Aviario Nacional Including Playa Blanca Shared Tour

No aviary, just beach

We didn’t end up going to the aviary, just beach (still amazing and the people on the island + the guide was amazing) but I would’ve definitely liked to go to the aviary. I wasn’t able to get a refund for that:/

via Tripadvisor

Poor communication and timing. Aviary is very cool.

We were picked up 40 minutes late. They did not reach out to let us know they were running late, I had to contact them. They told me they were 10 minutes away and it took another 25 minutes. I wouldn't have minded if they had communicated, we just would have went to get coffee. But instead we were stuck standing around waiting. Once we got on the bus, transportation was fine. There were issues with our tickets at the aviary, so with all the delays we only had about an hour to walk through before the bird show- it felt very rushed. The aviary was amazing, the bird show was incredible. After we went to playa Blanca- they did try to make up for the time delay by giving us an extra hour at the beach. It was nice to have more time to relax but it made for a LONG day. The beach was beautiful, but there are a lot of boats and jet skis in the swim area. It smelt pretty strong of exhaust. A lot of vendors trying to get you to buy massages and souvenirs, but that's to be expected. We did get beach beds and an umbrella which was lovely. Lunch was simple and delicious. Bathrooms were decent for beach bathrooms. Overall it was still a nice day, but I wouldn't do it again.

Response from the operator: Dear Selina Thank you for taking the time to share such detailed feedback about your experience We sincerely apologize for the delay at the beginning of the tour and, especially, for not communicating the situation with you in a timely manner. We completely understand your frustration. As you mentioned, having clear and timely communication would have made a significant difference while you were waiting. We are also sorry that the delay affected the time available at the aviary and made the overall day feel longer than expected. While we appreciate that you recognized our effort to compensate for the lost time by extending your time at Playa Blanca, we understand that this does not replace the experience of having the itinerary run as planned We are glad to hear that you enjoyed the transportation once the tour started, the aviary and its incredible bird show, as well as the beach, lunch and amenities provided Your comments regarding the pickup coordination and communication have been shared with our operations team so we can reinforce our procedures and avoid similar situations in the future We truly appreciate your feedback, as it helps us identify where we need to improve. We hope that, despite the difficulties you experienced, you will remember the beautiful moments of your day in Cartagena

via Viator

Best tour in Cartagena!

I had an amazing time on this tour! While in Columbia (solo trip), I went on three tours and this was by far the best. The tour guide, Karina Andrea Sarmiennto, was fabulous. She was very patient (I do not speak Spanish and her English was great) and helpful. The aviary was extraordinary and the beach was gorgeous (actually much prettier than the Rosario islands). I highly recommend!

via Tripadvisor

Better than anticipated

I very much enjoyed this trip w my adult daughter. Yes, it is much too hot for a Seattlite but that was known. The pick up is tough for a first timer. Lots of tour busses come to a common pick up spot if one is staying in the historic center of Cartagena. It feels chaotic. But the tour guides all have their lists of guests and it seems to all eventually sort out. We were the only two on our bus also stopping at the aviary. All others were going to the beach - the white sands of Baru. The coordination with this stop and our pick up was without a hitch and was clear and understood. The birds at the national aviary are spectacular. The tour timing did not allow us to take advantage of the two presentation times at the aviary. That could be coordinated. Once at the beach and the then a little boat ride north on the beach, we were all safe, together and well cared for. The water is the most spectacular blue! Lunch order was taken as soon as we got on the bus in the morning so thay if u were having fish, the correct amount of fish would be caught for us thay very morning. Yes, we had the fish and it was fantastic! As well as the coconut rice, tostones, lettuce and tomato. I stayed in the water for hours. Temperature magical. Walked the beach farther north. The development along the beach is fascinating - a must see once at least as I read someone else had said. The culture is interesting and vibrant. And last but not least - our guide was professional and adorable!

Response from the operator: Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us. We are delighted to know that you and your daughter enjoyed the tour and that it exceeded your expectations. We appreciate your feedback regarding the pick-up process. We understand that it can be challenging for first-time visitors, and your comments are very valuable as we continue working to improve the experience for our guests. We hope to welcome you again for another memorable experience.

via Tripadvisor

Colombian National Aviary and Baru Beach Tour with Transportation

The National Aviary was excellent. The birds were beautiful. Our guide was good enough to personally meet my daughter and I at our lodgings even when that location was not on the list of pick up sites. We had a relaxing time at the beach at Baru. They had private shade covers and bathrooms and the lunch was very good. The tour I selected did not say we we also going to Baru Beach as well as the Aviary but it was still enjoyable even though we didn't have swimsuits. Only four from our bus chose to stop at the Aviary while the rest went strait to the beach. We had around 1-1/2 hours at the aviary. I think I would have liked to have spent more time there. Many of the birds are very tame. We had one who jumped into my daughter's lap. A parrot walked up to me while I was viewing the enclosures and stated chewing on my shoe. We had a great time. The main destination for this tour is definitely the beach. We spent close to 4 hours there. Make sure to bring cash. There will be people selling food, drinks, trinkets and personal massages. Be prepared. I would highly recommend taking this tour.

Response from the operator: Thank you very much for sharing your detailed experience. We are delighted to know that you enjoyed the National Aviary and its beautiful variety of birds. It is also gratifying to hear that our guide went the extra mile to personally meet you at your lodging and that you were able to relax and enjoy the facilities at Baru Beach, including the shaded areas, bathrooms, and lunch service. We truly appreciate your kind feedback and hope to welcome you and your family again in the future.

via Tripadvisor