Cartagena, otherwise known as Cartagena de Indias, is one of the most popular cities to visit in Columbia. Cartagena looks like it just came out of a movie. The streets are vibrantly lined up. The city is perfect for a vacation and you get to spend it with your families and loved ones. For accommodation, there are plenty of great hotels to stay. If you would like a homier experience, you can book a comfy Airbnb vacation rental as well. But if you want something more out of your trip, you may as well consider a day trip just right outside of Cartagena. To discover more, browse through our well-compiled list of the top day trips from Cartagena, Colombia.
1. Salinas de Galerazamba (Pink Sea) (from USD 58.0)
Counted as one of the best day tours from Cartagena, Salinas de Galerazamba, also known as the Pink Sea, is a mesmerising natural wonder. The Pink Sea gets its distinctive color from a high concentration of microorganisms known as Dunaliella salina, which thrive in the highly saline waters of the salt pans.
Stretching across an expansive area, the Salinas de Galerazamba presents a breathtaking sight as the pink waters contrast with the surrounding white salt formations. The interplay of colors creates a surreal and ethereal atmosphere, making it a photographer’s paradise and an enchanting spot for nature enthusiasts.
Apart from its visual appeal, the salt pans have played a significant role in the region’s history and economy. Salt extraction has been a tradition in Galerazamba for centuries, and the salt produced here is known for its purity and quality.
Galerazamba Pink Sea Quick Private Tour
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
2. San Basilio de Palenque (from USD 137.0)
This Palenque village is located in the northern part of Colombia. It is one of the most important villages in America and UNESCO also declared this village as the ‘Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity’. The population is around 4000. One of the places with great historical sites around Cartagena, Colombia, San Basilio de Palenque makes for a great day tour, especially for history buffs. Visitors should consider visiting the village if they would like to experience the history and culture over there. Make sure to dress appropriately.
Cartegena to San Basilio de Palenque Day Trip Including Lunch
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
3. La Boquilla
The fishing village is home to beautiful mangroves and it is a real gem. It is even Instagram feed-worthy. It is just a 25-minute drive from Cartagena. La Boquilla is heavily influenced by African cultures, such as clothes, food, and language. At the same time, you will also be able to experience a slice of the local’s life like learning how to fish. Come and join down in this adventure.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Bocagrande
Bocagrande is a neighbourhood city for the elites in Cartagena, Colombia. Bocagrande has a lot of activities to offer like the sandy beaches, the diversity of good food and casinos. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Furthermore, you are able to rent a beach chair from these restaurants, too. Be sure to visit Plaza Bocagrande which is the biggest shopping mall in Bocagrande.
5. Playa Blanca (from USD 50.7)
Playa Blanca is a popular beach place for tourists and is just located 20 km (12 mi) away from Cartagena. The water is clear and blue. There are plenty of ways to get to Playa Blanca like by taxi and a shuttle bus. If you want to make the most out of your day trip, you can even travel by speedboat. The beach has a lot of water activities to offer, such as snorkelling and jet-ski. There is even a plankton tour and it is best to go at night, as these planktons glow in the dark. This popular beach place can get a bit overcrowded sometimes, so be sure to check the best time to schedule your trip to Playa Blanca.
From Cartagena: Day Trip to Playa Blanca with Lunch
Duration: 7.0 hour
6. El Totumo (from USD 62.0)
El Totumo is a famous mud volcano where visitors can immerse in a therapeautic mud bath which is believed to have healing properties. A visit to El Totumo begins with a short climb up the volcano, followed by the exhilarating experience of descending into the mud crater. After enjoying a relaxing mud bath, visitors can rinse off in the nearby lake, removing the mud and revealing their refreshed and glowing skin. The entire experience is truly one-of-a-kind, leaving visitors feeling rejuvenated and invigorated.
Apart from the mud bath, El Totumo’s surroundings offer scenic beauty, with lush vegetation and picturesque views of the countryside. It’s a perfect opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and connect with nature.
Totumo Volcano Private Transportation from Cartagena
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
7. Taganga
Taganga is a fishing village and is just a four hours drive away from Cartagena. It is a hidden gem and you should surely check out. Visit the Tayrona National Park, where the thick lush green trees compliment the blue sea. Go and do some water activities like scuba diving at the water’s calm bay or go on a fishing tour. For hiking and trekking enthusiasts, visit Minca, which is located just around the mountains of Taganga and Santa Marta. There is something for everyone in Taganga.
8. Tierra Bomba Island
Tierra Bomba Island is about a 15 minutes boat drive away from Cartagena, Colombia. It is also perfect for a day trip as it is one of the closest islands to travel to. As it is just close to the city area, you and your loved ones will be able to view the city skyline from the island. Check out Namaste Beach Club, which is a chillout area and gives an international boho vibe. Perfect for you to enjoy nature.
9. Isla de San Bernardo
Isla de San Bernardo has a total of 10 islands, so you will definitely be spoilt for choices. Some islands are a real hidden gem for tourists. These islands are only accessible by boat. The islands have plenty to offer to tourists and locals alike. Water activities must be in your one of things-to-do-list when visiting the islands. Or if not, go and chill at the calm sea waters and admire the horizon.
10. Mercado de Bazurto
If you like to experience a bit of the local life, why not visit one of the local markets, Bazurto market, which is short for Mercado de Bazurto. Bazurto market is a giant and vibrant market that offers the freshest produce. You will feel warmly welcomed by the locals’ enthusiasm and smiles. It is best to go there early in the morning. Be sure to wear something comfortable when you visit the market.
11. Rosario Islands (from USD 95.0)
If you want to stay far away from the hot and busy city life and enjoy the cool breezes from the sea, Rosario Islands, otherwise known as Corales Islas del Rosario, is just located off the coast of Colombia. It is about an hour away from Cartagena by boat. It is one of the most important national parks in Colombia and hence it is very well-preserved. It is a perfect day trip for those who want to take a breather. In the Rosario Islands, you can visit the natural aquarium known as Oceanarium. Additionally, you can kayak in the mangroves, as well as go scuba diving.
Day Trip to Rosario Islands
Amazing Cartagena
Whenever you feel stressed or burnt out, it is always important to have some self-care and take a breather. Buzzing with fun activities, Cartagena, Colombia, has so much more to offer other than just its beaches. You will get to experience and appreciate the local life and culture that is around Colombia. Have a great journey.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Cartagena
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