Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in !

Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario)

Why Visit?

Accessible Adventure in the Rosario Islands

Embark on an exhilarating wheelchair-friendly journey through Colombia"s stunning Rosario Islands, a mesmerizing archipelago of 27 coral islands located just an hour by boat from Cartagena. Known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, these islands are a sanctuary for relaxation and exploration.

Getting There

Your adventure begins with a wheelchair-accessible boat tour from the Cartagena Marina. These specially equipped boats ensure a comfortable and safe boarding experience for wheelchair users and those on mobile scooters. Booking in advance with a tour operator that caters to travelers with disabilities is recommended to secure the best accessibility features.

Day 1: Isla Grande

Start at Isla Grande, the largest of the islands and one of the most accessible. Visit the Oceanario, an aquarium that’s part of an environmental complex, where pathways and viewing areas are designed for accessibility. Witness dolphins, sharks, and a variety of tropical fish in a series of well-maintained pools.

Interesting Fact: Isla Grande is home to a magical lagoon, "Laguna Encantada", famous for its phosphorescent plankton that lights up at night. Special nighttime tours can be arranged for an unforgettable glowing spectacle.

Day 2: Playa Libre

Relax on the accessible beaches of Playa Libre, where wooden walkways make the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters reachable for all. The beach is equipped with accessible restrooms and shower facilities, making it perfect for a hassle-free day under the sun.

Interesting Fact: The Rosario Islands are part of Colombia"s National Park system, aimed at protecting the coral reefs and their ecosystems from development and pollution.

Dining

Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the island"s accessible beachside restaurants, which offer breathtaking views and local delicacies, ensuring a perfect end to your Rosario Islands escape.

Return Journey

The return to Cartagena is smooth sailing, with staff ready to assist as you disembark, filled with unforgettable memories of a paradise that truly caters to everyone.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Old Town Cartagena

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of Old Town Cartagena, a vibrant tapestry of colonial history and Caribbean charm, fully accessible to those on wheels.

Start your day at the Clock Tower Gate (Puerta del Reloj), a grand entrance leading to the historic center which is completely accessible. This iconic yellow structure is the traditional gateway to the walled city, and a perfect starting point for your exploration.

Head to Plaza de los Coches, just beyond the Clock Tower. This bustling square, once the site of a slave market, is now filled with colorful sweets vendors. The smooth stone paths make for easy navigation. Notice the beautiful colonial architecture lining the square.

Next, wheel your way to Plaza Bolivar. This plaza is a serene space surrounded by leafy trees and historic buildings, including the Palace of the Inquisition, which is wheelchair accessible. This museum showcases the harrowing history of the Spanish Inquisition, and the building itself is an architectural marvel with ramps available for an easy visit.

Continue to the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Zenú), a short roll away. The museum, offering free admission, displays an impressive collection of gold and pottery from the indigenous Zenú people. The museum is fully accessible, with ramps and elevators to assist your journey through Colombia’s rich history.

Conclude your tour at the stunning San Pedro Claver Church and Convent, where you can admire the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture and religious art. The church and its courtyard are accessible, offering a peaceful retreat as well as an opportunity to reflect on the life and legacy of Saint Peter Claver, a patron saint of slaves.

Throughout your tour, smooth pathways and ramps ensure a comfortable experience. Cartagena’s charm is matched by its accessibility, making it a delightful destination for everyone.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

San Felipe de Barajas Castle (Castillo San Felipe de Barajas)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Embark on an unforgettable journey through history at Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, one of Cartagena"s most iconic landmarks. This stunning fortress stands as a testament to Spanish colonial engineering and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Getting There

Your adventure begins with a convenient journey to the castle. Taxis in Cartagena are wheelchair accessible, and it"s recommended to request one with a ramp for ease of access. Have the driver drop you off at the main entrance, where paved pathways make it manageable for wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

Exploring the Castle

Upon arrival, you"ll notice the visitor"s center, which is fully accessible and provides detailed information about the castle"s history. While the upper levels of the castle are not wheelchair accessible due to steep slopes and staircases, the ground level offers plenty to explore with wide, flat surfaces.

Take a guided tour tailored for wheelchair users, focusing on the accessible parts of the fortress, including the main plaza and several strategic viewpoints. These tours offer fascinating insights into the military strategies of the Spanish Empire and the castle"s role in protecting against pirates and invaders.

Interesting Facts

- The castle was named after Saint Philip Neri and was built during the 17th century.

- It is renowned for its intricate network of tunnels, which are partially accessible and were designed for transporting troops and facilitating communication.

Accessibility Services

The site is equipped with accessible restrooms and a small café where you can take a break and enjoy some local refreshments. The staff are knowledgeable and ready to assist, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience for all visitors.

Wrap Up Your Visit

As your tour concludes, reflect on the rich history and impressive architecture of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas from one of the accessible viewing points. Capture some photos before heading back to your accommodation, filled with tales and memories of this historic fortress.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Cartagena: Discovering Los Zapatos Viejos

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of Los Zapatos Viejos

Begin your enchanting day in the historic city of Cartagena, a gem on Colombia"s Caribbean coast. Aim to reach the iconic Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos) by mid-morning. Conveniently, the monument is accessible to wheelchair users, offering smooth pathways that allow everyone to appreciate this cultural landmark up close.

Getting There

The easiest way to reach Los Zapatos Viejos is by taxi or a pre-arranged accessible tour van that accommodates wheelchairs and scooters. Make sure to ask the driver to drop you off at the nearby accessible entrance, which offers a comfortable route directly to the monument.

Why It’s Special

The monument is a tribute to local poet Luis Carlos López, famous for his beloved poem "A mi ciudad nativa" ("To My Native City"), which reflects a charming, humble affection for Cartagena. The oversized, weathered bronze shoes symbolize the comfort and joy of returning home, echoing the poem"s sentiments.

Lunch and Leisure

Post-visit, head to the nearby city center, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Cartagena’s accessible restaurants. Options abound in the walled city, providing both traditional Colombian cuisine and international dishes.

Afternoon: Walled City and Cultural Exploration

Post-lunch, explore the historic walled city of Cartagina. The area is mostly accessible, with flat streets and ramps available at major landmarks. Experience the vibrant plazas, colorful colonial architecture, and the palpable buzz of Cartagena’s heart.

Wrap up your day with a visit to an accessible café, where you can enjoy a refreshing local drink, perhaps a tamarind juice or a Colombian coffee, reflecting on the timeless charm of Cartagena before your departure.

This specially tailored tour promises a comfortable, enriching experience for those on wheels, ensuring everyone can soak in the magic of Cartagena.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Santo Domingo Church (Iglesia de Santo Domingo)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a mesmerizing journey through the heart of Oaxaca, tailored for visitors on wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Your adventure begins at the iconic Santo Domingo Church, a bastion of Baroque architecture and cultural heritage.

### Morning: Visit to Santo Domingo Church

Begin your day by heading to the Santo Domingo Church, easily accessible via adapted public transportation or taxis that are equipped to handle mobility aids. Located in the historic center, this church is a marvel with ramps and accessible entryways ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone. Marvel at the intricately detailed ceilings and the gold-leaf altar. Don’t miss the Rosary Chapel, an awe-inspiring sight, fully accessible and a testament to the exquisite Oaxacan craftsmanship.

Interesting Fact: The church was completed in 1666 and houses treasures of the former monastery, including pre-Columbian artifacts and colonial art.

### Midday: Oaxaca Botanical Garden

Just behind the Santo Domingo Church, find the serene Oaxaca Botanical Garden. The paths here are mostly flat and made of compacted earth, making it easier for wheelchairs and scooters to navigate. Experience a guided tour that highlights the local flora and sustainable gardening practices in Oaxaca.

### Afternoon: Oaxacan Coffee at a Local Café

Wrap up your day with a visit to a nearby café that offers wheelchair-friendly amenities. Savor a cup of locally grown coffee, and perhaps a traditional Oaxacan snack, while reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Tip: Plan your visit on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds and ensure a more relaxed tour. Always check ahead with venues for any specific accessibility needs or updates to their facilities.

This itinerary offers not just a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Oaxaca but also ensures a comfortable and enriching experience for those with mobility considerations. Enjoy your inspiring and accessible adventure in Santo Domingo!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.