Best Things to Do in Cartagena: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems
Editeur
Update
After staying in Cartagena de Indias more than fifteen times, here are my top recommendations for things to do.
Stop visiting the city like any other tourist. Start discovering its hidden gems and book quality activities with our favorite experts.
Edit 05/2024: We completely revised this article.
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BEST THINGS TO DO IN CARTAGENA DE INDIAS: THE MOST FAMOUS
Some are must-dos. Others are rather disappointing.
Cultural
TPMT note: 10/10
Visit THE HISTORIC CENTER
This is the most visited (and most stunning) part of Cartagena.
The historic center of Cartagena was declared a World Heritage site in 1984. It is one of the oldest cities in Colombia, and its history, filled with pirate attacks and two independence dates, makes it a fascinating place to explore.
Moreover, its grand colonial and republican-style houses, with their colorful facades, flower-adorned wooden balconies, and decorated entrance doors that reveal the owner’s status at a glance, its impressive walls with cannonball marks and sea fossils, make this neighborhood a delightful place to visit. And since it’s pretty small, everything is within walking distance!
+ An excellent district with top-notch bars and restaurants.
+ Beautiful monuments to visit: Santuario de San Pedro Claver, Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría, Iglesia Santo Toribio, La Serrezuela.
+ Pleasant spots to sit under the trees. I particularly like Plaza Fernández Madrid and Plaza de San Diego.
– There are always plenty of tourists, rappers (it’s a surprise!), and street vendors.
– Depending on the time of day, it can get very hot.
There are several ways to explore the historic center:
- Alone: I suggest visiting the Naval Museum and the Gold Museum to learn more about the history of Cartagena.
- A free walking tour: The groups are usually very large, making it hard to interact with your guide. However, the explanations are often interesting. I recommend the agency Beyond Colombia. These tours last about 2-3 hours.
- A group tour: Opt for agencies that limit their groups to a maximum of 10-12 people.
- A private tour: This is my favorite choice because you can start at any time of the day and focus on a particular theme. Don’t hesitate to include a visit to Getsemaní, as well as the Convento de la Popa and Fort San Felipe.
- You can also explore the historic center with a Gabriel Garcia Marquez theme, focusing on the famous Colombian writer (Nobel Prize winner) who was always inspired by the Caribbean coast in his books.
- f you can, begin your tour of Cartagena’s historic center around 7 a.m. There are no cars and fewer people, the light is lovely, and the temperature is comfortable.
- Don’t hesitate to come back in the evening too!
- The historic center is divided into two neighborhoods: El Centro and San Diego. Many visitors only wander around El Centro and miss out on the charming streets of San Diego, which has preserved its authenticity with its colorful small houses. Don’t make that mistake.
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BETTER EXPLORE COLOMBIA
Local experts (a.k.a us 😎) help you make the best travel choices.
You keep second-guessing and switching plans… your itinerary is a total mess!
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I created a free guide with 9 super easy-to-use maps to show you my favorite places and activities across the country.
Want it? Just head to this page.
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Fun and Cultural
TPMT note: 10/10
VISIT GETSEMANI
For taking pictures in front of beautiful graffiti.
Getsemaní is part of the historic center. During colonization, it was the workers’ district and wasn’t considered worth protecting from pirates—until the government changed its mind for strategic reasons and enclosed it within the new walls.
In the last ten years, it has become a fashionable area due to its vibrant nightlife, authentic atmosphere with locals still living there, and the beautiful graffiti that adorns its streets. However, you won’t find grand colonial buildings there (except for the Church of the Trinity).
Getsemaní is just a 10-minute walk from Puerta del Reloj, the entrance to the El Centro district. It’s pretty small, with only about ten streets.
+ A lively nightlife that exudes a holiday vibe. However, it’s rather noisy and somewhat loco.
+ Amazing graffiti for photos.
+ Hotels and restaurants are cheaper than in the other part of the historic center..
– There’s nothing specific to do or see. Just take in the ambiance and wander around.
- Duration: It takes about an hour to walk through all the streets of Getsemaní.
- You don’t need a guide to enjoy Getsemaní. However, a Free walking tour that explains the history behind each piece of graffiti is available.
- To get from the historic center to Getsemaní, I recommend passing through Parque Centenario to look for titi monkeys, iguanas, and sloths (good luck with the latter). Then, head down Carrera 10 towards Plaza la Trinidad.
- The liveliest streets at night are Plaza de la Trinidad, Callejón Ancho, and Calle de las Sombrillas.
- The dual personality of Getsemaní attracts me. Unlike the lively nights, mornings are peaceful—the perfect time for quiet exploration and to watch locals having breakfast.
©Tomplanmytrip
Relaxation
TPMT note: 10/10
RENT A PRIVATE BOAT
The best way to enjoy the Rosario Islands in one day.
I love renting a boat (with crew) to visit the Rosario Islands. This gives you a lot of flexibility, as you can decide your itinerary based on the agency’s recommendations and your mood at the time. Typically, the following islands are visited: Isla Barú, Isla Cholón, Isla Grande, and Tierra Bomba.
+ You feel like a star.
+ The turquoise waters of Isla Grande are stunning.
+ You’re flexible: timing, route.
+ An excellent way to avoid some of the tourists.
– It’s expensive if you’re alone or a couple, but it becomes worthwhile if you’re in a group of more than 4 people.
– The return boat trip can be choppy, particularly in the windy season.
- Duration: Rentals are available only from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Ask the agency to provide ice and drinks for your cooler.
- Don’t book with an unknown agency—some are very bad or charge exorbitant prices. I recommend the expert we know personally.
- Isla Grande is my favorite island, with the most turquoise water. It also has cool beach restaurants.
- Isla Cholón is perfect for partying, but it can be noisy and overwhelming.
- I find Playa Blanca (Isla Barú) often too crowded.
©Tomplanmytrip
Relaxation
TPMT note: 10/10
ENJOY THE SUNSET
One of my favorite moments in Cartagena.
In Cartagena, the sun sets over the sea. Believe me, there’s nothing better than watching it with a good cocktail in hand (or at least a cold beer).
Here are my favorite spots:
- The Walls: The easiest option, and it’s free. You can also queue to sit at the famous Café del Mar.
- Movitch Rooftop: This is my favorite view in Cartagena. It’s perfect for sunset with a good cocktail. The only downside is the loud music.
- La Terraza Municipal: This is an excellent terrace for the end of the day, with a lovely ambiance, though you can’t see the entire sunset.
- Convento Santa Cruz de la Popa: Incredible view of Cartagena with the sunset in the background. Requires a taxi and you get an hour to enjoy.
- Punta las Velas: A beach restaurant in Laguito. Very windy, but the location is nice.
- The sun sets quickly in Colombia. Check the times online and arrive at least 30 minutes early.
- You can also decide to be on a boat in Cartagena’s bay.
©Tomplanmytrip
Foody
TPMT note: 9.5/10
The cuisine of the Caribbean Coast
Eating well and discovering new flavors is one of my favorite aspects of traveling.
Colombia may not be famous for its cuisine, but there are excellent dishes that will make your taste buds tingle.
You must try the fried fish plate with coconut rice and patacones. There’s also the cazuela de mariscos, a creamy seafood stew that’s simply divine. And I can’t even begin to describe the camarones al ajillo, shrimp in a garlic butter sauce that’s absolutely incredible. I also love searching for the best grilled octopus.
Here are some activity ideas:
→ Book at restaurants specializing in Colombian cuisine. I recommend Carmen, Candé, Agua de León, La Cocina de Pepina, Celele, and Sambal.
→ Explore the streets of Cartagena in search of the best street food. You’ll find many vendors selling patacones with salty cheese, Cartagena ceviche (with ketchup!), fresh fruit juices, carimañolas, and empanadas. Several agencies also offer street food tours of the historic center.
→ I also loved taking cooking classes. They last about 3 hours and are an opportunity to learn how to prepare Posta Negra Cartagenera, carimañolas, fish cooked in Bijao leaves, seafood casserole, and much more!
- Cooking classes can be combined with a visit to Bazurto Market to buy ingredients. It is the largest open market in Cartagena and takes place in the morning.
- You can also arrange a Colombian rum tasting with chocolate.
©Tomplanmytrip
Relaxation
TPMT note: 9/10
Plan a romantic getaway
Cartagena is the ideal town for lovers.
My wife, Alejandra, loves Cartagena. With its splendid colonial buildings, lively streets, and pleasant climate, it’s undoubtedly an excellent choice for a romantic getaway.
Start by choosing a boutique hotel in the historic center. These hotels have no more than a dozen rooms and pay special attention to detail. I love Amarla, La Casa del Arzobispado, and Casa Pestagua.
Then, plan memorable activities: boat rentals, cooking, and dance classes, and photo sessions.
End each day at a new spot to admire the sunset before heading to the city’s best restaurants. I particularly recommend Jardin Santa Clara, Alma, Restaurante 1621, Fuerte de San Sebastián, and La Girolata.
- Make sure your hotel isn’t close to a nightclub.
- Don’t forget to book in advance to secure a spot at the best restaurants.
- Some restaurants host small concerts on weekends.
- Cartagena is an expensive city. Plan a substantial budget (at least 200-300 euros per person per day) if you want to enjoy yourself truly.
©Tomplanmytrip
Culture
TPMT note: 8.5/10
DISCOVER san balisio de palenque
The first free city in the Americas.
San Basilio de Palenque is notable for being the first free town in the Americas, founded by escaped slaves led by African king Benkos Biohó. Now a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site, the village has preserved its African roots through dance, music, language, and food. Its residents maintain their traditional customs, including a unique Spanish-based creole language called Palenquero and traditional medicine practices.
+ A fascinating history and culture.
+ Delicious cuisine.
+ Nice encounters.
– Very hot.
If you take a tour from Cartagena (recommended):
- Duration: 7-8 hours
- Transport: 50 minutes each way
- Difficulty: 2/5—the village is small
- You can go on your own (2 hours by bus), but I don’t see the point as you need a guided tour to understand this place.
- There’s the Palenque Drum Festival in October.
- It’s best to go early in the morning due to the heat. And ask for an umbrella for the sun!
©Tomplanmytrip
Relaxation
TPMT note: 8/10
VISITING THE ROSARIO ISLANDS WITH A GROUP
Ideal if you decide not to rent a private boat.
This option is similar to renting a private boat, except you’ll be with other people and won’t have the flexibility to choose the itinerary. It’s up to you to carefully select the type of excursion you want and to look closely at what’s included and what’s not in the trip.
+ It’s cheaper than renting a boat and allows you to meet other travelers..
– It can be challenging to find good tours, as these agencies are often poorly organized or don’t provide good advice once you’re there.
Different types of tours:
- For spending the whole day on a catamaran and swimming in turquoise waters.
- For partying on Isla Cholón.
- For “visiting” five islands.
- The underwater scenery at the Rosario Islands isn’t impressive.
- If your tour stops at Isla Cholón, double-check prices before buying anything, as scams are common.
- Don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun.
- Tours sold on the streets of Cartagena are often of poor quality. It’s better to book a tour online, where you can read reviews and see the itinerary.
©Tomplanmytrip
History
PMT: 7.5/10
CASTILLO SAN FELIPE DE BARAJAS
The largest Spanish colonial fortification in South America.
Initially built in the 17th century, this impressive fortress was expanded after attacks like Drake’s in 1586 and Pointis’ in 1697 and played a crucial role in the Battle of Cartagena de Indias in 1741.
Today, you can visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, explore its structure and tunnels, and learn about its strategic importance in protecting Cartagena.
I didn’t find the tour very informative, but it can be impressive if you’re not used to seeing fortifications.
- Duration: 1 hour max
- Difficulty: 1.5/5
- Location: 5 minutes by taxi from downtown.
- Don’t walk to Castillo San Felipe, as the surrounding area isn’t very safe.
©Tomplanmytrip
Relaxation
TPMT note: 7/10
LOOK FOR CARTAGENA BEACHES
You might be disappointed. But I have a solution.
Cartagena’s beaches aren’t pleasant. The water is murky, and the beaches are crowded with plastic chairs and street vendors. Personally, I don’t think they’re worth visiting.
I prefer the beaches of the Rosario Islands. Playa Blanca is a beautiful white sand beach an hour from Cartagena, but it has suffered from mass tourism and isn’t great either.
The best option for a full day of beach relaxation is to buy a day pass offered by hotels on Isla Grande. They’re an hour’s boat ride from Cartagena, giving you about five hours on the beach.
- If you still want to see Cartagena’s beaches: Playa Laguito, Playa Castillo Grande, and Manzanillo del Mar are the “best” ones.
- My favorite beach spots: Islabela and Pa’ue—both on Isla Grande.
- For partying on the beach: Bora Bora (Isla Grande) and Amare (on Tierra Bomba).
- Duration: generally from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Always confirm the price before buying anything on the beach.
- Otherwise, you can take a tour of the Rosario Islands or rent a private boat.
©Tomplanmytrip
Relaxation
TPMT note: 5/10
volcan El Totumo & Galerazamba
A bit too tourist trap for my taste.
El Totumo Volcano isn’t my cup of tea, but it has a certain appeal for those seeking particular experiences. Once there, you’ll descend a ladder into the volcano’s crater, filled with mineral-rich mud said to be beneficial for the skin and hair. You’ll be crammed with other tourists under the sun, trying to keep your head above the mud between two pairs of buttocks..
Nearby is Galerazamba and its pink sea, which is colored by high salt content and special algae. It’s beautiful but mainly a photo opportunity and not available year-round.
+ It’s something you’ve probably never done before.
– You might wait in line under the sun for a long time before taking your mud bath.
– There’s a lot of people.
- Durée: 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: 1.5/5
- Location: 1 hour from Cartagena
- With this agency
- Opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds.
- Wear a swimsuit you’re willing to part with, as it might get stained.
- Rain prevents the water from turning pink in Galerazamba. It’s best to visit from December to April.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN CARTAGENA DE INDIAS: MY HIDDEN GEMS
To enjoy Cartagena even more.
Nature & Culture
TPMT note: 10/10
THE VILLAGE OF LA BOQUILLA
Crab fishing in the mangroves and cooking with locals.
In La Boquilla, a fishing village 20 minutes from Cartagena, life is different. Board a traditional canoe and explore the mangroves. Navigate through the “Tunnel of Love,” observe birds, and try crab fishing.
After your efforts, enjoy eating what you’ve caught. A family will welcome you for lunch, preparing a feast over a wood fire.
I’ve done this activity twice, and it’s one of my favorite things to do in Cartagena. It’s an authentic and raw experience that offers a glimpse into local life.
+ The boat ride through the mangroves is delightful. Ideal for families.
+ You actively participate in the fishing.
+ Food is delicious.
+ It’s a peaceful place, yet so close to Cartagena.
– The sun can be intense.
- Location: 20 minutes by taxi from the historic center of Cartagena.
- Duration: 3 to 7 hours—according to the option you choose.
- Difficulty: 1.5/5
- I recommend this expert.
- To fish, you’ll need to get your feet and pants wet.
- Arrive early to maximize your experience. It’s better for bird watching and the weather is cooler.
- Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat to protect yourself from the sun.
©Tomplanmytrip
Fun
TPMT note: 10/10
COCKTAILS CLASS
A funny way to start the evening.
There’s nothing like enjoying delicious homemade snacks and making cocktails with ingredients you’ve never tried before.
Romario and his team warmly welcomed us into their large kitchen in the heart of Cartagena’s historic center. The menu included five cocktails made with Aguardiente, Lula vodka, Colombian rum, and… then my memory started to fade 😀
But seriously, this isn’t about “getting drunk”. Travelers come here to discover new flavors and have a great time.
+ The staff is well-trained, and the kitchen is well-equipped.
+ The snacks are delicious. I had enough to eat for the evening.
+ Les cocktails are also really good.
+ The establishment is located right in the historic center, making it easy to continue the evening.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Location: San Diego (historic center)
- Difficulty: 0.5/5
- I booked this tour.
©Tomplanmytrip
Foody
TPMT note: 10/10
Take a Sweet Break
Ice cream, brunches, pastries. Perfect for recharging.
I think I don’t need to spell it out. There’s more to life than just savory food. After a walk under Cartagena’s scorching sun, you’ll be happy to find yourself in an air-conditioned room enjoying a sweet treat.
Here are my top tips for Cartagena:
- My favorite ice creams are from Gelateria Tramonti.
- For brunch or a big breakfast, go to Epoca, Cafe de la Mañana, or La Brioche.
- For pastries with your coffee: Nia Bakery.
- And don’t hesitate to grab freshly squeezed orange juice from the street. You can ask for a little extra by saying, “y la ñapa, porfa.”
©Tomplanmytrip
Fun
TPMT note: 10/10
Bachelor/Bachelorette Party
The ideal town to have fun with friends.
Cartagena can be quite affordable if you have about ten friends who want to organize an unforgettable trip. However, planning can be time-consuming, and you don’t want to miss out (or get ripped off) on such an important occasion. It’s best to leave the organization of a bachelor or bachelorette party to a Cartagena expert.
Here are some suggestions for this adventure:
- Rent a beautiful colonial villa with a pool or even a private island!
- Hire a private boat for a Caribbean party, ideally a yacht.
- Have a personal chef to handle meals.
- Hire a concierge to secure tables at the best restaurants and clubs.
- Get pampered at an excellent spa or have a masseuse come to the villa.
+ Easily accessible by plane.
+ Easy to explore on foot.
+ A genuine Caribbean vacation atmosphere.
+ An unforgettable stay at a reasonable price.
We’ll be adding soon this expert to our page. For now, contact us directly at support@www.tomplanmytrip.com
©Tomplanmytrip
Romantic
TPMT note: 10/10
GETTING MARRIED IN Cartagena
To celebrate the most beautiful day of your life.
Cartagena is one of the most romantic cities in the world, with its stunning colonial buildings, warm year-round temperatures, and dreamy Caribbean vibe. It’s the perfect place for a movie-worthy wedding, but you’ll need some help to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are suggestions you can ask your wedding planner for:
- Find the ideal venue: colonial hotel, beach club, church.
- Access to reliable service providers (and trust me, that’s not easy).
- Have an on-site expert to resolve any issues—like a wildcard.
- Help organize your guests’ stay. It would be a shame not to enjoy Cartagena!
+ Everything is within reach and easy to organize (before, during, and after the wedding).
+ A favorable climate year-round with the Caribbean Sea nearby.
+ A dream setting perfect for a beautiful photo session.
+ More affordable than in Europe or the United States.
– A very touristy city.
We’ll be adding soon this expert to our page. For now, contact us directly at support@www.tomplanmytrip.com
- The sunniest days are from January to April.
- Avoid the peak season (December 20 – January 15) and Easter week.
- Cartagena is very popular. Plan your wedding in advance.
©Tomplanmytrip
Fun
TPMT note: 9.5/10
SHAKE IT ON THE dance floor
It’s a chance to learn some dance moves.
The Costeños (inhabitants of the Caribbean coast) love to party. Here, people dance champeta, cumbia, salsa, and merengue.
The top of the top? Taking a few dance lessons, then hitting the dance floor in front of a live band. Trumpets, drums, bongos, timbales, claves, and congas. It’s incredibly catchy.
Here are some ideas to enjoy Cartagena’s dancing atmosphere:
- Take salsa lessons at Crazy Salsa School.
- Visit a salsa bar: La Tertulia (my favorite), Café Havana, Donde Fidel.
- Ask a local to teach you some dance moves before going out (easy to find on Airbnb).
- Don’t be shy. No one judges you here (except other tourists, haha).
- Dance bars are generally open from Wednesday to Saturday.
- It’s best to come wearing pants (dress code) and bring cash. There is an entry fee.
©Tomplanmytrip
Nature
TPMT note: 9/10
GO ANIMALS SPOTTING
Drunk tourists aren’t the only strange bipeds around here.
Aside from the beach and islands, it seems there is very little nature around Cartagena. However, there is a very special (and endangered) ecosystem: the dry tropical forest. It is best to visit with a guide to observe the monkeys and specific flora that have adapted to the cycle of intense dry periods and successive rains.
I loved the tour offered by our local expert. He drove us to Montes de María, and then we attended a Cumbia concert in the village of Jacinto. An excursion that combines nature and culture. A pleasant discovery.
- Duration: They offer various tours from 8 to 11 hours.
- Difficulty: 3/5. These are not technical hikes, but you need to enjoy walking.
- I booked this tour.
There are other places where you can observe animals:
- The monkeys at Parque Centenario.
- The birds in the La Boquilla mangroves and the National Aviary (Isla Baru).
- The Guillermo Piñeres Botanical Garden.
©Tomplanmytrip
Fun
TPMT note: 9/10
Enjoying a good cup of coffee
Do you know how to make the difference between good and bad coffee?
Colombia is known for producing the best coffee in the world. Unfortunately, there are no coffee plantations around Cartagena (they are usually found at 1500-2000 meters above sea level). However, you can participate in a coffee tasting or simply sit in a cozy establishment and choose your preferred coffee preparation method!
- San Alberto offers 1.5-hour coffee tastings in the historic center.
- Café del Mural, located in Getsemaní, is owned by a crazy inventor who loves machines and coffee.
- Libertario and Epoca are two other good places to enjoy a coffee (in addition to San Alberto).
©Tomplanmytrip
Fun
TPMT note: 9/10
EVENTS IN Cartagena
There will be crowds. There will be noise. But it is generally still fun.
The cultural events in Cartagena de Indias highlight the richness of its history and arts.
Here’s an overview of the main events:
- Independence Day: This early November event celebrates liberation from Spanish rule and features parades, dance performances, and neighborhood festivities. It culminates in the Independence Beauty Pageant, which crowns the Queen of Cartagena.
- The Hay Festival: Held annually in January, this global cultural festival celebrates literature, arts, and journalism.
- Cartagena International Film Festival: The oldest film festival in Latin America, held in March, highlighting Colombian and Ibero-American cinema.
- Christmas and New Year: Many upscale restaurants offer holiday meals, and there’s a spectacular fireworks display.
- Don’t come during these dates if you are agoraphobic or tourist-averse.
- Book your accommodation well in advance. The same goes for activities, boat rentals, and restaurants.
- Be prepared to pay higher prices.
- Be extra vigilant about pickpockets.
©Tomplanmytrip
Relaxation
TPMT note: 8.5/10
Beach clubs IN Tierra Bomba
The best beach clubs in Cartagena.
Tierra Bomba is the closest island to Cartagena (15-20 minutes by boat) and a great option for a fun day by the water.
While you won’t find pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters here, the island’s beach clubs are much more pleasant than those on Isla Barú or Isla Grande.
These clubs offer day packages (including transport and lunch) and regularly host weekend events—keep an eye on their Instagram. You can also stay overnight.
+ No long and rough round trips by boat..
+ More flexible schedules.
+ Beach clubs with pools offering better value for money.
– The beaches are not paradise-like (but still acceptable).
Here are my favorite beach clubs:
- Blue Apple: The trendiest beach club, located on the best part of the island.
- Amare: A more affordable alternative to Blue Apple, serving delicious cocktails.
- If you absolutely want turquoise water, you can go to Bora Bora on Isla Grande.
- Take the transportation option offered by the beach club.
©Apple Beach
Nature
TPMT note: 8.5/10
ENJOYING ISLA BARÚ
There are better things to do than crowd onto Playa Blanca.
Many travelers make the same mistake, so I’ll repeat myself. Playa Blanca is beautiful but far too crowded.
However, that’s no reason to remove Isla Barú from your Cartagena itinerary.
I recommend joining a guided tour to explore an impressive aviary (they care for birds rescued from illegal trafficking) or heading south to visit the colorful village of Barú and its less crowded beaches. You’ll also have the chance to walk through the mangroves—though I prefer those in La Boquilla.
+ I loved the aviary—over 170 bird species. I saw the harpy eagle!
+ It’s a great way to get off the beaten path.
– The road is in poor condition. It can be a bit bumpy.
– It’s quite far (3 hours round trip).
Here are the experiences you can book:
- There are two bird shows daily at the Aviario.
- Another way to enjoy Isla Barú is to stay overnight.
©Tomplanmytrip
Favorite experiences in cartagena, Colombia
Directly contact the best local agencies for this destination
Cartagena: Rent a boat to explore the Rosario Islands 1d
Colombia
1 Day
3 places
A tailor-made boat trip to enjoy the Rosario Islands: Find the most stunning islands and either dodge the tourists or party with them.
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Cartagena: Luxury villa rental
Colombia
1 place
Imagine choosing a luxury villa, whether modern or colonial in style, to fully enjoy Cartagena.
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Cartagena: All inclusive villa rental
Colombia
1 place
Imagine being able to choose the villa that appeals to you most and add the services you like.
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Cartagena: Villa Rental with Private Pool
Colombia
1 place
Think about the joy of diving into the pool of your beautiful villa after a day out in 30°C weather.
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Cartagena: Partying on Isla Cholon 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Hop on a private boat with friends to Cartagena's most festive island. Reggaeton, turquoise waters, and an epic party await under the sun!
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Cartagena: charter a yacht to visit the Rosario Islands 1d
Colombia
1 Day
3 places
A comfortable and luxurious tailor-made boat trip to enjoy the most stunning islands of the Rosario Archipelago.
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Cartagena: sailboat to enjoy the Rosario Islands 3d
Colombia
3 Days
4 places
Booking a sailboat for a few days is the perfect way to explore the Rosario Islands in peace, catching the magic of sunrise and sunset.
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Cartagena: Historic center and Getsemani guided tour 0,5d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Cartagena, its battles, influence, and luminous architecture.
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Cartagena: discover the bustle of the Bazurto market 0.5d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Keep your senses sharp, observe, listen, smell, touch, and taste to fully immerse yourself in this experience.
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Cartagena: Discover La Boquilla, its mangroves and its people 0.5d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Enjoy the tranquility of the mangroves and immerse yourself in the ambiance of La Boquilla's residents.
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Cartagena: the fascinating history of San Basilio de Palenque 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary cultural heritage of the first free village in the Americas.
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Better Travel To Colombia
After years of working in Colombian tourism, I keep seeing travelers make the same mistakes: they travel too fast, visit the same places, miscalculate travel times, book the wrong activities, and so on. And even if they have a great time, they always say: “Ah, if only I had known, I would have done things differently.”
But for you, it can be different.
Opt 1: We improve
A 15-minute video call (free) to answer your questions, improve your itinerary, and connect you with our top local partners (paid)
Tell me moreOpt 2: We create
We chat to design the trip of your dreams, and you get a beautiful day-by-day itinerary with access to all our top contacts.
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We help travelers fall in love with Colombia since 2015.
Tom & Adrien
Feel free to use our forms and services to improve your trip.
I know there are tons of resources online, and everyone loves to share their opinion — it can get pretty confusing, and might even make you doubt your choices.
The easiest solution? Trust us. And if you’re unsure, just check out our reviews on Google.
Discover More About Colombia
To learn everything about Colombia, check out our page dedicated specifically to this country!
