Transportation to the National AVIARY of Colombia

Experience the Best of Cartagena’s Wildlife and Beaches with the Transportation to the National Aviary of Colombia

If you’re visiting Cartagena and have an interest in Colombia’s beautiful bird species or just want a relaxed day trip, this transportation-focused tour offers a practical way to see the country’s remarkable avian diversity. For around $20.25 per person, you’ll get roundtrip air-conditioned transport to the National Aviary in Barú, plus some free time at Playa Blanca, one of Cartagena’s most popular beaches.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip are the convenience of hotel pickup and the chance to explore Colombia’s colorful birdlife in a natural setting. The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to stay as long as you like at Playa Blanca — three hours of sun, saltwater, and a break from the city buzz. However, a potential drawback is that there’s no guided commentary at the aviary beyond basic info, so if you’re looking for in-depth bird knowledge or multilingual guides, you might find this tour a bit limited.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy simple logistics and scenic excursions more than guided commentary, especially those who want a cost-effective way to visit the aviary and relax on the beach. If you’re comfortable with some Spanish or using messaging apps like WhatsApp for updates, you’ll find this a straightforward, enjoyable day.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers good value for roundtrip transportation and beach access.
• Convenient hotel pickup removes the hassle of navigating local transport.
• Flexibility at Playa Blanca allows you to relax as long as you wish on the beach.
• Natural attraction at the aviary provides an up-close look at Colombia’s colorful bird species.
• Limited guided explanation at the aviary may require prior bird or nature interest.
• Tour is transportation only, so no guided commentary or included entrance fee (cost is $18 USD).

The Experience of Transport to the Colombian Aviary and Playa Blanca

This tour is all about ease and practicality. We start with a prompt pickup at a convenient point — the corner of the Juan Valdez café at the convention center — an easy landmark. The air-conditioned bus whisks us away from the city center along scenic views of Cartagena, the sea, and the surrounding landscape. The short drive, roughly an hour, offers a glimpse of the local scenery, including passing through the small fishing towns of Ararca and Santana, with a quick look at Barú district.

The Journey: Relaxed and Scenic

What sets this experience apart is the comfort of the transportation. We appreciated that the bus had ample seating, and the air conditioning kept everyone comfortable, especially in the tropical heat. The pickup and drop-off process was straightforward, with some reviews mentioning the benefit of hotel pickup, even though it was not explicitly advertised initially.

The Aviary: A Bird Lover’s Dream

Once at the National Aviary of Colombia, you’ll need to purchase your entrance ticket, which costs about $18 USD. The aviary is a sanctuary filled with a variety of birds, including toucans, flamingos, and others flying freely in lush, naturalistic habitats. The experience is designed to give visitors a close-up view of the country’s diverse avian life.

While there’s no detailed guide included, your guide or the staff will share some basic info about the species. We loved the chance to see such a wide variety of colorful, lively birds in a setting that mimics their natural environment, which makes for excellent photos and a genuine appreciation of Colombia’s rich biodiversity.

Some reviews mention the absence of guided commentary beyond the basics, but others appreciated knowing about the importance of preserving natural habitats for these species. It’s a perfect stop for bird enthusiasts or families eager to see Colombia’s wildlife without a complicated or costly guided tour.

Playa Blanca: Sun, Sea, and Sand

After the aviary, the journey continues to Playa Blanca — a pristine beach spot famous for white sand and turquoise waters. Here, you’re free to sunbathe, swim, or just relax for up to three hours. The trip includes roundtrip transport, so there’s no need to worry about arrangements, and vendors on the beach offer souvenirs and snacks, though some reviews note they can be quite persistent.

The beach is stunning, but be prepared for some noise and the hustle of vendors trying to sell their wares. One reviewer called the vendors “extremely persistent,” so bringing small cash and patience will make your experience more enjoyable. The water is inviting, and many find Playa Blanca a perfect spot to unwind after the birdwatching.

The Return: Comfort and Convenience

At 3:00 p.m., the bus departs back to Cartagena, giving you enough time to enjoy both the aviary and the beach in a single day. The return trip is smooth and comfortable, ensuring that you arrive back in the city relaxed and ready for the evening.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a cost-effective, hassle-free way to visit Colombia’s famous bird sanctuary and enjoy some beach time without the need for extensive guided commentary. It’s ideal for independent travelers or families who enjoy scenic transportation, wildlife viewing, and relaxed beach days.

If you’re someone who values convenience over detailed guided explanations, and you’re comfortable with some Spanish or using WhatsApp for updates, this tour will fit your needs well. It’s especially good if you want to maximize your time in Cartagena while avoiding complicated logistics.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Bring cash for the aviary entrance fee ($18 USD) and any snacks or souvenirs at Playa Blanca.
• Have some basic Spanish knowledge or WhatsApp installed to communicate with the guide or operator if needed.
• Pack sun protection — sunscreen, hat, sunglasses — for the beach.
• The duration of the trip (about 6-7 hours) makes it suitable for a half-day adventure, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Consider bringing a camera — the aviary and beach are picture-perfect.
• If you want a more guided experience or detailed bird info, this tour might feel a bit limited, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This transportation tour to the National Aviary in Barú combined with a visit to Playa Blanca offers great value for travelers who prioritize ease and affordability. You’ll enjoy scenic rides, see Colombia’s vibrant bird species in a natural setting, and relax on a beautiful beach — all without the hassle of navigating local transport or booking multiple tickets.

While it’s not a guided tour with detailed commentary, it’s perfect for independent-minded travelers who want a simple, organized day out. If you’re a bird lover, a beach lover, or just someone wanting to experience Colombia’s natural beauty with minimal fuss, this trip offers a practical, enjoyable way to do so.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation on an air-conditioned bus is included, with pickup at a specified city location.

Do I need to buy my entrance ticket to the aviary separately?
Yes, the entrance fee of around $18 USD is paid on-site, not included in the tour price.

How long do I spend at the aviary?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours at the aviary to explore the bird habitats and learn about the species.

Can I stay longer at Playa Blanca?
The tour includes three hours at Playa Blanca, but you’re free to stay longer if you organize your own transportation back.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children who enjoy wildlife and beaches will likely find this a fun and relaxed day trip.

Are guides available at the aviary?
The tour does not include guided commentary, but staff at the aviary will provide basic information about the birds.

What should I bring for the beach?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimsuit, towel, and some cash for snacks or souvenirs.

Is hotel pickup guaranteed?
Most reviews mention hotel pickup, but it’s best to confirm with the operator, especially if staying outside the main area.

Can non-Spanish speakers participate?
Yes, but be aware that the tour’s communication might be limited if no English guide or driver is available; having WhatsApp can help.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

This well-rounded trip is a straightforward way to enjoy Colombia’s vibrant birdlife and stunning beaches, perfect for travelers who value simplicity, comfort, and natural beauty.