Cartagena is a city made for exploring. Its colorful streets, historic walls, and nearby islands create an ideal playground for travelers eager for adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you want to walk through centuries-old architecture, soak up sun on a Caribbean beach, or cruise around the bay at sunset, Cartagena offers a variety of tours that suit different interests and budgets. We particularly like the Panoramic City Tour for its comprehensive look at the city’s highlights and the Rosario Islands Day Tour for a perfect mix of beach, snorkeling, and island life. If a private experience appeals to you, the Sunset Boat Tour provides a memorable, personalized way to see the city from the water.
These tours show Cartagena’s best features: its historic walls, lively neighborhoods, vibrant monuments, and stunning islands. We’ve rounded up the top options, from half-day city excursions to full-day island adventures, so you can pick what fits your style and schedule.
Quick Overview
Our list features city tours, like the Cartagena: BILINGUAL CITYTOUR + SAN FELIPE CASTLE & Old city that take you through the historic core with engaging guides, and island escapes including the Rosario Islands Day Tour with Snorkel & Lunch, perfect for a day of sun and sand. There are private boat trips for a more intimate experience, like the Sunset Boat Tour, and full-day tours that combine cultural sights with scenic drives, such as the Barranquilla and Santa Marta Tour. Whether you’re on a budget or splurging on a private boat, you’ll find something to suit your travel style.
1. Cartagena: Panoramic City Tour, Monuments, Walls, Castle
At number 1 on our list is this four-hour tour covering Cartagena’s main landmarks. Starting from Bolívar, you’ll ride around in a brightly-colored chiva bus, offering a fun and authentic way to see the city. Highlights include San Felipe Castle, La India Catalina, and Zapatos Viejos monument. The tour also features a guided walk through Old Town, where you can snap photos of colonial architecture and lively plazas.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a scenic drive with cultural stops, all at a budget-friendly $15 per person. The itinerary includes picturesque stops at the Malecon, Las Botas Viejas, and Cartagena’s iconic walls, making it a well-rounded introduction to the city. Rated 4.3/5 by nearly 400 reviews, travelers find it a good value for those wanting a broad overview.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers or travelers short on time, this tour offers a lively, comprehensive introduction to Cartagena in just four hours.
2. Cartagena: Rosario Islands Day Tour with Snorkel & Lunch
Next up is the full-day escape to the Rosario Islands. For around $95, you get to visit several of the islands, including Barú Island and Isla Grande, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on beautiful beaches. The tour departs from Todomar CHL Marina and includes a lunch and water activities like snorkeling to see the underwater beauty.
What makes this tour special is its focus on native culture and multiple island visits—you’ll explore different spots, from private beaches to local spots like Playa Blanca. The reviews mention the panoramic views, and many enjoy the freedom of the full-day schedule. At 8 hours, it’s perfect for those looking to combine adventure with relaxation.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for beach lovers who want a comprehensive day of sun, sand, and snorkeling, all with good value for money.
3. Cartagena: BILINGUAL CITYTOUR + SAN FELIPE CASTLE & Old city
For a deeper dive into Cartagena’s history and culture, this four-hour bilingual tour offers an engaging look at the city’s most famous landmarks. Starting from Centro, you’ll visit San Felipe Castle, where entry is included, and walk through Old Town, passing by La India Catalina and Zapatos Viejos. The tour is conducted aboard a colorful chiva bus, adding local charm to the experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a guided castle tour and Old Town walk, perfect for travelers who want both cultural insight and scenic views. At only $28, it’s a cost-effective option that also includes entrance fees. With a 4.3/5 rating from nearly 300 reviews, it’s a popular choice for its mix of history and fun.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to explore Cartagena’s historic sites in a lively, guided setting without breaking the bank.
4. Cartagena: Private Sunset and Night Boat Tour
Looking for something a little more exclusive? This private boat tour is perfect for a memorable sunset cruise. For $187 per group (up to 12 people), you’ll sail past landmarks like the Convention Center and San Felipe Castle, with the chance to enjoy the city lights reflecting off the water. Bring your favorite music on Bluetooth speakers and relax as the sun dips below the horizon.
Rated 5/5 by recent travelers, this tour provides a personalized experience—ideal for couples or small groups wanting a romantic or special evening. The 2-hour cruise offers spectacular scenic views from the bay, making it a stand-out experience for nighttime ambiance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples and small groups seeking an intimate, scenic way to end a day in Cartagena.
5. Cartagena: All-Inclusive Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour
For a full-day adventure on the Rosario Islands, this speedboat tour combines beach time, snorkeling, and lunch, all for about $81. It includes entry to the oceanarium, and the schedule features visits to Playa Blanca and Tierra Bomba Island. The lunch options are vegetarian-friendly, and the tour is designed for those who want to see as much as possible in a day.
Rated 3.9/5, reviews mention the scenic boat rides and variety of stops, though some note the water traffic can be busy. The tour’s focus on multiple island visits and water activities makes it a great value for families or groups who want a taste of island life.
Bottom Line: An energetic, active day on the water suited for those eager to explore multiple islands with included meals and oceanarium entry.
$81 per person
6. Cartagena: Barranquilla and Santa Marta All-Inclusive Tour
For a long day (about 15 hours), this all-inclusive tour covers Barranquilla and Santa Marta. It includes visits to Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the Bay of Santa Marta, and La Ciénaga del Magdalena, plus lunch and stops at notable sites like the Río Magdalena. The trip is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience of Colombia’s northern coast.
With a 3.6 rating from 33 reviews, it’s a full-on excursion that touches on culture, history, and natural beauty. The itinerary involves a lot of driving, but for those with limited time and a desire to see both hotspots, it offers a convenient way to maximize your trip.
Bottom Line: Best for explorers with a full day to dedicate, especially those interested in Colombia’s northern cities and landscapes.
$83 per person
7. Tierra bomba: Typical beachday to Punta Arena!
If a relaxing day at the beach is what you crave, this seven-hour trip to Punta Arena on Tierra Bomba Island is a straightforward, affordable option. For just $22, you get boat transportation and plenty of time to lounge, swim, or enjoy the local beachfront restaurant.
While it doesn’t include structured activities or snorkeling, it’s perfect for travelers who want a local experience and a laid-back day away from city sights. Rated 3.8/5, many appreciate the authentic vibe and easy pace.
Bottom Line: Great for budget travelers who want a simple, local beach day with minimal fuss.
$22 per person
8. Cartagena: 5 Islands by Speedboat with Snorkeling & Lunch
For adventurers, this seven-hour trip explores five islands, including Cholón and Barú. It features snorkeling, a Caribbean lunch, and scenic boat rides. Tour highlights include visiting the submerged plane of Pablo Escobar and enjoying party spots like Cholón.
The reviews are mixed, with some noting the short snorkeling stops and crowded spots. The $96 price includes lunch and snorkeling gear, making it a solid pick for active travelers who want to see multiple spots in one day.
Bottom Line: For those who love water activities and exploring multiple islands, this offers a lively, fast-paced experience.
$96 per person
9. Cartagena: Private Island in Rosario Islands, Open Bar
If exclusivity appeals, this private island day trip offers unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, beach hammocks, and lunch for $132. The open bar and pool provide a luxurious escape, with scenic views and beach relaxation.
The tour includes transportation and an optional visit to the oceanarium. The reviews highlight the tranquility and comfort, making it a good choice for travelers wanting a more upscale experience in a small group setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking privacy and luxury combined with a relaxed beach day.
$132 per person
10. Cartagena: Puntarena Island with Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off
This six-hour tour provides hotel pickup, boat transportation, and lunch on Punta Arena. Priced at $30, it’s one of the most affordable ways to visit white sandy beaches and crystal waters just five minutes from Cartagena.
This straightforward trip is perfect for families or solo travelers who want a quick escape without fuss. The review mentions the easy logistics and beach time as major pluses.
Bottom Line: A practical, budget-friendly option for a half-day beach outing close to the city center.
$30 per person
11. Cartagena: Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip and OPEN BAR
For those who want a lively beach experience, this six-hour trip offers an open bar, lunch options, and access to a beach club on the Rosario Islands. It’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying Caribbean cuisine.
The reviews note the great atmosphere and nice facilities, making it a good choice for groups or couples wanting a fun, social day by the sea.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for a party atmosphere with good food and drinks included.
$128 per person
12. Mangata Beach from Cartagena
This eight-hour tour takes you to Mangata Beach, one of Cartagena’s most beautiful and recognized beaches. It includes transportation, lunch, and welcome refreshments, giving you plenty of time to swim and relax.
Rated 175 per person, it offers a luxurious experience with a focus on comfort. Many travelers appreciate the private beach club and the chance to escape the city for a day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a luxury beach day with all amenities included.
$175 per person
13. Tour of Cholon Island Rosario Islands
Finally, the Cholón Island Tour offers a seven-hour day full of music, beaches, and fun. With no reviews yet, it promises a relaxed day on Cholón, known for its party scene and local vibe.
The itinerary includes a visit to Rosario Islands, lunch, and plenty of beach time. It’s perfect for party-goers or those wanting a more informal, lively experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a lively, music-filled, beach day on Cholón.
$85.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Cartagena
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re on a tight budget, the City and Castle Tour provides a broad overview for just $15, while the Puntarena Island or Tierra Bomba Beach Day keep costs low with simple, authentic beach days.
For a full immersion into Cartagena’s culture and history, the Bilingual City Tour and full-day trips to Barranquilla and Santa Marta are excellent, albeit longer options. Want a luxurious escape? The Private Island or Mangata Beach tours deliver comfort and exclusivity.
If water adventures are your thing, the Rosario Islands tours with snorkeling, oceanarium visits, or multiple island stops are hard to beat. For a romantic or small-group experience, the Sunset Cruise provides a memorable way to see the city from the water.
Book early, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. Check each tour’s details for pickup points and included amenities to match your needs.
Cartagena offers a wide variety of tours that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re interested in cultural sights, beach relaxation, or adventure on the water, you’ll find options that make your trip memorable. From affordable city tours to private boat experiences, the key is choosing what aligns best with your interests and time constraints. We hope this guide helps you pick your perfect Cartagena adventure—happy exploring!