cartagena jungle tour

11 Best Cartagena Tours and Excursions to Consider Adding to Your Visit

To do tours or not to do tours in Cartagena, Colombia?

That’s a question I know I find myself asking a lot when visiting a new place.

On the one hand, I really like going at my own pace and feeling like I’m not just seeing the “tourist trap” sites.

On the other hand, I’ve done some awesome tours and excursions in Cartagena, not to mention elsewhere, that I got a lot out of.

In those cases, not only did I get to see places or things I might not have otherwise, but I also got great insight about the history or culture or just fun tidbits.

I can also often get a lot more into a day with organized tours and experiences than if I am just exploring on my own, a key advantage if you have limited time.

So, even if you’re more of a DIY type of traveler like me and want to do more than the average whistle stop tour that everyone else does, you can still get a lot out of doing some tours in Cartagena. And, well, yes, sometimes the typical tourists tours are popular for a reason and are even worth doing!

There are a lot of fun things to do in Cartagena , including a lot you can do on your own, but there is also a lot to be gained by doing some Cartagena excursions or guided experiences.

Even after living in Cartagena for 11 years, there were still times I learned something new on a Cartagena tour. There is a good reason after all that Cartagena is considered one of the best places to travel in South America !

I’ve got a whole list of more than 75 things to do in Cartagena I put together myself, a lot of them geared towards exploring on your own.

However, there are some things that are really only recommendable to do with an organized Cartagena excursion as well as some things that can be done on their own but really are better to do with a tour.

Many of them are especially great choices for those with limited time, those who like to learn a bit more, and those who want access to some places outside the city that are hard to do on your own.

So read on to learn my picks for the 11 best tours in Cartagena, Colombia you could consider adding on to your itinerary for your visit.

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* Want to take the hassle of out planning your trip?

Let the experts at our partner BnB Colombia Tours help you! Check out their predesigned packages or fill out this form and they will work with you to design a truly unforgettable, custom made trip. Especially nice, nearly all their tours are private with great, bilingual guides. Packages start at $250 USD a day per person.

And if you’re more interested in just doing a few day tours like those on this list, I’m happy to say BnB Colombia also offers Cartagena Explorer readers a 20% discount on all their day tours. Click here to see all their tours in Cartagena (plus other places in Colombia) and use the discount code ExploreColombia20 for your exclusive discount off the listed prices!

Best Tours in Cartagena, Colombia Quick Tips

I’ll be going into more detail about each of these tours and excursions in Cartagena below as well as go over some different options for doing them.

However, if you want a quick guide, here is a quick summary of the 11 Cartagena, Colombia tours I’ll be discussing in more detail below:

• Tour to the Rosario Islands – This is an absolute must do Cartagena excursion. The top ways to do it are in a private boat rental , a catamaran boat tour , or a day trip to our favorite place in the islands .
• Cartagena City Tour – Your standard city tour of Cartagena hits all the highlights, including the historic Castillo San Felipe and the Walled City.
• Walking Tour of the Walled City – Take a walking tour of Cartagena’s historic center to learn even more details on the historic charm of the Walled City.
• Walking Tour of Getsemaní – A great way to learn more about the history and see the cool street art of this historic district considered the cradle of Cartagenero culture is to go on a Getsemaní walking tour or Getsemaní graffiti tour .
• Bike Tour of Cartagena – A unique way to do a city tour of Cartagena is a bike tour .
• Sunset on the Bay – A great way to end the day with terrific views is a sunset cruise on a catamaran .
• Tour the Bazurto Market – A unique look into the less touristy side of Cartagena is a tour to the bustling Bazurto Market . Best part is it includes food!
• Do a Cooking Class – A neat way to learn more about the culture and culinary traditions of Cartagena is doing a cooking lesson . Plus, you get more food!
• Take a Dip in a Mud Volcano – Cartagena’s oddest attraction is taking a dip in the mud volcano , which can be combined to include a bonus trip to a pink sea nearby.
• Take a Day Trip to Palenque – Another chance to see the less touristy side of Colombia and learn about this unique historic community .
• Take a Ride on the Hop on and Hop Off Bus – A surprisingly good value and way to see lots easily is buying a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off Cartagena .

Got your Cartagena hotel reservations yet? If not, be sure to check out my guide to the best areas to stay or see the best luxury hotels , best beach hotels , best boutique hotels , or best hostels .

In Depth Look at the Best Excursions in Cartagena, Colombia

Ok, let’s dive into each of these top tours in Cartagena de Indias in more detail.

For each, I’ll run down what to expect, why you should consider doing it as a guided experience, and some options for booking it. While I’ll try to mention it below where I link to them, please keep in mind that any of the tours offered by my partner BnB Colombia can be booked with a 20% discount with the code ExploreColombia20.

1. Rosario Islands – The One Cartagena Excursion You Can’t Miss

A visit to the Rosario Islands is an absolute must in Cartagena!

Yes, there are beaches in Cartagena proper, but they tend to be crowded and have lots of vendors. They also aren’t nearly as pretty as the islands! Playa Blanca is another popular choice, but in my opinion, it’s become way too crowded in recent years too.

So, it’s well worth spending the little bit extra to go out to the islands!

Since they are roughly an hour boat ride away, even if you are a DIYer and don’t like doing organized tours, you will need to do something organized to the islands, whether it be a day pass at a resort or a ticket for a tour or excursion.

Undoubtedly the coolest way to do a Cartagena island tour is via private boat . Having dance parties at party spot Cholón , stopping for snorkeling at the reef or site of a submerged plane, and checking out secluded beaches are the advantages of doing a private Cartagena boat tour.

While more affordable than you might think, it is of course, most cost effective if you are traveling with or can put together a group.

If you can’t manage to swing the private boat, there are some other great options for Cartagena tours to the islands.

However, a word of warning: Be wary of cheap tours to the Cartagena islands sold by street vendors.

They are notorious for packing lots of people on tiny boats and having lots of upsells along the way like paying for chairs at the beach or paying extra to enter the oceanarium. Be sure you have clear what your tour will and will not include. Unless you really want to see the oceanarium, I’d avoid booking one that stops there.

My second choice for a Cartagena islands tour is to do the day trip on the Bonavida Catamaran . It’s a great boat and it includes lunch and snorkeling gear.

It’s without a doubt the best choice for a shared boat tour in Cartagena.

For those who want a proper beach, a day trip to IslaBela is also great. If you book at that link use the code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount! You can get the same discount on this day pass at a nicer place in the islands too.

By the way,if you have the time, say more than 4 nights total in Cartagena, I’d also encourage spending the night here or at one of the other resorts in the Rosario Islands .

Some other possible fun ways to do the islands are with a multi-island boat tour or on a shared party boat with open bar to Cholón . A day pass at Bora Bora beach club is another popular option for those looking for a bit more party vibes.

You can see even more options for Cartagena island excursions at my guide to the best Rosario Islands day trips and learn more about doing a day trip versus spending the night in my complete guide to the Rosario Islands .

2. Cartagena City Tour

Well, what would a list of the best tours in Cartagena be without your classic Cartagena city tour!

This is a great way to see the highlights and main historic sites of the city and learn a lot about Cartagena’s history in a day or half day, depending on which of the tours of Cartagena, Colombia you pick.

I often recommend doing this your first day as it can be a great introduction to getting around and give you some valuable background and insight into the city’s culture and history.

There are, of course, different variations of this tour, so be sure to find out what is and is not included on any city tour of Cartagena you book.

Typically, they will include a visit to the Castillo San Felipe Fort , the convent atop the hill known as La Popa, and a walking portion of the Walled City.

Some may include stops like the San Pedro Claver Church , the Palacio de la Inquisición Cartagena history and Inquisition Museum, or the Cartagena Gold Museum , although I’d try to maximize your time with a guide and do those things on your own later. Oh, and if you like museums, the Cartagena Naval Museum is my favorite for learning more about the city’s history.

You can book a private city tour with our partners BnB Colombia Tours (be sure to use the discount code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount!) or book one via GetYourGuide or via Viator .

I like the idea of doing this private so you aren’t stuck with a big group which either always seem to move too slow or too fast. You can go at your own pace, get the photos you want, not wait for the photos you don’t want, and get to ask your guide all the questions you have!

There is also this shared tour that includes some street food tastings, about as good of an added bonus as there is, if you’re looking to save some pesos on a shared tour though.

3. Walking Tours of Cartagena’s Historic Areas

Perhaps you’d like to get the benefit of a guided tour in the historic city but explore the fort and other sites on your own?

If so, you might want to opt for a Cartagena walking tour of the historic districts rather than the full city tour. You can get 20% off a private walking tours in Cartagena with the code ExporeColombia20.

That tour not only includes a longer walking tour in Cartagena’s Walled City but also a tour of the adjacent district of Getsemaní, home of the colonial era artisan class and considered to be the birthplace of Cartagena’s culture (and the next place on this list, so you can’t beat the value!).

You can also book a shared walking tour via GetYourGuide or a private walking tour via Viator .

There are also some free walking tours of Cartagena. Just keep in mind though advertised as “free,” the expectation is that you do pay something at the end. I believe they do give you a suggested price. It’s an interesting business model, and we’ve enjoyed free walking tours before.

4. Tour of Getsemaní

As mentioned above, Getsemaní was the home of the colonial artisan class, many of them former slaves. In fact, the area remained a largely working class neighborhood into the opening years of the 21st century.

While there are still some long time resident holdouts, it’s now also home to lots of trendy bars, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and hostels. It’s still managed to keep a local vibe that isn’t quite as evident in the Walled City though.

By the way, do feel free to check out my guide to the Cartagena nightlife . You’ll see plenty of places from Getsemaní mentioned there!

It’s a great place to learn more about the history of the city, especially Cartagena’s independence , as the support of the artisan class for independence was crucial.

There is also some terrific graffiti and street art.

Not to mention, there are lots of neat photo ops with colorful umbrellas, flags, or both over several streets.

In short, whether you decide to explore here on a tour or on your own, it’s a can’t miss area of Cartagena.

While Getsemaní can be explored on your own, there’s some good benefits of doing it with a tour. Much like the Walled City, you’ll get lots more valuable insight on the area’s and the city’s history, like for example the role played by mulatto leader Pedro Romero in independence.

A guide will also make sure to point out all the best street art and photo ops.

Once again, you can book a private walking tour of the Walled City and Getsemaní together or just a private walking tour of Getsemaní via our partners BnB Colombia and get 20% off with ExploreColombia20 discount code.

Another fun option would be this unique tour that focuses on the graffiti . There is also this neat tour that includes rum tastings . Drinking rum and talking history, what could be more fun! (Yes, I was a history major and I also like rum).

5. Bike Tour of Cartagena

If you’d like to do a guided experience to Cartagena’s historic highlights that isn’t quite your typical Cartagena walking tour, consider doing a bike tour!

Keep in mind Cartagena gets really hot, and you’ll definitely want to do this earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.

It’s a neat way to do a Cartagena tour while also being active. In fat, this would be one of my top recommendations for excursions in Cartagena for families.

You can book a private bike tour with our partners at BnB Colombia (use the ExploreColombia20 discount code) or a shared one via GetYourGuide .

It is also possible to rent bikes hourly if you’d prefer to do this on your own or you would prefer to do one of the walking tours and just enjoy cruising.

6. Sunset on the Bay

Outside the more traditional Cartagena city tours and Cartagena walking tours noted above and doing a trip to the islands, this would be my top choice for a fun excursion in Cartagena you should absolutely consider doing.

There’s nothing quite like a beautiful sunset over the Caribbean.

While Cartagena has some great sunset spots , doing a sunset cruise on the bay is also a lot of fun. This is one of those things that we would do periodically and always enjoyed time and time again while living in Cartagena.

In addition to getting a great view of the sun setting over the ocean, you also get a unique perspective of the city, which is particularly pretty lit up once it gets dark on the return trip.

My top choice for a sunset cruise is on the Bona Vida Catamaran . Susana and I have done this and agree it’s the coolest boat ( see our review here ). It includes a couple drinks and snacks.

For those looking to do a bit more imbibing, there is also an open bar sunset cruise on the Sibarita . We’ve also done that one on the smaller Sibarita Express boat and enjoyed it a lot ( see our review here ). Sibarita also has a dinner cruise that looks like it would be a lot of fun.

Finally, the pirate boat also offers a sunset cruise with an open bar that looks like it would be good fun! I’m hoping to do it on our next return visit, and pretty much all I’ve heard about it has been positive.

Or for something unique and active, you could do a kayak tour at sunset .

7. Tour to Cartagena’s Bazurto Market

If you’ve seen the Anthony Bourdain episode where he visits Cartagena, you got to see him head to the hectic Bazurto Market of Cartagena to get fresh ingredients with one of the chefs he visits. While there he marvels at the fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish and even has a fresh lunch from a small food stall.

After Bourdain’s visit, a place that does not look like your typical tourist attraction became one. Recreating his experience is what these tours attempt to do.

I’ll never forget walking by the market nearly every weekend to catch the bus back out to Barú where I worked as a volunteer teacher my first year in Colombia in 2011. It was definitely dodgy and even walking along the edge was a bit of an assault on your senses.

While Susana would occasionally go and buy fresh shrimp or lobster at the market, I mostly just avoided it during my time in Cartagena.

Honestly, I never would have expected it to become a tourist attraction, much less one of the top tours in Cartagena.

But, well, here we are.

Tours to the market are quite common now, and given its location away from the tourist areas and the fact that parts can still be a bit dodgy, I would not recommend going here except with a tour.

However, if you do go with a tour, you should feel safe doing so. It is a neat experience to see all the fresh fruits and vegetables, not to mention the fish mongers, and you can really get some very delicious fresh cooked meals.

I would give the caveat that even though it’s become a common tourist stop, it is still definitely not exactly your yuppie, granola mom’s idea of a farmers’ market. It’s the city market for the city, one that draws more of Cartagena’s underprivileged than its well off, and it is still very much an assault on the senses (especially if it’s rained!).

It’s a very neat way to see the less touristy side of the city and have a unique experience, but if you have a sensitive nose, have a weak stomach, or are a hygiene freak, it’s probably best avoided.

There are a few variations of the Cartagena Bazurto Market tour, but usually they include fruit tasting and a fresh lunch prepared with fish and/or shellfish caught that morning (I’m sure all can arrange a non seafood and vegetarian friendly option too).

You can book a private a tour to the market with out partners BnB, or for a better value book a half day experience that includes a walking tour of Getsemaní and the tour to the market (use discount code ExploreColombia20 for 20% off on either!). You can also book a tour to just the market on GetYourGuide .

8. Do a Cooking Class

If the Cartagena market tour interested you, you might also enjoy a cooking class.

I guess this isn’t a Cartagena tour or excursion per se, but it’s a neat and organized experience that is a bit different and allows for some hands on fun and learning.

Plus, the best part is you get to eat what you make!

The best cooking class in Cartagena is at Cafe Lunático. You can book a spot via GetYourGuide or via Viator .

It includes preparation of several dishes, which vary according to the day of the week. It’s a fun way to combine a bit of learning about culture and tradition with one of everyone’s favorite activities on vacation, eating!

If you want to do a Cartagena food tour that doesn’t require you to do any work or head to the hectic market, you could also consider doing a street food tasting tour .

Or for dessert, consider a rum and chocolate tasting (use discount code ExploreColombia20).

And, be sure to check out my guide to the best restaurants to try in Cartagena too!

9. Tour to the Mud Volcano (and Pink Sea depending on season)

The Totumo Mud Volcano is probably Cartagena’s oddest attraction!

My experience is usually this is a love it or hate it kind of experience.

I remember going here during my first year in Cartagena. It was, well unique. Not something I’d repeat to be honest, but it was neat, and is certainly a good story.

Supposedly, the mud is great for your skin too.

While it is possible to do this on your own by hiring a taxi or doing a combination of bus and motorcycle taxi, there are plenty of tours to the Cartagena mud volcano that are reasonably priced, so I’d recommend just doing it that way.

Depending on season, some tours here also include a visit to the Pink Sea of Galerazamba , which is itself a unique attraction. The only issue is the pink effect can be a bit unpredictable, so treat it more as an added bonus.

Our partners BnB Colombia offer both shared and private tours to the mud volcano as well as shared and private tours to the mud volcano and to the mangrove forests north of Cartagena (use that discount code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount on any of them).

You can also book this Cartagena tour via GetYourGuide .

Read more about this unique Cartagena attraction at my complete guide to the mud volcano .

10. Do an Excursion from Cartagena to Palenque

The town of San Basilio de Palenque, often just called Palenque, was a colony of runaway slaves.

They were so successful at repelling Spanish attempts to destroy them and at carrying out raids to free other slaves in Cartagena, that the Spanish crown actually negotiated a peace treaty that granted them legal recognition as a free town, the first town of runaway slaves to receive such recognition.

This designation is why it is often called the first free black town in the Americas. While it was the first town of its kind to be recognized by a European colonial power, it was far from the first town of its kind.

In fact, there is a fair amount of myth about Palenque. I did a deep dive researching it for this site and you can read more about Palenque’s history here .

Still, it remains a culturally and historically significant site, and is pretty fascinating. While it used to be quite off the beaten path, it’s really grown as a tourist destination in recent years, and is a common excursion from Cartagena today. In fact, after the islands, I’d say it’s one of the very best day trips from Cartagena .

Located in the Montes de María region that was site to some of the worst violence of Colombia’s internal conflict, it’s a neat and largely community driven type of tourism that highlights Colombia’s under-recognized Afro-Colombian cultural traditions. It also offers a glimpse of the neglected state of much of rural Colombia.

I remember finding our visit here fascinating.

Many of the town’s colonial era residents kept alive their West African traditions, including traditional belief systems and language. In fact, the language that is still spoken by many of the town’s elders is the only known Spanish-African blended creole language, sort of akin to a Spanish patois.

I thought the most interesting thing was their unique justice system. For minor offenses, village elders decide the punishment rather than the normal legal system.

You can book a private tour with BnB Colombia (one final time, use that discount code ExploreColombia20!). You can also book a private tour via Viator .

You can read more about Palenque and why it’s worth visiting in my complete guide to San Basilio de Palenque .

11. See Lots at Your Own Pace on the Hop On Hop Off Bus

I know, I know, your first reaction here is probably similar to mine: this looks and sounds like the ultimate in tourist trap cheese.

However, the Cartagena Hop On Hop Off Bus is actually not a bad value, especially because the ticket is good for 2 days.

It has stops at a lot of Cartagena’s top attractions, including the Castillo San Felipe, and can be a much cheaper way to get to these sites than doing individual taxis.

If you want to see the main sites in Cartagena without necessarily doing a full guided experience with a guide but just get easy transportation there, it’s a decent option.

For that reason, I’m ending this list of the best Cartagena tours with it.

Some More Honorable Mentions for Tours in Cartagena

Here are handful more Cartagena tours I considered for this list that may make for some more fun ways to explore the city:

• Salsa Lessons – book this private lesson to get ready for hitting the dance floor.
• Colombian National Aviary – the Cartagena Aviary is really well done, and you can book a private tour that includes transportation and a guided experience.
• Playa Blanca – I still think you’re better off doing the Rosarios for a Cartagena islands tour or beach tour in Cartagena, but if you really want to do Playa Blanca or perhaps do both, this tour that includes lunch is a good option.
• Bioluminescent plankton tour – Seeing the bioluminescent plankton doesn’t look quite as cool as in the pictures, at least in my experience, but it is neat.
• Horseback riding on the beach – this would be especially fun for families or as a couple. Book with our partners or via GetYourGuide .
• ATV Tour – This ATV tour is a pretty recent thing, but it’s got tons of great reviews and would be a bit more extreme way to explore the beach for a unique Cartagena excursion.
• Paratriking Over the Beach – a unique and more extreme experience is this paratriking over the beach tour .
• Nightlife and barhopping tour – this tour that includes drinks at several bars would be a fun way to meet some other travelers to party with.
• Cruise excursion – this tour is designed for those arriving to Cartagena on cruise boats and is a good way to see the highlights similar to what you’d see on a Cartagena city tour if you are arriving by cruise for the day.

Which of these Cartagena tours will you do?

There you have it, my picks for the best tours in Cartagena, Colombia!

All of these are good ways to see different attractions in the city while learning more about its fascinating history and culture.

Whichever of these Cartagena tours you do, I hope this guide was useful and, most importantly, you enjoy them and your entire time in Cartagena!

Cheers and Happy Exploring!

Did you like this post?

Check out these others you might like: Guide to Tayrona National Park Guide to the San Bernardo Islands Getting Around Cartagena Cartagena Safety Tips Cartagena Nightlife Guide including the Best Bars and Clubs

Planning a trip to Cartagena?

Be sure to check out the rest of the site to help you plan!

In particular, you might want to check out my complete guide to planning a trip to Cartagena , my guide to the best areas to stay , my list of over 75 things to do , my picks for the best Cartagena tours , the best day trips from Cartagena , my suggested packing list , my guide to the Rosario Islands , and my guide to all the beaches of Cartagena .

Home » Travel Guides » Colombia » 15 Best Day Trips from Cartagena

15 Best Day Trips from Cartagena

As far as charming, well-preserved colonial cities go, Cartagena, also known as the glittering “Jewel of The Indies,” is an undisputed contender for one of the very best in the world.

Gorgeous, vividly painted buildings line pretty, cobbled streets inside the walls of the Old City, an area full of colour, music, history, flavour and excitement.

You can spend days wandering around “La Muralla” without getting bored, either taking guided tours around the points of interest or heading out on your own.

However, given Cartagena’s location on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, it’s within easy reach of some of the most culturally significant destinations in the whole of Colombia, not to mention some of the most pristinely beautiful tropical locations on Earth.

Let’s have a look at the best day trips from Cartagena :

1. San Basilio de Palenque

A village that’s been declared a site of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, San Basilio de Palenque is only an hour away from Cartagena and holds a huge cultural significance for Colombia.

It’s one of the first freed slave cities in the Americas and the resulting explosion of music, customs and flavours shaped much of the country’s cultural scene today, particularly in terms of music.

The town is a simple place, many of its inhabitants being very poor, but there is plenty of low-scale tourism cantered on learning about the area and its history.

You’ll be able to book tours with small agencies and tourism initiatives that can include guided walks and the chance to meet some famous musicians.

2. La Boquilla and Mangrove Swamps

Nestled in between the ocean and a swamp, La Boquilla is a tiny fishing village on the road heading northeast from Cartagena and is the perfect day trip to experience rural Colombian life while getting up close and personal with some fascinating wildlife.

The pace of life here is very different than the city, and the fishermen or boatmen are always more than happy to give short tours and share their knowledge of the local flora and fauna, for a small fee.

Paddle in dugout canoes through the network of canals that were previously used for fishing purposes, but have now turned into mangrove swamps, and experience the unique slice of nature you’ll find here.

3. Playa Blanca

Widely hailed as the best beach near Cartagena, Playa Blanca does get busy, as bars and restaurants built in beach-shack style have begun popping up, but it’s still a beautiful escape from the city for the day.

Relax in a hammock, enjoy delicious fresh fried fish on the beach, sip an ice-cold beer or get a massage, all in the Caribbean sun.

True to its name, the sand on the beach is beautifully white and fine, a postcard perfect example of prime Caribbean coast.

You can catch a boat to Playa Blanca from the Bazurto Market docks in the early morning; generally considered the fastest and easiest way to arrive.

Suggested Tour : Playa Blanca Full-Day Trip from Cartagena

4. Volcan el Totumo

Rather than being an active, lava spewing volcano, el Totumo is a curative mud volcano containing over 50 different minerals that are said to be incredibly restorative for skin and hair.

Climb up the 15-meter high anthill-like mini-volcano and then descend the staircase within to sit in the soothing mud bath below.

With a capacity of 10 to 15 people, the novel, spa-like treatment is a great way to spend a few hours away from the city; having fun and meeting new people as everyone bonds while coating themselves with mud.

Available tour : Totumo Volcano and Mud Baths: Day Tour from Cartagena

5. Tierra Bomba Island

Visible from the shores of Cartagena is the huge but rarely visited island of Tierra Bomba.

It is home to 9000 residents who welcome visitors to their beaches and form a community of fisherman and artisans who dwell primarily on the coast.

The sandy white beaches are the perfect way to detach from city life, and various basic bars and restaurants have been erected where you can enjoy locally cooked, traditional dishes while taking in views of the close by Bocagrande.

You can reach the island by boat from the main ports in Cartagena.

6. Mercado de Bazurto

For a real taste of local life in the buzzing urban sprawl outside of the tranquil Old City, wake up early in the morning and head to the legendary Mercado de Bazurto, the generally tourist-free market only 15 minutes from the center of town.

Here, you’ll be swallowed up by the heaving crowds and begin to feel like a local as you wander past stalls selling incredibly diverse varieties of fruit, organic produce and all the seafood you could ever wish for.

The beautiful chaos of Bazurto Market is not to be missed, particularly for those who want to immerse themselves in authentic local culture.

7. Usiacurí

One of the oldest towns on Colombia’s Atlantic coast, dating back to 1533, Usiacurí is a beautiful little colonial village that can be reached in less than two hours from Cartagena.

As picturesque as it is old, the village’s architecture has been well-preserved, having maintained many of its original colonial buildings, making it a pleasure to wander around.

The population of 9000 thrives on artisanal crafts, from tapestries to woven bags, so make sure you bring some cash to buy a souvenir.

8. Rosario Islands

Though you can spend weeks exploring the vast archipelago of 27 islands that form Las Islas Del Rosario, you can also spend a single day on one or two of them and get your fill of sun-soaked, palm tree-lined Caribbean beaches.

As part of a national park, the natural beauty of this area is truly incomparable, making it a popular tourist destination without being too overcrowded.

Expect lagoons, coral reefs, swimming, snorkelling, surfing, and some of the clearest, aquamarine water in the world.

9. Tayrona National Park

A few hours away from Cartagena, it might be worth staying the night at Tayrona National Park, though with an early start it’s easily doable in a day.

Boasting UNESCO World Heritage status due to it’s unbelievable natural beauty, the huge park is a treasured sprawl of verdant rainforest, lush mountains and most famously, white sandy beaches with crystalline waters.

Although wildly popular, the park is enormous, so it never feels crowded, and a secluded slice of paradise can be found around every corner.

You can enjoy some spectacular coastal and forest hikes here, or embark on a guided horseback tour run by knowledgeable and friendly locals.

10. Bocagrande

A stone’s throw away from the walled Old Town in Cartagena, you’ll find the Miami-esque city beach of Bocagrande, perfect for those who want to enjoy a day relaxing at the seaside without fully detaching from urban comforts.

Popular with visitors from Cartagena because of its proximity and convenience, you’ll always find tourists here.

Backed by high rise hotels, shops, and lively restaurants, the Avenida San Martin is always an exciting road to stroll down, with Bocagrande’s white sand just steps away.

11. Taganga

A hugely popular, essentially obligatory pit stop on the quintessential backpacker’s trail is the former fishing village of Taganga.

Today it is a hotbed of diving activity because of the vibrant coral reefs lying beneath the surface of its turquoise waters.

Here you can get a diving certificate and enjoy the thriving marine life to your heart’s content, and may even be tempted to stay for a few more days.

The town itself is housed in a horseshoe-shaped bay, flanked by rugged peaks and lined with palms.

You’ll discover late night parties, part of a buzzing backpacker scene that has been present here for many years.

12. Isla de San Bernardo

Though it’s over three hours’ drive and a boat ride away from Cartagena, the rewards of visiting the San Bernardo Islands far outweigh the effort of arriving.

This group of 10 archipelagos is truly remote and you get a real sense of being on a deserted island, something that many people are willing to make the trip for.

Flora and fauna thrive here in great abundance and the waters are the clearest on the entire Caribbean coast.

For an overnight stay or just to visit and have a beer, the Casa en el Agua is a paradise hostel built on stilts in the middle of the ocean, just dying to be discovered.

13. El Laguito

Not far from Bocagrande, but somewhat livelier, El Laguito is on the other side of the peninsula to its counterpart.

It attracts a young and bohemian crowd that flock to the calm water’s edge to enjoy electronic music parties and fill the many bars that are found here.

For a calmer experience, arrive early in the day, when families are the primary clientele due to the tranquil waves and lack of current.

14. Santa Marta and Sacred pools at Playa Koralia

Located near Santa Marta to the north of Cartagena, Playa Koralia is a beautiful stretch of coast with rich indigenous history that has been preserved to this day by the locals that still live here.

You can walk here among the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, as well as cool off in springs and waterfalls, but the highlight is the group of sacred pools, imbued with hydrotherapeutic properties that can only be accessed with express permission of the indigenous population.

15. Surfing at Colombia’s prime surf lodge

Though you’ll be tempted for an overnight stay, an early departure from Cartagena will give you a few hours fun at the Costeño Beach Eco Surf Camp, one of the most popular destinations for surfing in the country and home to an irresistible boho-chic vibe that’ll have you feeling like a backpacker in no time.

Enjoy a cold beer in a hammock before heading back to the city and grabbing a delicious seafood lunch to satisfy your appetite.

15 Best Day Trips from Cartagena:

• San Basilio de Palenque
• La Boquilla and Mangrove Swamps
• Playa Blanca
• Volcan el Totumo
• Tierra Bomba Island
• Mercado de Bazurto
• Rosario Islands
• Tayrona National Park
• Isla de San Bernardo
• Santa Marta and Sacred pools at Playa Koralia
• Surfing at Colombia’s prime surf lodge

Guided Day Hike in The Tropical Forest, Cartagena

Spend a day in the wild on this unique hiking adventure in the tropical forest near Cartagena, in Colombia. Let a local, certified guide show you the way and teach all about the region's amazing flora and fauna.

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• Spend a day submerged in a wild tropical forest in Colombia.
• Discover the amazing flora and fauna of the region.

Description

On this unique off-the-beaten-path 1-day trip from Cartagena, you will discover the awe-inspiring flora and fauna of the nearby tropical forest while you learn, enjoy yourself and spend a few hours hiking.

Discover an amazing ecosystem with incredible species including the Cotton Top Tamarin, lush plants of all shapes and sizes, colorful butterflies and more. This tour involves hiking for up to 3 and 1/2 hours, which is approximately 8km (5 mi.), 204 m. (669 ft.) of elevation gain at a slow pace on undulating terrain, with small rocks and sometimes mud. We will also have to cross shallow streams.

The tour takes place in remote areas, involving various types of transport and rough roads. You will need to be physically fit and active, as well as adventurous to join. The minimum age is 10 years old, and this tour is not designed for pregnant women or younger children. Minors over the age of 10 will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. You will also need to be prepared for potential variable weather conditions (Rain May-Nov).

Pick-up time: 6:00 a.m.

Duration: 8 hours (Approx.).

Group size: 2-8 Pax.

Language: Spanish, English.

If you would like to discover this amazing rainforest, then send a request and we can start planning your adventure! We look forward to guiding you!

Price includes

- Guiding fee

- Breakfast

- Transportation start and back

- Transport during the trip

- Permit and entrance fees

- Personal insurance

- Clean drinkable water

- Trekking poles

Secure your spot with just 25% payment

48-hour free cancellation with 30-day advance booking

Day 1 : Outline of the hike

At 6:00 a.m. you will be picked up at your hotel and we will drive north of the Bolivar department. One hour away later, we will find a natural area where we will hike to the trail in the Tropical Dry Fores. We will discover the flora and fauna of this awe-inspiring ecosystem. At around midday, we will stop for a typical lunch. Then, at 1:00 p.m., we will begin our return.

Approximate Driving Time: 2 hours

Approximate Hiking Time: 3.5 Hours**.**

Trail Distance: 4 – 6 Miles.

Equipment you will need to bring

* Personal medication * Extra water. (We provide 1 L bottle water). * Sunscreen (No sweet smell) and a cap. * Insect repellent. * A day pack. * Long pants and closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Keep in mind that we’ll be walking in the forest, thus clothing items constitute elements of protection from thorns, spikes, bugs, etc. * An extra change of clothes and shoes for after the hike as our clothes/shoes may get wet and/or muddy. * A light rain jacket. * Masks and sanitizers * Cash for souvenirs and tips.

About the guide : Taroa Adventures

Taroa Adventures

Tour Operator

Founded in 2013 by Olinto Angarita, TAROA ADVENTURES is a tour operator of Nature and Culture-Based Tourism, located in Cartagena, Colombia.

We are adventurers, we are cultural explorers, and we are believers in the connections that can be built through experiences.

We specialize in highlighting the rich Nature and Culture of the Colombian Caribbean. We curate unique tours in new and little-known places of the Colombian Caribbean where our travelers can connect with the local culture's authenticity and the region's nature to facilitate a positive exchange of experiences between travelers and the local communities.

English | Spanish

What people are saying about Explore-Share

I’m extremely happy with the ease with which I could book via your site reliable and experienced guide. Thank you so very much, and I’ve started to recommend your site to my friends. Dimitris is not only an awesome guide, but a wonderful person who was always looking out to give me the best experience I can have when he found out how much I love climbing! He is the Best!

I am very pleased with Explore-Share! This was my first international climb, and the communication and response time were great. Herbie is a very skilled guide and very efficient. The entire booking process & payment was smooth. I will definitely use Explore-Share again. Thank you.

I was looking for a local guide for a hike I was planning and came across Explore-Share. They seemed to have good reviews and so decided to give them a try. The experience was very positive and completely happy with their service. I will be using them again for next trip.

Easy to set up and find the perfect trip. Informative site that is easy to use. Guides are all great to work with and communicate all arrangements needed. As simple as can be!

Thank you explore-share for a wonderful via feratta experience. We have been wanting to learn for a long time but don't have the facilities in Scotland. The guide Mitja was extremely helpful and knowledgeable, answering all my many questions and providing advice. On the day head to take another group but he quickly arranged another guide Borut, who was brilliant. We had a fantastic morning learning via ferrata at Hvadnik in the gorge. It gave us the confidence to later hire our own equipment and go out in Mojstrana. Altogether a five star + experience. Thank you.

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The 10 Best Day Trips from Cartagena, Colombia’s Walled City

By Author Arakita Rimbayana

Posted on Last updated: 17th March 2024

Cartagena de Indias, Colombia – not to be confused with the one in Spain – is known for its beautiful old town.

Inside, you’ll find pastel-hued buildings in red, yellow, and blue alongside flower-slung balconies – a stunning jewel-box of architecture, albeit one that was built by the Spanish colonists using the labor of enslaved people. 

Despite this history, the people of Cartagena are as warm and colorful as their city. Local Afro-Caribbean women known as Palenqueras dress in multi-colored garb and sell fruit from streetside stands, while others dance to rhythmic drum music in the many squares dotted across the city. 

Cartagena feels like one of Colombia’s liveliest cities, and it’s true that the “walled city” itself offers plenty of things to do as I discovered when I spent a few weeks in the area.

However, these day trips from Cartagena give you a chance to dig deeper into the region, whether you’re seeking to observe bioluminescent plankton off picture-perfect beaches or want the soothing experience of bathing in volcano mud.

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1. Fish with local fishermen in La Boquilla

La Boquilla – a fishing village 17 kilometers north of Cartagena – is famous for having some of the best beaches in the area and, because they’re not a hub of partying like others in the region, you can expect clearer water and rubbish-free beaches.

Swim, rent a jet ski, or bike along the coastline; pick whichever activities you like!

But to truly experience La Boquilla, you need to get out onto the ocean. Head out by boat on La Cienaga de La Virgen, a lagoon known for its series of tunnels through mangrove forests that cling to the coastline, or to the Cienaga de Juan Polo. Here you can learn different fishing techniques and catch everything from sea bass to sea bream, mullet, and crabs. 

For a tour that supports the local community at La Boquilla – which is being threatened by uncontrolled building expansion – and helps maintain a culture of fishing here, visit with this four-hour tour * ($61 USD pp).

If you’re not so keen on fishing, you can instead opt to explore the mangrove swap by canoe * ($30 USD pp). 

2. Learn the traditional rhythms of Colombia’s Caribbean coast in La Boquilla

Thanks to the region’s Afro-Colombian roots, Colombia’s Caribbean coast plays host to a unique blend of rhythms brought over by those enslaved by the Spanish, and which still exists today.

Believed to have been born in Cartagena, cumbia is now a type of rhythm known throughout the world thanks to its use in modern Latin pop music. 

Discover more about the irresistible beats that make up the Caribbean coast’s musical history with a day tour from Cartagena to a local music school ($180 USD pp)*.

You’ll learn from teachers and drum makers about how the drums themselves were used as a way of communicating and resistance when slaves were first brought to the Americas, as well as having a go at playing them yourself. 

3. Take a tour out to Colombia’s prettiest town and learn about its musical heritage

If you’re short on time but still want to explore the best that the Bolívar Department of Colombia has to offer, consider heading out to what has to rank as one of the country’s prettiest places: Santa Cruz de Mompox. 

Known simply as Mompós or Mompox, this colonial-era town gives a sense of what Cartagena might have looked like before the gentrification and influx of wealthy tourists.

Known for its strong tradition of goldsmithing, it’s the perfect place to buy jewelry and other such souvenirs or just stroll along the Río Magdalena upon which this historic little town sits. 

If you want to dive deeper beneath the surface, try this two-day, one-night tour from Cartagena ($1,051 USD pp)*, which takes you to Mompox and gives you the opportunity to meet a local dance school to learn about the region’s musical and dancing heritage, as well as a tour of the town’s stunning streets. 

If you’ve got more time, take the bus from Cartagena to Mompós (5.5 hours; 70,000 COP ($14 USD)) and stay in one of the town’s flurry of delightful boutique hotels, such as the Bioma Boutique Hotel ($90 USD double), with its wonderful rooftop terrace with a hot tub and unforgettable sunset views. 

4. Jump into a volcano crater at El Totumo, Santa Catalina

Believed to possess a healing ability, El Totumo volcano attracts both domestic and international tourists alike. It’s not as you’d expect, however: standing at only 15-meter tall, it’s one of the world’s smallest volcanoes. It used to spew lava – allegedly – but now produces just mud enriched with sulfur, iron, calcium, and silica, among other minerals.

The local lore has a different idea regarding what makes the volcano able to heal through its mud. Believing that the spewed lava was the work of the Devil himself, a priest performed a ceremony to banish him by pouring holy water into the volcano.

Visitors may climb into the volcano – via a staircase built on its side – to bathe in the warm, muddy crater. You won’t be sprinkled with holy water, though. Instead, you may request massages from the attendants for $10,000 COL (around $2 USD) while rinsing up in a nearby lagoon.

Going there on your own is not recommended: you end up being charged significantly more at the entrance to the volcano if you come independently than with a tour.

Instead, visit with this private tour ($103 USD pp)*, which departs from Cartagena at 7.30am in order to reach the volcano before bands of other tourists do. 

5. Take a road trip to the pink sea of Galerazamba

Only 20 minutes away from El Totumo volcano, you’ll find another unique landmark: The Pink sea. Due to its high levels of salt, the water turns pink.

However, the strength of its hues does change according to the weather, and during January and February, and from August to September, the waters are typically at their pinkest.

This is highly influenced by the climate, so there’s never any guarantee as to what shade you’ll see. It’s also worth pointing out that you can’t swim in this water. 

Galezaramba itself doesn’t offer much when it comes to dining and lodging options. Go for just the day; you can get here by bus to Galerazamba from Cartagena for just $20,000 COP ($4 USD) or take a taxi from Cartagena and ask it to wait for you.

This should cost around 150,000 COP ($31 USD) in total – which is a great choice if you’re traveling in a group. Some El Totumo tours also include a visit to Galerazamba. 

6. Be dazzled by bioluminescent plankton in the waters of Playa Blanca, Isla Barú

Only developed for tourism in the past decade, Playa Blanca is the epicenter of Isla Barú, a peninsula 30 kilometers southwest of Cartagena’s old town. Thanks to this distance from Cartagena itself, Playa Blanca boasts crystalline waters and gloriously white sand.

At night, some parts of the coast are visited by bioluminescent plankton that turn the water to glowing blue. They are not shy of human touch so you can swim around them safely!

Despite its distance from the old town, Playa Blanca is quite easy to reach; one of the many reasons it’s among the most popular day trips from Cartagena.

The easiest way is to get on a taxi that will cost you from $40,000 COL ($10 USD); alternatively, many of the tours to the Islas del Rosario will take you here en route to the islands. 

Staying overnight is the best way to avoid the hordes of tourists who descend on this beach during the day. The gorgeous bungalows of Las Islas ($416 USD double) overlook the ocean, while they run snorkeling, cooking classes, and a tour to visit the bioluminescent plankton .

If you want to do it independently, hire a taxi from your accommodation and ask to be taken to where the plankton is most active – and this typically happens around 7pm and 8pm at night. 

Looking to dive deeper into Cartagena’s rich heritage?

If you want a deeper, more meaningful dive into the Cartagena region, I highly recommend local tour operator Impulse Travel. They’ve established tours across the area and further afield in Colombia with their focus trips that take you to lesser-known destinations to not only learn more about the local people but ensure that your money benefits them, too.

Their eight-day Sounds of Colombia is a great example: through it, you’ll learn why Colombia is known as “The Land of a Thousand Rhythms”, meet talented traditional musicians, and visit two stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Mention WORLDLY5 to receive a 5% discount on the tour.

7. Snorkel in the aquamarine Caribbean waters of the Islas del Rosario

Fancy exploring a slice of paradise? Cartagena lies on the Caribbean Sea and the most idyllic tour from the city takes you out to the Islas del Rosario, a 45-minute boat journey south.

Made up of 28 different islands, this archipelago is protected as the Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo, under the known for its snorkeling and scuba diving, which allows you to take advantage of its crystal clear waters, coral reef, and abundant array of shipwrecks. 

While a day trip to the Islas del Rosario allows you to appreciate the area’s dazzling white sands and turquoise waters, we highly recommend staying overnight at one of the comfortable guesthouses or hotels located on Isla Grande or Isla del Rosario.

We recommend Casa Tinti Boutique Hotel ($160 USD double), on the remote Isla Tintipan, with its beach-facing bedrooms and delicious menu. 

To get to the islands independently, purchase a boat ticket at the Muelle Turístico de la Bodeguita . Fares range between $70,000 COP and 100,000 COL ($16-23 USD), with departures normally around 8am and returning around 4pm.

These tours will take you on a well-worn route around some of the larger islands; for a quieter and less-touristed experience, try this eight-hour tour to Isla del Sol ($83 USD pp)*, a private island where you can relax, snorkel or kayak to your heart’s content. 

8. Learn about the culture of the Palenqueros in Palenque de San Basilio

One thing you’ll notice when arriving in Cartagena is its diverse population, with many local people descending from the original African slaves brought to build the city by the Spanish. 

Here, you’ll find Palenque communities, otherwise known as “free towns”. This moniker describes their status as settlements where self-emancipated slaves fled the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. 

Situated south of Cartagena in the foothills of the Montes de Maria mountain range, the town of Palenque de San Basilio is the oldest Palenque village in the Americas and was even acknowledged by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity – making a must-visit while in Cartagena.

Its deep-rooted history promises an experience unlike no other, granting you the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean people.

The best way is as part of a tour ($143 USD pp)*, where you can get a glimpse into their lives and how they continue to preserve their distinctive Afro-Caribbean culture.

9. Dance ‘till you drop in Barranquilla

Barranquilla is mainly known for two things: Shakira and its annual folkloric carnival. Once a year, for four consecutive days, the city is lit with parades of music and dancing. If this sounds like your cup of tea, plan your trip around the second Saturday of February.

With that said, those who are not into sweltering parties should not take Barranquilla off their list. Outside of carnival time, the city is rather quiet and relaxed and perfect for savoring a plate of typical costeño food, such as fish stew or egg arepas (fried corn dough), and exploring the city’s museums!

Barranquilla is a three-hour northeast of Cartagena and, while it’s possible to go back and forth in a day, you’re better off staying in Barranquilla for a couple. Buses leave from Cartagena’s bus terminal as early as 5am and cost from as little as $20,000 COL ($5 USD). 

10. Find beaches to die for in Parque Nacional Tayrona 

Like Barranquilla, your visit to Parque Nacional Tayrona – one of Colombia’s most famous national parks – from Cartagena needs much more than just one day.

Besides the distance to cover (approximately 100 kilometers from Barranquilla), you’ll need a good few days to explore this 15,000-acre (607-hectare) national park, where you’ll find pristine beaches, archaeological sites, hiking trails, and great swathes of untouched jungle. 

Before returning to Cartagena, we recommend spending a night at Ecohabs Bamboo ($100 USD or $380,000 COL double), one of the best hotels in Colombia . Other than a series of basic, hammock-slung campsites, this is the only lodging within the national park.

Each of its 18 individual huts is surrounded by lush greenery, which you can admire through their vast windows – and which will mean you wake every morning to the sound of monkeys chattering!

To get to Tayrona, you’ll need to take a bus first to Santa Marta, which leave from Cartagena’s bus terminal between 5am and 10pm ($43,000 COL or $10 USD per person). From Santa Marta, you’ll need to take a taxi.

Bearing in mind how extensive the park is – it can take hours to walk from one beach to another – it’s best to arrange your transport beforehand. Your hotel should be able to help you with this. If not, you can join a tour that offers pickup and transport to the park from Santa Marta ($33 USD pp).

As the parks closes during the first two weeks of February, the first two weeks of June, and then the last two weeks of October, these periods are not the ideal time for visiting Colombia . Plan your trip to avoid these dates.

Experiences we don’t recommend

Party with the young and young-at-heart tierra bomba island.

Tierra Bomba is one of the most popular islands Cartagena has to offer. It’s located 30 minutes (around two kilometers) from the small port of Castillogrande.

Popular among young backpackers as the little Ibiza of Colombia, with many flocking here to party, especially on the weekends.

Unfortunately, this contributes to the island’s waste problems, which has led to plastic – and extensive noise – pollution. 

Consider heading to one of the remote islands in the Islas del Rosario or escaping to Playa Blanca on Isla Barú for a quieter, more authentic experience. 

Getting around in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia

Getting around in Cartagena on public transportation can be an experience in itself. Buses within the city area cost only $2,500 COL ($0.6 USD) per ride. Most bus lines – along with their routes and stops – can be seen on the Moovit App .

Please note that the buses are generally not air-conditioned; a long bus ride in the heat of the Cartagena climate can be overwhelming for some.

Within the city walls, walking is easy enough, although you’ll want to avoid the midday heat if possible. 

For comfort and safety, we recommend using a taxi. They’re affordable (from $7,000 COL or $1.6 USD per kilometer) and accessible, especially in touristy areas such as Centro, Getsemani, and Bocagrande.

Walking around is easy and quite safe if you stay within the walls and, as it’s a popular tourist area, you’ll see an extensive police presence. However, outside of the walls, we recommend following common protocols such as not wandering around the street at night, taking care of your belongings, and not wearing flashy accessories. 

A note about the tours we recommend: as a website, Worldly Adventurer chooses not to include tours available on websites such as Viator and GetYourGuide and instead opts to recommend companies based directly within the countries we write about. Viator and GetYourGuide take hefty commissions, making it more expensive for you – and the companies actually running the tours. There’s also no transparency around who’s actually running the tours they promote. 

As a website that prides itself on the quality of its recommendations (established through founder Steph’s almost a decade exploring the continent), this just doesn’t fit with our values. As a result, many of the tours we recommend in this guide are from our local Colombian partner, Impulse Travel . All of their tours aim to support local communities and provide them with a fair wage for their work, whether they’re providing transportation, guiding or teaching. This can work out as a little more expensive for you; however, we guarantee it’s worth the price. You’ll learn far more with one of their tours than an anonymous, often poorly run tour that doesn’t engage with local people and takes you to the same old destinations. 

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Explore A Different Way To Travel

Like any tourist, you want to know what to do in a city you don’t know. Ask us and we will make a personalized tour. You will be able to visit places that tourists usually don’t visit.

We can create private tours and take you to explore every corner of the city in complete safety, in your language and answering any questions.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

5 islands with snorkeling and plankton

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Snorkeling and mangroves with lunch

Scuba diving beach day and lunch

Yachts and boats.

Cholon boat party with 2 drinks and lunch

Boat party sunset with open bar

Yachts and boats rentals

Fishing and surfing.

Mangroves in black heritage village w lunch

Beach tours.

Bocachica beach and Historic tour w lunch

Playa blanca, quiet beach area with lunch

Horse Back Ride Sunset

All day, hourly & local tours.

Hourly rental, when you have a delayed flight

$8 usd per hour.

Barranquilla & Santa Marta all day

Local real city tour

Rosario Island

Palmarito beach Day pass

Bora Bora day pass

Fenix island Day Pass

Trekking at Tierrabomba island with lunch

Miscellaneous.

Airport trasfer to Bocagrande or old town

Salsa classes

Totumo mud volcano with lunch

Travel insurance

$3 usd per day.

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I liked giving food to the fish excellent experience. I recommend the fried fish lunch, very crunchy and fresh.

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Different experiences in Cartagena with the best attitude, thank you very much

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I booked a few amazing and memorable tours while I was in Cartagena with Alex. He was so knowledgeable and helpful and sweet. I would highly recommend him to everyone and can’t wait to return to Cartagena soon!!

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Colombia Uncovered

• Best price guaranteed
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• COVID-19 protected
• Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Young Adults
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 12 days
• tour type Group Request as private
• age requirement 18-40 yrs
• max group size 20
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-37273

• Starts Medellin, Colombia
• Ends Cartagena, Colombia
• Day 1: Airport Pick Up
• Day 2: Medellín
• Day 3: Medellín
• Day 4: Medellín/Santa Marta
• Day 5: Santa Marta
• Day 6: Buritaca
• Day 7: Buritaca
• Day 8: Buritaca/Isla Tierra Bomba
• Day 9: Isla Tierra Bomba
• Day 10: Isla Tierra Bomba/Cartagena
• Day 11: Cartagena
• Day 12: Check Out
• All accommodation is included. Accommodation is mainly in twin share rooms. Sometimes dorm accommodations are used which will be exclusive to your tour group.
• 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches
• All transportation is included
• Airport pickup (Up to 2 days before tour)
• An experienced guide throughout the trip.
• Medellin City Tour
• Comuna 13 Street Art
• Climb El Peñol Rock
• Flight to Santa Marta
• Guatapé & Local Coffee Farm
• Minca Waterfalls & Viewpoints, Casa Elemento
• Transfer to Viajero Tayrona
• Surf Lesson
• Transfer to Private Island
• Isla Roots Private Island Getaway
• Island Hopping Adventure
• Cartagena Old Town
• Any international flights to Medellin and from Cartagena are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this Colombia Uncovered tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
• Tim Paarmann
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No additional cancellation fees apply for this Colombia Uncovered tour. You can cancel the tour up to 62 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 61 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 25 June 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 25 June 2024, a deposit is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 61 days before trip departure.

Colombia Uncovered tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this Colombia Uncovered tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

This trip incorporates the following COVID-19 measures:

• Hygiene safety measures and distancing will be followed in transportation, accommodation and meal venues.
• Our guides have enhanced training in how to carry out their role using social distancing measures. They are trained to take extra precautions against the spread of COVID-19.

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• Cartagena Tour
• Testimonials

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Cartagena Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Cartagena. We've got 130 adventures going to Cartagena, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 131 days. The most popular month to go is May, which has the largest number of tour departures.

130 Cartagena tour packages with 338 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Caribbean Colombia Express

Had a wonderful trip. Highlights were Tayrona, waterfalls around Minca, tubing on the Don Diego (a last minute change in itinerary) and great company. Most of the accommodation was fine (don't expect luxury), but think Hotel Minca needs upgrading (grounds and view lovely, but my room smelt of damp and was the most basic food of the trip). Another downside was how much extra we had to pay for activities and group meals. There is a lot not included considering the price. But enjoyed being on the tour for the ease of transportation, great socialising and all the help and advice our winderful CEO Miguel was able to give.

• In-depth Cultural
• Walking Adventure

Private Immersive Cultural Tour in Cartagena with Day Trips

I very much enjoyed my time in Cartagena, Columbia, South America in 2022. I was told that the month of December afforded us mildness in regard to the usual warmer temperatures of other months. My Accommodations were comfortable and safe, and we had a magnificent hostess. Bernell's planning was high quality and I did not have to do anything except arrive there. I even had money exchanged before leaving the USA. One less detail for her to have to take care of upon my arrival. We, Bernell and I, made new friends in Cartagena and we are excited to be working with the dance leaders we met to host a Dancing in the Street joint project in the future. More details to come. It is my sincere hope that you all will accept her next invitation to "meet her" in a foreign or unique location, or allow her to plan a travel excursion for your family so you too can experience "travel like a local" -- I guarantee you will be delighted that you did.

• Hiking & Trekking

Colombia's Caribbean Coast & Lost City

Everything was great except on the last night on Lost city trek, I think i was bitten by bed bugs but I am not sure

8 Day Colombian Caribbean Express

6 Days in Cartagena - The Caribbean Crown

COLOMBIA – 8 Days Santa Marta to Cartagena with The Lost City Trek

• Food & Culinary

Cafe Colombia

This was an amazing itinerary! I was a single female traveler and felt safe at all times. I had the best group guide Martin, who was super friendly, knowledgeable & went above and beyond to show us a great time. I have a lot of dietary restrictions & Martin really tried his best to accommodate me, I am so grateful. Unfortunately I had an emergency & had to leave on day 4 so my trip was disrupted. I would love to return to Columbia in the future. This was an action packed itinerary. I highly recommend this tour & tour guide Martin to anyone who is active & loves to explore.

Cartagena & Lost City Trek

Explore Colombia

Our guide Dianna was marvelous. She went out of her way to accommodate a wide variety of needs. The hikes could be more descriptive as the one in Tayorna national park was difficult for some of the guests. I would include a massage in Baricharra as we asked it the hotel had accomodations for massages which were terrific.

Private Service I Best-Selling Journey: One Week in Bogotá, Medellín & Cartagena — Domestic Flights Included

Everything was good. We were just confused at times what the guide pays for. Such as water or snacks during are tours.

Enchanting Cartagena

Colombia Uncovered

Jose was fantastic tour guide. We all had a great time in this beautiful country. However, Trutravels should improve on the quality of accommodation. The last hostel in Baru near Cartagena is not an adequate substitute for the hostel previous groups went to.

Private Service I Nature Lovers: Medellín, Tayrona & Cartagena — Domestic Flight Included

I can't say enough about our amazing trip to Colombia! Andrea at Colombia Trip was responsive and helpful, both before and during the trip. Our experiences in Medellin, Tayrona, and Cartagena were well planned, perfectly coordinated, and executed with great care by our drivers and tour guides. The accommodations where beautiful and strategically located in every part of our stay. Colombia is rich in cultural diversity, biodiversity, and history. We felt that we got to learn and experience the flavor of this amazing country and its wonderfully warm and inviting people. Thanks to Andres in Medellin, David in Santa Marta and Tayrona, and Jorge in Cartagena for being such informative, fun, and engaging guides. I highly recommend this trip!

Lost City Trek & Cartagena 8 Days

We loved the entire Trek to the Lost City in Colombia, the range of sites, climates, topography, landscape and altitudes was immensely rewarding. The program was intense but not overly. Always something of interest, but with enough down-time. Very well planned, and the opportunity to see quite a lot of famous places on the western site in Colombia. Definitely we recommend you guys to everyone we know. I will contact you again if we decide to travel back to South America next year.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Colombia Express

Great tour. Would recommend.

What people love about Cartagena Tours

Not much in the way of wildlife, but plenty of beaches.

I very much enjoyed my time in Cartagena, Columbia, South America in 2022. I was told that the month of December afforded us mildness in regard to the usual warmer temperatures of other months. My Accommodations were comfortable and safe, and we had a magnificent hostess. Bernell's planning was high quality and I did not have to do anything except arrive there. I even had money exchanged before leaving the USA. One less detail for her to have to take care of upon my arrival. We, Bernell and I, made new friends in Cartagena and we are excited to be working with the dance leaders we met to host a Dancing in the Street joint project in the future. More details to come. It is my sincere hope that you all will accept her next invitation to "meet her" in a foreign or unique location, or allow her to plan a travel excursion for your family so you too can experience "travel like a local" -- I guarantee you will be delighted that you did.

Tours starting from Cartagena

• for 10 Days (8)
• for 7 Days (6)
• for 2 Weeks (5)
• to Latin America (22)
• to Colombia (18)
• Colombia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

50 years of World class Tour Guiding

Eat, shop, and fall in love with world-class museums, historical landmarks, and skyscrapers galore.

World history, culture & stories on every corner

Cartagena Tour Guides have more than 50 years of experience providing visitors with the context to understand this amazing city, and the people living in it.

Our most popular tours

City Tour Cartagena

See all the main sites in air-conditioned transport

Cruise Excursions Cartagena

A guided full tour of Cartagena in airconditioned transport

Walking Tour Cartagena

Walk through the history of the historic walled city

Totumo Volcano

Happy clients

Martin was a great tour guide and was very knowledgeable about Cartagena. He made the tour very enjoyable and he was very dependable. I strongly recommend him to others. –  BarryS

More great tours

Food Tour Cartagena

Get your tastebuds introduced to the Costeño cuisine

Rosario Islands Day Trip

A sunny & relaxing beach day in one of the Rosario Islands.

Playa Blanca Isla Baru

Relax a day at one of the most beautiful beaches of the Caribbean

Chiva Party Bus

Party your way through the sightseeing.

Private Transportation

We provide any kind or size of private air-conditioned transport with driver.

Aviary Tour Cartagena

Be amazed by the variety of bird species we have in Colombia.

Santa Marta Tour

Experience the history & charm of the oldest city in the country.

Barranquilla Tour

Visit the Carnaval city of Colombia & the home of Shakira.

Looking for something special?

Do like Mel Gibson and ask us for a personally tailored tour.  Get the perfect tour for your group. Just let us know. We can build it.

Do like Mel Gibson and ask us for a personally tailored tour. Get the perfect tour for your group. Just let us know. We can build it.

Cartagena ATV

Cartagena Tours

The best things to do in Cartagena Colombia

Cartagena ATV Tour - $124

An ATV adventure in Cartagena is the perfect activity for your Colombian vacation. The Cartagena ATV tour takes you through a unique town where you can see how the locals live and relax on their beach. The ATV tour stops at some amazing cliffs and rock formations so you can take the best pictures of your trip. Then on to our private beach ride where you reach top speeds on the ATV. Finally stop at our beachside tiki hut to enjoy a swim in the ocean. Lunch and beverage included. The most popular ATV tour in Cartagena is just 15 minutes north of Centro and we provide airconditioned transportation free of charge. More Info  

Horseback Riding Tour - $99

Embark on a captivating horseback riding tour in Cartagena, Colombia, that promises a blend of adventure and natural beauty. Your journey begins with a delightful ride along the golden sands of Cartagena’s beaches, providing a unique perspective of the city’s coastline and the Caribbean Sea. The tour takes you on an exciting exploration over mountains and through scenic trails. Traverse the rugged terrain, surrounded by lush vegetation and gorgeous landscapes, offering a true escape into nature. Lunch and transportation are included. More Info  

Rosario Islands - $650

Embark on a private boat trip to the Rosario Islands. You can choose your destinations including beach clubs, lagoons and Cholon. Weather you want relaxing or you’re ready to party we’ll take you to your paradise. The Rosario Islands has the most beautiful water in the area and is one of the most  popular tours in Cartagena. The private boat includes a captain, first mate and a cooler with ice. Bring  your drinks and food or have lunch on the islands.  The charter is from 8:30am to 4pm or anything in between. The boat holds up to 12 people.