If you have a need to get out of Cartagena for the day and are looking for some options, there are a few destinations within a short trip.

Head to Parque Nacional Tayrona , a national park. The park is a beautiful mix of white sand beaches, interesting coral reefs and jungle slopes. The high steeps belong to the world’s highest coastal range. Be aware that swimming is not recommended here – the current is too strong and therefore dangerous, but many people snorkel with no problem. If it gets too warm here, the beaches are shaded with coconut trees.

There is an ancient Tayrona (Indian) village – called Pueblito – under excavation.

Another popular day trip from Cartagena  on the way back from The Tayrona National Park is Santa Marta. This port city is the oldest in Colombia and sits at the base of the Sierra Nevada, the highest coastal mountain in the world. You can enjoy a warm beach here like the beautiful and safe resort town of  El Rodadero or travel  to the mountains and enjoy some cooler weather and you can visit the best archaeological site of the area La Ciudad Perdida ruins.

Finally, if you want to enjoy some Colombian architecture and history, head for Mompox. This town is set on the Magdalena River and was once an important trading location between the inland area of the country and the Caribbean. The commercial life is no longer, but the town retains its gorgeous colonial architecture.