The top-day excursions from Cartagena can be reached within a day or two, making the city an excellent home base. It offers world-class restaurants, magnificent colonial buildings, and a groovy attitude. Below we will look at some stunning beaches and islands you shouldn't miss, as well as some unique cultural activities.

San Basilio de Palenque

Anyone interested in history might benefit from a visit here. It's one of South America's most significant historical settlements, and UNESCO designated it as such in 2005 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Just an hour south of Cartagena, San Basilio de Palenque was one of the first places to take a stand against slavery. In the 16th century, former African king Benko's Biohó, who had been sold into slavery, escaped and established the colony.

Over time, a handful of formerly enslaved people made their way to this remote mountain community. They preserved their customs, beliefs, and language and continue to use them now.

Spanish Creole, the indigenous tongue developed to facilitate communication, is still spoken today. Enslaved people in Palenque were finally granted their freedom by royal order from the Spanish Crown in 1713.

Playa Blanca and Isla Baru

If you've gone to Cartagena wanting white sandy beaches and palm trees, you will shortly learn the city center won't give this. Don't stress! Hop on a leisurely 1-hour sailboat, bus, or cab, and you'll arrive on the idyllic island of Isla Baru.

How can you take a bus or taxi to an island? Nowadays, there's also a bridge that connects the island to the mainland. Playa Blanca is the primary reason travelers visit this island for a day vacation.

It's an action-packed beach with music, cocktails, juices, and fresh seafood. There are also some excellent snorkeling locations with many fish hanging over the reefs.

Tierra Bomba Island

If you aren't up to an hour of the bike but want an easy beach day, head to Tierra Bomba. Tierra Bomba, reached through a pleasant 15-minute boat ride from Cartagena, is an excellent destination for a day trip.

From the hospital in Bocagrande, you will find dozens of lanchas which may carry you to the island. The water is almost as straightforward as that of Isla Baru, but that's the only real drawback. Exclusive beach clubs like Blue Apple Beach and Fenix are some of the most popular places to visit on the island.

Prices are roughly $50 and often include beach mattresses, lunch, and return transportation. You may enjoy a relaxing day at the beach for a higher price.

Check out Punta Arena beach for those searching for a leisurely day excursion without the beach club charges. Numerous beach umbrellas and dive bars make this a hotspot for vacationers.

Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are a must-see and can be visited in a day from Cartagena. In 1988, the entire group of islands was set aside as a protected national park. The reason is apparent once you get there. Isla Grande, the largest island, is where most visitors land.

You should charter a private yacht or catamaran for the day if your party size is seven or more or if you have a sizable budget.

You'll have more options for taking in the sights of the many islands. Keep away from the city's street-sold group excursions, too. You will find yourself cramped on a boat with too many people.

Totumo Mud Volcano

Covering oneself in mud may only be for some. However, experiencing new things is the whole point of traveling. This volcano is a 50-foot-tall pile of dirt located about an hour outside Cartagena. According to folklore, a priest stopped the lava flow from this volcano.

He blessed it with holy water, and now it's a popular tourist destination. While there, you can spend a few minutes walking to the peak. From there, drop one by one down a ladder into the mud pit, which is reputed to have therapeutic benefits.

The descent is straightforward. However, it would help if you took time due to the muck. Relax and let the staff massage you. Everything happens for a reason and adds to the adventure. Try floating on your back to experience your increased buoyancy.