Full Day Tour in Baru With Lunch and Pick up

A Complete Look at the Full Day Tour in Baru With Lunch and Pick-up

If you’re visiting Cartagena and craving a break from the bustling city streets, this full-day tour in Baru offers a relaxing escape to some of Colombia’s most attractive beaches. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours exploring Playa Blanca and Playa Tranquila, with convenient pick-up service and a tasty lunch included. The itinerary is designed to maximize your beach time while providing comfort, making it perfect for groups, families, or anyone eager to enjoy Colombia’s tropical coast.

What really makes this tour stand out are the boat ride to a quiet beach—a peaceful slice of paradise—and the lively atmosphere at Playa Tranquila, where you can unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy a hearty meal. The air-conditioned vehicle makes transportation comfortable, and the included lunch ensures you won’t go hungry.

One note of caution: some travelers have found the return organization a little chaotic, so keeping track of the guides and timing is worth noting. Also, if you’re planning to snorkel or want beverages other than the included lunch, additional costs apply. Still, this tour is an excellent choice for those looking to experience Cartagena’s coastal beauty without breaking the bank.

Overall, it’s a great fit for travelers who: want a reasonably priced beach day, enjoy boat rides and relaxed group settings, and value local, authentic beach environments.

Key Points

• Affordable and Accessible: A full-day experience at just $35, including transport and lunch.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle pickup and drop-off from Cartagena.
• Beautiful Beaches: Visits to Playa Blanca and Playa Tranquila, featuring white sand and tranquil waters.
• Inclusive Activities: Boat trip to a quiet beach, a lively beachside lunch, and options for group enjoyment.
• Limited Extras: Beverages, snorkel gear, and Wi-Fi are extra costs, so plan accordingly.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on natural beauty and local beach vibes rather than touristy overreach.

A Deep Dive into the Baru Beach Tour Experience

When we think about Cartagena’s coastal attractions, this tour offers a straightforward way to soak in some sun, sand, and sea—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Starting with a pick-up at your hotel or designated meeting point, you’re whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle that’s both comfortable and efficient, especially during the roughly one-hour drive to Baru.

The first highlight is Playa Blanca, accessible via a boat ride (admission included), where the scene is picture-perfect with soft white sands and clear turquoise waters. Many reviews mention the peaceful boat transfer as a standout feature—“We arrived at white beach and then took a boat to a quiet beach” —which really emphasizes the secluded feel of this part of the tour.

Next, you’ll head to Playa Tranquila, the more lively and open beach area, where the group can relax, enjoy the sports area, and have lunch at your preferred time. The seven hours spent here seem to strike a good balance, allowing enough time for swimming, lounging, or even some games. The included lunch offers a chance to savor local flavors, a real perk for those wanting to taste Colombian beach cuisine.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, the tour offers a lot of value: a comfortable vehicle, boat rides, and a delicious lunch. Still, some extras aren’t included—alcoholic beverages (around $8-10), snorkeling gear (about $15), and Wi-Fi—so if you’re looking to snorkel or stay connected, budget accordingly.

The Pros and Cons

As one reviewer noted, the organization of the return trip can sometimes be chaotic, which highlights the importance of staying attentive to guide instructions and timing. This is a common theme in group tours, especially those operating in busy tourist spots. Still, most travelers find the overall experience enjoyable and worth the modest price.

Authentic Beach Experiences

Unlike some overly commercialized tours, this one emphasizes authentic beach environments. “We loved the peaceful boat ride and the delicious food,” one traveler mentioned, pointing to the blend of relaxation and local flavor. The beaches are generally described as beautiful, clean, and suitable for groups or families seeking a day in the sun.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates value for money, enjoys natural scenery, and prefers organized convenience—this tour might be perfect. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a relaxed day without much planning. Just note that if you’re seeking adventure activities like snorkeling or desire a more exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options or be prepared to pay extra.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Itinerary

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour begins at Cl. 32 #841, La Matuna, Cartagena, a central spot easy to reach by public transport. The hosts confirm pickup times in advance, which is helpful for planning your morning. Expect a prompt pickup—most reviews highlight the good communication and timely service.

Playa Blanca: The White Sand Paradise

Approximately 30 minutes into the drive, you arrive at the meeting point for the boat to Playa Blanca. The admission ticket is included, and once on the boat, you’ll enjoy a 15-30 minute scenic ride to a quieter stretch of beach.

“The boat ride was smooth and the scenery was beautiful,” comments one reviewer, emphasizing how this short journey sets the tone for a peaceful day ahead. The white sands and crystal waters are what many travelers expect from a Caribbean paradise, making this stop a highlight.

Playa Tranquila: The Lively Beach Hub

The second stop is Playa Tranquila, where the atmosphere is more energetic. Here, you’ll find a sports area, ideal for groups or families wanting to play beach volleyball or simply lounge. This is also the spot for your lunch, which you can enjoy at your own pace. The seven hours allocated provide ample opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, or even just people-watching.

“It’s a great place for groups and families—perfect for relaxing and enjoying some local food,” said one review. The lively ambiance is a contrast to the calmness of Playa Blanca, offering a well-rounded beach day.

Returning and Drop-off

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point. A notable review pointed out that the return organization could be improved—so stay alert and communicate clearly with your guides. The group size is limited (maximum 25 travelers), which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This full-day Baru tour offers a value-packed way to experience some of Colombia’s most attractive beaches without the hassle of self-organizing transport or meals. The boat rides, white sands, and local lunch make it more than just a day at the beach; it’s a small adventure with dependable logistics.

While there are minor organizational hiccups noted by some, the overall positive reviews highlight the delicious food, relaxing boat rides, and beautiful scenery as major draws. If you’re craving a relaxed, scenic, and budget-friendly beach day, this tour ticks most boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from a specific meeting point in Cartagena, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time for travel, beach stops, and lunch without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price covers air-conditioned transportation, boat rides to Playa Blanca, admission tickets, and a lunch at Playa Tranquila.

Are beverages included?
No, alcoholic drinks and bottled water are not included. These are available for purchase, with drinks costing around $2-3 USD, and alcohol between $8-10 USD.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Snorkel equipment can be rented for $15 USD, but it is not included in the price. You might find the waters suitable for snorkeling, but gear is optional.

What do travelers say about this tour?
Most reviews are positive, praising the beautiful beaches and delicious lunch, but some mention organizational issues during the return trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and group setting make it suitable for families, especially those looking for a day of beach fun.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour in Baru offers a well-priced, comfortable way to enjoy some of Colombia’s most stunning beaches. With boat rides, white sands, and a hearty local lunch, it balances relaxation and authentic coastal experience. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a structured, stress-free day in the sun, with enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery and local flavors.

While not ideal for those seeking high-adrenaline activities or luxury exclusivity, it provides a solid, enjoyable beach outing perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers wanting to tick off a top coastal destination. The value and authentic atmosphere make it a worthwhile option for anyone visiting Cartagena who’s eager to enjoy Colombia’s tropical coastline.

Remember: Always check the weather forecast before heading out, and bring some Colombian pesos for extra snacks or drinks. Be punctual for the return and stay in communication with your guides to avoid the chaos some travelers experienced. With a little planning, your day in Baru can become a highlight of your Colombian adventure.