Cartagena is a city that is located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, in the northwestern part of the South American continent. If you are wondering where is Cartagena in Colombia, it is located in the north of the country and is the capital of the Bolívar region. The city has several archipelagos and islands around that are paradises for true rest. Among these are Tierra Bomba Island, Múcura Islan, and Barú Island, among others.
Cartagena de Indias is known, brings together the charm of colonial architecture, the excitement of a vivid night life, fascinating cultural festivals, and lush landscapes, to bring you the perfect vacation experience. The city’s beaches beckon, inviting you to unwind and enjoy yourself in the refreshing breeze and warm waters of the sea.
But that’s not all Cartagena has to offer— the city also has excellent cuisine and a thriving hotel and tourist infrastructure.
This fabulous destination holds the secrets of history within its walled city, on its balconies, and in the narrow stone walkways that inspired author Gabriel García Márquez, who was received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982. This old walled city and fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a wealth of history just a few steps away from the beautiful sandy beach.
Cartagena is a city that is located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, in the northwestern part of the South American continent. If you are wondering where is Cartagena in Colombia, it is located in the north of the country and is the capital of the Bolívar region. The city has several archipelagos and islands around that are paradises for true rest. Among these are Tierra Bomba Island, Múcura Islan, and Barú Island, among others.
Another reason why travelers flock to Cartegena is the city’s strong African influence. Black culture is acknowledged and celebrated openly with many locals of African decent proud to declare that they love being Black. Our mission and goal on our LDTG guided journeys is to always shed light on and educate individuals about the historical significance of black people and their impact from the past to the present perspective while in destination.
Cartagena was the first Spanish colony on the South American continent and the first sanctuary for freed African slaves in the Americas. Evidence of Afro-Colombian history can be discovered on a guided walking tour of the walled city with Nicomedes Vergara Melendez (aka Nico). Preserving Afro-Colombian History. One of the must see cathedrals int he Walle city is walled city is Iglesia San Pedro Claver built in his honor. Claver was the saint of the slaves and human rights defender. Out in the square, you can see women dressed in colorful skits carrying fruit baksets, posing for photos. These are the women of San Basilio de Palenque- the first free slave settlement in the Americas.
Despite Afro- Colombians significant contributions and population numbers it was not until 1991 that Afro-Colombians were, for the first time, recognized as an ethnic group by the Colombian Constitution through Transitory Article 55 of 1991 (T55). Afro-descendants can be found in regions such as Choco, Buenaventura, Cali, Cartegena, San Andres Island, and throughout the country.
Cartagena + Tierra Bomba Island | Luxury, Culture, and Connection
🛏️ 5 Nights at Osh Hotel Cartagena
🏝️ 2 Nights at Blue Apple Beach House (with Lunch & Dinner included)
🍽️ Daily Breakfast
🍹 Welcome Cocktail Party
🥁 Drums at La Boquilla Tour
🛍️ Bazurto Market Tour + Cooking Class
💃 Salsa Dancing Class
🛥️ Private Luxury Yacht Island-Hopping Tour
🔥 Farewell Bonfire Dinner & Celebration
🚐 All Ground & Boat Transportation
👥 Full Escort by LDTG Staff
🎁 LDTG Perks & Surprises
🛫 International flights not included – Roundtrip airfare to Cartagena (CTG – Rafael Núñez International Airport) will be available starting January 2025.
🛡️ Travel insurance, tips, and optional meals/tours not included.
International Airfare
Roundtrip flights from the U.S. to Cartagena (CTG – Rafael Núñez International Airport).
Flights will be published starting January 2025.
Travel Insurance
Strongly recommended for all travelers.
Tips and Gratuities
For guides, drivers, hotel staff, and service providers.
Any Tours or Meals Not Specifically Stated
Activities or dining outside of the listed itinerary are not included.
Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse. Trip insurance is therefore highly recommended. Please be sure to note on your registration if interested in adding to your existing vacation package OR you purchase your insurance HERE. (after adding airfare)