🇨🇴 Colombia
Cartagena travel guide
Cartagena de Indias is one of South America's most romantic cities—a UNESCO World Heritage walled city on Colombia's Caribbean coast. Colorful colonial buildings draped with bougainvillea line cobblestone streets, while fortress walls tell tales of pirates and Spanish gold. Add incredible Afro-Caribbean culture, pulsing nightlife, nearby beach islands, and some of the best seafood in the Americas.
Language
Spanish
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Timezone
GMT-5
Best time
December to April (dry season)
Budget/day
COP 150000-400000/day ($37-100)
When to visit
Jan
25°C - 32°C
Feb
25°C - 32°C
Mar
25°C - 33°C
Apr
26°C - 33°C
May
26°C - 33°C
Jun
26°C - 33°C
Jul
26°C - 33°C
Aug
26°C - 33°C
Sep
25°C - 32°C
Oct
25°C - 32°C
Nov
25°C - 32°C
Dec
25°C - 32°C
Safety
moderateCartagena is safe within the walled city. Getsemaní is gentrifying but exercise caution after dark. Don't take drinks from strangers (scopolamine risk).
Women travellers
Exercise standard precautions. Research specific areas before visiting. Use registered transport services. Avoid isolated areas at night.
Culture & etiquette
- + Learn basic local phrases
- + Dress appropriately for local customs
- + Be respectful of local traditions
- + Ask before photographing people
- - Don't display expensive items
- - Don't share too much with strangers
- - Don't ignore local customs
- - Don't assume everyone speaks English
Food to try
Ceviche
Fresh Caribbean seafood cured in citrus
Arepa de huevo
Fried cornmeal with egg inside
Cazuela de mariscos
Coconut seafood stew
Patacones
Fried plantain chips
Cocadas
Coconut candy treats
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.