Cartagena, the vibrant coastal city of Colombia, offers a captivating day trip that combines the beauty of nature and the allure of the Caribbean. Set out on a journey to the National Aviary, where over 160 species of vibrant birds await, followed by a relaxing respite at the stunning Playa Blanca. With convenient hotel pickups and a comfortable bus ride, this excursion promises to immerse you in the rich biodiversity and serene landscapes that make Cartagena a true gem. From the aviary’s captivating displays to the white sands and Caribbean cuisine at Playa Blanca, this day trip promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to uncover more of Cartagena’s wonders.

Key Points

  • Experience the vibrant National Aviary of Colombia, showcasing over 160 bird species, followed by a relaxing visit to the picturesque Playa Blanca beach.

  • The day trip includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and a local guide, with potential savings of up to 30% on the tour cost.

  • Explore the aviary’s diverse bird life, learn about conservation efforts, and enjoy 3 hours of free time to relax, swim, and savor a Caribbean lunch at Playa Blanca.

  • Recommended items for the beach experience include comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a towel, while the aviary visit may require suitable attire.

  • While the overall experience has received mixed reviews, with potential areas for improvement, it offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and leisure activities.

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Activity Overview and Pricing

For this day trip to Cartagena, travelers can explore the Aviario Nacional de Colombia and the scenic Playa Blanca beach.

The tour costs between $36.93 and $25.85 per person, a savings of up to 30%. It’s an 8-hour excursion with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus, and a local guide.

While the aviary entrance ticket isn’t included, it can be purchased separately online or on-site.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and bring a towel for their time at the beach.

Itinerary and Locations

Cartagena: Day Trip Aviary and Enjoy Playa Blanca by Bus - Itinerary and Locations

The day trip starts with hotel pickups across Cartagena, including locations in El Laguito, Marbella, and Bocagrande, beginning at 7 AM.

From there, the air-conditioned bus embarks on a 1.5-hour journey to the Aviario Nacional de Colombia, the second-largest aviary in Latin America.

After a 2.5-hour visit, the group transfers to the iconic Playa Blanca, where they’ll enjoy 3 hours of beach time and a typical Caribbean lunch.

The final leg of the trip is the 2-hour return bus ride to Cartagena, with the main drop-off point being the Monumento Torre del Reloj in the city center.

Highlights and Experiences

This day trip offers visitors a chance to experience both the natural wonders and the serene beaches of the region. The highlight of the trip is the visit to the National Aviary of Colombia, the second-largest in Latin America. Here, nature enthusiasts can marvel at the vibrant plumage and diverse species of birds. After the aviary, the tour takes guests to the stunning Playa Blanca, where they can enjoy the white sand, turquoise waters, and a typical Caribbean lunch.

Highlights Experiences
National Aviary of Colombia Nature and bird watching
Playa Blanca Beach relaxation and local cuisine
Ideal for families and nature lovers Combination of culture and leisure

Inclusions and Additional Information

The day trip includes pickup from hotels or nearby meeting points, round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus, and a local guide to accompany visitors throughout the journey.

The entrance fee to the National Aviary of Colombia isn’t included but can be purchased online or on-site.

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and bring a towel and beachwear for the time spent at the picturesque Playa Blanca.

While the beach offers a stunning Caribbean setting, it’s important to note that it’s a public area and can be crowded, which may not provide an ideal environment for complete relaxation.

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Customer Reviews and Recommendations

What do customer reviews and recommendations say about this day trip to Playa Blanca? The activity receives a mixed review score of 3.2 out of 5 based on 6 customer reviews.

Travelers praise the aviary experience but criticize the communication and organization of the agency.

The beach environment at Playa Blanca is described as public and crowded, which doesn’t provide an ideal relaxation experience.

Customers recommend wearing comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and bringing a towel for the beach portion.

While the day trip combines nature and beach experiences, the feedback suggests room for improvement in certain areas to enhance the overall experience.

Getting to the Aviary and Playa Blanca

The day trip to Playa Blanca begins with convenient pickup options from various locations in Cartagena, including the hotels in El Laguito, Marbella, and Bocagrande.

Starting from 7 AM, the air-conditioned bus departs for the 1.5-hour journey to the National Aviary of Colombia, the second-largest in Latin America.

After a 2.5-hour visit to marvel at the diverse bird species, the bus transfers guests to the renowned Playa Blanca.

Here, visitors can enjoy 3 hours of free time to relax on the white sand, swim in the turquoise waters, and savor a typical Caribbean lunch.

The return trip to Cartagena takes approximately 2 hours, with the main stop being the iconic Monumento Torre del Reloj.

What to Expect at the Aviary

Visiting the National Aviary of Colombia, guests are treated to an immersive experience amidst a diverse array of bird species.

The aviary boasts over 160 species, making it the second-largest in Latin America. Visitors can wander through meticulously designed habitats, observing birds like the colorful toucans, majestic eagles, and graceful flamingos up close.

The guided tour provides insights into the aviary’s conservation efforts and the unique adaptations of the resident birds.

Whether it’s marveling at the vibrant plumage or witnessing the birds’ natural behaviors, the aviary promises an unforgettable encounter with the feathered wonders of Colombia’s rich biodiversity.

Tips for a Relaxing Day at Playa Blanca

Travelers planning a day at Playa Blanca should keep a few key tips in mind to ensure a truly relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Arrive early to secure a prime spot on the soft white sand and avoid the midday crowds. Pack a lightweight, packable beach umbrella or canopy to provide shade and comfort throughout the day.

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.

While the beach’s public nature can limit privacy, scout out quieter areas away from the main activities.

Bring a portable speaker or headphones to create a personalized soundtrack for your beach day.

Recap

This day trip to Cartagena’s National Aviary and Playa Blanca offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant bird species, unwind on the stunning white sands, and savor a delicious Caribbean lunch – all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickups and a comfortable bus ride. This excursion is an ideal choice for families and nature enthusiasts seeking to experience the beauty of Colombia’s coastal region.

You can check if your dates are available here: