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Free tour

Old San Juan: The key to the indies

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Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Languages: English
Guru: Jonathan
Registered on 28 July 2024
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Hi, my name is uncle j. I am a ‘Historical Interpreter for the Patrimony of Old San Juan. My passion is fortifications and Spanish Colonial reenactments. I figured , why not become a certified guide and combine both. So here I am. Looking forward to meeting some good folks and showing off my island. Please come and join me. It will be quite the experience!
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

This is a “Living History” presentation of the iconic CASTILLO SAN CRISTOBAL.

A 18th century ‘Spanish Colonial soldier’ will lead you through the history of the castle, highlighted by a ‘day in the life of a soldier’.

Considered the largest fortress built in the Americas , San Cristobal was built for the purpose of protecting San Juan from attack by land from the east.

We will talk about legends(Garita del diablo), countermining tunnels, a dungeon with horror stories of the condemned and believe it or not, Nazi U-boats. And much more.

Let’s not forget about the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, San Juan Bay and the rain forest. A visual extravaganza!

Will also explore the life and times of our first governor, Juan Ponce De Leon. A man with a complicated legacy.

Included in this tour is a walk through the citiy in which you can appreciate the charm and picturesque sites the old city has to offer. 

This is a an unscripted, educational, fun and entertaining experience. Not to mention, the excursion  caps at 5 guests for an intimate undertaking. Nothing is rushed and you can ask any questions unrelated to the subject matter.

This is a ‘Free Walking Tour”, however, access to the castle is unfortunately not. Park Service operates and maintains the 391 year old fortification. That being said , admission is $10.00 and is to be paid at the gate. We accept cash.

Being that we have a limited size capacity, this show sells out quickly, so book early. 
                        

It’s gonna fun!

Tour description;

1). Meet at Plaza Colon, at the entrance of Old San Juan. I will be dressed in a white and blue soldier outfit, right next to Columbus
himself.

15 minutes discussing the discovery, conquest and colonization of San Juan Bautista (Puerto Rico) among other things


2) Walk to Castillo San Cristobal.
1 hour

3) Ponce de Leon Statue 

4) Casa Blanca

5) La Rogativa

6) Cathedral of San Juan

7) Casa Estrecha

this experience has a 4 guest minimum

Hope you can make!



Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:
FV8Q+C57 Plaza Colón, C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Guide dressed in white and blue soldier uniform next to Christopher Columbus statue in Plaza Colon
1
Outside visit
Plaza Colón/ meeting spot
2
Entry not included
Castillo San Cristóbal $10.00 admission fee
3
Outside visit
San Juan Gate
Tour map

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).


Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Not suitable for bringing pets.

What should I know?

Minimum attendees
Does not require a minimum number of people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour requires payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Electronic or card payment accepted.
Old San Juan: The key to the indies
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