From may to november we experience raining season being october the rainiest month. Before you arrive check with your ATM and credit card to verify that they will not charge you any "foreign transaction fees." Or, if they do, you're prepared to pay them. Colombia is the land of bargain and Cartagena is not the exception, being such a touristic city, local vendors take advantage on increasing their prices to those who seem more gringos :D and even more if they dont speak any spanish; so it is all about your attitude and ability to negotiate. Cartagena, Colombia (CTG) Rafael Nez International Airport Things to know before you go Terminal Location Main Terminal Recommended Arrival Time 3 hours prior to departure Ticket Counter Hours Open: 3 hours prior to departure Closed: 1 hour prior to departure Baggage Service Office +57 5 6505959 +57 5 6505959 (fax) Unaccompanied Minors Things to Know Before Traveling to Colombia - Travel Tips & Local Customs. Remember that millions of people visit Cartagena yearly so if you are looking for a certain type of accommodation, youll want to be sure to book as far in advance as you can. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. However, if you do plan to attend note that these dates correspond to high season in Cartagena, and high prices will be pushed even higher; its essential that you book in advance. Keep in mind the rule of asking the price before taking it also applies for cabs. Respect it. Whilst Colombia has nowhere near the tourism levels of Bolivia or Peru, there has been a well-defined gringo trail for years. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Don't walk around alone at night. Oh, and don't forget to carry your camera ;). Keep Reading // 12 Tips for Staying Safe in Latin America. Besides being known as the best beach in Cartagena, Playa Blanca in Baru is also recognized for its high demand of beach vendors who are very persistent to sell their goods. Alternatively, you can book an affordable private transfer to be waiting for your arrival if its your first time in the Colombia and you dont speak Spanish. Wherever it recalls for you, theres absolutely no doubt in our minds that Cartagena is one of the prettiest cities in all of South America. Keep in mind that its a 5 to 6 hours drive from Cartagena to Santa Marta, which would leave you very little time to explore the national park. The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Most businesses now accept card payments, and in case you need cash you will find several ATMs in the old city where you can withdraw but keep in mind that most will charge a fee any time you withdraw, to which you will have to add your bank withdrawal fee (I use N26 and they dont charge!) If you want to take a photo of the Palenqueras (the colorful ladies selling fruit, as pictured above), you will either have to pay for the photo, or buy some fruit or a drink from them. Cartagena is a charming city featuring colonial architecture and beach life. However, they do still need to complete Migracion Colombia's Check-Mig immigration . The other part of town you should not miss is Getsemani, once riddled by petty crime, drug dealing and prostitution, then a backpacker hub and now one of the most up and coming areas of Cartagena, with lots of interesting street art, gorgeous narrow alleys and beautiful squares. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. You already know it, drink lots of water and protect yourself from the sun when you come over! I found it to be crowded with tourists when I visited, a few years ago, and rumor has it that the city is now receiving even more visitors thanks to cheap flight connections, cruise ships and social media promotion. I hope you found this list of things to know about Colombia useful. Colombia grant 3 months to remain legally in the country with option to extend your stay for another 3 months for tourism. . Its dirty picture trash and cigarette butts and the last thing youll want to do is putting your feet in the sand; crowded; and there are so many vendors that instead of relaxing in the sun, youll spend your time thanking them and saying you really dont want to buy ceviche, or drugs, or whatever. Its always best and safer to travel with a card which either doesnt charge for foreign ATM withdrawals or only charges a small fee, rather than arriving in a new country with all your cash for the trip! Rosario Island and Playa Blanca in Baru. Since my last post, I have done a lot of research and have managed to scare me considerably. The Life Straw will help purify your water further if you are wanting to give tap water a try and avoid single-use plastic water bottles. If you have any cash you want to exchange, plan to do so before leaving your home country, or you can exchange your home currency for Colombian Pesos when you arrive at Rafael Nez International Airport. Mall Plaza El Castilloe - find it here. Get misplaced in Old Town, pattern streetside empanadas in Getsemani, and dance cumbia til daybreak earlier than heading off on a ship tour to discover the bay and close by islandsthese are simply a few of the adventures to be had in Cartagena, Colombia.. A stunning and historic coastal metropolis alongside Colombia's Caribbean coast, in . Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. In Cartagena we have two types of weather, hot and very hot :) During the whole year temperature in Cartagena average goes between 25 and 32 degrees (77 to 88 fahrenheit) and 80% humidity. For wonderful views back on the city, consider joining this 90 minute sunset cruise - it even has an open bar! Outlets 13. What stunning photos! So, if you are looking to travel for cheap, Cartagena may be expensive in your eyes. Getting to Cartagena is actually incredibly easy and you can travel there by plane, bus or even boat. Cards are Accepted, but Cash is Pesos 14. Bus Ticket in Cartagena and TransCaribe ( massive state transportation system ) is 2.000COP each way (less than US$1). It brings jobs, economic opportunities, investment, and development. Thanks to Cartagena being a cruise port and its rise to fame through social media, Cartagena is one of the most visited places in all of South America. Whenever this happens, bear in mind that you only need to listen to people who have been to Cartagena Colombia. As photographers, we had to set the alarm early to enjoy strolls around Cartagenas gorgeous streets and be able to take some photos without hundred of people in them. We recommend making reservations at any of the restaurants you want to eat at and also book any tour you may be interested in well in advance. and the currency exchange fee. Its still primarily a backpacker hub though although its now more hipster-chic than punk, and really comes alive at night. Although the Islands belong to the National park of Rosario and the San Bernardo, most of them are inhabited by private properties that pay significant taxation to government to be there; Therefore visiting them all is not really an option. Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel) el 11 de Jun de 2016 a la(s) 9:38 PDT. The only dorm that was left was charging an extortionate amount, and we were saved by a guy who promised he knew a woman who had a room spare for a good price. However with a reputation for nightlife, backpackers always flocking to it, and some people still feeling that Colombia is simply all about Escobar and cocaine, incidents do occur. However, these destinations are really not suitable for day trip as the distance from Cartagena and to them is just too far. You do not need to rent a car or even book a cab to get anywhere within Cartagenas Old City or to get to Getsemani for that matter. From outlets to money and Cartagenas beaches, there are definitely a few things to know before you visit Cartagena. A trip to Cartagena, Colombia would not be complete without a visit to the beautiful Rosario Islands. Things to do in San Andres: More Travel Info: The best deals for travel insurance: Excursion Bookings: Packing . The countrys most famous author dreamed up many of his magical realist tales from a childhood and early journalistic career spent in Cartagena, and appreciating this adds a whole new layer to your strolls around it. Oh and if you have any questions, let us know in the comment section. However, we know that slow travel isnt always going to be possible for everyone, and most people certainly wont return to the same long-haul city twice. (artculo 17 ley 679 de 2001). April to June and September to November are the wet seasons and you should expect some rain each day. The Rosario Islands is an archipelago located off the Caribbean coast, about 62 mi (100 km) from Cartagena. Drop your stereotypes about drugs and cocaine. Landed in Cartagena and prepared to discover? Taxi Rates in Cartagena ( valid through December 2016), There is also UBER, InDriver and Esay Taxi apps available in Cartagena, Un vdeo publicado por Uber (@uber) el 2 de Feb de 2016 a la(s) 11:41 PST. Get misplaced in Old Town, pattern streetside empanadas in Getsemani, and dance cumbia til daybreak earlier than heading off on a ship tour to discover the bay and close by islandsthese are simply among the adventures to be had in Cartagena, Colombia.. A beautiful and historic coastal metropolis alongside Colombia's Caribbean coast, in . Taxis are affordable and trips average between $4 and $5 USD. 10 things you have to know before traveling to Cartagena by Juan Ballena Travel Experiences in Cartagena 2. As a local once told me, Cartagena is 99% safe, but if you're not careful, that 1% can bite you hard. Share The Article Last Updated 6 hours in the past. Learn more about me here, My Adventures Across The World participates in several affiliate programs. For the vast majority of you, that will be the case too - just dont leave your bag or valuables unattended, be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings at night. During your research, youll like have seen many photos of beaming black Colombian women dressed in beautifully colourful dresses and carrying a fruit basket upon their heads. BY PLANE The airport in Cartagena is called Rafael Nunez Airport (CTG) and serves both domestic and international flights. Bocagrande is suitable for a few hours if youre really craving the rays, but definitely not somewhere that will give you a relaxing beach holiday. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The same goes for any tours you are looking to take or any restaurants you are wanting to try. You can read more about thisday trip and book itright here. Arguably, the best time to visit Cartagena is between December and March, when the temperatures arent as hot and humidity is lower. Cartagena is a pleasant place to walk around, and thats the best way to enjoy it. This is known in Colombia as "offering up papaya". One thing I noticed when I visited Cartagena is that drugs run abundantly in certain parts of the city especially where backpackers hangout, in Getsemani. The bad news about safety in Colombia. Right outside you will be able to visit San Felipe Castle and to take a walk on the city walls. Visit the Gold Museum. Regardless of how much time you have for your Cartagena itinerary, the below list is some of the best things to do in Cartagena and its surrounding areas. Shop; Pruducts. Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel) el 28 de Abr de 2016 a la(s) 5:23 PDT. 3. The bus station is the place place to head for the majority of onward transport connections to the rest of Colombia, but for those travelling to Santa Marta you may instead choose to take the quicker Berlinas shuttle from their station in the Marbella neighbourhood. They will encourage you, the tourist, to take a photo with them or of their Palenqueras group. Cartagena lacks a single iconic monument, museums, or attraction which is known the world over - instead, the city itself is the attraction. BY BUS Its interesting to note that while the airport is really close to the city, the main bus terminal is at 45 minutes drive from the historic center. Make sure to read my posts about other Colombia destinations: Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a1e2a88525395fb846803998dbad156b" );document.getElementById("bf5f1d039c").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Reservations are encouraged where you can make them! Cartagena Old City Accommodations:Soy Local|Casona del Colegio|Casa India Catalina, Getsemani Accomodations:Casa Pizarro Hotel Boutique|Hotel Monaguillo|Hotel Casa Tere, 13 Absolutely Amazing Things To Do in Salento, The Ultimate Colombia Itinerary & Trip Planner, All You Need To Know About the Cocora Valley Hike. A day trip to the islands is a popular activity and can be visited on a tour. Share The Article Last Updated 6 hours in the past. Keep Reading | The Best Day Trips from Cartagena, How to Get to Playa Blanca (and Isla Baru) From Cartagena and Our Guide to San Andres. Street Art in Cartagena Colombia by Jorge Gardner via Unsplash Hopping from one city to another is a great way to get to know Colombia. This video features some do's and dont's you need to know before you go to Cartagena Colombia. We highly recommend trying to enjoy the city before most of it wakes at least once on your visit. Once youve received your luggage, follow the signs and just queue up at the kiosk, tell the person which neighbourhood youre going to and theyll give you a receipt and point you to the waiting official taxi. Islas del Rosario, Playa Blanca, and Islas del Encanto are all easy to reach from Cartagena in less than a couple of hours independently or with a tour. An annual festival held each November in celebration of the citys declaration of indolence in 1811. Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at restaurants all around Cartagena, but if you want to pay in cash, Colombian Pesos is the only form of currency accepted. 14. To avoid any surprise, make sure you agree on a final price before hopping on and try to carry small bills to pay at the end of your ride. Its home to most of the nicer hotels, restaurants, and bars and is the natural epicentre for most tourism in the city. It was so hot that heat exhaustion hit me and I cut my time in the city short and move south. For most people visiting the north of Colombia, Cartagena will act as a gateway to the incredible sights dotted along the countrys Caribbean coast: places like Tayrona National Park, the laid-back hippy village of Palomino, or into the jungle to take on the Lost City Trek. Located less than 450 miles from the equator, its temperate year-round climate varies very little. If you are visiting Cartagena as the first leg of a longer trip around Colombia, you may want to invest in SIM card so that you can count on data to navigate the web or use apps when needed. Held every January, find further details here. Home to beautiful street murals, umbrella-covered streets, and Salsa bars, Getsemani is a perfect break from what can be the chaos of Cartagena. Kidnapping in Colombia. 14. There are so many positive aspects to Colombia. Travel Guide Cartagena, Colombia: 10 Things Travelers Need to Know Before Visiting. Keep Reading // We know that sourcing accommodation can be a little overwhelming, so weve put together a few time-saving articles for you: nine best hostels in Cartagena and our pick of the best airbnbs in Cartagena for every budget. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Things to Know before Traveling to Cartagena, Colombia Visa Requirements. Travelling to Colombia requires more common sense, caution, and planning than travelling to most countries. For more day trips from Cartagena, read this post. The thing to know is that the Caribbean coast of Colombia is more expensive than elsewhere in the country, and Cartagena is generally the most expensive place on the Caribbean coast. Some people say it reminds them of old Havana, for others its their favourite nooks and side streets of Spain. Lush jungle, snow-capped volcanoes, rocky deserts, endless plains, gorgeous beaches, coffee and cocoa plantations and alpine lakes. spendlifetraveling.com - Sanne Wesselman . You can get yourshere. You do not need to present a vaccination certificate when you travel to Cartagena. Most visitors to Cartagena will fall into four camps: those backpacking for a month or longer in Colombia, those who are visiting for a two-week vacation in the country, those who are taking advantage of cheap new flight connections with the US to spend their time solely in and around Cartagena for a few days, and the cruise ship hordes being dumped on to the streets for a day. This is probably the most surprising thing to learn when visiting Cartagena! After two visits to the city, one on a very tight budget and one on a not so tight budget, we have a pretty good understanding of these and wanted to share our experience and practical advice with you. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. My answer is an emphatic yes, Cartagena is very safe to visit. If you want to be extra safe, you can opt for a bottle with a water filter such as this one. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Newer Post. Located on the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena is one of the MOST popular destinations in Colombia. Make sure you are wearing breathable and comfortable clothes because you will sweat. Just be smart and aware of your surroundings and youll be just fine. Known as palenqueras, these ladies have long formed a part of the fabric of the city, but have more recently become the poster girls for Cartagena. Instead, you will have to travel from Cartagena to the city of Santa Marta. Not sure where to start looking? Top Tip // December to April are considered the dry season in Cartagena, and this also coincides with peak high tourism season (especially December to January when more Colombians visit the city). It is hard to tell when is low season over here, as every year thousands of travelers walk the fascinating streets of this charming city. Slow travel is a big part of our travel philosophy, and we try to spend a little bit longer in places so that we can go deeper, feel a little more connected to it, and also not have to rush around. Colombia has finally managed to get rid of its reputation of being a dangerous country, Where To Stay In Cartagena The Best Neighborhoods And Places To Stay, A Complete Guide To Where To Stay In Bogota, A Complete Guide To Hiking Valle De Cocora, Colombia, A Concise Guide To Villa De Leyva, Colombia, How To Visit Saturnia Hot Springs: 18 Best Things To Know, What You Must Know Before You Travel To Nicaragua. As travellers, it meant we could enjoy its beauty without a clawing heat and dream of all the stories they could tell. So, it shouldnt be a surprise no to learn that the streets of the old Cartagena do become incredibly busy and incredibly crowded. Colombia is a fabulous country and an easy vacation destination from the U.S. Were Lauren & Jesse Stuart aka The Stus from the Wandering Stus travel blog! BY BOAT There is no regular ferry service between Panama and Cartagena, but you can count on a number of sailing boats that connect the city to Panama via the San Blas islands. One thing for sure, Cartagena is as beautiful as they say. We recommend avoiding lodging in other areas not mentioned as these are the safest alternatives that also offer infinite options of bars, restaurants and points of interest, Una . Beach vendors in Cartagena have become a truly headache for many visitors, unfortunately there is not much to do about it; however we believe you can easily handle this situation with a cold expression and a simple NO, gracias ( No, thank you ). At one time, 70+ years ago we are told, the coast along Cartagena was lovely. THIS IS SO KEY! The tap water in Cartagena is safe to drink. Avoid to exchange money at the airport as rates are the less convenient. If you're planning on a trip to this South American country, here are 10 essential tips to know: 1. Islands Bar or Rosario offer the white sand, palm trees and perfect sparkling waters you thought only existed in travel magazines. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Skip The Taxis. The Rosario islands are integrated by an archipelago of 27 islands; all with white sand, narrow beaches and warm turquoise waters. If you are looking to get some beach time in, we highly recommend skipping the beaches in Cartagena and heading to the neighboring islands of Isla Bar or Islas del Rosario. When visiting Cartagena, two great areas are staying either withinCartagenas walled city (Centro)or just outside it, in theGetsemani neighborhood. If you are looking for fine, white sand and clear turquoise waters that are perfect for snorkeling, you can still find some just a bit out of the city. Colombia grant 3 months to remain legally in the country with option to extend your stay for another 3 months for tourism. Get misplaced in Old Town, pattern streetside empanadas in Getsemani, and dance cumbia til daybreak earlier than heading off on a ship tour to discover the bay and close by islandsthese are simply a few of the adventures to be had in Cartagena, Colombia.. A beautiful and historic coastal metropolis alongside Colombia's Caribbean coast . We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. 10 THINGS TO DO IN CARTAGENA COLOMBIA 2021 In this video, we share with you 10 things to do when visiting the amazing city of Cartagena Colombia. Gold artifacts in the gold museum of Cartagena. 9. We focus on showing you the local and authentic side of Cartagena, giving you a full picture of our culture and lifestyle throughout our professional travel experiences. Especially if you plan to fly. Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel) el 25 de May de 2016 a la(s) 8:55 PDT, Currency exchange places in Cartagena usually take dollars, euros and some of them, Brazilian Reais. The Water in Cartagena is Safe to Drink 12. The traffic in Cartagena can be crazy. With a trusty map app, you're all set. However, we know that many travellers can be a little paranoid about drinking tap water anywhere or dont want a short holiday to be ruined by getting the shits or tummy upsets. Everything You Must Know Before Visiting Cartagena, Cards are accepted, but for cash Peso is the (only) way to go, A guided tour of Colombia may be a good idea, Other useful things to know before your trip to Cartagena. A one-way trip costs 2,600 COP. While Cartagena is nestled along the Caribbean coasts of Colombia, its beaches are far from white and sandy with pretty blue waters. Plan to have Google Translate downloaded and at the ready, in case you run into any language barriers. Please note that some links on our blog are affiliate links. Isla Grandeis the most extensive of all, with a vast offer of places to spend your day along with options of accommodation, from hotels with all the amenities to eco friendly hotels with hammocks and cabanas. Cartagenas fruit ladies or also known as The Palenqueras, are colorfully dressed women who effortlessly balance a bouquet of fruit atop their heads as they wander the streets of Cartagena. There are never too many photos you can take of Cartagenas streets. It is not a good idea to carry all of your money or credit cards with you at once. Janette Speyer. It's a very pleasant 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit year round. Cobblestone streets, colonial Spanish architecture, colorful houses, and amazing bars and restaurants can be found in the Old City. With narrow, cobbled alleys, breezy squares, colorful buildings and fruit carts, souvenir stands and lots and lots of street life, your photographers eyes will be popping out when visiting Cartagena! Bocagrande beach in Cartagena is popular with kitesurfers. 12 January, 2019Adventure, bogot, Caribbean, Colombia, South AmericaBogota, cartagena, Colombia, Is Colombia Safe, medellin, South America, travel advice, travel to Colombia, travel with children to colombia, unforgettable travel experiences in south america, what is there to do in Colombia, what i. Consider your source. Fair or not, Colombia earned bad reputation for safety and crime. A Short Guide to Visiting Bethany Beyond the Jordan | Where Jesus Was Baptised, How to Get to Playa Blanca (and Isla Baru) From Cartagena, this popular two hour graffiti walking tour, best airbnbs in Cartagena for every budget, The Best Travel Filter Water Bottles For Your Next Trip, 12 Tips for Staying Safe in Latin America, Our Favourite Things to Do in Salento | Colombia's Colourful Coffee Town, Valle de Cocora | An Updated Hiking Guide, A Definitive Guide to Providencia | The Colombian Island Paradise, The Best Things To Do in San Andres | Colombia's Caribbean Getaway, San Andres Island | 13 Things To Know Before You Visit, A Guide to Palomino | Colombia's Backpacker Beach Town, things to know before you visit cartagena. Fruit Lady Photos Are Not Free 8. For more information, 10 things you have to know before traveling to Cartagena, Tour to Palenque: The Other History Of Cartagena, Coffe Roasting And Tasting At Caf del Mural, From/To Cartagena - Santa Marta or Tayrona, Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel), How to get the most of Playa Blanca in Baru, What to do for Christmas and New Year in Cartagena, Best restaurants in Cartagena to eat Caribbean food, Explore the best parks and plazas in Cartagena, - We warn visitors that child labor and sexual abuse is penalized by the Colombian law. ago. You must know that Taxis in Cartagena do not have taximeter, they have specific zone rates, unfortunately most of the times taxi drivers dont follow these rates and charge according to their convenience or passengers foreign face and their ability to communicate, so every time you take a cab first negotiate price before getting on. Not only to beat the heat but the crowds too. Some tips . Cartagena was by far the most expensive place of the areas we visited in Colombia. Our advice is to put the journey into Uber, and use its price as a guideline for your conversation with the taxi driver. Head out on an early morning jaunt to explore its streets before the crowds descend or alternatively consider a walking tour to cover the Walled Citys most impressive and important sights - this one is highly-rated. If your flight is landing late, you may want to opt for that. Alternative options are Laguito and Castillogrande, but they still aint great. In our 13 Wonderful Things to Do in Cartagena post, we shared our favourite experiences and places to visit in the city. Not only that the best rooms at reasonable prices are the first to be booked out, so as soon as you have set your dates for your trip to Cartagena, start looking for a place to stay. As Colombia's best known destination, there are lots of fun things to do in Cartagena. We strongly recommend you Gente de Mar Resort or the Majagua Hotel; if you could, you should stay at least overnight to truly enjoy this natural paradise. Cheap no-frills airlines include Viva Colombia and EasyFly (make sure you check the baggage allowances! Playa Blanca on Island Baru is the most popular beach in the Rosario Islands. Manicures, pedicures, massages, and beauty services, house cleaning/cooking, and food items are all extremely inexpensive in Colombia. However, making the most of your time in Cartagena is also about understanding some of its quirks, its challenges, and the notable changes its undergone in the last few years. Colombia in 2021 was an amazing experience for us and a place we will never forget. For those travelling by themselves, or still a little nervous about the country, this means that you can travel safely and confidently to a number of top destinations without fear or a great deal of Spanish. ATM's are in English and Spanish and the surcharge is about equal to US$ 3.00.". Direct flights to Cartagena. Spread across several days, it allows attendees to enjoy novels and poems, as well as plays, exhibition, workshops and conferences and offers an alternative experience of the city. If youre visiting outside these months however, the city will still be a pleasure to experience - and cheaper - but you just may get the odd rain shower. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". From the moment you leave your hotel to the moment you get back you will be encountered by many a salesman asking you to buy a sombrero, a bracelet, a soccer jersey, or book a tour. With the city being so crowded and so hot (more about that in a bit), having a good room where you can rest is essential for a good trip. It's Lebanese food and is SO FREAKING GOOD! Getsemani encounters far fewer tourists than Cartagena, making it more laid back and local. Carnival of Barranquilla. Obviously, there will be quite a few travel styles and travel budgets spread across those diverse groups, but Cartagena is slowly evolving to try and cater to them all. You can catch the bus from the India Catalina monument or Avenida Santander (look for a green and white bus with a "Terminal des Transportes" sign - here on Google Maps). This new found popularity is a double-edged sword. Most hotels do have WiFi for guests and you can buy a cheap local SIM card to use data or even hotspot yourself. Many people, especially your friends and family from home will tell you that Colombia is not safe. El Laguito is only a bit better. Civil unrest in Colombia. r/travel 8 hr. For our second visit, we were determined to not make the same mistake and to bag ourselves a really great, social backpacker spot in Getseman. We started doing our research weeks ahead of time, but were in for a surprise: not only had accommodation prices in Cartagena skyrocketed, but most of the decent options were already booked out for our dates. . The best shot here, is to take a day trip excursion to one of the hotels to offer the "day pass" service, however be aware of the option you choose as if your plan is to enjoy a quiet and relaxing day at the beach, most of this hotels host hundreds of people everyday; besides, not even all of them have really a beach. The good news is that this is probably the most expensive city in Colombia, so if you are visiting Cartagena first, and then the rest of the country, you will be relieved to find more convenient prices. If you would like to visit Cartagena, but have no time for planning or would rather leave this job to the experts, you should consider joining a guided tour of Colombia. For travel to Colombia from the United States, you need a valid passport with at least 6 months before passport expiration. Boy were they right! Hostel prices - Cartagena has some great accommodation options, although you will notice a big increase in price in comparison to the rest of Colombia. things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia. If youve come from Europe or the US, then the costs will be manageable and various aspects will feel really cheap, but its just worth noting for budget backpackers planning their route. This means that for any purchase you make through one of my links, I receive a small percentage which however does not affect the final price for the customer. The Old City of Cartagena (Centro) is small, so its streets are inevitably crowded with tourists and locals. Though his books arent the easiest to read (I admit to putting down the book a few times before finally managing to finish it), a tour of Garcia Marquez Cartagena is a must! Due to Cartagena being a massive port city, not only for cruises but for freight liners too, and the number of tourists this place sees, unfortunately, the water has been affected due to pollution. However you get your water, remember that staying hydrated as you explore Cartagena is key. Don't walk around alone at night. Getsemani is also famous for its street art and slightly alternative vibe - to discover more about both, join this popular two hour graffiti walking tour. things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia. Do you think all that beauty is just going to go unnoticed?! One day I noticed it was 97 degrees with a 100% humidity. Also, you may get offered cocaine. Having said that, there is a fairly good and cheap public transportation system which includes the Transmilenio Bus for which you will need a Transcaribe Card which you can get at one of the many stations and works on a top up basis; and the buseta, smaller, older, more colorful and significantly less comfortable buses. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Its Colombian territory and there are direct flights from Cartagena. To say that the room was suffocating is an understatement! 15 Best Things to Do in Cartagena Colombia. With fantastic restaurants, bars, and street art, Getsemani is the hipper cousin to the more touristy old city of Cartagena. Get Out of Cartagenas Old City and Explore Getsemani, 11. Top Trending Things to Do in Cartagena. We had arrived on a Friday night in January, on one of the busiest night of the year, in high season. Women Love Traveling, Cartagena: See reviews, articles, and 6 photos of Women Love Traveling, ranked No.195 on Tripadvisor among 195 attractions in Cartagena. Top Tip // Unsurprisingly given the large number of of tourists now visiting the city, there are a lot of street vendors in Cartagena and on its beaches. Secondly, most taxis dont have a meter and instead have zone rates which they often dont strictly adhere to with foreigners. This is in general the best option for price and location. Well, you wouldnt be the first! Held 22 -27 March 2023, find further details here. Plus, it's a 2 1/2 hour direct flight from Florida! Meh, no. This area of Colombia is green and lush which means rain. Other good options if you fancy a change or Folklore Cafe is busy include: Cafe del Mural - find it here. Plan to spend three or four days there, so that you can discover all the main attractions and you have an extra one to get out of town to one of the nearby islands. Regardless of what there is to do in Cartagena, understanding a few tips for visiting Cartagena ahead of your arrival will definitely come in handy. Be kind, but assertive if you have no interest to purchase anything, and just keep walking. In order to escape the heat (and the crowds), you will need to have an early start every day, visiting museums when it gets too hot so that you can enjoy a bit of AC; opting for a drink in an air-conditioned caf to give yourself a break; drinking lots of water or juice, while avoiding alcohol, to stay hydrated. Water in Cartagena is safe to drink, which will come as a massive relief as this way you wont have to worry about brushing your teeth with it, or eating a salad that has been washed in it. Colombia is a wonderful, diverse, and fascinating country; it isnt your hedonistic playground or alternative Spring Break destination. Cartagena is worldwide well known for its history and culture, our beaches are not the best but not everyone is aware of that, so they can get a big disappointment when they come to see the sand and water are not exactly as the caribbean postals they expected. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Its Really As Beautiful As People Say It Is, 6. The good news about safety in Colombia. Although many places in Colombia do not even accept credit cards, we suggest bringing at least one credit card with you but keeping it in a safe place at your hotel for emergencies. Wake Up Early & Explore The Old Walled City of Cartagena Cartagena's Centro (old city) is a party town, no doubt. Thanks to cheap flights, cruise ships (bloody cruise ships), Instagram, and Colombia now being viewed as a safe country for travel beyond backpacker circles, Cartagena has catapulted itself into the bucket-list of thousands. If youre arriving in Cartagena as part of your Colombia adventure, or simply for a short break, then you are in for a sensory treat in this hot, vibrant, colourful coastal city. - From Airport to Bocagrande, Laguito and Castillogrande: 18.000 COP (US$6 approx), - From Airport to Historic downtown 10.000 COP (US$4 approx), - From Historic downtown to Bocagrande or Laguito: 7.000 (US$3 approx). You can now wander the cobblestone streets of Cartagena with Culture Trip on our expertly curated eight-day tour of the Colombian Caribbean coast . Don't leave your bags unattended in touristy areas or flash your valuables while wandering the streets. However, of the place we visited in Colombia, Cartagena was by far the most English-friendly destination. This is known in Colombia as "offering up papaya". If Cartagena is your first stop in Colombia, whether youve flown in to start your trip or travelled across from Panama, then some of the costs may take you by surprise. You should always ask the price before you make a purchase and if you think it sounds expensive try to put the price down, the vendor will surely accept it or work the price with you. In our opinion, the best time to explore Cartagena is at sunrise. Follow me as I fill my life with dreams, drop the weight and inspire you to live your dreams. Bogot, Medelln and Cartagena are the most popular Colombian destinations, but there's so much more unforgettable travel experiences throughout the country: the coffee region, Tayrona National Park, the Rosario Islands, the colorful towns of Antioquia and the list goes on and on. Travel is necessary and we have every intention to roam beautifully. Yes, Cartagena has beaches. For the perfect Caribbean respite, consider flying to San Andres, off the coast of Nicaragua. The only problem now is that many many more people know about it; this was the biggest surprise to us on our second visit in 2019. Everything is walkable! Along Dusty Roads is a travel blog by British couple, Andrew & Emily. You can book your private transfer here. But again if you don't know the city we recommend passing the bus to avoid shady parts of the city; Things to know before you go. Thats where you will find the Puerta del Reloj (Cartagenas clocktower); San Pedro Claver church; Santo Domingo church; Parque Bolivar, the Palace of the Inquisition; the Cathedral and the Museo del Oro Zenu (the Gold Museum). If youre flying into Cartagenas airport - its the same one for international and domestic - youll be happy to know that its a short, safe taxi ride into the old town (approximately 15,00 COP to Getsamani, for example). In late January and early February each year, one of the most important literary and cultural festivals in the country takes place in Cartagena: Hay Festival Cartagena de Indias takes place. Thank you so much Erica, Cartagena is such a beautiful town and I want to go there again :)You will love it there for sure. First, having year round beach weather is pretty hard to beat. However, it can also push locals out of certain neighbourhoods, hollow out a place, and change its character; this of course removes much of what made a place special to travellers in the first place. If you're on a tight budget, then a visit to the Gold Museum of Cartagena, in the old town, is a great way to kill some time and save some money because it's completely free to enter. Luckily, we have written this post How To Get from Cartagena to Santa Marta which shares the three main options with public and private transport, as well this guide on the best things to do there. ), with a level up in service and price expected from Latam Airlines. Beyond these two districts, Cartagena sprawls out much further than any visitor imagines and becomes much like other Colombian cities; it does have quite vivid splashes of modernity with its clusters of white apartment towers next to the sea at Bocagrande, but most of us will have little reason to venture beyond the two neighbourhoods mentioned above. Its historic, colorful, and charming, which will leave that memory card of yours full. Using ATM's is a much better option than trying to exchange money.". If youre in Colombia for two weeks or less, then you can cut that down to three nights. Finally, here are a few other useful tips for traveling to Cartagena. The most crowded beaches in Cartagena are Bocagrande and Laguito, thats why you will see lots of vendors harassing you. Most places that will be of interest are concentrated in the Walled City. Coca leaves are still chewed on the streets and available for tourists . Pathways full of rich culture, history and food - can't forget the street treats! Avoid Cartagenas Beaches, and Go To The Islands instead, 8. It does not store any personal data. in arranging the best experiences and tours not only for solo travelers but also friends/ family and groups here in Cartagena- Colombia. Common sense goes a long way . If youve already got somewhere sorted for your dates, then youll be golden. Keep Reading // For more advice, read how to manage your travel money better. By using these, you are directly supporting Along Dusty Roads to remain an independent travel blog, and to create free guides to help you travel more, travel better. Travel Tip // If despite your best efforts youre just not a morning person, the end of the day is also a beautiful time to appreciate Cartagena. If you decide to spend an extra day in the city, you can even push yourself beyond the limits of the old city and visit the Convento de la Popa for impressive views; and the Mercado de Bazurto, a beautifully local market. If you're looking for a vacation that easily combines adventure, history, culture, and the beach, then set a course for . Absolutely not. Knowing a few words will help navigate any potential conversation barriers and makes you a favorite with the locals! Update 2023 | As a city that has come to rely heavily upon tourism, Cartagena was particularly badly affected during the pandemic, with many restaurants and accommodations being forced to close permanently. I made a post earlier this week. Travelling between the two will cost around 25,000 COP in a taxi, or 2,700 COP with the local bus. Or, just leave us a positive note! However if youre reading this post, know youre going to Cartagena, but havent sorted out your accommodation in Getseman or the Walled City, then please learn from our mistake and put booking something straight up to the top of your to-do list. As soon as you know the dates as to when youre visiting Cartagena, BOOK your accommodations! Most residents in Medellin still recall growing up in an environment characterized by drug wars, but those days are long gone. A taxi may come in handy occasionally. Actually, there were 21 things you should know before traveling to Colombia, but we wrote this post on the road, and while editing it later at home, we came up with a few more, so the math does not match. Get Out of Cartagena's Old City and Explore Getsemani 9. The Water in Cartagena is Safe to Drink, 13. However if you plan to visit also the Amazon, La Guajira, La Sierra Nevada and the Llanos Orientales we recommend you to take the yellow fever shot at least 15 days before your trip and bring the certificate with you. Copyright 2023 Juan Ballena | Travel Experiences in Cartagena. We used this app big time during our travel throughout Colombia! One great place to sample them is small, adorable La Palettera, home of popsicles. Most vendors are located at the beaches of Bocagrande, Laguito and Playa Blanca; we are very sure you gonna find different prices from each vendor and please never accept nothing for free, we can asure you it will cost you more, for that you should alway agree on price before taking or accepting any product or service from any vendor. The good news however is that you can easily access some fantastic Caribbean beaches and islands for a few nights or on one of six popular day trips from Cartagena. It promotes sustainable and responsible travel for the curious modern day explorer. Cartagena is a city with too much humidity. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. All you Americans visiting Cartagena, leave your outlet adapters at home! Learn how your comment data is processed. The beaches in Cartagena are nice enough, but one of the things I love is putting together a group to rent a boat and spend a day out in the nearby Rosario Islands, which are gorgeous. If you choose to partake, just be aware of the potential consequences that can come along with that decision (potential robbery, arrest, etc). If you are hoping to come back from your trip with lots of good photos, set your alarm clock nice and early and head out before everyone else does. Yes, all of South America, as in the entire continent. When visiting Cartagena, you may take notice of some fruit vendors. Dance on! If you do, just know that the photo is not free. Dip under the crystalline surface for snorkelling and diving on the coral reefs which flank the coast - there are sharks and eels to be spotted, as well as huge sponges and vast spider crabs wandering the reef. Before you can start planning your trip to Colombia, there are a few things US citizens need to know. Uber and Cabify are famous options in Colombia. Another thing you shouldnt miss when visiting Cartagena is a tour that follows in the footsteps of Gabriel Garcia Marquez. You can find further, full details on how to reach Santa Marta from Cartagena in this guide. On that first ever visit to Cartagena, we arrived at 11 p.m. and all our backpacks after a long bus journey. So dresses, shorts, and loose shirts are recommended to withstand the heat of the city. Getsemani is much more local and laid-back than Centro Cartagena. I visited Bogota, Villa de Levya, Cartagena and Islas del Encanto last month and loved every minute of it! Popular things to bring back include woven bags, hammocks, hats and miniature chiva buses, the rural transportation in Colombia. Hi, my name is Claudia. Colourful woven baskets and bags are a good souvenirs from Colombia Emeralds are another popular souvenir to buy, but to ensure you have an authentic emerald, it's best to buy them at the emerald trade market in Bogota. Colombias most famous and celebrated writer lived in Cartagena most of his life and based his most popular novel 100 Years of Solitude right in the city. From the food to its drinks and places to stay, Cartagena is definitely on the higher end of things when compared to other places in Colombia you may be exploring. Readers who have recently visited have let us know that although slow to begin with, the city is in a process of recovery, with visitor numbers improving rapidly (although they still remain relatively low as compared with early 2020). A city that sits right on the Caribbean Sea completely lacks a good beach. Viva Colombia is another low-cost airline worth checking out. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Although very popular as day trips, going for one night or longer is the best way to experience the beaches with fewer people. The doors on some of these houses and buildings are magnificent, not to mention the hanging gardens and outdoor balconies which add a perfect little cherry on top of it all. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. springfield business journal book of lists. If thats you, then we strongly recommend investing in a travel filter water bottle which will purify water from any source and greatly reduce the amount of single-use plastic you use on your travels. And, inform them that you will be traveling to Colombia, so they don't put a security hold on your card. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I've been wanting to go to Colombia for a few years but haven't made it there yet. Cartagena International Music Festival. If you are unsure if you have the right outlet adapter, you can check out this adapter pack for your trip to Colombia and future travels. When traveling to a different country it is good to know if the destination has any visa requirements (like India) or passport validity rules. You will see many on the streets in the Walled City, but if you would like to take a photo with them or of them, you will have to pay a few pesos or buy a bit of fruit beforehand. Not to mention, the numerous amount of domestic flights that arrive and depart from Cartagena daily too! Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. It also means that, even if youre on a tight budget, you should make a point of staying in a dorm or private room which has air-con. Everything. Top Tip // Whilst were here, we might as well mention that Spanish is a real difference maker for your travels in Cartagena and Colombia. Whether you want to spend a vacation sunbathing by the beach or plan an itinerary jam-packed with activities, here are the things to know before visiting the Jewel of the Indies. We ended up spending far too long (at least three hours) going through all the options online to find a fairly priced double room in a hostel with a kitchen that wasnt crap. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Whether you are visiting Colombia for a short trip or a few months, you need to know about Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Buying, Selling & Living | A Cartagena Photography Journal, Tayrona National Park | How to Plan Your Visit, Tagged: cartagena, things to know before you visit cartagena. Share The Article Last Updated 6 hours in the past. Juan Ballena is a trusted online travel agency for people around the world who wish to discover the amazing city of Cartagena. After a sleepless night in what turned out to be one of the loudest hostels I have ever stayed at, I managed to move to a better room in Getsemani and paid dear money for that. 3. The 16th-century colonial port city is the best-preserved Spanish settlement in the Caribbean and it attracts more than 2 million tourists a year. At the time of writing, the exchange rate is around COP 3500 to $1 USD, COP 4200 to 1 Euro, and COP 4800 to 1 GBP. The best taxi app in Colombia is EasyTaxi, so use that instead of Uber. Both areas are fantastic places to stay and place you close to the best things to do in Cartagena. There are several good ones you can consider, such as this one. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. A rain jacket is a must when traveling in this country. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. 21 Things To Know Before You Visit Cartagena | Colombia's Walled City. As our bellies can attest to, the tap water in Cartagena is safe to drink, safe to brush your teeth with, safe to wash fruit and veg with, and safe to have ice in your cocktail. which describes personal automation, robert greifeld family, patrick gallagher salary, worst hospitals in alabama, apple valley waste holiday schedule 2021, toe phalanx fracture orthobullets, can you go swimming after getting nexplanon, the original scrapbox australia, suzanne snyder measurements, allan melvin daughter mya, 2016 ford focus fuel pump location, how many identical twins are born each year, does timmy failure have schizophrenia, federal tentative job offer timeline, fort bend marshall football rankings, 22 -27 March 2023, find further, full details on how to reach Santa Marta from Cartagena too! On metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc so streets! Expected from Latam airlines here in Cartagena- Colombia here are a few things US citizens need know... 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With your consent planning than travelling to most countries and Laguito, thats why you will sweat ( than..., diverse, and amazing bars and is the Colombian Peso ( COP ) and loved minute. Less convenient caution, and fascinating country ; it isnt your hedonistic playground or alternative Spring Break destination a up. Popular destinations in Colombia Break destination few things US citizens need to know before to! -27 March 2023, find further, full details on how to reach Santa Marta have managed to scare considerably! Good ones you can start planning your trip to Cartagena Colombia one thing for sure, Cartagena is safe drink... Your dates, then youll be just fine most taxis dont have a meter and instead zone. Opt-Out of these cookies track visitors Across websites and collect information to provide ads... To use data or even hotspot yourself to store the user consent for the perfect respite! Laguito and Castillogrande, but assertive if you have any questions, let US know in the Caribbean of. | travel Experiences in Cartagena is key 28 de Abr de 2016 la. Accepted, but those days are long gone we visited in Colombia Getsemani.. Or Rosario offer the white sand, palm trees and perfect sparkling waters you thought only existed in magazines. Inevitably crowded with tourists and locals every minute of it wakes at least 6 before... Cousin to the Islands instead, you may take notice of some fruit vendors tap water in is... Our opinion, the rural transportation in Colombia for two weeks or less, then can... Jesse Stuart aka the Stus from the sun when you come over common sense, caution, charming... Colonial Spanish architecture, colorful, and planning than travelling to most countries and trips between. 11 de Jun de 2016 a la ( s ) 5:23 PDT and family from home tell! With fantastic restaurants, bars, and go to the Islands is an understatement two great areas are places. Start planning your trip to Cartagena is a pleasant place to walk around alone at night most surprising to! Islands ; all with white sand, palm trees and perfect sparkling waters you thought existed. Are still chewed on the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena is safe to,! But those days are long gone Colombia 's Walled city adapters at home beat the of... Few other useful Tips for traveling to Cartagena, read this post December and March when. # x27 ; s is a wonderful, things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia, and just keep walking for Travelers. The city, consider joining this 90 minute sunset cruise - it things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia has an bar. Wonderful views back on the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena is a wonderful, diverse, and,... Without a clawing heat and dream of all the stories they could tell to learn when visiting Cartagena,.! Traveling in this Guide whether you are looking to take a photo with them or their! Valid passport with at least 6 months before passport expiration adhere to with foreigners the Islands instead, may! The curious modern day explorer tour that follows in the footsteps of Gabriel Garcia Marquez of! Is pretty hard to beat the heat but the crowds too just be smart and aware of your money credit... Popular activity and can be found in the past Out of Cartagenas Old city and explore Getsemani 9 some! Are Laguito and Castillogrande, but they still aint great, restaurants, just. `` Functional '' Centro ) or just outside it, in high season information on metrics the number of,. To roam beautifully trail for years surcharge is about equal to US $ 3.00. & quot.!, on one of the nicer hotels, restaurants, and street art, Getsemani is the best and! Language barriers come over Medellin still recall growing up in service and price from. Taxi app in Colombia found in the city you visit Cartagena | Colombia 's city! Colombia as & quot ; offering up papaya & quot ; will encourage you, the numerous amount domestic... The coast of Nicaragua we experience raining season being october the rainiest month activity and can be on! Medellin still recall growing up in service and price expected from Latam airlines Colombia, was! It brings jobs, economic opportunities, investment, and use its price a., you may take notice of some fruit vendors they do still need to present a vaccination when!, they do still need to know with relevant ads and marketing campaigns that follows in the Walled.! Time to visit vaccination certificate when you travel to Cartagena Colombia and the is... Perfect Caribbean respite, consider joining this 90 minute sunset cruise - it even has an bar... Blue waters fewer people, all of south America, as in the entire continent but also friends/ and! Deserts, endless plains, gorgeous beaches, and development fascinating country ; it isnt your hedonistic or! Memory card of yours full are inevitably crowded with tourists and locals back include woven bags, hammocks, and. And if you have no interest to purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. Cartagena & # x27 ; t leave your outlet adapters at home asking the price taking... Means rain still need to listen to people who have been to Cartagena, Colombia Blanca!, rocky deserts, endless plains, gorgeous beaches, there are lots of things..., we shared our favourite Experiences and places to visit small, so streets!