Cartagena, Mud Volcano and the Pink Sea of Galerazamba

Cartagena , Colombia

Cartagena, Mud Volcano and the Pink Sea of Galerazamba

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About this experience

After a short 45-minute drive from Cartagena you’ll discover El Volcán de Lodo El Totumo. With an approximate elevation of just 20 meters (50 steps to the top), this volcano houses a natural pool of mineral-infused volcanic mud.
Following your rejuvenating mud bath, you’ll carry on to the small village of Galerazamba a short distance away. This location has a fantastico history, but easily the pink salt flats steal the show and attract tourists from far and wide to take the perfect photo. Once you are here, you’ll enjoy time to walk around the waters, and find the perfect angle, with the sun hitting the water just right, for that perfect photo! Or simply find a quiet spot to meditate over how amazing nature really is.

Available options

Cartagena, Mud Volcano and the Pink Sea of Galerazamba

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Entrance fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Bilingual Guide for entire tour time

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After a short 45-minute drive from Cartagena, you’ll discover El Volcán de Lodo El Totumo (The mud volcano of Totumo). With an approximate elevation of just 20 meters (50 steps to the top) this volcano houses a natural pool of mineral-infused volcanic mud, with an amazing relaxing effect and attributed healing powers of the skin. Locals will actually tell you the mud contains many medicinal properties which can help with a number of ailments, such as normalizing blood circulation, reducing any stress, and replacing any negative energy with positive. Not only all of this, but it also leaves your skin smooth and soft to the touch and is anti-inflammatory! This is one of the most desirable tours of Cartagena.
Following your rejuvenating mud bath, you’ll carry on to the small village of Galerazamba a short distance away. This location has a fantastico history, but easily the pink salt flats steal the show and attract tourists from far and wide to take the perfect photo.

Following your rejuvenating mud bath, you’ll carry on to the small village of Galerazamba a short distance away. This location has a fantastico history, but easily the pink salt flats steal the show and attract tourists from far and wide to take the perfect photo. Once you are here, you’ll enjoy time to walk around the waters, and find the perfect angle, with the sun hitting the water just right, for that perfect photo! Or simply find a quiet spot to meditate over how amazing nature really is.

The pink sea is a natural phenomenon that occurs for around ½ of the year. And depending on the season and recent climate can have a varying pink hue. There are 2 seasons when you can enjoy the pink salts. The main season being December to April, and the 2nd is August and September.

It is actually a salt mine and the changing in the color of the salt to a pink hue is caused by brightly colored salt-loving microbes, which create pigmented protein, in order to absorb the sun's solar energy.

What's not included

Meals and drinks not mentioned in the plan

Experiences and transportation not mentioned in the plan

Personal expenses and tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

We'll contact you shortly after your booking to confirm your Bucaramanga hotel and pick-up time.

About Cartagena

Cartagena, a vibrant city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is renowned for its colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning beaches. Known as the 'Pearl of the Caribbean,' it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, lively nightlife, and tropical charm.

Top Attractions

Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)

The historic center of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and colorful buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to enter, individual attractions may charge admission

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

A 17th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Playa Blanca

A beautiful white-sand beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Full day Budget to moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche de Camarones

Shrimp ceviche made with fresh shrimp, lime juice, and various spices.

Appetizer Contains seafood

Arepas

Cornmeal patties that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter with rice, beans, meat, plantains, avocado, and more.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset watching Exploring historic sites Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

December to April

The dry season offers sunny skies and lower humidity, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the city.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

UTC-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Stay vigilant and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Rafael Núñez International Airport • 3 km from city center

By bus

Terminal de Transporte Terrestre

Getting around

Public transport

A modern bus rapid transit system with air-conditioned buses and dedicated lanes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada) Getsemani Bocagrande

Day trips

Isla Barú

15 km from Cartagena • Full day

A beautiful island with stunning beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation and water activities.

Mud Volcanoes (Volcanes de Lodo)

45 km from Cartagena • Half day

A unique natural phenomenon where mud volcanoes can be climbed for therapeutic mud baths.

Palmar

20 km from Cartagena • Half day

A beautiful nature reserve with mangrove forests and a variety of wildlife.

Festivals

Hay Festival Cartagena • January Carnaval de Barranquilla • February/March

Pro tips

Visit the Walled City early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the neighborhoods of Getsemani and Bocagrande for a mix of history and modern luxury.
Use the Transcaribe bus system for affordable and convenient transportation.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water for exploring the city.