Our Cruise Excursion Got Cancelled 24 Hours Before Cartagena… So We Booked This Instead
Cancelled Cruise Excursion? Booking a Last-Minute Tour in Cartagena Are you visiting Cartagena, Colombia on your next cruise and wondering what to do? Join us as we step off the Serenade of the Seas and explore the highlights of this beautiful, historic city! When our Royal Caribbean shore excursion was canceled at the very last minute, we quickly pivoted and booked a private city tour through Viator with Sion Tours. It turned out to be the absolute best way to experience Cartagena! In this vlog, we show you exactly what to expect right when you get off the ship—including the amazing free aviary right at the cruise terminal. Then, we head out to explore stunning viewpoints, historic fortresses, and the vibrant streets of Old Town. What We Explored: The Cruise Terminal: Getting around and checking out the incredible free zoo/aviary featuring peacocks and parrots. Santa Cruz de la Popa: Beautiful views 150 meters above sea level and the legend of the Golden Goat at the restored monastery. Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas: Hiking the historic fortress, exploring the tunnels, and checking out the famous boot monument. Old Town Cartagena: Walking the fortified walls, visiting the Cathedral, and seeing Proclamation Square. Local Culture: Learning about Colombian emeralds at Caribe Jewelery, trying local coffee, and driving through the historic mansions of Manga Island. 🚢 Pro Cruise Tip: If you decide to explore the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water—it is incredibly hot and humid! 🔗Links Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jandatravelday Video Chapters: Time Topic 0:00 Welcome to Cartagena & Canceled Excursions 0:58 The Free Aviary at the Cruise Terminal 3:40 Finding Our Viator Tour Guide 4:25 Santa Cruz de la Popa & Amazing City Views 6:29 The Legend of the Golden Goat 7:51 Exploring Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas 11:46 Walking the Historic Streets of Old Town 13:52 Learning About Colombian Emeralds 14:53 Trying Authentic Colombian Coffee 15:42 Manga Island & Final Thoughts on Our Tour Don't forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more cruise travel guides, ship tours, and port day adventures! #cartagenacolombia #cruisevlog #serenadeoftheseas #cruiseexcursion #travelday #royalcaribbean @RoyalCaribbean @siontours3584