Historic Cartagena’s shore excursions pack lots of value into your cruise stop. The classic City Tour efficiently covers the must-see colonial quarter in about 4 hours – perfect for first-timers. We especially like the full-day Cartagena and Murcia combo, which gives you both city highlights and surrounding countryside. For something special, try the Caribbean rhythm lessons where local dancers teach you basic moves in a centuries-old plaza.
What makes these tours work? They’re well-organized, reasonably priced, and reliably good. The private tour options are worth the extra cost if you want to avoid the crowds and set your own pace. For nature buffs, the peaceful mangrove boat tour reveals a quieter side of this bustling port city.
Let’s explore the best shore excursions Cartagena has to offer:
Key Points
Key Points:
- Variety of shore excursion options in Cartagena, including full-day tours, city tours, private/customized experiences, cultural immersions, and nature/adventure activities.
- Excursions cater to diverse accessibility needs, with wheelchair accessibility, stroller-friendly options, and personalized tours for travelers with mobility requirements.
- Flexible booking policies, including free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and pay-later options, enhance customer confidence and convenience.
- Consistently high customer satisfaction based on positive reviews highlighting quality of service, transportation, and knowledgeable guides across all excursion types.
- Competitive pricing structure, with options ranging from $38.17 per person for city tours to $163 for private experiences, catering to different budgets and group sizes.
Cartagena and Murcia – Full Day Shore Excursion for Cruise Guests
The Cartagena and Murcia full-day shore excursion offers cruise guests a comprehensive exploration of these historic Spanish cities.
Limited to just 18 people, the tour provides a more intimate experience, highlighting Cervantes House and the Roman Theater.
Travelers will be picked up directly from the Cartagena port by Top Day Tours, with a local guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a small group setting.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly.
Most travelers can participate, though those with mobility issues may want to reconsider.
Reviews are generally positive, though some report issues with pacing, communication, and group size.
Read our full review: Cartagena and Murcia – Full Day Shore Excursion for Cruise Guests Review
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Cartagena City Tour: 4-Hour Cruise Excursion
Cartagena’s 4-hour city tour provides cruise guests a comprehensive exploration of this historic Spanish port. Priced at $38.17 per person, the excursion takes visitors through the Manga neighborhood, San Felipe Fort, and the old town, with stops at Las Bovedas and the Emerald Museum.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour covers the city’s colonial heritage, Republican-era architecture, and modern sights. Guests can explore the Church of St. Peter Claver and its museum, and enjoy sightseeing along the Bay of Cartagena.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, the tour offers flexibility and convenience for cruise travelers. Reviewers praise the tour’s organization, transportation, and the guide’s expertise, making it a top-rated shore excursion in Cartagena.
Read our full review: Cartagena City Tour: 4-Hour Cruise Excursion Review
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Shore Excursion Cartagena City Tour
Cruise travelers seeking an enriching exploration of Cartagena’s colonial history and vibrant culture can embark on the 4-hour Shore Excursion Cartagena City Tour.
This highly-rated excursion takes visitors to the Manga neighborhood, the imposing San Felipe Fortress, the Emerald Museum, and the lively Las Bovedas shopping area.
The tour also includes a walking exploration of the old city, visits to the Monastery of La Candelaria and Saint Peter Claver Church, and convenient transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.
While some guests have reported rushed pacing, the majority praise the knowledgeable guides and excellent value.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility make this tour suitable for a variety of travelers.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Cartagena City Tour Review
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Cartagena Shore Excursion Full Day Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Cartagena’s historical and cultural highlights, the Cartagena Shore Excursion Full Day Tour offers an immersive experience.
Priced at $239 per person, this 6-hour small-group tour (limited to 8 participants) provides a guided journey through the old city, Getsemaní, and iconic landmarks like the Gold Museum and Castillo de San Felipe.
With transportation to and from the port, entry tickets, and an expert guide fluent in English and Spanish, the tour delivers exceptional value.
Guests can expect a well-organized experience with a 5/5 rating from previous participants, who praise the tour’s safety, service, and memorable activities.
Read our full review: Cartagena Shore Excursion Full Day Tour Review
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City Sightseeing Cartagena Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Shore Excursion
Although the City Sightseeing Cartagena Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Shore Excursion may not offer the in-depth exploration of the full-day tour, it provides a convenient and flexible way to see the city’s top attractions.
With a 90-minute guided walking tour and access to 12 stops, including the Old Town, San Felipe de Barajas Castle, and Castillo Grande Beach, the tour allows visitors to hop on and off at their leisure.
However, customers have reported issues with logistics, long wait times, and communication problems. Plus, the tour’s accessibility is limited due to the temporary closure of one of the stops.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Cartagena Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Shore Excursion Review
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Shore Excursion PRIVATE City Tour
The Private City Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Cartagena’s rich history and vibrant culture.
With 15 stellar reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this excursion provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable bilingual guides.
Cruise ship passengers can enjoy the convenience of pickup and drop-off at the port, and the tour’s accessibility features make it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
Highlights include visits to the Monastery of La Candelaria and Saint Pedro Claver Church, as well as insights into the city’s local heritage.
Priced at $163 per person with free cancellation, this private tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth understanding of Cartagena’s captivating charm.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion PRIVATE City Tour Review
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Cartagena City Shore Excursion
Visitors with limited time in Cartagena can experience the city’s rich history and vibrant culture through the Cartagena City Shore Excursion. This 3.5-hour tour covers the top attractions, including the La Popa Monastery, San Felipe Fort, Old Town Cartagena, and the Bocagrande area.
The tour’s efficient route and knowledgeable guides provide a rundown, despite heavy traffic. Travelers can enjoy a walking tour in the Old Town and shop at local vendors.
The tour’s positive reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and the tour’s ability to accommodate travelers with mobility issues.
With a starting price of $100 per person and free cancellation, the Cartagena City Shore Excursion offers an enjoyable and accessible way to explore the city’s highlights.
Read our full review: Cartagena City Shore Excursion Review
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Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion of Cartagena With Driver and Official Guide
For travelers seeking a more immersive and personalized experience in Cartagena, the Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion offers an excellent alternative to the city’s standard group tours.
This private excursion includes an official guide and driver, providing a tailored exploration of the city’s highlights. Guests will visit the Roman Theater, Naval Museum, National Museum of Underwater Archeology, Punic Wall, and Molinete Archeological Park, with entrance fees to the Roman Theater included.
Priced from $435.76 per person, the tour offers flexibility in pickup locations and scheduling, with free cancellation and rescheduling available.
While past reviews note some issues with the driver, the overall experience has been positive, with knowledgeable guides and an engaging educational focus.
Read our full review: Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion of Cartagena With Driver and Official Guide Review
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GOD 6- to the BEAT of the CARIBBEAN RYTHM. LESSONS Shore Excursion
Cartagena’s GOD 6- to the BEAT of the CARIBBEAN RYTHM.
LESSONS Shore Excursion offers an immersive experience for travelers. Held in the vibrant city, the activity focuses on Afro-Colombian music, with no previous drumming skills required.
Participants will learn the basics of playing drums and enjoy live dance performances of Cumbia and Champeta.
The excursion also includes a short walking tour of the Old City and a visit to the San Felipe fortress.
Travelers will receive complimentary water or beer, welcome drinks, and Caribbean souvenirs.
With an air-conditioned vehicle, wheelchair accessibility, and a maximum group size of 15, this shore excursion is suitable for all.
Priced at SEK 1,345.20 per person, it offers a unique culture in Cartagena.
Read our full review: GOD 6- to the BEAT of the CARIBBEAN RYTHM. LESSONS Shore Excursion Review
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Shore Excursion Mangroves Tour
The Shore Excursion Mangroves Tour offers travelers a chance to explore the lush, tranquil mangrove ecosystems surrounding Cartagena.
Priced at $106.00 per person, this tour is operated by Guianza Express S.A.S and can accommodate up to 140 travelers.
With professional and local guides, the tour includes port pickup and drop-off, as well as bottled water.
The meeting point is at the Port of Cartagena, and the tour returns to the same location.
Confirmation is received at booking, and moderate physical fitness is required.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience and the reserve now, pay later option.
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Private Shore Excursion Cartagena and La Manga Tour
Designed for cruise ship passengers seeking a personalized exploration of Cartagena and its picturesque surroundings, the Private Shore Excursion Cartagena and La Manga Tour offers a comprehensive 5-hour experience.
This private excursion takes guests to the Punic Walls and Conception Castle, followed by a scenic drive to the stunning coastal town of La Manga. Travelers can admire the Mediterranean views and visit the Cabo de Palos Lighthouse for panoramic vistas.
The tour includes a licensed guide, private transportation, and select entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
Wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and infant seats make this excursion suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursion Cartagena and La Manga Tour Review
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Shore Excursion Accessible Sightseeing Tour
For those seeking an accessible way to explore Cartagena’s highlights, the Shore Excursion Accessible Sightseeing Tour offers a comprehensive solution.
With a private guide and private transportation, this tour provides an easy and comfortable way to see the city’s top sights. Wheelchair users can navigate the tour, and infants can join on laps.
While food and drinks aren’t included, bottled water is provided. Cruise ship passengers can be picked up at the designated zone, and those on land can specify their pickup location.
With excellent reviews and flexible booking policies, this tour is an appealing option for accessible travel in Cartagena.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Accessible Sightseeing Tour Review
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Sum Up
Cartagena offers a diverse range of shore excursions catering to various interests. From city tours and cultural experiences to nature-focused activities, visitors can explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, learning about the region’s heritage, or enjoying the natural surroundings, Cartagena has something to suit every traveler’s preferences.