Located in Bolívar, it is one of the few active mud volcanoes in the country that allows tourists to immerse themselves in a natural crater with medicinal properties.
Bolívar News
45 minutes from Cartagena, in the municipality of Santa Catalina, Bolívar, is one of the most particular destinations of the Colombian Caribbean: the El Totumo mud volcano. This small volcanic cone of approximately 15 meters high has been an attraction for national and international tourists, not only because of the exotic experience, but for the benefits offered by the natural mud that emanates from its interior.
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Unlike the volcanoes of fire or ash, the totumo expels thick and warm mud, rich in minerals such as sulfur, calcium, magnesium and potassium, elements known for its anti -inflammatory, exfoliating and detoxifying properties. According to alternative health experts, this type of bathrooms favors circulation, helps relieve articular pains and improves the appearance of the skin.
Access to the crater is done by a wooden ladder that allows visitors to immerse themselves in a dense mud bath in which, thanks to high float, it is impossible to sink. Right there, optional massages are offered by people from the community, while, when descending, the visitor can go to a nearby lagoon where local women help to retire the mud.
The totumo is one of the few mud volcanoes in the country enabled for tourism, and its value is not only natural, but also economic and cultural. The communities in the area have built a local economy around this experience, offering typical meals, memories, transport and guided tours, thus allowing a sustainability chain for the region.
The entrance cost to the volcano is approximately $ 10,000 Colombian pesos. It is also possible to hire Tours from Cartagena, with prices that are around $ 110,000 to $ 120,000 pesos, and include transport, guide and in some cases, lunch and visit to nearby beaches such as Manzanillo del Mar.
Although the environment is rustic and with basic services, the experience in the totumo is qualified as unique by those who have lived it. The place is usually busy in high season, so it is recommended to arrive early, wear comfortable clothes, swimsuit and cash in small tickets for local tips or purchases.
Source: Wikipedia, Tutour in Cartagena, Travel Testimonies.
Made by: Leidy Lisbeth Easter Barco.
