A large Spanish colonial fortress on San Lázaro hill, just outside the walled city, with ramparts and narrow tunnels to explore. It is hot and exposed, so visit early and bring water; older kids enjoy the tunnels.
Cartagena's historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with colourful streets, plazas and walls you can walk along. Keep walks short in the heat and break them up with shady plazas and drink stops.
Island/beach day; operator quality varies.
A marine conservation centre on San Martín de Pajarales in the Rosario Islands, showing sea life from the Colombian Caribbean. Usually visited as a stop on boat trips from Cartagena or Barú.
A naval history museum in Cartagena's walled city covering the city's maritime past, with ship models and displays on its defences. A compact indoor stop for older children interested in ships and history.
A small gold museum on Plaza de Bolívar showing gold work and pottery of the Zenú people of Colombia's Caribbean region. Quick to visit and indoors, making it an easy break during an old-town walk.
Community/nature experience; select reputable local operator.
A popular white-sand beach on Barú island, reached by road or boat from Cartagena. It can be crowded and busy with vendors, and sea conditions vary, so pick your spot and keep a close eye on children.
Older-child historical option due to subject matter.
Visual-art and neighbourhood exploration.