Exploring Latin America's Bustling Streets with New Friends

Capturing Moments by the Iconic Talavera Tiles

Toasting to Authentic Cantina Vibes

Taco Time and Local Flavors Shared Around the Table

Good Company, Great Tacos, and Cold Cervezas

Smiles Over the Street Market

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

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What travelers think of our Traditions & Heritage experiences in South America

Eloisa Aug 2025

We are passionate about history and can 100% affirm that Nick has been one of the best guides we have ever had in our lives. The tour was amazing and it’s worth the time and cost spent. Super suggested.

Daniel Aug 2025

Cem was absolutely wonderful. His enthusiasm, energy, local knowledge and obvious love for his home city made our tour with him truly memorable.

Mary Aug 2025

We loved our tour of Monmartre with Pascal. The tour was fun and hit all of the spots where artists lived and painted. We stopped in the area center and bought lovely watercolor pieces to take home. I highly recommend.

Sarah Aug 2025

Mat provided a beautifully customized tour of Munich for us as first time visitors. He took us to city highlights and off the beaten path locations. We learned history, fun facts and so much about the people of Munich and how they compare to other regions of Germany. There was never a dull moment during our six hour walking tour. Mat is a wealth of knowledge - history, culture, political and social topics. He also made the BEST restaurant recommendation for our dinner that night. It was the highlight of our trip.

Marc Aug 2025

My parents and I did a 3 hour tour with Daniela. It was fantastic. She showed us a ton of cool stuff and gave us a completely new appreciation for Naples. She was incredibly knowledgeable, and answered a ton of our questions to include specific dates, locations and explaining what we were seeing. Daniela's English was excellent, she was exactly on time, and she was flexible showing us what we wanted to see. I highly recommend doing a tour with her.

Mary Aug 2025

Great tour, enjoyed our time. Family friendly and our guide was accommodating with the heat making sure we mostly stayed in the shade:) She was also great with communication.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour or something different?

This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Can I request specific places or types of stops?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.