Ciénaga de la Virgen Mangrove Canoe Birding from Cartagena
Bird by canoe through the mangrove channels beside La Boquilla, searching for kingfishers, herons and other wetland birds on a morning or afternoon excursion.
About this tour
A canoe offers a different perspective on the birds around Cartagena. Beside the traditional Afro-Colombian fishing village of La Boquilla, Ciénaga de la Virgen supports resident and migratory waterbirds among mangrove channels and open water. The excursion follows natural tunnels through the mangroves, with a local guide paddling the canoe while guests watch the vegetation, banks and water.
Kingfishers, herons and curlews are among the bird groups sought. Unlike a forest trail outing, this visit centers on aquatic habitats and observations from the boat. Maicol provides birding guidance in Spanish or English, and the outing can be arranged in the morning or afternoon.
Pickup is in or near Cartagena’s walled city. The example morning program starts at 5:40 a.m., allowing about 30 minutes to La Boquilla, followed by roughly three hours of birding. A chilled coconut rounds off the visit before the return transfer. Road travel adds to the three-hour canoe program, so the complete outing takes longer than the time on the water.
Groups may range from one to ten guests, with transport costs changing according to the party size. This wetland excursion can also form the afternoon section of a longer birding day after a morning forest visit such as Matute.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Colombia.
Itinerary
Day 1
Ciénaga de la Virgen and La Boquilla birding outing
Transfer from Cartagena to La Boquilla for a canoe journey through mangrove channels. Search for wetland birds as a local guide paddles, then enjoy a chilled coconut before the road transfer back. Morning and afternoon departures can be arranged.
Locations & map
- Ciénaga de la Virgen and La Boquilla - La Boquilla, Cartagena, Bolívar Colombia
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request
Price: Price on request
Included
- Birding guidance in Spanish or English
- Round-trip transport and canoe excursion with a local paddler
- Chilled coconut
Transport & stays
- Road transfer and canoe Group size affects transportation cost. Road transfers are additional to the stated site birding duration. | Meet: In or near Cartagena’s walled city | Pickup: Pickup arranged with the guide
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.