If you’re visiting Excursions Cartagena, Colombia — beyond wandering the historic old town — there are lots of amazing excursions around the city: islands, beaches, nature, history, culture, food, and more. This guide will help you pick the best excursions, plan your days, and enjoy Cartagena at its fullest.
🎯 Why Choose Excursions Around Cartagena
Cartagena isn’t just a colonial city — it’s also a gateway to Caribbean islands, tropical nature, unique culture, and vibrant coastal experiences. Excursions let you combine:
- Beaches & island hopping
- Nature and wildlife
- Local culture & Afro-Caribbean heritage
- Historic forts and colonial architecture
- Food, nightlife, and local markets
Whether you have 1 day or a full week, there are excursions to match your style: relaxing, adventurous, cultural, or fun.
🚤 Top Excursions & Day Trips From Cartagena
Here are some of the most recommended excursions — beaches, islands, nature trips, historical tours and cultural experiences:
1. Islands & Beaches — Islas del Rosario, Isla Barú & Nearby
4
- What it offers: Turquoise Caribbean water, coral reefs, snorkeling, white-sand beaches.
- Many tours combine several islands or include visit to reefs, beach clubs, or beach lunches.
- Good for: Beach lovers, snorkeling fans, couples, groups or friends seeking a relaxed island getaway.
2. Mud Volcano & Natural Excursions — Totumo Volcano & Nearby Nature
4
- A unique and fun experience is visiting Totumo Volcano for a mud bath, a famous excursion from Cartagena.
- For nature lovers, nearby mangrove tours and guided excursions into forests + countryside are also available.
- Good for: Travelers seeking unusual, relaxing experiences or a break from beaches and downtown.
3. Historical & City Tours — Colonial Cartagena & Fortresses
4
- Explore the old walled city, historic architecture, colonial streets, fortresses, and cultural heritage. Highlights include old town walking tours, fortress visits, and colonial-era buildings.
- Great for history lovers, couples, and families wanting to deeply explore Cartagena’s cultural roots.
4. Street Food, Local Markets & Culture Tours — Local Flavor
4
- Dive into local life: street food tours, local markets, food sampling, and cultural tours. Exploring Cartagena with your crew+1
- Visit vibrant neighborhoods, enjoy Afro-Caribbean cuisine, tropical fruits, and local crafts.
- Good for: Food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone who wants to taste real Cartagena.
5. Adventure & Water Activities — Snorkeling, Water Sports, Boat Trips
4
- Many excursions offer snorkeling, diving, boat trips, or relaxed catamaran rides around the islands and coastline.
- Ideal for active travelers, water-lovers, and those wanting both relaxation and adventure.
💡 Approximate Prices & What to Expect
| Excursion Type | Typical Price Range* | What’s Usually Included |
|---|---|---|
| Island / Beach Day Trip (Islas del Rosario / Barú) | ~$35 – $90 USD Vip Cartagena Tours Baru+2Travelhapp Colombia Solo Travel+2 | Boat, beach time, sometimes lunch, snorkeling gear |
| Mud Volcano / Nature Excursion | ~$20 – $40 USD Exploring Cartagena with your crew+1 | Transport, guided visit, mud bath / nature walk |
| City / Historic Walking Tour | Free – ~$15-30 USD Travelhapp Colombia Solo Travel+2lifeisajourneyescapes.com+2 | Guide, city highlights, walking time |
| Food / Street Market Tour | ~$20 – $40 USD Exploring Cartagena with your crew+1 | Food tasting, local guide, market visit |
| Water / Boat / Adventure Tour | ~$30 – $70 USD+ depending on activities Travelhapp Colombia Solo Travel+2lifeisajourneyescapes.com+2 | Boat ride, snorkeling/diving gear, guide |
*Prices depend on season, group size, and extras like lunch, gear, or hotel pick-up.
✅ Tips for Booking Excursions in Cartagena
- ✅ Check reviews and reputation — local agencies or tour platforms.
- ✅ Confirm what’s included: transport, meals, gear, hotel pickup.
- ✅ Go early (morning) for beach/boat trips — to avoid crowds and weather issues.
- ✅ Bring swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water, and cash (some small fees may apply).
- ✅ If you want a relaxed experience, choose smaller group tours or private excursions.
✨ Who Should Choose Which Excursion?
- Beach & island lovers → Island tours, snorkeling, water activities
- Nature & outdoor lovers → Mud volcano, mangroves, countryside tours
- History & culture enthusiasts → Old city walking tours, historic fortresses, cultural market tours
- Foodies & local life explorers → Street food tours, local markets, Afro-Caribbean experiences
- Adventurers & water sports fans → Snorkeling, diving, boat tours
