Top Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia: Birds, Mud Volcanoes, Street Food & Culture
Cartagena, Colombia: A Journey Through Birds, Volcanoes, and Vibrant Streets
Cartagena is one of those cities that feels alive in a way few places do. From the moment I arrived, I was swept up in its rhythm—sun-soaked streets, bursts of music around every corner, and flavors that seemed to tell the story of Colombia one bite at a time.
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A Hidden Bird Sanctuary Adventure
One of the most surprising adventures started with a simple cab ride. Our driver insisted we visit a nearby bird sanctuary, and it turned out to be pure magic. The birds roamed free—toucans perched high in the trees, flamingos waded gracefully in the water, and parrots chattered above us. It didn’t feel staged or forced; it felt like stepping into nature’s own theater, where the performers had wings instead of scripts.
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Floating in El Totumo Mud Volcano
If that wasn’t unique enough, Colombia delivered something I’ll never forget: floating in a mud volcano. At El Totumo Volcano, I climbed the wooden steps and slid into the thick, warm mud. At first, it felt bizarre, but soon I was laughing as I floated so effortlessly, weightless in a pool of earth. Locals guided us to a nearby river to rinse off, and afterwards, we gathered for lunch at a tiny restaurant. The soup they served—hearty, steaming, and rich with flavor—remains one of the best meals I’ve ever had.
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A Street Food Tour Full of Flavor
Cartagena’s heartbeat, though, is its food. On a street food tour, I sampled fruits I couldn’t even name, tasted empanadas hot from the fryer, and stopped at a famous ceviche stand that holds a world record for preparing the most ceviche in Colombia. Each dish felt like a celebration—spicy, tangy, and alive with tradition.
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Exploring Cartagena’s Old Walled City and Getsemaní
The city itself is just as captivating as the food. Walking the Old Walled City, I was mesmerized by colorful colonial buildings, hidden plazas, and flower-draped balconies. In Getsemaní, vibrant murals stretched across walls, street musicians filled the air with rhythm, and evenings turned into impromptu block parties where locals and visitors danced together under the stars.
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The Tour I Wish I Took: San Basilio de Palenque
One experience I missed—and still regret—was the Palenque tour. San Basilio de Palenque, the first free town in the Americas, is a living testament to Afro-Colombian resilience, culture, and history. Hearing about it from other travelers made me realize it’s not just a tour; it’s an encounter with heritage that deserves to be honored.
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Why Cartagena Stays With You
Cartagena left me with more than memories. It gave me stories, laughter, and flavors that still linger. It reminded me that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about being surprised, delighted, and deeply connected to the spirit of a city. And in Cartagena, that spirit shines as bright as the Caribbean sun.
