Independence Festival

Cartagena de Indias
Independence Festival image

Where History Throws a Party

general icon

Experience Cartagena's Liveliest Time of Year

Discover Cartagena at its most vibrant during the city's legendary Independence Festivities. For one unforgettable week, the streets come alive with music, colour, culture and celebrations that transform every corner of the city into one giant festival.

This carefully curated itinerary takes you beyond the tourist trail, with exclusive access to the season's most iconic events, authentic local experiences, incredible food and time to unwind on the stunning Rosario Islands. From lively parades and street parties to rooftop dinners and hidden local gems, you'll experience Cartagena the way it's meant to be.

We've taken care of every detail, so all you have to do is soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the celebration alongside a local team who knows exactly where the magic happens.

general icon

Who is this trip for?

This experience is designed for curious, open-minded travellers who want to discover the real Cartagena beyond the typical tourist highlights.

It's perfect for those who:

  • Love authentic, immersive travel experiences.

  • Enjoy culture, history and local traditions.

  • Appreciate thoughtful planning and personalised service.

  • Want to combine iconic events, great food and time to unwind.

  • Prefer to skip the research, the queues and the logistical headaches by exploring the city alongside a local team that knows exactly where to be and when.

  • Want to experience Cartagena like a local, not just visit it.

A quick heads-up: Cartagena's Independence Festivities are loud, colourful and wonderfully chaotic—and that's exactly what makes them so special.

We'll be staying in a carefully selected, centrally located hotel within walking distance of many of the celebrations. While the accommodation is comfortable and of a high standard, this trip is all about experiencing the city, not spending time at the hotel.

Expect to walk through the Historic Centre and Getsemaní, spend long days outdoors, soak up the Caribbean sunshine and celebrate alongside thousands of locals. There will be music, parades, dancing, crowds and plenty of energy. We've taken care of the logistics to make everything as seamless as possible, but this is a trip for travellers who embrace adventure and don't mind a little heat, noise and excitement along the way.

If you're looking to experience Cartagena at its most authentic, vibrant and unforgettable, this trip is for you.

general icon

Why are Cartagena's Independence Festivities

Every November, Cartagena comes alive for one of Colombia's most vibrant and culturally significant celebrations. More than a historical anniversary, the Independence Festivities are a joyful expression of the city's Afro-Caribbean heritage, identity and community spirit.

Unlike many festivals created with tourists in mind, these celebrations belong to the people of Cartagena. Neighbourhoods burst into life with parades, live music, dancing, colourful costumes and street performances, creating an atmosphere that's authentic, energetic and impossible not to get caught up in.

Throughout the week, iconic events such as El Bando, the Cabildo de Getsemaní, the Festival Náutico and the Coronation of the Independence Queen bring together thousands of locals and visitors in a city-wide celebration unlike any other.

Joining the festivities means experiencing Cartagena at its most authentic—not as a spectator, but as part of the celebration. It's a rare opportunity to connect with the city's culture, traditions and people in a way that few visitors ever do.

Schedule Highlights

Schedule Highlights image

At a glance

Tuesday, November 10, 2026

Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Thursday, November 12, 2026

Friday, November 13, 2026

Saturday, November 14, 2026

Sunday, November 15, 2026

Monday, November 16, 2026

Tuesday, November 10, 2026

Day 1

Welcome to Cartagena
Day 1 image
general icon

Arrival

We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive in Cartagena before 3:00 PM, allowing us to kick off the experience smoothly and make the most of your first evening in the city.

accommodation icon

Check-in

Airport transfer to a carefully selected hotel, chosen for its excellent location, comfort, and easy access to the city's main Independence Festivities events.

activity icon

Free Time

Enjoy some free time to settle in, wander through the charming streets of the Walled City or Getsemaní, grab a coffee, browse the local boutiques, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere as Cartagena comes alive for the Independence Festivities.

meal icon

Welcome Dinner

Kick off your adventure with a welcome dinner at a handpicked local restaurant, where you'll enjoy the flavours of Cartagena and meet your fellow travellers. We'll also share an overview of the exciting experiences and celebrations that await over the coming days.

Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Day 2

Exploring Caribbean Flavours
Day 2  image
meal icon

Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore the city.

activity icon

Street Food Tour

Discover Cartagena's rich culinary scene on a guided street food tour, sampling some of the city's most iconic local flavours. Along the way, you'll uncover the stories behind traditional recipes while exploring some of Cartagena's most vibrant neighbourhoods.

activity icon

Free Afternoon

Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Cartagena at your own pace. Wander through the colourful streets of the Walled City, visit museums, relax at a local café, or browse the city's boutiques and galleries before the festivities begin.

meal icon

Dinner

End the day with dinner at one of our favourite local restaurants—the perfect setting to share stories from the day and get ready for the biggest celebrations still to come.

Thursday, November 12, 2026

Day 3

The Heart of the Celebration - El Bando
Day 3  image
meal icon

Breakfast

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out for one of the biggest celebrations of the week.

general icon

Free Morning

Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Cartagena at your own pace. Wander through the colourful streets of the Walled City, visit museums, unwind at a local café, or browse boutiques and galleries before the afternoon's celebrations begin.

meal icon

Lunch

We'll meet for a light lunch before making our way to the grandstand, where one of the most unforgettable experiences of the trip is about to begin.

activity icon

The Bando from El Mirador's Stage

Experience the city's most iconic parade from a reserved grandstand with a front-row view of the action. Watch colourful floats, dancers, marching bands and traditional performances pass by as you soak up the infectious energy of Cartagena's Independence Festivities—all from the comfort of your reserved seating.

meal icon

Dinner

After an unforgettable afternoon, the evening is yours to enjoy. Head out for dinner, continue exploring Cartagena's vibrant nightlife, or return to the hotel to rest before another exciting day of celebrations.

activity icon

After Party

Keep the celebrations going with exclusive access to an after-party, where the music, dancing and festive atmosphere continue well into the night.

Friday, November 13, 2026

Day 4

The Party Goes On
Day 4 image
meal icon

Breakfast

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel and enjoy a slower morning after the excitement of El Bando.

activity icon

Pink Mango Beach

Mid-morning, we'll head to Pink Mango Beach Club for a well-earned day of relaxation by the Caribbean Sea. After the excitement of El Bando, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy a true Colombian desenguayabo, the local art of recovering from the night before. A delicious seaside lunch awaits on arrival, followed by an afternoon to lounge on the beach, swim in crystal-clear waters, enjoy the beach club's facilities, or simply unwind under the Caribbean sun before returning to Cartagena in the late afternoon.

transport icon

Return to Cartagena

Return to Cartagena in the afternoon with time to relax, freshen up, or get ready for another evening of celebrations.

meal icon

Dinner

Back in Cartagena, we'll wrap up the day with dinner at one of our favourite local restaurants, the perfect opportunity to share stories from the day and recharge before another exciting day of festivities.

Saturday, November 14, 2026

Day 5

Cabildo of Getsemaní
Day 5  image
meal icon

Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before experiencing one of the most authentic and vibrant traditions of Cartagena's Independence Festivities.

activity icon

Free Time

Take the morning at your own pace. Sleep in, explore the Walled City, browse Cartagena's cafés, galleries and boutiques, or simply recharge before another unforgettable afternoon of celebrations.

activity icon

Cabildo of Getsemaní

In the afternoon, we'll head into the lively streets of Getsemaní to experience the Cabildo - one of the most authentic and beloved traditions of Cartagena's Independence Festivities. Expect vibrant parades, live music, traditional dancing and an electric street-party atmosphere as locals fill the neighbourhood in celebration. It's a unique opportunity to experience the city's Afro-Caribbean heritage from the heart of the action, celebrating alongside the community that has kept these traditions alive for generations.

meal icon

Free Time

After the festivities, the evening is yours. Stay in Getsemaní for a drink in one of its lively plazas, soak up the atmosphere, or head back to the hotel for a well-earned rest before your final full day in Cartagena.

meal icon

Dinner

We'll end the day with dinner at one of our favourite local restaurants, sharing stories from an afternoon immersed in the history, culture and traditions that make Cartagena's Independence Festivities so unforgettable.

Sunday, November 15, 2026

Day 6

Last Day in the Caribbean
Day 6 image
meal icon

Breakfast

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before setting off for one of the Caribbean's most exclusive beach destinations.

general icon

PA'UE Beach Lounge

Spend your final full day unwinding at PA'UE, an exclusive beach club where the Caribbean Sea provides the perfect backdrop to end your adventure. Your day pass includes a welcome drink, a fresh island-inspired lunch, 2-for-1 cocktails throughout the day, and access to the club's facilities, including beach tennis, kayaks, paddleboards, and a shared sun lounger. Relax by the sea, soak up the sunshine, and raise a glass to an unforgettable week in Cartagena.

general icon

Return to Cartagena

Return to Cartagena in the late afternoon, with time to relax, freshen up, or enjoy one last stroll through the city's colourful streets before the final evening together.

meal icon

Farewell Dinner

We'll bring the journey to a close with a farewell dinner in Getsemaní, raising a glass to an unforgettable week of celebrations, new friendships, and memories made during Cartagena's Independence Festivities. Here's to an incredible adventure - and until the next one!

Monday, November 16, 2026

Day 7

Until Next Time, Cartagena
Day 7 image
meal icon

Breakfast

Enjoy one last breakfast at the hotel and take the morning to relax, pick up a few final souvenirs, or savour your last moments in Cartagena before your journey home.

general icon

Check-out

Our team will be on hand to coordinate your departure, ensuring a smooth, stress-free check-out and transfer to the airport.

transport icon

Head to the Airport

As your journey comes to an end, we hope we've shared a side of Cartagena that few travellers get to experience. Thank you for letting us be part of your adventure—we can't wait to welcome you back for the next one.

What's included?

Choose a Package
What's included? image

What's included

Accommodation

*Please note: This only applies to selected packages. Includes 6 nights of accommodation at a hotel located within Cartagena's Walled City.

Breakfast

*Please note: This only applies to selected packages. Daily breakfast at the hotel to start each day before the scheduled activities.

Welcome Dinner

Welcome dinner at one of the most spectacular rooftop restaurants in Cartagena's Walled City. Enjoy exceptional local cuisine with panoramic views over the historic skyline as you raise a glass to the unforgettable week ahead.

Private Street Food Tour

Discover Cartagena's most authentic flavours on a private street food tour led by a local expert. Visit some of the city's most iconic food stalls and hidden gems while uncovering the stories, traditions and culture behind every bite.

Access to El Mirador's Stage

Experience the iconic Bando parade from El Mirador, one of Cartagena's most sought-after grandstands. Enjoy comfortable reserved seating, a prime view of the parade route, and access to an on-site bar where you can purchase drinks and refreshments throughout the celebration.

Local Host

Enjoy the parade alongside a dedicated local host, who will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to the grandstand. Throughout the celebration, they'll be on hand to share local insights, explain the traditions behind the festivities, offer recommendations, and ensure you get the most out of the experience.

Official Bando Survival Kit

Arrive at the grandstand and receive your personalised Bando Kit, packed with everything you need to celebrate like a true Cartagenero. Complete with foam spray, maizena and other festive essentials, it's your ticket to joining the fun and embracing one of Cartagena's most iconic traditions.

Transfer to the Pier

Private transfer from your hotel to Hospital Bocagrande, the departure point for your boat to Pink Mango Beach Club. Travel comfortably and arrive with plenty of time to begin your beach day stress-free. ONE-WAY ONLY.

Daypass to Pink Mango Beach

Spend the day at Pink Mango, one of Tierra Bomba's most iconic beach clubs. Your day pass includes round-trip boat transfers, a welcome cocktail (or a glass of wine or two soft drinks), a delicious main course for lunch, and all gratuities—so all that's left to do is relax and enjoy the Caribbean.

Local Host

Your local host will meet you at your preferred time and accompany you to the Cabildo de Getsemaní festivities. Throughout the celebration, they will remain by your side, guiding you through one of Cartagena's most vibrant neighborhoods, sharing local insights and recommendations, and ensuring you enjoy the festivities with complete ease and peace of mind.

Private Security Escort

Let's be honest... between the music, the vibrant atmosphere, and a drink or two, it's easy to get swept up in the celebration. 😄 As the Cabildo attracts large crowds, this service provides an added layer of security and peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the festivities with complete confidence. Tu acompañante estará pendiente del grupo en todo momento, ayudándote a moverte entre la multitud y asegurándose de que solo tengas que preocuparte por pasarla bien.

Hydration Spending Credit

Stay refreshed throughout the celebration with an included credit to enjoy a Costeñita (a local beer), bottled water, or a light snack as you explore the Cabildo festivities. The perfect way to recharge and keep enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Daypass to PA'UÉ Beach Lounge

Unwind with a relaxing day by the sea at Pa'ue Beach Lounge. Your beach day includes a welcome drink, 2-for-1 cocktails throughout the day, a fresh lunch, full access to the beach club's facilities, kayaks, paddleboards, and beach tennis, as well as a shared beach bed for two—the perfect setting to relax in comfort while soaking up the Caribbean atmosphere.

Concierge Services

Our concierge team will be available 24/7 throughout your stay, providing personalized assistance before and during your journey. We'll be by your side for the key moments of your itinerary, coordinating logistics and sharing insider recommendations for the city's finest restaurants, cafés, bars, and hidden gems, so you can experience Cartagena like a true local. Además, las Fiestas de Independencia son una celebración dinámica y muchos eventos se confirman o anuncian a última hora. Por ello, actualizaremos tu itinerario con las últimas novedades y te mantendremos informado para que no te pierdas ninguna de las experiencias más destacadas de la ciudad.

What's not included

National or International Airfare

Travel Insurance or Medical Assistance

Unspecified Food or Drink Consumption

Personal Purchases

Tips

Transport Not Specified in the Itinerary

Additional or Optional Activities

Consumption in Bars, Restaurants, or Beach Clubs

Loading Map…

Map

1. Mirador Gastro Bar

Cra. 7 #32-77, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia

2. Getsemaní

Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia

3. PA'UE Beach Lounge

130019 ISLAS DEL ROSARIO, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia

4. The Pink Mango

Playa Linda, Isla Tierra Bomba, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia

5. Centro (Room in Center)

Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia

6. El Bando de las Fiestas de Independencia de Cartagena

Av. Santander, Barrio El Cabrero, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia

Available Packages

Available Packages image

About Us

About Us image
“When people ask what we do at Sanfelino — we don’t sell vacations, we design experiences that make Cartagena feel like your second home. We’re locals, we know the city’s real rhythm, and we build every detail around how you want to feel — whether that’s relaxed, adventurous, or celebrating something big. You won’t find this on TripAdvisor — this is Cartagena, personally crafted for you.” Marcoantonio Sanfeliu Giaimo Founder

Reviews