Cartagena: ATV Beach Ride & Private Swim with Lunch

Summary

ATV rides on Cartagena’s coast with private beach stop and lunch included

You’ll ride an ATV across Cartagena’s wild northern beaches with a local guide leading the way. Feel salt spray as you speed along sand and trails, then cool off with a private ocean swim before sharing lunch by the shore. Pickup, helmets, bottled water and lunch are all included—just bring your sense of adventure.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — engines humming against the salty air as we lined up just outside Cartagena. Our guide, Andrés, handed me a helmet that still smelled faintly of sunscreen (someone else’s, maybe). He grinned and said something about “no fear on the sand,” which made me laugh because I was already nervous. The sky was that kind of pale blue that looks almost washed out in the morning, but once we hit the first stretch of beach, everything felt sharper — wind in my face, sand kicking up behind us. I caught a whiff of grilled fish from somewhere down the coast and wondered if that would be lunch later.

We tore down three different beaches in Cartagena’s north zone — each one had its own vibe. On one, there were kids waving at us from behind driftwood huts; on another, fishermen mending nets just glanced up and nodded. The ATVs handled better than I expected (I’m not really a speed person), but it was weirdly freeing to go full throttle with nothing but sea spray ahead. At some point we stopped at this hidden spot — Andrés called it their “private corner.” He said locals come here to escape crowds. We all jumped into the water, which was cooler than I thought it’d be. I lay back floating for a minute, just listening to everyone laugh and shout in Spanish and English mixed together.

Lunch was simple — grilled fish, coconut rice, cold bottled water — but after riding so long it tasted like a feast. Someone tried to teach me how to say ‘thank you’ properly in Spanish (I probably butchered it). On the way back over the dirt roads, my arms were tired but I didn’t care; I kept thinking about that moment floating in silence while everyone else splashed around. If you’re looking for a day trip from Cartagena that’s more about feeling alive than ticking off sights… well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV tour on Cartagena beaches and trails

• Pickup one hour before tour
• Ride on three beaches in Cartagena
• Drive over mountain and dirt roads
• Stop at private beach spot
• Swim in the ocean
• Continue riding ATV at full speed
• Enjoy included lunch

Top questions

How long does the Cartagena ATV tour last?

The tour includes pickup one hour before start time; total duration varies depending on group pace.

Is lunch included in the Cartagena ATV experience?

Yes, lunch is included during the tour.

Are helmets provided for the ATV ride?

Yes, helmets are provided for all participants.

What should I wear for an ATV tour in Cartagena?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting sandy or wet; closed shoes recommended.

Can beginners join this Cartagena ATV tour?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; must be 16 or older to drive.

Is transportation included from my hotel?

Pickup is included one hour before your scheduled tour time.

Are there any health restrictions for this ATV activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Do I need to bring water on the Cartagena ATV tour?

Bottled water is provided as part of your day.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, use of an ATV and helmet for every rider, bottled water throughout the trip, plus a local-style lunch served right by the beach before heading back toward Cartagena.