Volcan del Totumo + Playa + Piscina

A Practical, Authentic Day of Nature, Mud, and Beach in Colombia

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines unique natural phenomena with relaxing beach time, this tour to the Volcán del Totumo, Playa, and Piscina in Bolívar offers just that. For around $47, you’ll spend a day exploring the famous mud volcano, soaking in ocean views at Arena Beach, and savoring a typical Colombian lunch. The tour lasts roughly a full day, starting from Cartagena’s Monumento Los Pegasos, making it a convenient escape from the city’s hustle.

What we love most about this experience are two things: first, the chance to bathe in therapeutic mud—a truly exotic sensation that leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth. Second, the scenic journey through Colombia’s lush countryside, with plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way. A minor consideration is that the facilities at the beach club aren’t always in top shape, and the crowded conditions at the volcano can be off-putting for some travelers seeking serenity. Still, this trip is perfect for those craving adventure, cultural authenticity, and a touch of fun in a day.

If you enjoy natural therapies, local flavors, and scenic drives, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of crowding and are eager to experience a genuinely Colombian attraction with a mix of guided insights and free time.

Key Points

• Unique natural experience: Bathing in the medicinal mud of Totumo Volcano is a must-do for adventurous travelers.
• Scenic drive: The tour includes a beautiful countryside journey with scenic views and photo stops.
• Cultural authenticity: Enjoy a typical Colombian lunch with options like fish, vegetarian, or chicken.
• Relaxing beach time: The afternoon at Arena Beach Club offers swimming, sunbathing, and refreshments.
• Guided insights: A bilingual guide provides valuable context and ensures you don’t miss key sights.
• Value for money: At $47, the tour offers transportation, entry fees, lunch, and an experience that’s both fun and memorable.

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Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at Monumento Los Pegasos in Cartagena, a recognizable landmark that’s easy to find. From there, a comfortable air-conditioned bus or van whisks you away into Colombia’s countryside. The roughly 75-minute drive sets the tone for the day, offering a chance to relax and take in the landscape.

Having reliable transportation is a big plus in this tour. The bus is generally well-regarded for comfort, especially considering the day’s length, and the bilingual guide ensures that you’ll get background info in both English and Spanish.

Visiting the Totumo Mud Volcano

The highlight of the day is the visit to the Totumo Volcano, a 2,300-meter-high mound of mineral-rich mud. As one reviewer noted, “the volcano attraction is nice,” and many find the experience genuinely exotic and fun. You get to climb into the mud-filled crater where locals call the mud “curative,” thanks to its therapeutic minerals such as silica, magnesium, sulfur, and calcium.

What makes this stop stand out is the chance to bathe in and even get exfoliated by the mud—a truly unique sensation. You’ll want to wear swimwear and be prepared for crowds, as this is a popular spot. One traveler mentioned, “it was a good day, the volcano attraction is nice,” but also noted the small area and many people, which can feel a bit hectic.

The guided tour here enhances the experience with explanations of the mud’s benefits, and some guides or local vendors offer shopping opportunities at the site. After your mud bath, you’ll rinse off at the nearby beach or in designated facilities, feeling refreshed and soft-skinned.

Scenic Drive and Additional Stops

On your way to and from the volcano, the scenic views are quite picturesque. Expect some photo stops along the way, allowing you to capture Colombia’s vibrant rural life and lush landscapes. This adds a nice touch of variety to the day, breaking up the travel time and giving you a more authentic perspective.

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Afternoon at Arena Beach Club

Following the mud experience, the tour heads to Arena Beach Club, a beachside spot where you can relax, swim, or just soak in the sun. The facilities here are described as not always in perfect shape, and one reviewer mentioned, “the facilities were not in place otherwise,” which suggests that it’s more about the beach vibe than luxury.

You’ll be served a lunch with options suited to different tastes: fish, vegetarian, or chicken. The local cuisine is a highlight, especially considering the reasonable price included in the tour. Many travelers appreciate the delicious food and friendly service, which help make the afternoon enjoyable.

Return Journey and Final Stop

After some leisure time, the bus departs around 3 pm, heading back towards Cartagena and ending at Monumento Los Pegasos. The 45-minute drive is a good chance to unwind, share photos, or reflect on the day’s highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to try something outside the usual city sights. If you’re interested in natural therapies or curious about Colombia’s geological wonders, the mud volcano offers a genuinely different experience. It also suits those who enjoy scenic drives, local cuisine, and beach relaxation, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

However, if you’re sensitive to crowded places or uneven facilities, you might find the popularity and conditions at the volcano and beach club less appealing. It’s also not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pregnancy, as noted in the activity details.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Colombia’s natural and cultural highlights in a single day. The mud volcano is an experience unlike many others, providing a fun and therapeutic activity that’s perfect for those wanting a memorable story to tell. The scenic countryside drive adds a layer of authenticity to the day, and the local lunch rounds out the experience with genuine Colombian flavor.

While facilities at the beach may be modest and the site can be crowded, the overall value is solid, especially given the inclusion of transportation, entry, lunch, and insurance. It’s a tour that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight, making it a worthwhile addition to your Cartagena itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically designed for kids, families with older children who don’t mind the crowds and minor discomforts might enjoy the mud bath and beach time. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your passport or ID card, swimwear for the mud bath, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a change of clothes for after the mud experience. It’s also wise to have some cash for optional souvenirs or snacks.

How crowded does the volcano get?
One review mentioned “a lot of people in a small area,” so expect a lively, bustling atmosphere, especially during peak times.

Is the lunch included in the price?
Yes, a typical Colombian lunch with options like fish, vegetarian, or chicken is included, served at the beach club.

Can I buy souvenirs at the volcano?
Yes, there are shopping opportunities, often local vendors selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Are there any age restrictions?
The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

How long is each stop?
The visit to the volcano lasts around 2 hours, the drive to and from the site takes about 1.5 hours, and the beach stop is about an hour.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, with a bilingual guide leading the group.

This tour to the Totumo Volcano, Playa, and Piscina offers a lively, authentic taste of Colombia’s natural wonders and local hospitality. It’s an ideal pick for those who want more than just city sights and are eager to get their hands muddy, literally—and enjoy a day full of scenery, culture, and relaxing beach vibes.

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