Top 10 Things To Do While in Cartagena, Columbia

My favorite in Cartagena. Here you can find everything. There are shops, restaurants, street food, and museums. There is so much do here. You can even take a carriage ride through the city. There are also hotels and hostels that you can stay in if you wish to stay in the walled city in the center of everything. While in the walled city, don’t forget to eat at La Cevicheria. La Cevicheria, is one of the best places to eat fresh seafood in Cartagena. If you decide to dine at La Cevicheria, it’s best to make reservations or be prepared for a long wait.

2. San Basilio de Palenque

Is the first free city in the Americas and is about a 2-hour drive from Cartagena. You will need a full-day to visit Palenque and learn about their history and traditions. During your visit you will encounter natives who still speak their native language. You will learn about the herbs that are used as medicines in the village. There is also a change to see a dance ceremony and dine on a wonderful meal prepared in the village.

3. El Salar de Galerazamba (Pink Lake)

This lake is located about an hour Northeast of Cartagena on the coast of Colombia within the small pueblo of Galerazamba. This lake is a salt mine that appears a pink hue in the months of February and March. During the other months, the lake appears a rich shade of blue. If you are visiting in February or March, be sure to visit the lake. 

4. Totumo Mud Volcano 

Take a dip in this mineral-infused mud that’s said to have therapeutic properties. There is a steep climb to the top of the volcano. Once at the top, you will have to wait your turn before you can enter the mud pool. Don’t worry about sinking in the mud, as you will not be able to touch the bottom of the pool, the property of the mud causes you to float. There will be locals there who will massage you as you float in the mud. Afterward, there will be local ladies who will help you to wash the mud off your body. Come with change as everyone from the photographer to the bathers will be expecting their tip. So, you will need to bring small bills. 

5. Isla del Rosario 

This was a great experience. We took a full day to visit two dive sites, Isla Grande and IslaBela. The catamaran was beautiful, and the crew were great. They went out of their way help us all feel comfortable and safe! We were able to snorkel and view the amazing coral reef. Lunch was served on board and drinks were available for purchase. It was a lovely day on the water.

6. Barrio Getsemani 

This area of Cartagena is filled with art and culture. Wandering around you will see many murals on the street walls and experience great food and music. Tour with a local who can guide you and teach you the history or take the stroll on your own. Either way you will enjoy the sights and sound.

7. Rum & Chocolate Tasting 

Cartagena is known for is its rum and what’s better than rum and Chocolate. There are many tours that you can book to sample rum and/or chocolate depending on your budget. Treat yourself to tasting all what Cartagena has to offer.

8. Night Life 

There is an excellent collection of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Some playing life music with a variety of drinks. If you stay in the walled city, you will have several options to choose. However, there are places to visit all around Cartagena. Some notable are:

Restaurants:

Night Clubs:

9. Chiva Bus 

You haven’t really experienced Cartagena without stepping on board and experiencing a Chiva. This is usually a 3 to 4 hour tour during the day or night. The night time Chiva tour comes equipped with a bar serving drinks and a live band. There is even stops during your tour to buy snacks.

10. Bazurto Market 

Bazurto Market is Cartagena’s biggest and busiest market. If it’s your first-time visiting Bazurto market, or if you are like me and don’t speak Spanish well, I would suggest that you hire a guide to assist you with navigating the Bazurto market. There are so many stalls and areas that it can be overwhelming. There is so much to see and so many areas to visit.