Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario)

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

- Morning: Depart from Cartagena by boat, which you can easily catch at the Muelle Turístico in Cartagena. The journey takes about an hour. Upon arrival, check into your hotel or eco-lodge.

- Afternoon: Head to Playa Blanca on Isla Barú. The white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming and relaxation. The beach is accessible by a short boat ride from your base island.

- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant, sampling fresh seafood which is a specialty here.

Day 2: Adventure and Education

- Morning: Visit the Oceanario Islas del Rosario, a short boat ride from most accommodations. This aquarium offers a chance to learn about marine life with dolphin shows and viewing tanks, a great educational experience for kids.

- Afternoon: Snorkeling around the coral reefs. Equipment can be rented from several spots on the islands. The vibrant underwater life, including colorful fish and corals, will amaze everyone.

- Evening: Relax at your hotel and enjoy a sunset viewing, where the sky often lights up in shades of pink and orange.

Day 3: Leisure and Departure

- Morning: Take a leisurely kayaking trip through the mangroves. Many hotels offer guided tours which help in spotting local wildlife and understanding the ecosystem.

- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch on the island and prepare for departure back to Cartagena in the late afternoon.

Interesting Facts

- The Rosario Islands are a national park, declared to protect one of the most important coral reefs of the Colombian Caribbean coast.

- These islands are not just a tourist paradise but also a vital area for marine research and conservation.

This itinerary blends relaxation with educational activities, making your family trip both fun and informative!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Old Town Cartagena

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Old Town Cartagena

Morning

- Start at the Clock Tower Gate (Puerta del Reloj): This iconic yellow structure is the main entrance to the old city and a perfect meeting point. It’s easily reachable by taxi or a short walk from most nearby hotels. Gather here early in the morning to beat the crowds and heat.

- Walk to Plaza de los Coches: Just beyond the Clock Tower, this bustling square is full of colorful history, once serving as a slave market. Today, it"s a lively spot with sweet treats like fresh "arepas" or tropical fruit cups that kids will love.

Mid-Morning

- Explore the streets of San Diego: Wander through this quieter district of Cartagena’s old town, famous for its beautifully preserved colonial houses adorned with bougainvillea. Don’t miss a chance to snap family pictures at the picturesque Plaza de San Diego.

- Visit the Museo Naval del Caribe: Located a short walk from San Diego, this naval museum is great for kids interested in pirates and maritime history. Engaging exhibits explain Colombia’s naval history and Cartagena’s role in it.

Lunch

- Rest at a local café in Plaza Santo Domingo: Try traditional Colombian dishes like "coconut rice" and "patacones". The plaza is often filled with street performers, which provides entertaining lunchtime viewing.

Afternoon

- Tour Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: Take a short taxi ride to this fortress. It’s a fun exploration site for families, offering tunnels and panoramic views of Cartagena. The fort has historical significance, having protected the city from pirates.

Late Afternoon

- Chill at Café del Mar: End your day with refreshments at this famous café on the city walls, watching a stunning sunset over the Caribbean.

This tour of Old Town Cartagena offers a perfect blend of education, culture, and fun, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

San Felipe de Barajas Castle (Castillo San Felipe de Barajas)

Why Visit?

Embark on a historical adventure at the majestic San Felipe de Barajas Castle in Cartagena, Colombia, a perfect outing for families eager to explore a significant landmark full of intrigue and tales of the past!

Morning Arrival

Start your day early to avoid the heat and crowds. Catch a taxi from your accommodation in Cartagena; it’s the most convenient way to reach the castle, which sits impressively on the Hill of San Lázaro. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and offer a quick, affordable ride.

Explore the Castle

As you arrive, marvel at the impressive size of this fortress, built during the colonial era to protect against pirate attacks. Purchase your tickets at the entrance, or consider a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. Guides are especially great for families, as they bring the history alive in an engaging way that captivates children and adults alike.

Navigating the Fortress

Wander through the labyrinth of tunnels and expansive courtyards. The tunnels are cool and exciting for kids, offering a fun exploration experience. Make sure to climb to the top ramparts where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea—a perfect spot for family photos!

Fun Facts

- The castle was named after Saint Philip IV of Spain.

- It’s considered one of the greatest fortresses ever built by the Spaniards in their colonies.

Rest and Refresh

After exploring, enjoy some snacks at the small café near the castle entrance, or pack a picnic to have in the nearby green areas.

Interactive Engagement

Before leaving, challenge your kids to sketch the castle or write a short story about a day in the life of a 17th-century soldier defending the fortress. This not only enhances their experience but also solidifies the historical knowledge they"ve gained.

With its rich history and engaging activities, San Felipe de Barajas Castle offers a memorable outing for the whole family, ensuring both fun and learning are had by all!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos)

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Start your day at the enchanting city of Cartagena, Colombia. Head to the Old Shoes Monument, located near the historic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. Easily accessible by taxi or bus from any part of the city, aim to arrive early to beat the crowds.

Upon reaching the monument, take a moment to capture the family in front of the oversized bronze shoes, an ode to Cartagena"s beloved poet Luis Carlos López. It’s inspired by his famous poem, "A mi ciudad nativa" (To My Native City), symbolizing comfort and the joy of returning home. Kids will love clambering over and exploring the large shoes, making for great photo opportunities.

Midday: Picnic & Leisure

Just a short walk from the monument, enjoy a picnic at the nearby lush gardens of Parque de la Marina. Pack a lunch or grab some local empanadas from a nearby vendor. Here, you can relax under the shade of trees, perhaps recite some of López"s poetry, and let the kids play in the open space.

Afternoon: Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Post-lunch, walk to the nearby Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, one of the greatest fortresses ever built by the Spaniards in their colonies. The entry fee is around $10, and the fort offers panoramic views of the city and engaging tours that reveal its military engineering secrets. The tunnels, ramps, and galleries are particularly thrilling for children, igniting imaginations with tales of historical battles and pirate sieges.

Evening: Sunset and Dinner

Cap your day with a stroll back towards the Old City. Catch a magnificent sunset by the iconic Cartagena Walls, and settle down for dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offering delicious local cuisine.

This delightful day ensures a blend of culture, history, and fun, perfect for a family outing in Cartagena!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Santo Domingo Church (Iglesia de Santo Domingo)

Why Visit?

Start your family adventure at the iconic Santo Domingo Church in Oaxaca, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture that has stood since the late 16th century. Begin by exploring the church itself, marveling at its intricately decorated interior and stunning gold-leaf altarpieces. The church is open daily, with no admission fee, making it a budget-friendly option for family travel.

To reach Santo Domingo Church, situated in the heart of Oaxaca City, you can easily walk from most central locations. If you"re staying further out, local buses and taxis are readily available and affordable. The church is located at the north end of pedestrian-friendly Macedonio Alcalá Street, which is lined with shops and eateries perfect for exploring before or after your visit.

After visiting the church, head next door to the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, housed in the former monastery. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Oaxaca"s rich history and culture. It"s particularly great for kids, with its engaging displays and artifacts from the region’s pre-Hispanic and colonial past. The museum has a small admission fee, but it"s free for children under 12.

Wrap up your day with a stroll through the adjacent Ethnobotanical Garden, where you can learn about the diverse plant species native to the region. The garden offers guided tours in English and Spanish, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a camera to capture the beautiful details of Santo Domingo Church and the surrounding attractions. This combination of historical and cultural exploration will surely leave your family with lasting memories of their visit to Oaxaca.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.