Visit Cholon & Baru with lunch

Exploring Cartagena’s Best-Kept Secrets: Cholon & Baru with Lunch

If you’re visiting Cartagena and craving a mix of fun, sun, and authentic local flavor, this Cholon and Baru tour might just fit the bill. For around $60.75 per person, you’ll spend approximately 6 to 7 hours exploring some of the most lively spots just outside the city. The itinerary includes a boat ride to the lively party island of Cholon, a visit to the peaceful beaches of Baru, and a delicious Caribbean lunch.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure and relaxation — from the energetic beach party in Cholon to the calmer, picture-perfect shores of Baru. The included transportation and guided support make it accessible and straightforward for travelers who want a hassle-free day. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a free-flowing beer and authentic Caribbean cuisine adds extra value.

One consideration is that the boat rides can be a bit challenging, especially for those prone to seasickness or looking for a smooth journey. The speedboat experience is part of the fun but can be rough on the way back from Cholon, as one reviewer noted.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and mingling. It’s especially good for those who value guided excursions that handle logistics, freeing you up to focus on enjoying the sights and sounds of the Caribbean coast.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, boat rides, and lunch are included, simplifying logistics.
• Authentic Experience: Visit local fishing districts and enjoy a lively beach party atmosphere.
• Balanced Mix: Combines relaxing beaches with energetic social spaces.
• Authentic Cuisine: Caribbean lunch options and a beer are part of the fun.
• Potential Challenges: Speedboat rides can be rough; be prepared for a bumpy trip.
• Great for Social Travelers: The party vibe and friendly guides suit those looking for a lively day out.

A Detailed Look at the Cartagena Cholon & Baru Tour

When we first read about this tour, what caught our attention was its promise of a day filled with variety. It’s not just about lounging on the sand but also engaging with local culture, enjoying authentic Caribbean food, and experiencing the unique party atmosphere of Cholon.

The Journey Begins – Pickup and Transfer

The tour kicks off early, with a pickup from your hotel, which is a real plus for travelers who prefer not to navigate unfamiliar transport. The group then travels by bus to Baru, a peaceful area just outside Cartagena, known for its pristine beaches and small fishing communities. The relatively quick 30-minute bus ride sets the tone for a day that balances comfort with adventure.

Visiting Ararca and Santana

Before reaching Baru’s main attractions, the tour passes through two local towns, Ararca and Santana. These districts are home to fishermen and islanders, many of whom now see tourism as their main livelihood. This gives travelers a glimpse of authentic local life rather than just tourist hotspots. While you only pass through these towns, it’s a reminder that this part of Colombia still retains its authentic charm.

Highlights of Baru – Playa Blanca

Next, the tour stops at Playa Blanca, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. The white sand and clear waters are a hit in most reviews, including one that called Baru “Very blue waters.” Here, you might find opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing before heading to the main event.

The Main Event – Cholon Island

The highlight for many is the visit to Cholon, often called the Caribbean party island. The boat ride there is lively, with travelers spending around 4 hours immersed in the fun, festive atmosphere. You’ll find palm trees and palm huts, and the environment is lively, with boats anchored close to the beach and crowds enjoying the sun and sea.

The experience is described as “awesome” by those who enjoy socializing, with one reviewer noting it was a place “where the people were very friendly and helpful.” It’s an ideal spot if you want to party on the beach, sip a cold beer, and enjoy the vibrant scene.

The Lunch – Caribbean Flavors

A big plus is the included lunch, with three options to choose from. The focus is on authentic Caribbean cuisine, providing a taste of the local flavors. The lunch, combined with one included beer, makes the experience feel more complete and offers excellent value considering the overall price.

Return Journey and Final Stop

After enjoying Cholon, the tour takes a 30-minute boat ride back to Baru, then it’s a short trip back to Cartagena. Some travelers pointed out the roughness of the return trip—one described it as “extreme,” especially when facing fast waves and high speeds.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practicalities

The tour’s transportation is well-organized, starting with hotel pickup and moving smoothly onto buses and boats. The group size maxes out at 100 travelers, which means it’s lively but still manageable. Mobile tickets and pickup service make it easy to join, especially for first-time visitors.

What You Can Expect

• Timing: Starts at around 8:10 am, with the day wrapping up back at the meeting point.
• Duration: 6–7 hours, offering a full day of sightseeing and fun.
• Inclusions: Transportation, boat rides, a reserved spot in Cholon, lunch, and a guide—good value for the price.
• Limitations: Seasickness might be an issue for some, and the boat rides are considered challenging by certain travelers.

Authenticity and Practical Value

Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude as key strengths. Having a Spanish-speaking guide who can navigate the logistics makes the experience smoother and more enriching.

The price of about $60.75 includes quite a lot—transport, boat rides, lunch, and drinks—which makes it a cost-effective way to see multiple spots without the hassle of planning each step independently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy social, lively environments and don’t mind a bit of boat motion. It’s a good fit if you’re curious to see local island life, participate in a Caribbean beach party, and enjoy authentic regional cuisine.

However, if you’re sensitive to rough boat rides, or prefer calmer, more tranquil beaches without the party atmosphere, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced day of fun, culture, and relaxation. The combination of local towns, stunning beaches, and a lively party scene makes it stand out among Cartagena excursions. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds to its appeal, especially for travelers seeking convenience.

While the boat rides are not for everyone, those looking for a social, energetic experience will find plenty to enjoy. Travelers who appreciate authentic local environments and friendly guides will leave feeling they’ve truly experienced a slice of Caribbean life — lively, colorful, and full of energy.

If your goal is to see beautiful beaches, enjoy local flavors, and party in a fun setting, this tour hits most marks. Just pack some seasickness remedies if you’re sensitive, and prepare for a day full of vibrant sights and sounds.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long is the boat ride to Cholon?
The boat ride to Cholon is part of the busy day, and while the exact duration isn’t specified, expect a lively and sometimes bumpy trip.

Are drinks included?
One beer is included with your lunch, perfect for cooling off during the beach party.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
A Spanish guide is provided, and while language barriers may exist, the experience is mostly visual and social.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, sunscreen, towel, cash for extra drinks or souvenirs, and perhaps seasickness remedies if you’re prone to seasickness.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the minimum age for alcohol is 18, and parents should consider the boat rides’ roughness.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour starts early at around 8:10 am, ideal for making the most of the day.

What if I want to cancel?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, perfect for flexible planning.

Is this experience worth the cost?
Considering transportation, boat rides, lunch, and drinks, many find it a good value, especially given the lively atmosphere and authentic experiences.

Whether you’re after a fun-filled day, a taste of local Caribbean culture, or simply want to enjoy beautiful beaches with a party vibe, this tour offers a well-rounded option for your Cartagena visit.