30 Jul 2025
During my week-long visit to Barranquilla from the United States, I set out to find a city tour that covered the essential sights. Gran Malecón, Carnaval Museum and Downtown Barranquilla City Tour proved to be the perfect choice.
Soon after I booked, my guide, Yamit Bocanegra, sent a warm greeting through WhatsApp. He stayed in touch until tour day, which put me at ease. On the morning of the six-hour excursion, he arrived punctually and waited inside the hotel lobby so we could meet without delay. His car was parked right outside, and its air conditioning worked flawlessly, a welcome relief in the ninety-two-degree heat.
Yamit was attentive, friendly and fluent in English. He shared rich historical background at every stop and kindly took photos for me, since I was traveling alone. Throughout the day he also introduced me to local street snacks, giving me a taste of what Barranquilleros enjoy to stay refreshed.
Our itinerary included Monumento Ventana al Mundo, Ciénaga de Mallorquín Park, Shakira Sculpture, Aleta del Tiburón Junior, Sofía Vergara Statue, Plaza de la Aduana, Paseo Bolívar shopping district and the Carnival Museum. Each site felt distinctive, informative and genuinely worthwhile. There was not a single stop I would have skipped.
My previous trip to Barranquilla was twenty-one years ago, and many of these attractions did not exist then. Seeing the city’s progress over the past two decades was inspiring.
Gran Colombia Tours and Yamit Bocanegra delivered an outstanding experience that captured the vibrant culture of Barranquilla.