Top Cartagena Wildlife Encounters

Step into the heart of conservation at Fundación Loros, a 1,000-acre regenerative natural reserve located just an hour from Cartagena. This sanctuary is dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing parrots and macaws rescued from illegal trafficking, offering them a second chance at freedom. The UTV safari provides a thrilling way to explore the reserve’s tropical dry forest. Navigate vibrant trails surrounded by mountains and discover diverse wildlife, including Cotton-top Tamarins monkey, Red Howlers, Capuchins, macaws, parrots, and a variety of exotic bird species. By joining this adventure, you contribute directly to the foundation’s mission of preserving ecosystems, empowering local farmers, and protecting biodiversity. Stunning views, native animals, and fresh tropical fruits await, making this an unforgettable experience with a meaningful impact.

Immerse yourself in Cartagena’s fishing and crabbing heritage with this unique experience. Learning from a local fisherman guide, practice the traditional ways of baiting crap traps, capturing fish and more. Your day will also include a chance to swim and see local wildlife. Perfect for guests looking to get off the well-trodden tourist route and do something a little different.

Step into the world of conservation at Fundación Loros, a private 1,300-acre tropical dry forest reserve and wildlife sanctuary located just an hour from Cartagena. This sanctuary is dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing parrots and macaws rescued from illegal trafficking, giving these majestic birds a second chance at freedom. The reserve is also a haven for diverse wildlife, including three monkey species— Red Howlers monkey, Capuchins monkey and the endemic titi monkey—as well as macaws, monkeys, toucans, sloths, and turtles. By collaborating closely with local farmers, the reserve promotes sustainable practices and supports community well-being. This is more than a connection with nature—it’s a transformative journey into conservation and biodiversity. Combine horseback riding and UTV exploration for a day of unique experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and meaningful contributions to wildlife preservation. Are you ready?

Colombia's ONLY specialized macaw and parrot rehabilitation center — a working wildlife sanctuary where rescued birds prepare for release. Every visit funds the rehabilitation of 200+ birds currently in care. Ride on horseback to Cerro El Peligro — the active liberation site where rehabilitated macaws take their first free flight. You may see them flying overhead. No other tour in Colombia offers this. Encounter the White-headed Capuchin Tamarin (Saguinus oedipus) — critically endangered and endemic to the Colombian Caribbean coast, found nowhere else on Earth. Help prepare food for the birds, plant a native tree that will feed free-flying macaws for decades, and receive a Rewilding Certificate. Breakfast made with ingredients from 40 allied farming families who protect 500 acres of tropical dry forest from poachers — conservation and community working together.

Dive into the world of conservation at Fundación Loros, a 1,000-acre natural reserve located just an hour from Cartagena. This sanctuary is dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing parrots and macaws rescued from illegal trafficking, while also caring for three remarkable monkey species: Cotton-top Tamarins monkeys, Red Howlers, and Capuchins. What makes this volunteer experience truly special? You’ll actively participate in prepare and deliver the food to the monkeys including fruits cultivated in the local area, ensuring a sustainable and nutritious diet. You’ll also contribute to reforestation efforts to restore their habitat and learn about the challenges of conserving these vulnerable species. Important: Please remember that it is not permitted to feed the animals directly, or touch them. All activities take place under the supervision of our trained foundation staff, as this is a rehabilitation center, not a zoo.

Venture into the heart of the tropical dry forest with a unique hiking experience at Fundación Loros, a 1,000-acre natural reserve located just an hour from Cartagena. This sanctuary is dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of parrots and macaws rescued from illegal trafficking, while also protecting species like the Cotton-top Tamarin, Red Howler Monkey, and Capuchin Monkey. As you hike through biodiversity-rich trails surrounded by mountains, you’ll encounter stunning views and a variety of wildlife, including macaws, toucans, sloths, and turtles. Fundación Loros collaborates closely with local farmers to promote sustainable practices and support nearby communities. A visit to this reserve is more than just a hike—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, contribute to conservation, and witness the incredible biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.

Experience Colombia’s beautiful Rosario Island on this full-day excursion to an exclusive beach club. After catching a speedboat from La Bodeguita Pier in Cartagena, head to Bora Bora Beach Club and enjoy a complimentary beach bed. Savor a delicious lunch—vegetarian, chicken and fish are available—and kick back by the water. Paddleboards, kayaks, and a masseuse are available for an extra charge.

Get your day off to a great start with a private rooftop brunch in the heart of Cartagena. Join your host in the Getsemaní neighborhood and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and some tapas while you get to know each other. Next, grab your supplies and learn painting techniques to create a beautiful piece of art to take home.

Totumo Mud Volcano is a one-of-a-kind attraction home to mineral-infused mud that’s reputed to have healing properties. Avoid the hassle of public transport and the expense of taxis on a stress-free trip to the volcano, which includes snacks and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. You’ll have ample time to soak in the mud bath and, opt for massage if you'd like.

Explore Cartagena's La Boquilla beach on the back of a horse during this 1.5-hour equestrian tour. Experience the sand and the waves firsthand while trotting down the beach; with a guide in the lead you just need to follow along and enjoy the scenery. Even complete novices will feel safe and comfortable and can choose to ride with a guide if they wish. Hotel pickup and bottled water complete this convenient tour.

Step into the world of conservation at Fundación Loros, a 1300-acre natural reserve located just an hour from Cartagena. This sanctuary is dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing parrots and macaws rescued from illegal trafficking This experience stands out for its unique combination of hands-on wildlife rehabilitation, immersive education, and direct contributions to conservation. Participants are not mere spectators—they actively care for parrots and macaws, gaining insights into the challenges these birds face and the efforts to protect them. With breathtaking landscapes and meaningful activities, this eco-adventure allows you to support a vital cause while connecting deeply with nature and wildlife. Please note: The price does not include transportation. Private transportation to the sanctuary typically costs $75 USD for a 4-passenger vehicle.

Immerse yourself in a unique experience that combines adventure, relaxation and wellness in one day. At Totumo Volcano, a volcanic mud bath awaits you with therapeutic properties that will leave your skin renewed and your body revitalized. It’s a unique feeling that you can only live here, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Colombian Caribbean. Then, relax on an exclusive private beach in Manzanillo, where the sun, breeze and sea will engulf you in an atmosphere of total peace. Enjoy a delicious lunch and take advantage of this paradise to rest, swim or just disconnect from the world. Do not miss this opportunity to live a day of pleasure and nature at its best!High seas!

Set sail for the Rosario Islands with this group catamaran expedition from Cartagena. You will be able to anchor at Isla Grande and Isla Bela, where you will have the opportunity to jump into the water to practice snorkeling. Lunch and refreshments will also be served at no additional charge.

Live a truly magical experience that combines nature, romance and exclusivity in one plan. This tour takes you to Playa Tranquila Barú, a place away from the noise, perfect for enjoying one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Caribbean, with the sky painted in golden and pink tones facing the sea. As night falls, the experience becomes even more special with the sighting of luminous plankton, a natural phenomenon that illuminates the water with blue flashes on contact, creating a unique and unforgettable moment. In addition, you will enjoy a dinner on the beach, prepared especially for you, in a relaxed, romantic and full of good energy. This tour is ideal for couples, friends or travelers looking for something different, authentic and off the beaten path. It’s not just a way out, it’s an experience that awakens the senses and stays in the memory.

Explore with us on a nice hike, the Tropical Dry Forest, just 1 hour away from Cartagena. Discover this amazing ecosystem with incredible species that were able to adapt to the no rain season. Within the fauna, there is a charismatic monkey, the Cotton Top Tamarin, a squirreled – size primate that takes the first place as one of Colombia’s most appealing endemic mammals. Through this unique off-the-beaten-path trip will make you enjoy the flora and fauna of this forest while you´re learning of it, having fun and exercising yourself. With a maximum of 8 people in the group expect a warm, friendly and personal atmosphere that will make you feel you´re with a close friend who has a great travel experience to share with you

Escape the city and immerse yourself in the tropical nature and wildlife of the Caribbean coast during a full-day trip to the National Aviary of Colombia (Aviario Nacional de Colombia) and Baru Island (Isla Baru). You can sit back and leave the planning to someone else on this day trip, which includes transport from your hotel and between attractions, lunch, and admission tickets.