Cartagena’s Barú Islands are a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. The Playa Blanca tour promises a day of sun, sand, and adventure for visitors seeking to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. With a carefully curated itinerary, this excursion offers a chance to swim, snorkel, and kayak in the stunning turquoise waters, all while indulging in a delectable traditional Caribbean lunch. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking to unwind, this tour provides an enticing glimpse into the wonders that await beyond Cartagena’s city limits.
Key Points
- An 8-hour excursion from Cartagena to the Barú Islands, priced at €12.81 per person, with activities like swimming, snorkeling, and a traditional Caribbean lunch.
- Roundtrip transportation included, with pickup from various locations in Cartagena and a 15-minute bus ride to Playa Blanca on the Barú Islands.
- 3 hours of beach activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, as well as a 2-hour traditional Caribbean lunch.
- Overall rating of 3.7/5 based on 50 reviews, highlighting service quality and the delicious traditional lunch.
- The tour offers a guided experience to explore the pristine beaches and vibrant marine life of the Barú Islands.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour to Barú Islands Playa Blanca offers visitors an 8-hour excursion from Cartagena. Priced at €12.81 per person, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows guests to reserve their spot and pay later.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation from various pickup locations in Cartagena, a 15-minute bus ride to Barú Island, 3 hours of activities at Playa Blanca such as swimming and snorkeling, a 2-hour traditional Caribbean lunch, and a 1-hour return bus ride.
With an overall rating of 3.7/5 based on 50 reviews, the tour is praised for its professional and friendly service, beautiful beach, and delicious food.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Cartagena
Itinerary and Activities
On the tour to Barú Islands Playa Blanca, participants begin their day with pickups from various locations across Cartagena, including Centro, El Laguito, Bocagrande, Marbella, El Cabrero, and Castillogrande. After a 15-minute bus ride, they arrive at the island and have 3 hours to enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and marine life viewing. Lunch, a traditional Caribbean meal, is served for 2 hours before the group boards the bus for the 1-hour return trip to their original drop-off locations.
Activity | Duration |
---|---|
Bus Ride to Barú Island | 15 minutes |
Activities at Playa Blanca | 3 hours |
Lunch | 2 hours |
Bus Ride Back | 1 hour |
Pickup and Transportation Details
Travelers have the convenience of being picked up directly from their hotels in the tourist areas of Bocagrande, Laguito, Castillogrande, and Marbella.
For those outside these areas, the meeting point is the Juan Valdez Cafetería in the historic center of Cartagena.
It’s suggested to be ready for pickup between 7:00 AM and 7:40 AM, as the tour starts promptly at 8:20 AM.
The tour provides air-conditioned transportation by bus or van, ensuring a comfortable journey to and from the Barú Islands.
- Pickup locations: Centro, El Laguito, Bocagrande, Marbella, El Cabrero, Castillogrande
- Meeting point for those outside tourist areas: Cafetería Juan Valdez, historic center of Cartagena
- Suggested pickup time: Between 7:00 AM and 7:40 AM, with the tour starting at 8:20 AM
Included Services and Support
Aside from the convenient pickup and transportation, the tour also includes a range of complementary services and support.
Guests will be provided with air-conditioned buses or vans for the journey to and from the islands. A live tour guide, fluent in both English and Spanish, accompanies the group throughout the day, sharing insights and information.
Should any questions or issues arise, the tour operator provides telephone support that’s available throughout the excursion.
While the core package includes the beach activities and lunch, there are also optional extras available, such as entrance to the local aquarium and the opportunity to purchase drinks like beer and cocktails.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
According to the reviews, this tour to the Barú Islands and Playa Blanca has received an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars based on 50 customer evaluations.
Reviewers highlighted several positive aspects, including:
- The professionalism and friendliness of the tour agency
- The breathtaking beauty of the beach
- The delicious and authentic Caribbean lunch
However, some customers noted room for improvement, such as better coordination of pickup times and more robust communication throughout the tour.
Exploring the Barú Islands
On the tranquil shores of the Caribbean, the Barú Islands beckon visitors with their pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Accessible by a brief 15-minute bus ride, these idyllic islands offer a perfect escape from the bustle of Cartagena.
Guests can spend 3 hours swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking through the crystal-clear waters, spotting a diverse array of tropical fish and coral formations.
The tour also includes a traditional Caribbean lunch, featuring fresh seafood or chicken, accompanied by coconut rice, patacón, and a crisp salad.
With the convenience of hotel pickup and knowledgeable guides, this excursion promises an unforgettable day of sun, sand, and natural wonder.
Discovering Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca, the crown jewel of the Barú Islands, captivates visitors with its idyllic white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Theres some good a variety of activities, including:
- Swimming in the refreshing waters
- Snorkeling to observe the vibrant marine life
- Kayaking along the serene coastline
The tour includes a delicious traditional Caribbean lunch, featuring local specialties like fish or chicken, coconut rice, patacón, and salad.
After a day of sun, sand, and relaxation, the group will be transported back to their hotel or designated drop-off points in Cartagena, having experienced the natural beauty of Playa Blanca.
Enjoying the Traditional Lunch
The traditional Caribbean lunch served during the tour is a culinary delight, offering a flavorful and authentic taste of the region.
The meal consists of fresh fish or chicken, served with coconut-infused rice, patacón (fried green plantains), and a refreshing salad.
The fish is expertly grilled, its moist and delicate flesh complemented by the tangy and herbaceous marinade.
The coconut rice is a staple of the local cuisine, its fragrant and creamy texture providing a perfect pairing for the protein.
Patacón, a beloved Colombian side dish, adds a satisfying crunch and starchiness to the meal.
The vibrant salad, with its mix of crisp greens and juicy tomatoes, offers a refreshing contrast to the heartier main dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for this tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and footwear suited for a beach day are recommended. Participants should dress to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and walking on the sand.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
Based on the tour details, guests are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. However, the tour includes a traditional Caribbean lunch, so bringing too many additional items may not be necessary.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate in the activities. However, parents are responsible for supervising their children throughout the tour.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Meal Option?
Yes, the tour company can accommodate vegetarian or special meal requests. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions when booking the tour, and the staff will provide a suitable meal option.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?
The price listed includes all mandatory fees and taxes. There are no hidden costs or additional fees for the tour. However, optional extras like drinks or entrance fees may incur extra charges.
Recap
The Cartagena tour to Barú Islands Playa Blanca offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the captivating beauty of the Caribbean. With a diverse array of activities, delectable cuisine, and knowledgeable guidance, this excursion promises a day of relaxation and discovery in a breathtaking tropical paradise. Whether seeking tranquil beaches, vibrant marine life, or authentic cultural experiences, this tour delivers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Cartagena region.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Lunch Experiences in Cartagena
- From Cartagena: Baru Island Quiet Beach Day Trip With Lunch
- From Cartagena: Mangroves Trip With Lunch
- Cartagena: Cocotera Beach in Rosario Islands With Lunch
- Cartagena: HORSE RIDING on the Beach PHOTOS and LUNCH
- Cartagena: Bazurto Market & La Popa Convent Tour With Lunch
- Cartagena: Barù Island Playa Blanca Beach Trip With Lunch
More Tours in Cartagena
- Cartagena: Bazuro Local Food Market Walking Tour
- Cartagena: Cocoliso Island Day Tour With All Inclusive
- Cartagena: Private Walking Tour Historic Center & Getsemaní
- PROFESSIONAL GUIDED FULL CITY TOUR WITH STREET FOOD TASTING
- Cartagena: See Sight City Tour
- Cartagena: Guided Selfie and Walking Tour With Beer Tasting
More Tour Reviews in Cartagena
- Cartagena: PUNTARENA ISLAND With Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off
- Cartagena: 5 Island Boat Tour With Night Bioluminescent Stop
- Cartagena: Rosario Islands Day Tour With Snorkel & Lunch
- Cartagena: PAUE Beach Club All-Inclusive Day-Trip
- Discover San Diego – Private Walking Tour
- Cartagena, Colombia: Playa Blanca Pirate Adventure
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cartagena we have recnetly reviewed
- 15 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Cartagena
- Best Craft Beer Tours And Tastings In Cartagena
- 20 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Cartagena
- 15 Best Dining Experiences In Cartagena
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Cartagena
- 4 Best 2 Day Tours In Cartagena
- 2 Best Jet-Ski Experiences In Cartagena
- 19 Best Photography Experiences In Cartagena
- 16 Best Coffee Tours And Tastings In Cartagena
- 12 Best Dinner Tours In Cartagena
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Cartagena
- 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Cartagena