Totumo Mud Volcano Tickets & Tours & Informataion January 2025

Totumo Mud Volcano

Nestled just outside Cartagena, Totumo Mud Volcano is a unique natural attraction offering a one-of-a-kind experience. Unlike typical volcanoes, Totumo is a small, 15-meter-high mound filled with thick, mineral-rich mud instead of lava. Visitors can immerse themselves in the warm, buoyant mud, which is believed to have therapeutic properties, soothing skin and easing muscle tension. This quirky attraction blends adventure, relaxation, and a touch of folklore, as locals share stories about the mud’s rejuvenating magic. It’s a fun and memorable activity for travelers seeking something different during their Cartagena holiday.

The Basics

Totumo Mud Volcano, or Volcán de Lodo El Totumo, is located about 50 kilometers northeast of Cartagena. The entry fee is usually around COP 10,000 (approximately USD 2.50). Once inside, visitors can wade into the mud, where its dense consistency allows you to float effortlessly. Optional services, such as mud massages and post-bath rinses in a nearby lagoon, are available for a small extra cost. The experience typically lasts 1-2 hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion.

Things to Know Before You Go

Prepare for a messy but fun adventure! Bring a swimsuit and a towel you don’t mind getting muddy. Waterproof bags are helpful for storing valuables. It’s customary to tip locals who assist with mud massages or help rinse you off afterward. The mud is dense and can feel unusual at first, but it’s safe for all ages. Also, don’t worry—showers are available after your mud bath to clean up thoroughly.

How to Get There

Getting to Totumo Mud Volcano from Cartagena is straightforward. Most visitors join organized tours, which include transportation, guides, and sometimes lunch. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver or take a taxi, which takes about an hour each way. For a budget option, take a bus heading toward Santa Catalina and request a stop at Totumo.

When to Get There

The best time to visit is in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Tours typically depart from Cartagena between 7:00 and 9:00 AM. Weather-wise, Cartagena enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, but the dry season from December to April offers the most comfortable conditions for a visit. Regardless of when you go, don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Day Trips from Cartagena

Day trips from Cartagena to Totumo Mud Volcano are popular and often include other nearby attractions, such as the Rosario Islands or La Boquilla fishing village. Many tours provide transportation, a guide, and snacks or meals, ensuring a hassle-free experience. If you prefer flexibility, private tours allow you to customize your itinerary. Whether traveling solo, with friends, or family, a trip to Totumo is a unique and delightful way to enhance your Cartagena adventure.