San Felipe de Barajas Fort

Historical landmark · Cartagena ·

San Felipe de Barajas Fort

Historical landmark · Cartagena ·

Impressive Spanish fortress with history, tunnels, and views

Information

Cielo mar, La Boquilla, Cl. 31, Pie Del Cerro, Cartagena de Indias, Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia Get directions

@travelleisure

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25 Most Beautiful Cities in the World

"Cartagena boasts a walled old city with colorful buildings and lively squares. Enjoy Caribbean beaches and the vibrant local culture." - Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the

https://www.travelandleisure.com/most-beautiful-cities-in-the-world-6931288

San Felipe de Barajas Fort

@travelleisure

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15 Best Solo Travel Essentials for Seniors

"A beautiful coastal city in Colombia known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning colonial architecture." - Nneya Richards Nneya Richards Nneya Richards is a New York City-based fashion and travel writer and public speaker. She is a frequent contributor to publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Vogue, and PopSugar, and

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-solo-travel-essentials-for-seniors-expert-picks-8765168

San Felipe de Barajas Fort

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,701 Cities

"Castillo San Felipe de Barajas A short walk from the city sits imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, covering almost the whole of San Lázaro Hill, 135 feet above sea level. The castillo bit is something of a misnomer, as the structure is not technically a castle but a fort; it happens to be one of the most impressive the Spanish ever built, resisting a number of land and sea attacks. Allegedly its tunnel system was engineered so that the slightest sound anywhere within it would reverberate a warning of approaching danger or attempted escape. Audio guides, available in English, Spanish, and other languages, recount the full story. The castle also happens to be one of the best spots in the city from which to watch the sunset. By Travesías"

Essential Guide to Cartagena

Photo by Estefani González

Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

rachel F.

Google

I visited San Felipe de Barajas Fort in Cartagena while traveling solo, and it was such an amazing experience. I spent about an hour and a half exploring the tunnels, passageways, and viewpoints, taking in the rich history and incredible architecture. The fort is massive, and it’s easy to imagine what it must’ve been like when it was used to protect the city centuries ago. The views from the top overlooking Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea are absolutely breathtaking. It’s well- maintained, easy to get to, and totally worth the visit especially if you enjoy history and exploring at your own pace. *ruins *UNESCO heritage site

Megumi N.

Google

We can get there before 8:00 a.m., so the weather is very cool and pleasant. We can enter around 8:00 a.m., and it takes about one hour to walk through all routes. Every view along the way is excellent and impressive. From the top of the wall, you can enjoy a perfect panoramic view of the entire city. I highly recommend going early in the morning.

Dennis Leyva (.

Google

Incredible fort about 2,000,000 sq ft. Plan on visiting two hours. Reecommend hiring a guide. We were very fortunate our private guide was Josué Guillermo Vargas Ortiz who is also a historian. The tour included architecture, history, and forts connection Cartagena. Best experience during our visit. Make sure to bring water and an umbrella for the bright sun.

Priya R.

Google

Visited this fort on a weekday evening at sunset (fort entrance closes at 6 pm). Can walk around and through a couple of tunnels with steep stairs. No information in English. There’s a small gift store at the top but no water or refreshments, so it’s better to carry your own. There are restrooms at the top. It’s not a hard walk up if you are reasonably fit. The view of the tall buildings in one side, the walled city on the other and the Caribbean Sea in front is very picturesque.

Carly L

Google

I spent about two hours exploring the tunnels, passageways, and viewpoints. The architecture is incredible. The view points overlooking Cartagena was just breathtaking. If you enjoy history and breath taking views, I totally recommend it !

Cain R.

Google

Castillo San Rafael is an absolute must-see. The place is full of rich history, and the views from the top are incredible. You can see the entire city stretching out below you, with the skyline, water, and rooftops all coming together in one panoramic scene. The Colombian flag waving in the wind makes the moment even more breathtaking making it perfect for photos. There are so many great spots to capture memories, from the wide city view to the open sky and historic stone ground beneath your feet. If you’re visiting, this is definitely one of those places you shouldn’t miss. It’s beautiful, and full of character.

James O.

Google

The incline on the walk up looks steeper than it is, there are some areas with steps and the inner tunnels have low ceiling so watch your head if you're over 6ft! Great panoramic views of the old city and little miami with lots of spots for photos. There is a shop selling refreshments and souvenirs at the top also. A fairly well preserved example of Spanish Colonial architecture, bit the largest in the mar caribe but worth seeing, especially for the unique views.

nrgriffi6565

Google

Had a good time and I saw some birds. Little parrot like guys. Grackle. Pigeons. They all like it here. You have to walk up the slope. Our tour guide said it may be difficult, but going in woth that expectation, it wasn't so bad. Many folks trying to sell water outside. Some people in our group also went to the chocolate museum nearby and got some chocolate drinks. Nice view if the city from the top.