Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Cartagena, Colombia
1. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A massive fortress overlooking the city, built to protect Cartagena from pirates. Its labyrinthine tunnels and unique defensive system are a sight to behold.
- Historical Significance: Provides insights into the colonial history of Cartagena
- Architectural Marvel: Showcases Spanish military engineering in the 17th century
- Pirate's Lair: Offers a glimpse into the pirate history of Cartagena
2. La Boquilla Neighborhood
A vibrant fisherman's community located on the outskirts of Cartagena. Known for its unique palenque art and coconut palm-thatched houses.
- Authentic Local Culture: Provides a glimpse into local life outside the tourist areas
- Palenque Art: Offers an opportunity to appreciate traditional Afro-Colombian art
- Mangrove Tour: Allows visitors to explore the nearby mangroves and spot wildlife
3. Volcan de Lodo El Totumo
A unique mud volcano located about an hour from Cartagena. Visitors can swim and immerse themselves in the therapeutic mud.
- Therapeutic Mud: Offers potential health benefits due to the minerals in the mud
- Unusual Experience: Provides a unique, one-of-a-kind experience
- Local Interaction: Allows visitors to interact with locals who provide the service
4. El Muelle de los Pegasos
A whimsical statue of two horses leaping over a boat, located on the Bocagrande beach. It's a popular spot for stunning sunset views and photographs.
- Iconic Landmark: Serves as an instantly recognizable symbol of Cartagena
- Sunset Viewing: Provides a picturesque spot to enjoy the sunset
- Photo Opportunity: Offers a unique and memorable backdrop for photographs
5. Torre del Reloj
A beautifully restored clock tower located in the heart of Cartagena's walled city. It offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular meeting spot.
- Panoramic Views: Offers a bird's-eye view of the historic city
- City Landmark: Serves as a historical symbol in Cartagena's walled city
- Meeting Spot: Is a popular place for locals and tourists to gather
6. Casa de la Agua
A unique contemporary art museum located in an old water storage tank. The exhibits change frequently and often feature local artists.
- Contemporary Art: Showcases contemporary art by Colombian artists
- Historic Architecture: Housed in a historically significant building
- Frequently Changing Exhibits: Offers a fresh, ever-changing art experience
7. Playa Blanca
A beautiful and secluded beach located on the Rosario Islands. Known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand.
- Secluded Beach: Offers a peaceful, quiet beach experience away from crowds
- Crystal-clear Waters: Provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling and swimming
- Tropical Island Getaway: Offers a tropical island escape just off the coast of Cartagena
8. Museo de Oro Zenu
A museum dedicated to the indigenous Zenu culture and their gold artifacts. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Cartagena's pre-Columbian history.
- Pre-Columbian History: Offers insights into Cartagena's indigenous past
- Gold Artifacts: Showcases the intricate gold work of the Zenu people
- Indigenous Culture: Provides a deeper understanding of Cartagena's cultural heritage
9. La Popa Monastery
A historic monastery located at the highest point in Cartagena. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into the religious history of Cartagena.
- Historic Religious Site: Serves as an important religious landmark in Cartagena's history
- Panoramic Views: Offers a bird's-eye view of the historic city
- Religious History: Provides insights into Cartagena's religious past
10. El Cementerio Maritimo
A unique cemetery located on a small island just off the coast of Cartagena. It's home to elaborately decorated mausoleums and offers a glimpse into Cartagena's maritime history.
- Maritime History: Offers insights into Cartagena's seafaring past
- Elaborate Mausoleums: Showcases elaborate and ornate tombs
- Island Cemetery: Offers a unique, serene cemetery experience on an island
11. La Ciudad Perdida
An ancient city built by the Tairona people in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. It's considered to be older than Machu Picchu and offers a glimpse into pre-Columbian history.
- Pre-Columbian History: Offers insights into Cartagena's indigenous past
- Ancient City: Showcases an ancient city built by the Tairona people
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Provides a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience
12. Cerro de Monjas
A small hill located within Cartagena's walled city. It offers stunning views of the city and is home to a beautiful chapel and gardens.
- Panoramic Views: Offers a bird's-eye view of the historic city
- Historic Site: Serves as an important historical landmark in Cartagena
- Gardens and Chapel: Offers a peaceful, tranquil escape within the city walls
13. La Villa del Candelario
A traditional Afro-Colombian neighborhood located in Cartagena. It's known for its vibrant street art and colorful houses.
- Local Culture: Provides a glimpse into local life outside the tourist areas
- Street Art: Offers an opportunity to appreciate traditional Afro-Colombian art
- Colorful Homes: Allows visitors to explore a colorful, picturesque neighborhood
14. Castillo San Lorenzo
A fortress located on the island of San Lorenzo. It offers a glimpse into Spanish colonial military architecture and provides stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
- Spanish Colonial Architecture: Showcases Spanish colonial military architecture
- Caribbean Sea Views: Offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea
- Historical Landmark: Serves as an important historical landmark in Cartagena's history
15. La Playa de Manzanillo
A secluded beach located on the Isla Grande of the Rosario Islands. Known for its clear waters and coral reefs, it's a paradise for snorkelers.
- Secluded Beach: Offers a peaceful, quiet beach experience away from crowds
- Clear Waters: Provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling and swimming
- Coral Reefs: Offers the opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs