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-Island Speedboat Tour with Lunch & Open Bar

2. Cartagena: 5-Island Speedboat Tour with Lunch & Open Bar

Set out on an adventure on this 5 island-hopping tour by speedboat near Cartagena. Visit the Rosario Islands, Cholon Island, and more. Enjoy lunch on Coral Island and an open bar on board the boat. After meeting your guide and group, head to the pier to board the shared speedboat. The onboard open bar with beers, Colombian liquor, and soft drinks will be available until it runs out, usually by around 11 AM . We strongly recommend that you bring your own alcohol, refreshments, and other snacks, too. Islands will overcharge tourists for meals and drinks. This is something we can't control. Begin the tour with a visit to Bocachica's Fort, followed by a scenic tour of the Islas Del Rosario (Rosario Islands) archipelago. Capture stunning panoramic views of the region while learning about the historical and ecological significance of this beautiful area. Near the Rosario Islands, enjoy the exciting opportunity to engage in snorkeling activities. Witness the underwater remains of a sunken plane once owned by Pablo Escobar, and explore the marine life on a nearby coral reef. Snorkeling times may vary on certain days. Your next stop will be Coral Island, where a delicious lunch and refreshing beverages await. Savor a portion of ceviche during your time there, too. After lunch, continue to Cholon Island, where you can let loose and enjoy a beachside party both on land and on board the boats. Then, head toward Agua Azul or Sky Island — the destination will be decided on the day — to explore the beach, swim, and simply unwind. Make your final stop at Playa Tranquila in Baru. Spend the remainder of the time swimming in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, relaxing on the beach, and exploring until it's time to return to your departure destination.

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: Sunset Cruise with Open Bar

5. 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: Full-Day Speedboat Party with Lunch and Open Bar

6. Cartagena: Full-Day Speedboat Party with Lunch and Open Bar

Discover the thrill of partying all day on the water with this speedboat tour from Cartagena. Stop at some prime partying destinations, grab a drink from the on board bar, and take a dip into inviting turquoise waters. Begin at the pier adjacent to the iconic clock tower. Following a streamlined check-in process, hop aboard a comfortable speedboat and make your way to some popular island hotspots where boating enthusiasts gather for water-based activities. Sip a drink from the open bar which stocks a variety of refreshments and glide across the water in style with a drink in hand. Have the option of bringing your favorite drinks and mixers along for the journey. Choose from a Mingle with locals and other travelers aboard the boat and on the islands. Soak up some sun and make a splash in crystal-clear waters. Refuel along the way with a tasty lunch. On weekends, the atmosphere gets a boost with music from live DJs.

Cartagena: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour & Optional Attractions

7. Cartagena: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour & Optional Attractions

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 14 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, starting every day at 4:00 PM in front of the clock tower (stop 4). Choose between a 1-day pass and a 2-day pass. Take advantage of adapting your day along the routes between 9:00 AM and 7:30 PM. 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. Stops 1. Muelle de la Bodeguita 2. Centro de Convenciones 3. San Sebastian del Pastelillo 4. Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower) 5. Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas 6. Rafael Nunez Museum 7. Boquetillo (entrance to the Walled City) 8. San Francisco (entrance to the Walled City) 9. Plaza Bogrande 10. Avenida San Martin 11. Casino Rio 12. Hotel Caribe 13. Hotel Hilton 14. Iglesia de Castillo Grande

Cartagena: Totumo Mud Volcano Experience

8. 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: Boat Party With Open Bar, Meet Locals & Tourists

9. Cartagena: Boat Party With Open Bar, Meet Locals & Tourists

Level up your Cartagena vacation with a boat bash during sunset or evening hours! Cruise into the sunset with other party people, enjoy an open bar, and vibe with our local host who's got safety and good times covered. This 2-hour fiesta is the ultimate way to keep the energy flowing after lunch and exploring the old city or kick off the night before hitting up a killer rooftop or that dinner reservation. Wear what makes you feel good – this is your scene! While we're all about the party for this particular experience, feel free to soak in the sunset vibes and chill. Don't miss out!

Cartagena: Walled City and Getsemani Shared Walking Tour

10. 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.

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

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What people are saying about Cartagena

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 3,133 reviews

Great expérience. The boat was very comfortable with plenty of seating in the sun and in the shade as well as 3 bathrooms below deck. The ride to the first set of islands was about an hour and a half and it’s a very nice ride very relaxing. At the first stop there is swimming and snorkelling with optional life jackets and poop noodles (altho not much to see underwater, just nice to jump in the water!) about and hour ride to next stop where you are served lunch and salad bar which was quite delicious. At the second stop you are anchored for 2 hours close to a nice beach which we swam to and enjoyed some time on the smooth, sandy shores. Quick swim back to the boat with a spirited ride back to the dock where we just lounged, had some cocktails, and enjoyed the view. All in all a nice day!

I was the only English-speaking traveller so I essentially had a private tour with one of the Islanders. The islanders and staff are friendly and helpful. The beach was quiet with only 4-5 other travelers. I recommend this excursion if you are looking to relax and enjoy the sun

Our guide was Nelson and he was excellent. His 30 years of experience showed. He knows everyone and is very knowledgeable about Cartagena. We had an individual guided tour. Much better than big bus cruise excursions.

Our driver was outside waiting for us after spending 3 hours in customs. We were so grateful! Amazing service. It was great not worrying about hauling a taxi.

Excellent market tour and cooking class with Jasmine. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip. Jasmine is authentic, warm, friendly, and very talented.