The Solo Traveler’s Guide to Colombia’s Caribbean Coast

Discover the beauty of Cartagena’s Rosario Islands on a 5-stop tour that includes lunch and entry fees. Cruise through the sparkling Caribbean waters and visit a series of idyllic islands, each offering its own unique charm. Enjoy activities like snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on white-sand beaches. Savor a delicious local lunch and soak up the tropical atmosphere. Perfect for adventurers and beach lovers alike, this tour provides a full day of exploration, relaxation, and breathtaking views of Colombia’s stunning island landscape.

From colonial churches to atmospheric plazas and elaborately decorated mansions, Cartagena’s Walled City has a fascinating history. A great way to delve into it and familiarize yourself with Cartagena’s most important sites is to join one of the free daily walking tours that start at Plaza Santa Teresa. There are plenty of operators – easily recognizable by their bright yellow umbrellas – come highly recommended for their enthusiastic bilingual guides and in-depth historical knowledge.

Once one of Cartagena’s poorest neighborhoods, today Getsemani is undergoing an impressive cultural revival. Just a five-minute walk from the Old Town, its hip hostels, fusion restaurants and flourishing nightlife are attracting a growing number of travelers. Leading this cultural revolution are Getsemani’s street artists, who, in recent years, have covered its walls in colorful graffiti and murals – many of which comment on the sociopolitical issues and lost history of Colombia. Take a free urban art walking tour and learn the story behind these artworks.

One of the best ways to get to know Cartagena is by trying the local street food. Cartagena foodie tours takes you to all the best vendors in town, giving you the chance to sample delicacies such as arepas (griddled cornmeal cakes), buñuelos (fried dough fritters covered in sugar and cinnamon) and empanadas (a South American pastry filled with meat, vegetables, herbs and spices). You’ll also learn about Colombia’s culinary influences. Tours leave from San Diego Plaza every day – apart from Sundays – at 2.30pm and include up to 10 tastings across two hours.

Pungent aromas swirl through the air at Bazurto Market, which sells meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, street food, handcrafted goods and more. It’s loud, sprawling and somewhat chaotic, but if you embrace the rambunctiousness, you’ll experience a wonderfully raw and authentic side to Cartagena. On this tour, you’ll be guided through the labyrinth of stalls, taste some exotic foods and meet several vendors to find out how they make their products. Afterwards, tuck into lunch at Ceci’s restaurant – famous for featuring on Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations TV show.

While most Cartagena walking tours are predominantly focused around the Walled City, there’s plenty more to see beyond the historical center. On this tour, you’ll visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas – a castle built by the Spaniards on the Hill of San Lázaro to protect themselves from attacks by the English and the French during the 17th century. You’ll then move on to the nearby Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa – a monastery on top of a 150m (492ft)-high hill, offering sweeping views across the city and the harbor. Entry to both sites is included.

As well as covering the main historical landmarks in the Walled City including Cartagena Cathedral and Plaza de Bolivar, this two-hour walking tour includes a trip to the Zenú Gold Museum. Opened in 1982 in a grand colonial building, the museum offers a detailed insight into the ancient Zenú civilization with a particular focus on gold artefacts and pottery from pre-Columbian times.

The Half-Day Mud Volcano tour in Cartagena includes a visit to the Totumo Mud Volcano, where participants can bathe in mineral-rich mud, believed to have healing properties. Afterward, guests can rinse off in a nearby lagoon and enjoy a typical Caribbean lunch. This experience combines relaxation and local culture, offering insight into the region’s natural wonders.

Escape to paradise with the Bora Bora Cartagena Beach Club full-day experience. Enjoy a day of relaxation and luxury on the pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters of Cartagena’s Caribbean coast. Indulge in top-notch amenities, savor delicious local and international cuisine, and unwind in a private beach setting. With beach loungers, refreshing cocktails, and water activities available, this is the perfect getaway for those seeking both tranquility and excitement. Ideal for couples, families, and friends, this experience offers a memorable slice of tropical bliss.

Embark on an unforgettable full-day tour exploring three stunning islands and beach clubs: Rosario, Barú, and Tierra Bomba. Cruise through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and experience the best of each island’s unique charm. Relax on pristine beaches, enjoy refreshing swims, and take part in optional water activities. Visit exclusive beach clubs offering delicious local cuisine, vibrant music, and top-notch service. Perfect for those looking to combine adventure and relaxation, this island-hopping experience provides a day of sun, sea, and fun in a tropical paradise.