
Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers )
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) worth booking?
Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) is a 4-hour experience in Cartagena, Colombia, from $97 per person. It scores 56 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 56 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (5)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $97 per person
Your tour begins at the port, where your local guide will greet you and lead you on a fascinating historical journey through Cartagena. Explore the city’s vibrant past, including gripping pirate tales, enemy attacks, and its heroic struggle for independence. Enjoy a photo stop at the iconic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, widely regarded as the most impressive fortress built by the Spanish in their colonies. This site is rich with secret tunnels and hidden chambers waiting to be discovered. Next, visit Las Bóvedas, a historic site that once served as a colonial prison and now houses unique souvenir shops. From there, embark on a walking tour to explore Cartagena’s main plazas and landmarks, each brimming with its own distinct charm and history. The tour concludes at San Pedro Claver Square, where you’ll have 30 minutes of free time for shopping. Your guide will provide a meeting point and time for your return to the cruise ship terminal.
What you get
About this experience
Your tour begins at the port, where your local guide will greet you and lead you on a fascinating historical journey through Cartagena. Explore the city’s vibrant past, including gripping pirate tales, enemy attacks, and its heroic struggle for independence. Enjoy a photo stop at the iconic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, widely regarded as the most impressive fortress built by the Spanish in their colonies. This site is rich with secret tunnels and hidden chambers waiting to be discovered. Next, visit Las Bóvedas, a historic site that once served as a colonial prison and now houses unique souvenir shops. From there, embark on a walking tour to explore Cartagena’s main plazas and landmarks, each brimming with its own distinct charm and history. The tour concludes at San Pedro Claver Square, where you’ll have 30 minutes of free time for shopping. Your guide will provide a meeting point and time for your return to the cruise ship terminal.
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Professional Tour guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Snacks
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Cartagena
we start our Tour on the Manga Island, This is a resisidencial area of Cartegana de Indias Where you can see big houses and large mango trees and enjoy the view of one of middle class neigborhood in Colombia.
30 minutes here
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Our Professional Tour Guide will tell you one of the best Milliary history we have in America by 1741 . On this stop you will have a wonderfull aoportunity to take a photo of the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress built by 1657 to protec the City by land and know about the Pirates attacks we had in the City. This is a Photo Stop.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Las Bovedas
After finishing the photo stop at San Felipe Fortress we conitune to the Old Town where we will see the Dongeons
20 minutes here
Teatro Adolfo Mejia ( Teatro Heredia )
we start walking from this beatitiful theater and see the Colonial and republican arquitecture.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Plaza de Bolivar
At the Park we are going to see the statute of our Liberatot Simon Bolivar ,also we can appreciate the Inquisitin Palace made by 1610.
20 minutes here
Plaza de la Aduana
After visting the Simon Boliovar park , we continue to Plaza de la Aduana in order to know more about the taxes process that spaniers managed in the past
20 minutes here
Plaza de San Pedro Claver
At this Squeare the Tour Guide will explain the History of San Pedro , who was the first persona that talked about human rights defending the slaves.
20 minutes here
Plaza de San Pedro Claver
whe we finish the walking tour , the tour Guide will give you a free time to go shopping on your on for about 40 minutes
40 minutes here
Cartagena
after the free time for shopping , we are going back to the port where the cruise ship terminal is.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Cartagena
Look for Zone 1 at Pier # 1 our Staff would be waiting for your with a sign of the Tour name and she or he will check your names on our list then she or he will take you where your Tour Guide and Bus , Van or Car are.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Ends at
At the way back you will be dropped off by the Parking area where you were at the beginning then you will walk trought the Zoo area and get the shuttle bus that almast everyday is available for you.(this is free).
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Peace Travel Colombia SAS
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The remaining time will be the travel for each attractions.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Good for families
1 mentionReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
5 verified traveler reviews for Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Disappointing
Didn’t get to go into the fortress, just stood on pavement to look and take photos. Guide tried to get us into 3 emerald shops on city walk. Meeting point instructions from the cruise ship were poor.
via Viator
Ten times better than ANY ship tour!!
Well, this was simply one of the best tours we have been on in a very long time. First off the communication from the company through Cesar was tremendous. He sent us everything we needed to get to the right place to begin our tour. And when I say he did everything, I mean he sent a map, with a drawing of the directions, he sent a written description, and he called me the day before the tour and left a detailed message. I didn’t get it because I was on the ship and didn’t have my Wi-Fi on. So he called me the very next morning to make sure I had the instructions I needed. The only real issue I’ve ever had with a Viator Tour is finding where the tour starts. So his directions were so much appreciated. He also provided our tour guides name , Katherine, and how to contact her. This included a picture of the logo they have on their shirts so that I wouldn’t miss her. But, I did miss her. I called, She got on the phone immediately and we met up within two minutes. This was a private tour just for my wife and I. Katherine was so friendly, so positive, and clearly loved what she does for a living and enjoyed sharing her culture and history with us. She was able to focus on us as our driver, Astrid, got us through traffic. And that’s no easy task. But she did a great job and kept us safe the whole day. Astrid told us she didn’t speak a lot of English, then with a big smile said “But I’m working on it!” She really did pretty well in communicating with us all day. I won’t describe all the things we did and saw… you can read that in the description. I’ll only add that everything in the description was delivered as promised and more. I will be providing this company’s information to every client I ever send to Cartagena.
via Tripadvisor
Great guide and driver! Highly recommend!
We were immediately greeted just outside the ship and escorted right to our vehicle. Katherine and our driver were both amazing hosts. She is VERY knowledgeable of the history of the area and answered every question with great detail. I also love the flexibility of the tour where we had a brief moment to get delicious local pastries and coffee. The vehicle was spacious and comfortable for our family of 6. All in all, I highly recommend this group if you prefer a nice private tour.
via Viator
Will and the driver were...
Will and the driver were great! Will shared so much of his country and culture. It was one of the best tours we have ever done. Cartagena is beautiful and Will was so knowledgeable about the history and the areas.
Response from the operator: Dear Wendy, Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so happy to hear that Will and our driver made your experience in Cartagena one of the best tours you’ve ever done. Cartagena is truly a beautiful city, and we’re glad that Will’s knowledge and passion for its history and culture made your visit even more special. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back for another amazing experience in the future! Best regards, César & The Peace Travel Team
via Viator
Lovely city
Took a cruise day trip on a boat tour of the harbour before touring the old town and then having some time on our own. It’s a lovely looking city with some interesting sights. The street vendors can be a bit of a pain. Walked the walls for a while which offer great views of the sea. Second time in Cartagena- we love it.
Response from the operator: Hi, Thank you for your comment . We don’t remember having this experience with you but we really appreciate your nice review about our City , please come back soon
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 56
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ): questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cartagena.
How much does Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) cost?
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Prices start at $97 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cartagena usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cartagena is not rushed.
Is Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 56 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cartagena, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers )?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers )?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cartagena can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cartagena and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cartagena within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cartagena?
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On Outty we rank every Cartagena experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Historic Center & Getsemaní Shared Tour in Cartagena, Cartagena Antigua & Barrio Getsemani group with audio system, Cartagena VIP Boat Tour: Rosario Islands & Snorkel. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cartagena?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cartagena?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers )?
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Included: Bottled water; Professional Tour guide; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Snacks; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 2 listed pickup locations in and around Cartagena. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers )?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers )?
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Across 5 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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