Cartagena: Ecoplan on Barú, Aviary and Oceanarium in One Day

Cartagena’s stunning natural wonders are on full display in the "Ecoplan in One Day" tour. This 9-hour adventure whisks travelers to Bar??a Island, the National Aviary, and an oceanarium, showcasing over 2,000 bird species and the region’s vibrant marine life. With round-trip transportation, a local lunch, and guided tours included, it’s an opportunity to take in the area’s remarkable ecotourism highlights. From relaxing on Bar??a’s pristine beaches to exploring the Rosario Islands by snorkeling, this tour packs a wealth of memorable experiences into a single day. But the real question is, what secrets might this itinerary hold in store for those who venture forth?

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Drinking Tours In Baru.

Key Points

• The Ecoplan tour in Cartagena offers a 9-hour guided experience exploring the ecotourism highlights of Barú Island, including the National Aviary and an oceanarium.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a local lunch, and admission to the National Aviary and oceanarium, with an optional snorkeling activity available at an additional cost.
• The tour departs from various pickup locations in Cartagena between 6:30 AM and 7 AM, with a combination of bus/coach and boat transportation to Barú Island.
• The itinerary provides free time for exploration on Barú Island and a 50-minute visit to the Rosario Islands, with a 2-hour guided tour at the National Aviary.
• The tour is not suitable for certain groups, including children under 2, pregnant women, individuals with medical conditions, and those over 70 years old, and requires appropriate attire.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview and Pricing

The Ecoplan in One Day tour offers visitors an opportunity to experience the ecotourism highlights of Barú, including the largest aviary in Latin America and an oceanarium.

Priced from $66.30 per person, the tour lasts 9 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travellers can take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour includes round-trip air-conditioned transportation, a basic boat transfer, a typical local lunch, and admission to the oceanarium and National Aviary.

Snorkeling is an optional activity with an additional cost.

The tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, and visitors are advised to bring appropriate attire and avoid prohibited items.

Itinerary and Transportation

For the Ecoplan in One Day tour, convenient pickup locations span 7 areas across Cartagena, including Centro, El Laguito, Manga, Bocagrande, Castillogrande, Torices, and Marbella.

Morning pickup times are scheduled between 6:30 AM to 7 AM.

The tour combines bus/coach and boat transportation to visit Barú Island, where guests enjoy 1 hour of free time, followed by a 50-minute visit to the Rosario Islands, with an optional 1-hour snorkeling activity at an additional cost.

The itinerary also includes 2 hours of free time on Barú Island and a 2-hour guided tour at the National Aviary before returning to Cartagena.

Included Services

As part of the Ecoplan in One Day tour, travelers receive round-trip air-conditioned ground transportation as well as a basic local boat transfer from Barú to the Rosario Islands.

The tour also includes:

• A typical lunch served in Barú
• Admission to the oceanarium and National Aviary
• An optional snorkeling activity, which incurs an additional cost
• Exploration of the Rosario Islands for 50 minutes, with the option to snorkel for an extra hour
• Two hours of free time to explore Barú Island

These included services ensure that participants can fully enjoy the ecotourism experience while enjoying the natural wonders of the region.

Important Information

Certain individuals may not be suited for this tour, including children under 2, pregnant women, those with pre-existing medical conditions, or persons over 70 years old.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a towel, beachwear, and cash, as vendors and artisans will be present at Barú. Alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances are strictly prohibited.

Expect a well-guided experience, with opportunities to negotiate prices for any purchases.

While the overall reviews are positive, there have been suggestions to improve transportation and address cleanliness at entry points.

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Customer Feedback

The Ecoplan in One Day tour has garnered an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the high quality of the tour guides and the unique attractions visited, including the largest aviary in Latin America and the oceanarium.

Suggestions for improvement include:

• Updating the transportation experience
• Addressing cleanliness at entry points
• Enhancing the overall infrastructure and amenities
• Providing additional guidance on navigating vendor interactions
• Considering accessibility for a wider range of travelers.

Exploring Barú Island

Barú Island, a natural gem tucked away in the Colombian Caribbean, offers visitors a captivating ecotourism experience.

This picturesque island is home to the largest aviary in Latin America, showcasing a diverse array of tropical bird species. Visitors can explore the oceanarium, gaining insights into the marine ecosystem.

The island also provides ample opportunities for relaxation, with its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere. The guided tour at the National Aviary allows guests to witness the vibrant behaviors and habitats of the resident birds.

Plus, the optional snorkeling activity in the Rosario Islands offers a chance to take in the underwater wonders of this tropical paradise.

Visiting the National Aviary

Visitors exploring the National Aviary on Barú Island are treated to a captivating encounter with a vibrant array of tropical bird species. This impressive aviary, the largest in Latin America, showcases over 2,000 birds from 160 different species, including colorful parrots, toucans, and macaws.

• Guided tours allow visitors to learn about the unique adaptations and behaviors of these feathered residents.

• Elevated walkways provide unobstructed views of the birds in their natural habitats.

• Interactive exhibits educate guests on conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these ecologically significant species.

• Visitors can observe the birds’ daily routines, from feeding to nesting, gaining a deeper appreciation for the aviary’s vital role in environmental preservation.

The National Aviary serves as a testament to the region’s remarkable biodiversity, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

Optional Snorkeling Activity

Snorkelers can explore the vibrant marine life surrounding the Rosario Islands during an optional excursion. This additional activity allows visitors to get up close with the vibrant underwater ecosystem. The snorkeling experience is offered at an additional cost and lasts for approximately 1 hour.

Feature	Details
Duration	1 hour
Location	Rosario Islands
Equipment	Provided
Cost	Additional fee
Skill Level	Suitable for beginners

The snorkeling tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the diverse marine species found in the clear, turquoise waters of the Rosario Islands. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snorkel gear or rent it on-site for an enhanced experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be suitable for people with disabilities, as it’s not recommended for individuals over 70 or those with pre-existing medical conditions. However, the tour provider should be contacted to discuss any accessibility needs.

What Are the Operating Hours for the Aviary and Oceanarium?

The National Aviary and oceanarium operate from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. Visitors will have a guided tour of the aviary, which lasts approximately 2 hours as part of the day tour’s itinerary.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions During the Tour?

The tour does not have any specific photography restrictions. Visitors are generally free to take photos throughout the aviary and oceanarium, though they’re advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the animals or other guests.

Can I Purchase Additional Items or Activities On-Site?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional items or activities on-site. The itinerary includes an optional snorkeling activity at the Rosario Islands for an extra fee. Visitors can also expect to find vendors and artisans at Barú Island to negotiate prices for local goods.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Travelers can add more time to explore Barú Island or opt for the snorkeling activity at an additional cost, which isn’t included in the standard tour.

Recap

The "Ecoplan in One Day" tour offers a comprehensive experience, showcasing Cartagena’s ecological wonders. Visitors can explore the stunning Bar’u Island, marvel at the diverse avian life at the National Aviary, and opt for snorkeling in the vibrant Rosario Islands. With round-trip transportation, a local lunch, and knowledgeable guides, this 9-hour adventure provides a memorable and immersive ecotourism experience for just $66.30 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here: