Travel Guide Barú

Barú, often called Isla Barú, is a 37 km peninsula separated from the mainland by the Canal del Dique, which connects the port of Cartagena to the Magdalena River. This 114 km canal was built by the Spaniards in 1652 for military reasons. In 2014, a bridge was built over the canal, which has facilitated a strong development of tourism from Cartagena. Barú has beautiful white sand beaches, transparent waters, freshwater fountains, mangrove swamps, water gardens, and a fantastic variety of colorful birds and fish. Most of the beaches are located in front of private properties. Playa Blanca is public, and therefore very busy. During the day, it is invaded by tourists, street vendors, jet-skis... But from 4 pm, when the boats leave, it is a real paradise. It is therefore advisable to spend the night there, if you accept a very basic comfort. For more comfort, go to one of the hotels in Ensenada de Cholón, a cove surrounded by mangroves and small beaches, near Barú, a picturesque fishing village.