Best Day Trips from Cartagena, Colombia
Captivating Cartagena stands as one of Colombia’s top tourist destinations owing to its unique style and culture, wrapped up in a disarmingly beautiful package of well-preserved historic architecture.
After absorbing the sights and sounds of the vibrant “walled city,” take some time to travel further along the Caribbean coast. The surrounding region offers an opportunity to bask on white-sand beaches, hop from one coral island to another, dive deep into local customs and traditions, and experience unusual geological phenomena. Here are our picks for the best day trips from Cartagena.
1. Feel the Rhythm of African-Colombian Culture in San Basilio de Palenque
Travel time: 90 minutes
The most important reason to visit San Basilio de Palenque is to experience the rich cultural heritage of the first free settlement in the Americas established by formerly enslaved Africans in the 16th century. UNESCO recognized the town’s unique culture, music, and distinctive Spanish-Bantu language called Palenquero as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2005.
Notable landmarks include street art and a statue of founder Benkos Biohó breaking free from the shackles of enslavement in the main plaza. Taking a tour with a local guide is essential to unlock the highlights of a community that survived by hiding beyond Colombia’s coastal swamps, far from the Spanish crown’s reach. In its isolation, ancestral customs related to gastronomy, medical practices, funeral rites, dance, and music thrived.
During your visit, you’ll meet well-known locals who have inherited these traditions, such as healers, drum instructors, dancers, singers, and members of the band Sexteto Tabalá and the hip-hop act Kombelisa Mi. Visitors cannot help but be moved by the rhythm of the music and the town’s resilience in overcoming centuries of oppression.
2. Fish with Locals in La Boquilla’s Mangroves
Travel time: 20 minutes
Since the 17th century, La Boquilla has been home to African-Colombian families earning a living from the abundant seafood in coastal mangroves bordering the Caribbean Sea. In recent years, the area has become a peaceful alternative to Cartagena’s crowded beaches. Known for its steady winds and shallow waters, you can try kitesurfing.
A big part of La Boquilla’s appeal is connecting with nature and the local community. At the beach next to the mangroves, various experiences such as dance workshops, nature tours, and fishing excursions are available. The latter combines a scenic boat ride with casting fishing nets and catching crabs, followed by a fresh seafood lunch with your catch of the day.
3. Find Paradise in the Islas del Rosario
Travel time: 1 hour
A visit to the Islas del Rosario should be at the top of the list for any excursion from Cartagena. The crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding the palm-fringed coral islands offer a glimpse of a paradisiacal landscape. The archipelago is home to one of the most important underwater national parks in the country, boasting a stunning variety of coral and tropical fish.
To see this underwater world, consider joining a snorkeling or diving excursion hosted by local operators, which support reef restoration and marine research projects. If you plan on disembarking, Isla Grande features Playa Libre, one of the few public beaches. Explore various package deals available for island-hopping tours or day passes to nearby hotels, which include transportation, beach access, and delicious fresh-caught seafood for lunch.
4. Lounge Around at a Beach Club on Tierra Bomba
Travel time: 15 minutes
Tierra Bomba is the nearest island to Cartagena, making it a quick beach escape. Its beaches are cleaner and less crowded than those in the city. With shady structures lining the public beach, visitors can order food and drinks while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Consider spending the day at one of Tierra Bomba’s beach clubs, which offer all-inclusive packages including transportation, sunbeds, pool access, and lunch. Besides its stunning beaches, Tierra Bomba has historical sites like the Fuerte de San Fernando, which is free to visit.
5. Bask on Isla Barú’s Postcard-Perfect Playa Blanca
Travel time: 45 minutes
Playa Blanca is one of the most breathtaking beaches to visit on a day trip from Cartagena. With fine powdery sand and cerulean waters, this beach can be easily accessed by a land bridge. However, due to its popularity, the beach can become overcrowded. To fully enjoy its beauty, consider visiting during the weekday or staying overnight in nearby guesthouses.
6. Get Dirty in the Volcán el Totumo
Travel time: 1 hour
Experience the unique phenomenon of mud volcanoes along the Caribbean coast, particularly the Volcán de Lodo El Totumo. For a small fee, you can float in the warm, mineral-rich mud known for its therapeutic qualities. Tours often include nearby attractions like the Salinas de Galerazamba, where the sea takes on a pink hue during certain seasons, creating stunning photo opportunities.
7. Take Extra Time to Enjoy the Natural Beauty of Parque Tayrona
Travel time: 5 hours
The Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona offers isolated inlets with beautiful golden beaches, making it a haven for nature lovers. While it’s feasible to visit in a single day, an overnight stay allows for a more fulfilling experience of the park’s iconic beaches and lush landscapes.
If you’re short on time, consider joining a tour that departs early from Cartagena and returns late. Enjoy a fresh coconut or the famous chocolate bread during your visit as an excellent reward after exploring the park.
