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Things to do in
Cartagena

Explore labyrinthine cobbled alleys and walk past historic city walls while visiting this Caribbean gem.

Our most recommended things to do in Cartagena

Cartagena: Rosario Islands Catamaran with Lunch and Snorkel

1. Cartagena: Rosario Islands Catamaran with Lunch and Snorkel

Set sail for the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park on a full-day tour from Cartagena. The catamaran departs from the Muelle de la Bodeguita pier in front of the walled city. After your welcome drink, enjoy the journey to the Rosario Islands, sailing and motor sailing on the catamaran. The vessel is equipped with comfortable seats, where you can sit both in the shade and in the sun. There is a bar service on board, so you can enjoy a variety of soft drinks throughout the excursion.  Experience paradise with a stop in front of an idyllic beach of turquoise waters and white sands, where you can swim and play with fun inflatables. Practice snorkeling, if you wish, and admire the fascinating underwater life with colorful tropical fish and various types of coral. The crew will prepare a delicious lunch for you to enjoy on board while you sail back to Cartagena at the end of a relaxing day.

Cartagena: 5-Stop Island Hopping Tour with Lunch & Snorkel

2. Cartagena: 5-Stop Island Hopping Tour with Lunch & Snorkel

Please prioritize recent reviews, as older ones may refer to bus rides and discrepancies in island visits from a previous tour we no longer offer. The latest reviews, which are exceptionally positive, pertain to the current listing. This tour is crafted to provide the complete island experience at a fair price, featuring a fast-paced itinerary with five stops including 2 beach clubs. It's important to note that not every stop is an island; there are only three accessible islands for public visits: Rosario, Cholon, & Baru. Other listings may promote snorkeling activities (Coral Reef & Escobar's Plane) as island visits, but they are actually water-based activities. Lunch and snorkeling gear are included, but tourist port tax cash fee must be paid before boarding (27.000 COP). While all are welcome to join, we particularly recommend this excursion to those who are adventurers and comfortable in party environments - especially since the atmosphere at Cholon Island may not be for everyone. Itinerary: We'll meet near the Historic Center where we'll board a large passenger shuttle boat that will take us to the channel of islands, 45 mins away. Upon arrival, you'll snorkel at a coral reef in a place known as Laguna. Afterward, you'll snorkel at Pablo Escobar's sunken plane. We then make our way to Playa Libre's beach club in Rosario Island for a Caribbean lunch and relaxation. You'll then proceed to Cholon Island, and finally visit another beach club in Baru until departure. Return to Cartagena at around 4 PM. Note: Regardless of where you book, expect Cartagena's nearby islands to be touristy. Island vendors in Baru and Cholon are very persistent and can be bothersome. Businesses on the islands have markups, higher prices apply. Ask for the price beforehand and check receipts. Boat rides are bumpy & you may get wet. Beach and swim attire is a must.

Cartagena: Historic Center and Getsemaní Shared Walking Tour

3. Cartagena: Historic Center and Getsemaní Shared Walking Tour

Cartagena, a city that bewitches, welcomes you to the best tour of the beautiful and magical city of Historic Cartagena full of stories, sayings and fascinating myths of its walls, streets, convents and houses of the walled downtown and San Diego that transcends the city limits. Discover the secrets, customs and legends of the tradition inherited from the Spaniards and popular from our Caribbean miscegenation, among which Gabo (Nobel Prize for Literature) accompanies us through his writings, such as his book "One Hundred Years of Solitude", one of the most read in the world. We start, at the agreed time, the shared tour, in the Camellón de Los Mártires - Plaza de Cervantes where we will learn about the indigenous people who were before and during the arrival of the Spanish. We move to the "Golden Key of Cartagena" or Clock Tower entering the Plaza del Ecuador, before the Plaza del Esclavo, a prelude to continue part of the enslavement route through Porto Carrero and Candilejo streets. But first, Pedro de Heredía welcomes us. We continue to the Portal de Los dulces, a symbol of female activity in times of slavery and that their descendants still continue their traditions. The process of commercialization of merchandise, including that of the enslaved, in the old "Plaza de la Aduana", has been historically important. In "Plaza de la Aduana" we will see important buildings such as the Municipal Hall. Of course, art is no stranger to the tour, the Museum of Modern Art, an exponent of Caribbean and Latin American art from the 50's, the Gold Museum opens its doors with samples of indigenous pieces from the Colombian Caribbean and the Emerald Museum, stones of beautiful considered the most beautiful in the world, worn by celebrities. Religion is present with San Pedro Claver, Slave of the Slaves, we will see the Architecture of the Church and Museum-Monastery that bear his name and is the Headquarters of Human Rights. Then we go to the San Ignacio Bastion which was built to defend the "Bay of Souls" from any pirate attack. On this tour we will see the history behind the walls of Cartagena. Do you like the feats of pirates and corsairs? We count them when visiting a Bastion, as a sample of Spanish military constructions and strategies, we continue to Plaza Bolívar, in homage to the precursor of Independence, a place to refresh ourselves. Do you know the sloths, the squirrels, the iguanas? You will see them in one of the most important Lungs of Cartagena, Centennial Park, former Railway Station, which is a relic of the Tropical Dry Forest where we refresh under the shade of beautiful trees. We will enjoy one of the most important and colorful cultural corridors of Getsemaní, due to the umbrellas (symbol of the advertisement), the graffiti and the unique architecture. Finally, we enter the Callejón Ancho, to reach the end of the route at Calle San Juan to the sound of salsa and the African champeta.

Cartagena de Indias: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise

4. Cartagena de Indias: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise

For the most romantic evening, this sunset cruise excursion is ideal. Leave at 5:00 PM from the Muelle de la Bodeguita pier in front of the walled city. Enjoy the relaxing but at the same time exciting sailing through the Bay of Cartagena de Indias. Accompanied by good music, enjoy a non-alcoholic cocktail or a soft drink and a delicious appetizer in a magical atmosphere. Watch the sunset and the lighting of the spectacular skyline of the city of Cartagena while you sail into the night.  The itinerary of the tour includes departure from the Bodeguita Dock/Pegasos Dock, located in front of the walled city of Cartagena. First sail between Manga and Bocagrande neighborhood. Then continue sailing between Castillo Grande and Manzanillo Island. Enjoy the sunset while sailing between El Laguito neighborhood and Tierrabomba Island. Then sail back to the departure point.

Cartagena: Totumo Mud Volcano Experience

5. Cartagena: Totumo Mud Volcano Experience

Discover the natural landscapes of Colombia on this guided excursion. Visit Santa Catalina, and bathe yourself in the purifying mud of the volcano. As the minivan leaves town, hear some curious facts about Cartagena's history and some tips to ensure a better experience at the mud volcano. The trip to Santa Catalina, another beautiful Colombian city and the location of the volcano, lasts around 45 minutes. Upon arrival at the volcanic zone, be greeted by the owner of a small nearby restaurant. Then, prepare for a unique experience as you climb the 50 steps that surround the volcano; remember to wear old clothing as the mud can be rough on delicate materials. Immerse yourself in the volcanic mud, reaping the health benefits for your skin from the millions of minerals. Some people say afterward, you'll appear 10 years younger. Inside the volcano, you can float thanks to the high number of minerals present. There will be some locals around offering massages for an extra price of 2 USD. Outside of the volcano, pay to get your photo taken for another 2 USD. When the soaking is over, head to the lake for a shower.  Before continuing back to the city, enjoy a typical snack in a rustic restaurant. Get dropped off at your hotel.

Cartagena: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Extras

6. Cartagena: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Extras

Located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, few places on Earth are as beautiful as Cartagena. Sightseeing in this astounding city is a hugely enjoyable experience, offering both modernity and history. There is something to suit all tastes. From beautiful architecture to striking monuments, there is plenty of inspiring sightseeing opportunities while on your City Sightseeing bus tour. Discover all of beautiful Cartagena in 13 bus stops, as you explore the city's beautiful architecture and striking monuments in the most flexible and enjoyable way. Visit key sites in the city, such as the Clock Tower, the San Felipe Fortress, the walled city, the Rafael Núñez House, Rio Casino, and much more. With the many stops along the way, there are things to suit all tastes, including a complimentary walking tour inside the walled city. Choose between a 1-day pass and a 2-day pass. Hop-off at the sights that interest you the most, or if you prefer, remain on the bus tour for the entire loop, listening to the informative audio commentary. You will see palaces, monasteries, plazas, and beautiful overhanging balconies, as well as Colombia's major seaside resorts, where you can enjoy beaches and scuba diving opportunities. Tour Stops: 1. Muelle de la Bodeguita 2. Centro de Convenciones 3. Torre del Reloj 4. Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas 5. Museo Rafael Nunez 6. Boquetillo (entrance to the Walled City) 7. San Francisco (entrance to the Walled City) 8. Plaza Bocagrande 9. Avenida San Martin 10. Casino Rio 11. Hotel Caribe / Playas de Bocagrande 12. Hotel Hilton / El Laguito 13. Iglesia de Castillo Grande

Cartagena: Sunset Cruise with Open Bar

7. Cartagena: Sunset Cruise with Open Bar

Discover Cartagena in a unique way. Sail around the bay while you enjoy the bar and restaurant on board the Sibarita Express Yacht. Benefit from an open bar with a nice musical background and the services of the lovely crew. Sit back and relax as your boat comes to a stop on the open water so you can watch the sunset. You will be welcomed by the lovely crew and set sail a short while later. Take in a panoramic view of the modern area of Bocagrande and arrive at the lighthouse. From there, head to Castillogrande, the most prestigious area of the city, to see the sunset on the ocean. Once the sun has set, head back to the inner bay where you can enjoy the night views of the modern area of Bocagrande and the residential neighborhoods of Manga and Getsemani. Finally, prepare to be welcomed back to the pier with a breathtaking view of the old city at night.

Cartagena: Walled City and Getsemani Shared Walking Tour

8. Cartagena: Walled City and Getsemani Shared Walking Tour

Explore Cartagena on a guided walking tour. Discover the colonial streets of the Walled City and the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemani as you try some local sweets. Meet your guide at La Plaza de la Aduana. See the colorful colonial houses as you learn about main squares and bastions of the city. Visit Santo Domingo Square and see the Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandria. Afterward, head to the Getsemani neighborhood which is known for having a bohemian spirit. Walk through its streets and alleys boasting vibrant colors. Stroll around picturesque pieces of street art paintings. Taste a variety of typical Colombian sweets as you explore the city. Enjoy some tropical juice from unique fruits, some of which can only be found in the region.

Cartagena: Speedboat Sunset Party with Open Bar & Club Entry

9. Cartagena: Speedboat Sunset Party with Open Bar & Club Entry

Join our lively cruise for a 2-hour party experience in Cartagena! Please be aware that although this event is open to all, we particularly recommend it for a younger audience seeking a lively and loud atmosphere for drinking and dancing. While the event is only in Spanish, we welcome foreigners for a taste of local culture! Board our speedboat for a memorable sunset party with views of Cartagena at night. Cruise with fellow party-goers & enjoy an open bar of essential Colombian liquors, nothing too fancy. Rum and Aguardiente with mixers can lead to quick intoxication. Take pictures and dance on the boat to a mix of Colombian music, reggaeton, and mingle with international crowds. Once the speedboat cruise concludes, you'll receive complimentary entry to two nearby venues by a party crawl group. This part is optional, it doesn't have open bar, and we are not responsible for this after party. Don't feel obligated to spend. If the clubs are empty, feel free to leave!

Cartagena: Guided Tour, with La Popa Convent, and San Felipe

10. Cartagena: Guided Tour, with La Popa Convent, and San Felipe

Discover the magic of Cartagena – declared a World Heritage Site for its architectural distinction and its history – on this 4-hour, small-group tour. Visit the main sites around the city and learn the rich stories behind its culture. The Convent of La Popa in Cartagena is a historical jewel that offers a fascinating tourist experience. Perched on top of a hill, this former Franciscan convent offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. Your guide will accompany you to tell the stories within the fort and explain more of its importance to Cartagena. Make a quick stop at an emblematic symbol of Cartagena – the Old Shoes Monument – and continue into the Walled City. Take a guided walk around the historic center and gain a deep understanding of its culture and architecture before returning to your hotel.

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Frequently asked questions about Cartagena

What are the best day trips and excursions from Cartagena?

The best day trips and excursions from Cartagena are:

Santa Marta

Other Sightseeing Options in Cartagena

Want to discover all there is to do in Cartagena? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Cartagena

Overall rating

4.5
(3,133 reviews)

The tour was great, the staff very friendly and professional. We stopped in very gorgeous places and the water was beautiful. The food and bar were very good too. We were just disappointed by the snorkeling where we didn't see much fish at the places we stopped. It would also have been nice to use the sails of the catamaran rather than the motor all the time but I guess there were not enough wind that day. This being said, the catamaran is large with plenty of places to move and stay including under the shade. This makes the trip very pleasant.

Paola did a great job with the tour. Before we started, we reviewed the most important theoretical concepts. Afterward, we walked around Getsemaní and the Historic Center, where many opportunities for taking pictures exist. I was free to take any type of picture and at the same time, received tips and tricks on what to pay attention to. Furthermore, Paola asked me what I would like to focus on and made sure I was able to practice the same. Super friendly and helpful, many thanks!

This experience was a wonderful host, very helpful and attentive. Yeimy was an absolute gem. They took the time to get to know us and tell us about themselves, the history of La Boquilla, and the mangroves in the surrounding area. The beach was beautiful (and not crowded!!) if you´re Cartagena should take this tour!

This tour was very interesting. our guide Camilo was both entertaining and informative about the city of Cartagena and Colombia. the weather was very warm and he made sure to keep us in the shade whenever possible. We highly recommend this tour to get to know this beautiful city better.

The entire experience was excellent, Isla Sol y Papaya and Isla Barú were unique experiences. The guide gave good service, everyone involved was friendly.