Get ready for a fun-packed weekend in Cartagena, Colombia on February 7th and 8th, 2026! We've found some great activities for families with kids aged 3 to 14, ranging from historical exploration to cultural workshops. Since the Hay Festival and Frito Festival just wrapped up, we're focusing on engaging, one-off fun this weekend.
See our top picks
Street Art Photo Scavenger Hunt in Getsemaní
Getsemaní Neighborhood
Turn a cool art walk into a fun mission for the kids.
Bolívar Park Carousel and Ice Cream Break
Plaza de Bolívar
A simple indoor/sheltered spot for little ones to have fun in the historic center.
Bolívar Park Carousel and Ice Cream Break
Plaza de Bolívar
The carousel is a guaranteed win for kids under 7 near the city's main squares.
· February 7
3ISLA DEL ENCANTO DAY TRIP (ROSARIO ISLANDS) : Take the boat out to Isla del Encanto in the beautiful Rosario Islands for a day of swimming and snorkeling in calm, clear waters. This is a fantastic way for kids to experience the Caribbean marine life up close away from the city hustle. Many tours can include an optional visit to the San Martín de Pajarales Aquarium.A chance to escape the city heat for a full day of sun, sea, and snorkeling in a protected archipelago.
MORNING EXPLORATION OF CASTILLO SAN FELIPE DE BARAJAS : Beat the intense afternoon heat by exploring this massive 17th-century fortress in the morning. Kids love running through the dark tunnels, climbing on the old cannons, and imagining pirate battles. The views of the city from the top are a great reward!It combines active physical play (climbing/exploring) with deep local history, making it educational and fun.
STREET ART PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT IN GETSEMANÍFREE : Turn an afternoon walk through the colorful Getsemaní streets into a game! Create a list of murals or colorful doors for the kids to find and photograph. It’s a super cool, low-cost way to appreciate the city’s contemporary art scene.It transforms a simple neighborhood walk into a creative, engaging mission for older kids and teens.
· February 8
3NATIONAL AVIARY OF COLOMBIA VISIT : The biggest aviary in the Americas! Spend the morning here to see nearly 1,800 birds, including the majestic Andean Condor. It’s a fantastic, shady environment to learn about Colombia's incredible biodiversity before the day gets too hot.A dedicated, educational outing focused on wildlife that is perfect for younger children.
BOLÍVAR PARK CAROUSEL AND ICE CREAM BREAK : A sweet, simple stop for the little ones in the historic heart of the city. Let the younger kids enjoy a ride on the historic carousel in Plaza de Bolívar. Afterwards, grab some artisanal ice cream from a nearby shop—a perfect Sunday morning treat!It's a classic, low-stress activity specifically geared towards younger children right in the main tourist area.
OLD TOWN HORSE CARRIAGE DISCOVERY TOUR : See the colorful Walled City from a charming horse-drawn carriage as the sun starts to dip. The coachmen often share fun stories and anecdotes, making history come alive for the kids in a relaxing way. Great for tired little legs after a busy day!It offers a historical tour in a comfortable format that keeps younger kids engaged without too much walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Cartagena this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 07-08) the best free option is the self-guided Street Art Photo Scavenger Hunt in Getsemaní on Saturday afternoon. You can also stroll the Walled City for free anytime to see the architecture and street performers.
What is a good activity for a very hot afternoon with kids aged 3-14?
For Saturday, explore Castillo San Felipe de Barajas first thing in the morning (before noon) to beat the heat. For Sunday, consider a family boat tour to the Rosario Islands, as being on the water is much cooler, or visit the Aviario Nacional in the morning.
Are there any educational or historical activities specifically for kids on Sunday?
The Old Town Horse Carriage Discovery Tour on Sunday afternoon is a great way to learn history in a comfortable way. The Castillo San Felipe (if you didn't go Saturday) is also a must-see historical fortress.
