Unforgettable Experiences to Try in Cartagena Colombia for Your 2026 Adventure
- exploretribu
- Jan 2
- 4 min read
Cartagena, Colombia, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a top destination for travelers in 2025. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, cultural immersion, or relaxing moments by the sea, Cartagena has something unforgettable waiting for you. This guide highlights 18 essential experiences curated by Explore Tribu to help you make the most of your trip.
One of the most iconic activities in Cartagena is island hopping in the Rosario Islands. These islands boast crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. You can explore private islands, enjoy lively party coves, or simply relax on white sandy beaches. Many tours offer boat rides that include stops for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and opportunities to spot tropical fish.
Booking a boat tour with Explore Tribu ensures a seamless experience with knowledgeable guides and comfortable boats. This activity is ideal for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to combine adventure with relaxation.
Experience Cartagena’s skyline from the water during golden hour on a sunset yacht tour. This luxurious outing features music, drinks, and stunning views of the city’s historic walls and modern skyline. The atmosphere is perfect for celebrations or unwinding after a day of exploring.
Sunset yacht parties often include light snacks and cocktails, creating a festive yet elegant vibe. It’s a great way to capture memorable photos as the sun dips below the horizon.
For a playful and unique spa experience, visit the Totumo Mud Volcano. Here, you float effortlessly in warm, mineral-rich volcanic mud that is said to have skin benefits. Afterward, rinse off in a nearby lagoon known as the Pink Sea due to its unusual color caused by microorganisms.
This excursion is perfect for couples or groups seeking a fun and unusual activity. It also offers excellent photo opportunities thanks to the vibrant colors and natural setting.
San Basilio de Palenque is a historic town near Cartagena, recognized as the first free Black town in the Americas. A cultural tour here offers deep insight into Afro-Colombian history, traditions, and music. Visitors can learn about the town’s struggle for freedom and its rich spiritual heritage.
Explore Tribu’s Black Legacy / Palenque Tour includes visits to local homes, traditional music performances, and storytelling sessions. This experience connects travelers with Colombia’s diverse cultural roots.
For those who crave adrenaline, ATV tours around Cartagena provide an exciting way to explore the surrounding jungles, beaches, and rural areas. These guided rides take you off the beaten path, offering a mix of adventure and scenic views.
Whether you prefer riding along the coast or through dense vegetation, ATV adventures are a favorite for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Colombia produces some of the finest rum and chocolate in the world. A tasting experience pairs premium Colombian rum with artisanal chocolates, highlighting the flavors and craftsmanship behind each product.
This activity suits foodies and anyone interested in local gastronomy. It’s a sophisticated way to enjoy Colombia’s culinary heritage in a relaxed setting.
Getsemaní is Cartagena’s vibrant neighborhood known for its street art, lively plazas, and Afro-Caribbean energy. Walking through its streets reveals colorful murals, open-air cafés, and spontaneous dance performances.
This area is perfect for travelers who enjoy cultural immersion and want to experience the city’s creative spirit firsthand.
Cartagena’s historic center is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, colorful balconies, and charming plazas. It invites slow walking days filled with boutique shopping, café stops, and photography.
The cobblestone streets and well-preserved buildings create a picturesque backdrop for exploring the city’s rich history.
This lively plaza is famous for its local vendors, live music, and the iconic Botero sculpture “Gertrudis.” It’s a great spot to soak in Cartagena’s street life and enjoy people-watching.
Nearby cafés offer outdoor seating where you can relax and watch the plaza’s vibrant activity.
Sampling local street food is essential to understanding Cartagena’s culinary culture. Here are some popular foods to try:
Arepa de huevo: Deep-fried arepa filled with egg and meat
Patacones: Fried, crunchy plantains
Mote de queso: Creamy coastal cheese soup
Ceviche Cartagenero: Shrimp marinated with lime and salsa rosada
Arroz de coco: Sweet coconut rice
Pescado frito: Fresh fried fish, often enjoyed on the beach
Bollo de maíz / bollo de yuca: Traditional corn or cassava dumplings
Agua de panela with limón: Sweet drink made from panela and lime
Cocadas: Coconut sweets
Joining a street food tour helps you discover these dishes with expert guidance, ensuring you taste the best versions and learn about their origins.
Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: Explore this impressive fortress with panoramic views of the city.
Take a Salsa Dancing Class: Learn the moves that define Colombia’s dance culture.
Relax at Bocagrande Beach: Enjoy sunbathing and local snacks along Cartagena’s popular beach strip.
Visit the Gold Museum: Discover pre-Columbian artifacts and Colombia’s indigenous history.
Shop at Las Bóvedas: Browse handmade crafts and souvenirs in this historic marketplace.
Enjoy a Coffee Tasting: Sample Colombia’s world-famous coffee varieties.
Explore La Popa Monastery: Visit this hilltop monastery for stunning views and history.
Attend a Local Festival: Time your visit to coincide with Cartagena’s vibrant cultural events.
Each of these adds depth and variety to your Cartagena itinerary.
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