Cartagena is one of the most beloved destinations in the Colombian Caribbean for travelers worldwide. It's inevitable! This beautiful walled city welcomes you with spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and exquisite cuisine. Discover in this article everything you need to know to explore Cartagena, Colombia, and get ready to fully enjoy your visit to the walled city.



Everything You Need to Know to Explore Cartagena, ColombiaCartagena de Indias and the walled city in Colombia / source



1 Why Choose Cartagena as Your Next Destination?



1.1 Discover History and Cultural Heritage in the Walled City



One of the icons of Cartagena is the Walled City. Its history tells stories of colonizers, pirates, slaves, and independence that are shared to this day to understand the fascinating history of this coastal port.

Its walls, stretching over 11 km, were founded in the 16th century and built as a fortress to protect against pirate and colonizer attacks. They are a testament to the grandeur of the colonial past and offer unique panoramic views of the Colombian Caribbean.

Explore the walled city in Cartagena with a guided tour and don't miss a single detail. From the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the largest fortress built by the Spanish in South America, to Getsemaní, a neighborhood full of street art, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife.



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1.2 Fusion of Local and International Influences in Cartagena



Cartagena is a great representation of cultures. Spanish influence is evident in its architecture, yet its African roots are key to its identity, reflected in its music, dances, gastronomy, and the charisma of its people.

Museums like the Gold Museum and the Palace of the Inquisition tell a deep part of its culture, while festivals like the Cartagena Carnival and the Independence Celebration honor its rich traditions.

Moreover, the local gastronomy is something you will explore during your visit to Cartagena. Dishes such as coconut rice, egg arepa, and fresh tropical fruit cups are just a taste of what you'll find. Enjoying a typical meal in one of the plazas or at a seafood restaurant overlooking the sea is an experience that complements your trip to the city.



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1.3 Paradise Beaches in Cartagena - Main Beaches and Their Features



You've arrived at one of the favorite parts of traveling to Cartagena—its stunning beaches! Learn about the top beaches, their features, and why to visit them. Plan where to enjoy the sun, the sea, and tranquility.

Bocagrande Beach: With a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars along the seashore, this beach is perfect for tourists wanting to enjoy an urban vibe while staying close to the sea. Nearby, you'll find El Laguito Beach and Castillo Grande Beach.

Barú Island and Playa Blanca: Although technically not within the city of Cartagena, the beaches of Barú Island, especially Playa Blanca, are a must-visit. With crystal-clear waters and white sand, they epitomize Caribbean paradise.

Pirate Island: Pirate Island is one of the 30 that make up the Rosario Islands archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. Located 50 minutes from Cartagena, this Day at Pirate Island starts as soon as you reach the dock to take you straight to Caribbean paradise.

Isla Grande: Explore the Rosario Islands, one of Colombia's most spectacular and paradisiacal archipelagos. A 45-minute speedboat ride takes you to the beautiful resort and beaches of Isla Grande, where a host awaits with a welcome cocktail at an exclusive hotel.

Tierra Bomba Beach: Another nearby option is Tierra Bomba Beach. With stunning views of the city, it offers fun, relaxation, and adventure in a unique Caribbean setting.



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2 What to Consider When Planning Your Trip to Cartagena?



Now that you know some of the options for visiting Cartagena, it’s important to take full advantage of your trip by learning some tips that will make a difference in your itinerary:



2.1 Best Time to Visit - Weather and High/Low Seasons



Colombia is a destination without traditional seasons, unlike many other countries. This means its weather is relatively consistent year-round. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

Dry Season (December to April): This is considered the best time to visit Cartagena. During these months, there’s less rain, and temperatures are warm, ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The weather is ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.

Rainy Season (May to November): Although it can rain at any time of the year, rainfall is more frequent from May to November. Is it still warm? Yes. Can you still travel? Absolutely. However, some activities may not be available due to the rain.



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2.2 How to Get to Cartagena - Flight and Ground Transportation Options



Getting to Cartagena is very easy, thanks to well-developed air and land connections. Here are the most commonly used options for travelers:

Main Airport: Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) receives both domestic and international flights.

Domestic Flights: You can fly to Cartagena from cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Barranquilla.

International Flights: There are direct flights from Orlando and Miami in the United States, as well as from several countries in Latin America.



Travel safely and comfortably with our Cartagena Airport Transfer service



Ground Transportation: If you prefer traveling by land, you can use intermunicipal buses from cities like Bogotá and Medellín. The journey can take over 10 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.

Private Transportation: You can also opt for private transportation services, which may be more comfortable, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.



2.3 Accommodation - Best Areas to Stay and Types of Lodging Available



As a tourist city, Cartagena de Indias offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations:

Walled City: Lodging here is central and provides easy access to its colonial attractions, bars, and shops. You can find boutique hotels, colonial-style accommodations, and hostels.

Bocagrande and Castillo Grande: These areas are attractive for their proximity to the beach and modern amenities. Here, you’ll find resorts, rental apartments, and luxury hotels like the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Hotel and the Hyatt Regency.

Getsemaní: If you are looking for a bohemian and artistic neighborhood, Getsemaní is ideal for you, this area is close to the Walled City. Here you can live the nightlife to the fullest with an unparalleled gastronomic offer. Here you can find accommodation such as hostels, boutique hotels, and apartments.

As a tip for choosing accommodation, consider the following question: Do you prefer the convenience of being close to tourist attractions or the quiet atmosphere of a more residential area? Define your budget and finally, read reviews from other travelers.

If you need specific recommendations on hotels or have other questions about lodging in Cartagena, feel free to ask!



Everything You Need to Know to Explore Cartagena, ColombiaCartagena de Indias, one of the most visited cities in Colombia by travelers from around the world—have you been there yet? / Source



FAQs About Cartagena



How much time is recommended to spend in Cartagena?

The ideal itinerary for Cartagena is 3 to 5 days. In a week, you’ll have time to explore the walled city, enjoy the nightlife in Getsemaní, visit beautiful beaches in the Rosario Islands, and relax.

Is it safe to visit Cartagena?

Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, especially in areas like the Walled City and Getsemaní. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions with your valuables, use official taxi services, or transport provided by your travel agency.

What activities are ideal for families in Cartagena?

Cartagena offers many family-friendly activities, including boat tours, mangrove excursions, and beach visits. Check out the best tours in Cartagena.

What currency is used in Cartagena?

The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). It’s recommended to carry cash, as some places don’t accept cards. ATMs are common in the city.

Do I need a power adapter for my electronic devices?

Colombia uses 110 V and a frequency of 60 Hz. Outlets are type A and B. If your devices are different, you’ll need an adapter. If you can, bring one in your luggage. Otherwise, don’t worry—you’ll easily find one in the city.

What should I pack for a trip to Cartagena?

As a Caribbean destination with high temperatures, we recommend packing lightweight and comfortable clothing (preferably cotton or linen), sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella or raincoat if you plan to visit during the rainy season.

Do I need vaccines or health requirements to enter Colombia?

Check health requirements before traveling, especially regarding yellow fever if you plan to visit rural or jungle areas. Make sure you have travel medical insurance.

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Cartagena is just a small glimpse of all the things to do in Colombia. Now that you know how to plan your trip, enjoy it to the fullest!

Come and discover more tours and activities in Colombia with Daytours4u, from the mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the beaches of Santa Marta, the coffee farms of the Coffee Region, and Medellín’s vibrant nightlife.

If you need more information or travel tips, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy travels!



 

By: Hasbleidy Chacón, enthusiastic traveler and content coordinator for Daytours4u.com