Best Day Trips from Cartagena: Top Excursions Worth Your Time

As much as Cartagena has to offer, some of the region's most memorable experiences lie just outside the city. A well-chosen day trip adds variety to your itinerary, showcases a different side of Colombia, and gives you stories that go beyond the typical tourist narrative.

Here are the best day trips from Cartagena — each one tested, vetted, and genuinely worth your time.

Why Take a Day Trip?

After a few days exploring Cartagena's core attractions like Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada) and Getsemaní neighborhood, a change of scenery revitalizes your trip. Day trips let you:

• See landscapes and towns that most visitors skip
• Experience different aspects of Colombia's culture
• Break up city-intensive sightseeing with nature or coastal escapes
• Return to Cartagena each evening with fresh perspective

The Top Day Trips

1. Rosario Islands — snorkeling and beach hopping by boat, 1 hour by speedboat

The most popular day trip from Cartagena, and for good reason. Rosario Islands — snorkeling and beach hopping by boat, 1 hour by speedboat offers a completely different experience from the city — whether it is dramatic scenery, historical significance, or local culture, you will understand why travelers rave about it.

• Getting there: Public bus or train (approximately $4 round trip, 1–2 hours each way) or organized tour ($28 including guide).
• Time needed: 6–8 hours (full day)
• What to do: Explore the main sites, try the local version of Arepas de Huevo — fried corn patties stuffed with egg, and take plenty of photos.
• Tip: Depart early (before 8 AM) to beat the tour-bus crowds.

2. Volcán del Totumo — mud volcano bath for a quirky spa experience, 1 hour by car

A slightly different vibe from the first option. Volcán del Totumo — mud volcano bath for a quirky spa experience, 1 hour by car appeals to travelers who prefer cultural immersion and scenic landscapes.

• Getting there: Walking is the best way to explore the walled city and Getsemaní — the journey itself is part of the experience.
• Time needed: 5–7 hours
• What to do: Spend the morning exploring, have lunch at a local restaurant (try Bandeja Paisa — hearty platter with beans, rice, plantain, avocado, and chorizo), and head back in the late afternoon.
• Tip: Bring cash — smaller towns may not accept cards everywhere.

3. Playa Blanca Barú — white sand Caribbean beach, 1 hour by boat or car

For travelers who want something truly off the beaten path, Playa Blanca Barú — white sand Caribbean beach, 1 hour by boat or car delivers. Fewer tourists, more authentic atmosphere, and a genuinely different pace of life.

• Getting there: Water taxis and boats connect to nearby islands and beaches — less frequent service, so plan your return trip in advance.
• Time needed: 5–6 hours
• What to do: Wander the streets, visit local workshops or markets, and soak in the atmosphere.
• Tip: This trip pairs well with a picnic — stock up at a market in Cartagena before you leave.

4. San Basilio de Palenque — first free African settlement in the Americas, 1 hour by car

San Basilio de Palenque — first free African settlement in the Americas, 1 hour by car is the choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The scenery alone justifies the trip, but the activities available — hiking, photography, swimming, or simply sitting and staring — make it unforgettable.

• Getting there: Best reached by organized tour or private car.
• Time needed: Full day (7–9 hours)
• What to do: Follow the main trail, stop for photos at the viewpoints, and refuel with Cocadas — coconut candy in various flavors from palenquera street vendors.
• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring sunscreen regardless of the forecast.

Day Trip Planning Tips

What to Bring

• Water and snacks — not all day-trip destinations have convenient shops.
• Cash — smaller towns and rural areas may be cash-only.
• Sunscreen and a hat — you will likely be outdoors more than in the city.
• A portable phone charger — long days drain batteries fast.
• A light jacket — temperatures outside Cartagena can differ from the city.

Organized Tours vs. DIY

Factor	Organized Tour	DIY
Cost	Higher ($28+)	Lower (transport only)
Convenience	Door-to-door, guide included	Requires planning
Flexibility	Fixed schedule	Go at your own pace
Social	Meet other travelers	More independent
Best for	First-timers, remote locations	Repeat visitors, easy-to-reach spots

Timing Your Day Trips

• Mid-trip is the ideal time for a day trip — you have already seen Cartagena's highlights and need a change of pace.
• Avoid weekends if possible — locals also take day trips, and popular spots get busy.
• Check weather forecasts — some excursions are weather-dependent.

Pro Tips

1. Book tours through reputable operators — your hotel concierge can recommend trusted companies.
2. Start early, return late — maximize your time at the destination.
3. Learn two phrases in Spanish: "How much?" and "Thank you." They work everywhere.
4. Take photos of bus schedules and departure points when you arrive — they are easy to forget later.
5. Use TripGenie to add day trips to your itinerary automatically — the AI optimizes timing so you do not waste hours on logistics.

Our Top Pick

If you only have time for one day trip, choose Rosario Islands — snorkeling and beach hopping by boat, 1 hour by speedboat. It offers the best combination of accessibility, scenery, and unique experience. But honestly, every option on this list is worth your time if your schedule allows.

---

Planning a trip to Cartagena? Let TripGenie create your perfect itinerary — it's free and takes just 60 seconds.