4 Best Cartagena Tours: Amazing unmissable excursions! [2024]

Cartagena is a very popular city in Colombia next to Medellin and Bogota and the third-largest by population. It has a deep history that shines through in its many well-preserved buildings and modern street art that works harmoniously with the history to create a vibrant energy. You can feel the heat of the night dancing to Reggaeton on one of Cartagena's beautiful Caribbean islands or soak up the sun on one of the white-sand beaches. 

A guided tour through this beautiful historic city is the best way to experience it like a local and make the most of your trip to Cartagena. A tour is a great way to see the must-see things to do in Cartagena and save money doing it! 

How many days do you need in Cartagena? That is entirely up to you! Some people stay in this vibrant city for 3-4 days to enjoy the sights and nightlife, and some people stay for weeks to immerse themselves in the culture. 

No matter what kind of trip you are interested in, make your budget work for you with one of these 4 best Cartagena tours. These tours will surely curate one of the best experiences you will have while traveling in this magical city.

Best excursions in Cartagena, Colombia

Here are some of the best tours we've discovered in Cartagena that we just know you'll enjoy! Keep in mind the prices of each tour can fluctuate depending on the year and season you're traveling in.

1. Rosario Islands Catamaran

Hosted by: Bona Vida Caramaran S.A.S

Length: 7.5 hours 

Price: $94.29

Where will you go?

This tour takes you out on a beautiful catamaran boat to explore the vibrant turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean sea off the coast of Cartagena. The Rosario Islands are located off the coast of Cartagena and have some of the best snorkeling around. 

What will you do?

Departing in the morning from the Muelle de la Bodeguita pier, enjoy a welcome drink before you sail off to the Rosario Islands. When you reach the island, you are free to leave the boat and practice snorkeling or relax in the cool water. A delicious lunch is provided on board before you sail back to the mainland. 

Why this tour?

This tour ensures a relaxing getaway from the city where all amenities are taken care of. 

This tour provides the ride, the gear, and the entrance fees for a magical day of snorkeling and swimming with the tropical fish. Returning in the evening, you will still have plenty of time to return to your hotel and get ready for a night on the town!

2. Cartagena City Tour

Hosted by: Viator

Length: 5-7 hours 

Price: $94.29

Where will you go? 

Experience one of the best tours in Cartagena on this 1-day walking tour that takes you to San Felipe Castle, The Walled City, Getsemani neighborhood, and La Popa to view the landscape from above. Stop along the way to snap a pic for Insta and learn about Cartagena's history and culture.

What will you do?

This walking tour brings you through many historical sites in Cartagena, among the stunning colonial houses and baroque churches. 

Walk along the streets of Cartagena and take in the sights and enjoy the traditional Caribbean lunch, to fully immerse yourself in the experience. 

Take in the colors and sounds in Getsemani, a neighborhood packed with history and culture. Many of Cartagena's famous street art murals can be found here.

Why this tour?

This tour is an extraordinary way to see the sights of the city in detail and experience it authentically with a local guide. You get to visit many of Cartagena's historical sites in one go, so it's perfect for those short on time.

Not sure about using Viator as your tour guide? Check out our in-depth review! 

3. Cartagena ATV Tour

Hosted by: Viator

Length: 5-7 hours 

Price: $177.95

Where will you go?

This adventure-packed Cartagena ATV tour takes you along some of the city's lesser-known sights. 

Grab your rental helmet and get ready for a fun-filled day. Arrive at the meeting point and start your boat ride to the island to the town of Bocachica before enjoying a fresh lunch. 

Relax and enjoy before hopping on your ATV and driving along the coastline to Playa Linda. A steep cliff at the end of the trail is the perfect photo op, where the backdrop of Cartagena is at your fingertips.  

What will you do?

Learn all about African history and culture in the historical town of Bocachica and enjoy an adventure-filled ride along the pristine coastline with Cartegena in the background. You can enjoy lunch on the beach before continuing on the adventure!

Why this tour?

This tour is excellent if you are new to ATV riding or have been before. The company's safety brief is thorough and ensures everyone stays safe while having fun. Mix up your classic beach day with this ATV ride and enjoy adventure and relaxation, the best of both worlds. The tasty lunch on the beach will give you enough energy to hit the trails afterward!

4.Street Food Tour

Hosted by: Cartagena Connections

Length: 3 hours 

Price: $30

Where will you go?

This tour will take you on a wild experience through the streets of Cartagena, tasting many delicious street food items while exploring the popular Getsemani neighborhood. 

What will you do?

On this tour you will get to try some of Cartagena’s best street food dishes like local fruits (lulo, granadilla, nispero, papaya and more), los fritos, arepas, papas rellenas, cocadas, arequipe and many more! Enjoy fresh coconut water and sample the famous boli, a frozen refreshment in a bag.

Why this tour?

This tour is perfect for people who aren't interested in tours. 

Taste Cartegena with your new local friend who just happens to be a guide. One of Cartagena's private tours is the way to go, especially when it comes to having that personal feeling. This mouth-watering tour takes you through one of the most lively neighborhoods and allows you to connect with the locals through food!

Start Planning Your Cartagena Tour!

Visiting Cartagena is sure to liven your sense and sow you a world you've never experienced!

Creating a game plan will help your travels run smoothly, Try out one of these tours on your next trip to Cartagena and help plan the rest of your trip with Pilot!