Parque Espíritu del Manglar
A free, family-friendly ecological park in Cartagena, offering glimpses of iguanas, sloths, and mangrove views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Parque Espíritu del Manglar
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, family-friendly ecological park in Cartagena, offering glimpses of iguanas, sloths, and mangrove views.
"A beautiful, well-maintained, and free park perfect for families with young children."
Free Admission!
Enjoy this beautiful park without an entry fee. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep. :moneybag:
No Outside Food
Pack only water; snacks and meals are sold inside. :waterwave: :icecream:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iguana Ponds
Various water features
Observe numerous iguanas basking in and around the park's tranquil water ponds.
Mangrove Views
Riverfront
Enjoy scenic views of the mangrove ecosystem and the historic Cartagena fortifications.
Sloth Spotting
Canopy
With a bit of luck, catch a glimpse of sloths resting high in the trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best for Little Ones
Wildlife Spotting Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission!
Enjoy this beautiful park without an entry fee. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep. :moneybag:
No Outside Food
Pack only water; snacks and meals are sold inside. :waterwave: :icecream:
Boat Ride Option
Rent a small boat for a relaxing ride along the river. :rowboat:
Stray Animal Concern
Note the presence of stray cats and dogs, which may be a concern for some visitors. :cat2: :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission!
Enjoy this beautiful park without an entry fee. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep. :moneybag:
No Outside Food
Pack only water; snacks and meals are sold inside. :waterwave: :icecream:
Boat Ride Option
Rent a small boat for a relaxing ride along the river. :rowboat:
Stray Animal Concern
Note the presence of stray cats and dogs, which may be a concern for some visitors. :cat2: :dog:
Small but Sweet
The park is compact; plan for about an hour's visit. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Parque Espiritu del Manglar is a charming, free ecological park appreciated for its wildlife, especially iguanas, and scenic mangrove views. It's particularly well-suited for families with young children. However, some visitors note its small size and the presence of stray animals, alongside a lack of clearly posted rules.
"Good little park with water ponds for the iguanas I didn't see any sloth at all I was there over two hours your only allowed to bring in water no snacks but they sell drinks and snacks and meals inside the park,plus you can also rent a little boat ride in the river"
Alexander Nevamind
"The park is quite small and seems primarily designed for young children. We did manage to see a few iguanas and sloths up in the trees (we only saw two). Admission is free, and the workers were welcoming. Given its modest size, you'd probably finish your visit within an hour."
Ernest Williams
"It is an "ecological" park, which means that pets are not allowed. But, numerous stray cats and dogs walk freely in the park. This is a bit sour, because, as a pet owner, you know your pet has all the health requirements, it is on a leash, and you clean up after it. Whereas nobody does anything about the stray animals. Also, there is no written rules of what is, or is not, allowed in this park. It's just what the guard at the entrance tells you. So, I give one star, to get attention to these items. Hopefully some day they will be addressed."
Kilian Weeterings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parque Espiritu del Manglar is located near the historic center of Cartagena. Taxis or ride-sharing services are the most convenient options. It's a short ride from most tourist accommodations. :taxi:
Parking can be limited in the surrounding area. It's often easier to arrive by taxi or public transport to avoid parking hassles. :car:
It's a moderate walk from the Walled City, taking around 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk. :athletic_shoe:
Local buses run along the main roads near the park. Ask your accommodation for the most relevant bus routes. :bus:
The park generally has paved paths, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some areas might be uneven. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Parque Espiritu del Manglar is free! It's a great budget-friendly option for visitors. :moneywithwings:
The park is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check locally or arrive during daylight hours. :clock1:
No advance booking is required as the park is free to enter. Just show up during operating hours. :ticket:
Visitors are only allowed to bring water. No outside snacks or meals are permitted, but these are sold inside. :noentrysign:
No, pets are not allowed in the park as it is an ecological reserve. However, stray animals are often seen within the park grounds. :dog2: :cat:
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can spot iguanas, various bird species, and if you're lucky, sloths in the trees. The park is a small but pleasant habitat. :parrot: :lizard:
Yes, you can rent a small boat for a ride along the river, offering a different perspective of the mangroves. :rowboat:
Most visitors find that an hour is sufficient to see the main attractions of this relatively small park. :stopwatch:
The park is primarily designed for young children, with open spaces and gentle nature exploration opportunities. :child:
The park features paved paths, making it easy to walk around. Some areas might have natural, slightly uneven surfaces. :walking:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the park has facilities that sell drinks, snacks, and meals. It's a convenient option since outside food is restricted. :hamburger:
You can typically find light snacks, refreshing drinks, and some meal options. The selection might vary. :juice:
While you can't bring your own food for a picnic, there are areas where you can sit and enjoy purchased refreshments. :picnic_table:
Yes, you are allowed to bring your own water. Staying hydrated is important, especially in Cartagena's climate. :droplet:
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's best to inquire at the food stalls upon arrival. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
The mangrove views, the iguanas by the ponds, and the lush greenery offer great photo opportunities. The historic fortifications in the background add a unique touch. :camera:
Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the park for personal use. Be respectful of other visitors. :iphone:
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the park's natural beauty and wildlife. Golden hour can be magical. :sunrise: :city_sunset:
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and ecological reserves. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying. :noentrysign:
You can take close-up photos, but maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the animals. Do not feed them. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters
While the park is designed to be a natural habitat, some visitors have noted the presence of stray cats and dogs. This can be a point of contention for pet owners who adhere to strict rules, as the strays roam freely. The park's management has been noted for not having clearly posted rules, leading to some confusion about what is and isn't permitted. It's a good idea to be aware of this aspect of the park's environment before your visit.
For the best chance of spotting active wildlife, aim for the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or late afternoons. During these times, animals are more likely to be foraging or moving around. The tranquil atmosphere of these periods also enhances the overall experience of connecting with nature within the city.
Family Fun & Practicalities
It's crucial to remember the park's policy on outside food. While you can bring water, all other snacks and meals must be purchased from the vendors within the park. This is a common point of note for visitors, so plan your budget accordingly. The on-site concessions offer drinks and some food items, which can be convenient.
Beyond the free entry and wildlife, the park also offers the option to rent a small boat for a leisurely ride along the river. This can be a fun addition to your visit, providing a different perspective of the mangrove surroundings. Overall, Parque Espiritu del Manglar is a simple yet enjoyable outing for families looking for a relaxed nature experience without a hefty price tag.
Navigating the Park and Its Surroundings
Parking can be a challenge in the vicinity, so opting for drop-off transport is often recommended. The park itself features paved paths, which generally makes it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, as with many natural areas, some sections might have slightly uneven surfaces. The park's size is quite modest, meaning most visitors can comfortably explore its entirety within an hour.
While the park itself is free, it's worth noting that the surrounding areas might have limited parking. The park's management has been mentioned for its lack of clearly posted rules, so visitors are advised to rely on information provided by the entrance staff regarding permitted items and activities. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit