Mangata Beach from Cartagena

If you’re planning a visit to Cartagena and dreaming of a day lounging on a stunning Caribbean beach, the Mangata Beach tour with Backpackers Cartagena might catch your eye. It promises a full day of sun, sand, and sea, combined with some fun activities and a touch of luxury. We’ve looked into it thoroughly to give you a balanced view of what to expect, so you can decide if it fits your style and travel plans.

What we like about this experience is its convenient all-in-one package—with transportation, lunch, and activities included, it simplifies a lot of logistics. Plus, the chance to visit the Rosario Islands, known for their natural beauty, is definitely a plus. On the flip side, the price of $175 per person might feel steep if you’re budget-conscious, especially since port taxes aren’t included. This trip is best suited for those wanting a comfortable, hassle-free day in a paradisiacal setting without too many surprises.

Key Points

• Includes roundtrip boat transport and all the major amenities, making it a seamless day out.
• Multiple activities like paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling offer variety.
• Lunch and refreshments are covered, with options to suit different tastes.
• Duration of 8 hours offers plenty of time to relax and explore without feeling rushed.
• Rating of 4.2 from past travelers indicates generally good experiences, though some may find the group size or pace varies.
• Port taxes are not included, so factor that into your budget.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

Starting with the basics, this tour is designed to make your day as easy as possible. You get roundtrip boat transportation from Muelle de la Bodeguita, which means no fuss about finding your way or arranging separate transfers. The boat ride takes roughly an hour each way, giving you time to enjoy the views and anticipation of reaching the beach.

Once you arrive, you’re welcomed with a glass of champagne or fresh juice—an inviting touch that sets a relaxed tone. The amenities include use of paddle boards, transparent kayaks, and snorkeling gear, which are perfect for getting a closer look at the underwater life or simply having fun on the water. There are fresh water showers to rinse off after your aquatic adventures and a towel service to keep you comfortable.

Your meal options are plentiful, with eight different lunch choices plus a non-alcoholic beverage. The restaurant offers both air-conditioned and open-air seating, so you can choose to dine in comfort or enjoy the breeze. All guests have access to bed or sun lounge chairs, ensuring you can lounge in style or soak up the sun at your pace.

However, it’s worth noting that port taxes aren’t included, which could add a small extra to your total cost. Be sure to keep some cash handy if you need to settle these.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The trip kicks off at Muelle de la Bodeguita, a popular spot for boat excursions. From there, you’ll hop on a speedboat for the roughly one-hour ride to Mangata Beach. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering scenic views of the bay and islands, which many travelers find quite enjoyable.

At the Rosario Islands, you’ll have about five hours of free time. This is enough to relax on the private beach club, swim, or explore around. The schedule includes a photo stop and a visit to the beach, giving you some memorable moments and pictures to take home.

The lunch break is a relaxed affair, with options to suit various tastes. Expect to be able to choose from 8 different dishes, served at an air-conditioned or open-air restaurant. After your meal, you’re free to continue swimming, sunbathing, or trying out the paddle boards and kayaks.

The return trip is another hour by speedboat, giving you a chance to reflect on your day and enjoy the sea breeze. The tour concludes back at the Muelle de la Bodeguita, where you arrived.

What Travelers Say

While I didn’t find specific user reviews in the data, the overall provider rating of 4.2 suggests that most travelers find the experience worthwhile. The mention of stunning views as a highly praised aspect indicates that the scenery truly lives up to expectations. Those who have enjoyed it often point out the well-organized logistics and the variety of activities as major pluses.

Some travelers note that the lunch options are diverse, which helps cater to different preferences, and the use of facilities like kayaks and snorkel gear adds a nice touch of adventure. However, as with any tour, there can be variability—some might find the pace or group size different from what they expect.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, with all the essentials covered and a good balance of activities, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing your own transport or meals. It’s also a good pick if you enjoy water sports like kayaking and snorkeling—most of all, if you’re looking to capture those picture-perfect views.

That said, if you’re very budget-conscious or prefer more flexibility in your schedule, you might want to consider alternatives or plan your own day trips. The inclusion of lunch, transport, and activities for the price balances convenience with cost, but keep in mind the extra port taxes.

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Final Thoughts

The Mangata Beach tour from Cartagena offers a relaxing escape to one of Colombia’s most beautiful spots. With a well-rounded package that covers transportation, meals, and fun activities, it suits travelers who prefer a hassle-free, comfortable experience. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially if you’re eager to enjoy the Caribbean’s natural beauty without too many complications.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a balanced day of relaxation and adventure, valuing convenience and scenic views over strict budget options. Overall, it’s a dependable choice for those wanting to make the most of their time in Cartagena’s stunning surroundings.

FAQ

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at Muelle de la Bodeguita, a popular spot for boat trips in Cartagena.

How long is the boat ride to Mangata Beach?
The trip takes about one hour each way on a speedboat.

What’s included in the tour?
You get roundtrip boat transportation, a welcome drink, access to water sports gear, fresh water showers, lunch with multiple options, towel service, and lounge chairs.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, port taxes are not included in the price, so you may need to pay those separately.

How much time will I have at Mangata Beach?
You’ll have around five hours to enjoy the beach, participate in activities, and eat.

Can I choose my lunch?
Yes, there are eight lunch options plus non-alcoholic drinks, so you can pick what suits your taste.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on water activities and relaxed environment could be suitable for older children, depending on their comfort with water sports.

What language is the tour host in?
The tour is hosted in Spanish.

Is the tour flexible or can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, making it easy to secure your place and plan your trip.

If the idea of a scenic, activity-filled day on the Rosario Islands appeals to you, this tour offers a well-organized, comfortable way to experience it. Just remember to budget for those extra taxes and enjoy the stunning views and relaxing vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here: