Gabriel Garcia Marquez Shared Tour: the magical Cartagena
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Imagine walking the same streets that inspired “Love in the Time of Cholera.” In every house, on every balcony, you still feel the atmosphere that gave birth to Gabriel García Márquez’s literary universe.
During this tour, your guide Beyond will reveal how Cartagena marked the life of the Colombian Nobel laureate and how his novels were born from real places. You will discover what scenarios of San Diego are reflected in their stories, where the atmosphere of “From Love and Other Demons” arose and why this city was their emotional laboratory: the point where reality became magical realism.
Many of Gabo's characters were not invented, but inspired by people who walked these same streets. As you walk through them, you will feel how the line between fiction and history becomes almost invisible
It is a walk where the past blends with the imagination, where every stone has memory and every corner breathes poetry.
Available options
Gabriel Garcia Marquez Shared Tour: the magical Cartagena
What's included
San Diego Neighborhood Sightseeing Tour
Local shop recommendations for lunch, coffee, souvenirs and more.
Accurate and objective knowledge of Gabo’s literature and life.
Certified guide in Spanish.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will begin our tour in Plaza Santo Domingo, a place full of life and color that inspired Gabo in many of his works. Here, we will tell you about the importance of this place in the daily life of the Carthageneros and how it is reflected in the literature of García Márquez.
2
We will visit the Cloister of Mercy, where the Gabriel García Márquez mausoleum is located. This place is a tribute to the Colombian Nobel Prize and a meeting point for lovers of his work. We will reflect on Gabo's life and legacy.
3
This church is an example of Cartagena’s colonial architecture and has been the setting for many of García Márquez’s novels. We will tell you about its history and how it has become a symbol of the city.
4
Stop 4
Fernandez Madrid Park is a quiet and welcoming place, ideal to enjoy a break and reflect on what we have learned. We’ll tell you how this park inspired Gabo to create some of his most iconic characters.
5
Stop 5
San Diego Square is a place full of history and charm. Here, we will talk about the daily life in Cartagena at the time when García Márquez was young and how this experience influenced his work.
6
Stop 6
This hotel was the scene of many of the adventures of García Márquez's characters. We will tell you about the legends and mysteries surrounding this place.
7
Stop 7
This hotel, inspired by the work of García Márquez, is a tribute to magical realism. We invite you to explore its facilities and immerse yourself in the literary universe of Gabo.
8
We will finish our tour in the house where Gabriel García Márquez lived. If it is open to the public, we can visit some of the spaces that inspired his works and learn more about his private life.
What's not included
Lunch and tips
Transportation on the tour. We'll be walking and making rest stops.
Exclusive tour guide. Remember this is a shared tour,
Available languages
Guide guide
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
107 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will meet at the indicated time in Plaza Santo Domingo next to the Botero Sculpture "Gertrudis" where you will find your guide with the red Beyond Colombia umbrella.
About Cartagena
Cartagena, a vibrant city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is renowned for its colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning beaches. Known as the 'Pearl of the Caribbean,' it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, lively nightlife, and tropical charm.
Top Attractions
Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
The historic center of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and colorful buildings.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to enter, individual attractions may charge admission
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A 17th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate
Playa Blanca
A beautiful white-sand beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Full day
Budget to moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche de Camarones
Shrimp ceviche made with fresh shrimp, lime juice, and various spices.
Appetizer
Contains seafood
Arepas
Cornmeal patties that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter with rice, beans, meat, plantains, avocado, and more.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Exploring historic sites
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers sunny skies and lower humidity, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the city.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
UTC-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Stay vigilant and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Getting there
By air
- Rafael Núñez International Airport • 3 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte Terrestre
Getting around
Public transport
A modern bus rapid transit system with air-conditioned buses and dedicated lanes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada)
Getsemani
Bocagrande
Day trips
Isla Barú
15 km from Cartagena • Full day
A beautiful island with stunning beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation and water activities.
Mud Volcanoes (Volcanes de Lodo)
45 km from Cartagena • Half day
A unique natural phenomenon where mud volcanoes can be climbed for therapeutic mud baths.
Palmar
20 km from Cartagena • Half day
A beautiful nature reserve with mangrove forests and a variety of wildlife.
Festivals
Hay Festival Cartagena • January
Carnaval de Barranquilla • February/March
Pro tips
- Visit the Walled City early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the neighborhoods of Getsemani and Bocagrande for a mix of history and modern luxury.
- Use the Transcaribe bus system for affordable and convenient transportation.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water for exploring the city.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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