Cartagena: Day Trip Aviary and enjoy Playa Blanca by bus

Cartagena: Day Trip Aviary and Enjoy Playa Blanca by Bus
Location: Bolívar, Colombia
Country: Colombia
Rating: 3.2/5 (based on 6 reviews)
Price: $38 per person
Duration: About 8 hours, check start times

Embarking on this tour, you’ll visit two of Cartagena’s most appealing spots—the National Aviary of Colombia and Playa Blanca in Barú—all in one day. The trip is designed to appeal to families, nature lovers, or anyone craving a mix of wildlife and beach. For $38, it offers a budget-friendly way to experience some of Cartagena’s natural highlights, though the journey isn’t without its quirks.

What we like most about this tour is how it combines up-close bird encounters with relaxing beach time, giving you a well-rounded taste of the local environment and Caribbean coast. The guided visit in the aviary promises a chance to see exotic fauna in a setting that’s both educational and fun. Plus, the opportunity to lounge on Playa Blanca’s white sands and enjoy a Caribbean lunch is hard to beat for a laid-back day.

One potential drawback is the communication and organization issues noted by some travelers. The itinerary involves multiple bus transfers, sometimes without air conditioning, and guides who may not stay with the group consistently. The beach, while beautiful, can be crowded, and amenities may incur extra charges, which could affect your comfort or budget. This trip works best for those who are flexible and eager to see a mix of wildlife and beach rather than seeking a luxury experience.

If you enjoy a family-friendly outing that balances nature and leisure, and you’re comfortable with some logistical quirks, this tour will likely suit you. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of both Colombia’s fauna and its stunning coast without spending a fortune.

Key Points

• Two-in-One Experience: Combines visiting the National Aviary of Colombia with a relaxing day at Playa Blanca.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children and lovers of nature, with plenty of opportunities for close encounters with birds and wildlife.
• Transportation Included: Round-trip, air-conditioned bus transfer simplifies logistics.
• Flexible Timing: Check availability for start times; tour lasts about 8 hours.
• Additional Costs: Entrance to the aviary is not included; you can buy tickets online or at the site.
• Potential Downsides: Some travelers report poor communication, crowded beaches, and extra charges for amenities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and What It Means for You
This tour kicks off with hotel pickups in popular Cartagena neighborhoods—Bocagrande, Marbella, El Laguito, or across the city center—starting around 7 AM. From there, it’s about a 1.5-hour bus ride to Barú, where the adventure begins. The first major stop is the National Aviary of Colombia, the second-largest of its kind in Latin America. Here, you’ll spend roughly 2.5 hours wandering among colorful birds and fascinating fauna.

We loved the way the guide introduces visitors to Colombia’s diverse birdlife, with some reviews describing the aviary as “a beautiful place,” where you can get up close to many exotic species. It’s an engaging stop for families, bird enthusiasts, and anyone curious about local wildlife. However, one reviewer, Carlen, pointed out that the organization of this part of the tour was confusing and poorly communicated, with multiple contacts giving different information. Plus, the entry fee isn’t included, so be prepared for that extra expense.

After the aviary, the group boards the bus again for the trip to Playa Blanca. The scenic drive takes about 1.5 hours and delivers you to Barú’s famous beach, known for white sand and crystal-clear waters. This is the highlight for many: a chance to relax, swim, and enjoy a typical Caribbean lunch. You’ll have around 3 hours here, which is enough to swim, sunbathe, or wander along the shoreline.

The Beach Experience
While Playa Blanca is undeniably beautiful, it’s also quite busy and popular among travelers. Some reviews mention that the beach is a public space with many local vendors and other travelers, creating an energetic, lively atmosphere rather than a secluded retreat. Be aware that extra charges may apply for chairs, tents, or parasols if you want more comfort, and paying in cash might be easier than with cards or USD.

In terms of value, including a Caribbean lunch and transportation makes this a practical choice. But remember, the beach facilities are not luxury; it’s more of a lively local scene than a pristine resort. If you’re seeking a quiet, elegant beach day, this might not be the ideal spot.

Logistics, Guides, and Group Dynamics
The tour includes hotel pickups, which are convenient, but the experience can be marred by some reported issues with poor communication. One review mentioned that the guide did not stay with the group, and the attitude was less than welcoming. The buses are air-conditioned but can sometimes be crowded or involve switching between different coaches, which might be tiring or confusing, especially in the heat.

The local guide adds value by providing insights during the trip, but your experience may vary depending on the guide’s attitude and organization on the day. For some, this tour is a smooth, enjoyable outing; for others, it’s a bit disjointed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with children, nature lovers, and budget travelers seeking a comprehensive day out. If you’re looking for an affordable way to see Colombia’s birdlife and enjoy a day at the Caribbean coast, this trip provides good value. However, if you prefer luxury amenities, quiet beaches, or seamless organization, you might want to explore other options.

Travelers who are flexible, open to some logistical quirks, and eager to combine wildlife with beach relaxation will probably find this packed day rewarding. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and bring some cash for extra expenses on the beach.

The Sum Up

This Cartagena day trip offers a unique blend of wildlife and seaside leisure that can suit a variety of travelers. The highlight for many is the visit to Colombia’s second-largest aviary, where you’ll get close to a range of exotic birds and learn about local fauna. Following this, the trip to Playa Blanca provides a chance to unwind on beautiful sands while enjoying a Caribbean lunch.

While the tour is affordable and covers key highlights, it does have its drawbacks—organization issues, crowded beaches, and extra charges—that are worth considering. If you’re flexible, seek a family-friendly adventure, and don’t mind some minor inconveniences, this can be a memorable day in Cartagena.

For those seeking a relaxed, well-organized luxury experience, or a quiet beach retreat, you might want to consider other options. But if you want to see Colombia’s vibrant birdlife and cool off in the Caribbean, this tour hits the spot.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus is included, making it convenient to travel between Cartagena, the aviary, and Playa Blanca.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 8 hours, with specific start times depending on your booking.

Are the entrance fees to the aviary included?
No, the entry ticket to the aviary is not included—you can buy it online or pay at the site.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection like a hat, a towel, and beachwear for the Playa Blanca portion.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as an ideal plan for families and those interested in connecting with nature.

How crowded is Playa Blanca?
It can be quite lively and busy, especially in peak season, with many vendors and other travelers. Expect some hustle and bustle.

Are there extra costs at the beach?
Yes, chairs, tents, parasols, and other amenities may incur additional charges.

What’s the guide’s role during the day?
The guide, provided as part of the tour, offers insights during the trip, but some reviews mention guides not staying with the group continuously or having less than enthusiastic attitudes.

Is the tour flexible?
You should check availability for start times in advance, and the tour operates on a fixed schedule, so plan accordingly.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you prioritize seeing Colombia’s beautiful birdlife and relaxing at a popular Caribbean beach without breaking the bank, then yes. Just keep expectations realistic about organization and amenities.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to enjoy some of Cartagena’s natural attractions and beaches, especially if you’re traveling with family or want an affordable day out. Approach with a flexible mindset and prepare for a lively, colorful experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby