Located about 50 kilometres southeast of Cartagena, San Basilio de Palenque is a town founded in the 17th century by Afro-Colombians who had escaped from being enslaved during the colonial period. Palenque has its own distinct culture and language, and you can explore the town's fascinating history, music, dance, and cuisine on this day tour.
Guided by a local Palenque tour guide, you’ll visit the town's cultural centre, where you can learn about the history and traditions of the community, as well as a tour of the town's landmarks and historic sites like Benkos Biohó plaza.
If you've seen the women with colourful dresses within the walled city, they are traditional Palenque women that developed a unique culture and language that reflects the blending of African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences and a testament to the resilience and creativity of marginalised communities, an important and valuable way of understanding the history of Afro-Colombian culture and resistance.
By the end of the tour, you’ll have a local lunch at a palenque restaurant and an optional drum African show. Join this experience that offers a unique glimpse into the rich and diverse cultural African heritage of Colombia!
