Escape the grey winter weather and head south to this small colonial city on the Caribbean Sea, replete with exquisite restaurants, breathtaking hotels, stunning colonial villas, and an endless array of parties.
Spend your mornings island-hopping in the Rosario Islands archipelago, afternoons galavanting along the Old City’s picturesque streets, and nights jumping between private parties, salsa clubs and trendy cocktail bars. New Year’s Eve is particularly special in Cartagena.
The entire Old City is closed to vehicles, and locals take their celebrations to the streets to turn the city into one extensive party. You will find dance parties on the streets, live concerts at the main plazas, and spectacularly lavish parties at hotels and private colonial mansions.
And, let's not forget that partying with Colombians is a life changing experience!
Lost World Adventures itineraries can be tailor-made according to your plans and preferences: budget, hotel selections, travel dates, optional excursions, length of trip, etc.
Arrive at Cartagena’s Rafael Núñez International Airport, where a chauffeur will be awaiting for your private transfer to your hotel in the Old City, 15 minutes away.
Overnight at a Cartagena hotel, daily breakfast included - 5 nights. Package rates are based on three of Cartagena's best hotels: Casa San Agustin, Sofitel Santa Clara, Hotel Bastion. The Hotel Bastión boasts the best roo!op pool of Cartagena, a large terrace bar with lounge area, and one of the most beautiful views over the old city. The 49-room hotel was recently renovated to maintain the local traditional style from the 17th-century. Its in-house restaurant, Governador, is owned by two of the most famous chefs from Colombia, the Rausch brothers.
The Sofitel Santa Clara was originally built in 1621 as a convent, and was restored in 1995 to house this five-star hotel that offers 121 rooms bursting with beauty, history and enchanting stories. The hotel is perfectly located in the middle of Cartagena’s historic walled city, making it easy to walk around Cartagena’s narrow streets lined with brightly coloured colonial houses.
Within the hotel you realize how it inspired the late Gabriel Garcia Marquez to write Of Love and Other Demons, one of his most famous novels. The hotel is truly magical, and the kind and attentive staff will make you feel right at home.
The Casa San Agustin Boutique Hotel showcases authentic Colombian decor while seamlessly incorporating the modern services and amenities that contemporary travelers seek. The hotel’s 30 rooms feature a blue-hued palette accented by natural fabrics and rich dark woods. Ironwork beds, chandeliers and sconces share space with vintage pieces, art and artifacts for an overall atmosphere that feels relaxed and residential.
Casa San Agustin is the home of Alma, one of Cartagena’s top restaurants, and it is ideally located in the heart of the old city of Cartagena. This hotel has received many awards, and has made the top hotels lists by Condé Nast, Trip Advisor and Fodors.
Today you will have the choice of the two following guided excursions:
History and Fortifications
Alongside a local historian, walk through the winding streets of Cartagena’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike traditional guides, your history expert will provide in-depth explanations and recount fascinating stories about the iconic plazas, cathedrals, colonial mansions and colourful streets.
Learn about the Spanish colonization, Inquisition era, and pirate sieges that influenced Cartagena’s history. (Duration: 2-3 hours walking)
Food And Culture
Spend a few hours strolling through the streets of Cartagena with an Australian who is crazy about Cartagena and knows local food better than most locals. You will get up-close-and-personal with the real Cartagena as the colourful characters of the street fill your bellies and warm your heart. (Duration: 2-3 hours walking)
During your stay in Cartagena you can opt for any of the following optional excursions (at additional cost):
One of the best sommeliers in Colombia will guide you through an exquisite tasting experience. Sample various premium rums, understand how rum is processed and aged, and learn how to recognize its numerous characteristics. (Duration: 1 hour)
1-2 months before the event, we will provide details of the various types of parties available to celebrate New Year's Eve in the Old City. (Not included)
The Colombian recipe to recover is caldo (chicken broth) and fresh coconut water. A map and a list of restaurant recommendations will be provided.
Meet your chauffer at the hotel lobby for a private transfer to the airport. Depart on your int'l departure, or trip extension to another part of Colombia. Buen Viaje!
| Price from | $2,247.00 per person, based on double occupancy |
|---|---|
| Days | 6 |
| Nights | 5 |
| Includes: | 5 nights at a Cartagena Hotel |
