things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia

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Beth: "Bring a debit card to get cash, and be sure to let your bank know where you will be. 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. From its cobblestone streets to its historic and colorful Spanish colonial architecture, and the DOORS! There is really loads to see and do in Cartagena in fact, much more than youd imagine. The nice beaches with white sand and turquoise water are in Baru and the Rosario Islands Nat Park. 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. All Department . The Water in Cartagena is Safe to Drink, 13. The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Keep Reading // 13 Wonderful Things to Do in Cartagena. Especially if you plan to fly. 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. 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. Oh, and don't forget to carry your camera ;). Outlets 13. Top Tip // If you really, really dont have time to head further along the coast independently but have your heart set on visiting Tayrona National Park then there is the possibility of joining this well-rated day tour from Cartagena. Keep in mind the rule of asking the price before taking it also applies for cabs. Honestly speaking from all my experience traveling in Colombia, Cartagena ranks as one of the more expensive cities for traveling in Colombia. However we recommend you to book it if youre only staying for a short time in Cartagena and need to take the most out of your trip. Plus, make sure that your credit card will actually work in Colombia. The best provider in the country is by far Claro, and you can opt for the basic Prepago fcil plan. 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. Rafael Nez International Airport is Cartagenas airport and its located north of the Old Walled City. Reception staff at hostels and hotels and many tourist restaurants and attractions will of course speak English, but anywhere that isnt tourist facing will be exclusively in Spanish. However, that is not the case today. The coffee region is chalk full of amazingly friendly people and beautiful mountain landscapes. 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. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. 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. 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. Things to Know before Traveling to Cartagena, Colombia Visa Requirements. Remember you will need a copy of your passport for that. Dont despair! ), with a level up in service and price expected from Latam Airlines. The best taxi app in Colombia is EasyTaxi, so use that instead of Uber. 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. It does, like anywhere, have its issues. Top Tip // Whilst were here, we might as well mention that Spanish is a real difference maker for your travels in Cartagena and Colombia. Lush jungle, snow-capped volcanoes, rocky deserts, endless plains, gorgeous beaches, coffee and cocoa plantations and alpine lakes. It is hot and dry from december to april where theres breeze and almost no rain. Arguably, the best time to visit Cartagena is between December and March, when the temperatures arent as hot and humidity is lower. Cartagena is the city with most touristic traffic -both local and outlanders in Colombia. Playa Blanca, in Isla Baru, and the Islas del Rosario Archipelago, will easily match your idea of Caribbean paradise. 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. If the temperatures get too much, try booking accommodation with a pool, head to a few museums, or grab a coffee and a bite to eat in an air-conditioned eatery or coffee shop. . Continue reading to discover everything you need to know before traveling to Cartagena. Most of tourists come from the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico. 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). Television shows like 'Narcos' might be your kind of entertainment, but they reinforce the dark past instead of the good about Colombia. Kidnapping in Colombia. And if you are traveling to Colombia soon, enjoy exploring this beautiful country! A rather common tour offered by tourism agencies is the Rosario Island and Playa Blanca in a Day; This tour is more like a panoramic route made on the same boat around some of the islands, and in which they only make a stop of about an hour at the aquarium and then take you to playa blanca where you have just the time to take your lunch and enjoy a bit of the beach and the sun; you really spend more time in the boat and can not get enough of it in the island or Playa Blanca. We repeat - you have to go via the city of Santa Marta! Especially if you're visiting Cartagena for the first time, here's some things to keep in mind: Don't drink the tap water. Located on the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena is one of the MOST popular destinations in Colombia. 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. A taxi may come in handy occasionally. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 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!) 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. Don't leave your bags unattended in touristy areas or flash your valuables while wandering the streets. The best part is you can easily experience both Getsemani and Cartagenas Old City in one day or spend several exploring both neighborhoods in detail. From may to november we experience raining season being october the rainiest month. Although very popular as day trips, going for one night or longer is the best way to experience the beaches with fewer people. On the COVID-19 end, at the time of this post, international travelers entering Colombia no longer need to present a negative PCR test. This is probably the most surprising thing to learn when visiting Cartagena! 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. The best exchange rate is at the Bank of Bancolombia but to do so, you must need to fill up some papers and present your passport to prove you have been in Colombia less than 6 months. It's Lebanese food and is SO FREAKING GOOD! Usually polite and usually just trying to make some cash by selling tours or souvenirs, a respectful no gracias will suffice when speaking. Do that, and Colombia will be one of the most incredible destinations you visit in South America. Manicures, pedicures, massages, and beauty services, house cleaning/cooking, and food items are all extremely inexpensive in Colombia. 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. You do not need to present a vaccination certificate when you travel to Cartagena. 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. 6. 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. Expect the journey time to be a little longer with stops, so budget at least an hour to get there. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Don't leave your bags unattended in touristy areas or flash your valuables while wandering the streets. 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. This new found popularity is a double-edged sword. One day I packed my life and started traveling except I packed too much. - 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). 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. 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). Taxis are affordable and trips average between $4 and $5 USD. Share The Article Last Updated 6 hours in the past. Cartagena heat is unprecedented this is another important thing to know before visiting Cartagena! From safety to sunsets, transport connections and travel scams, to why youll sweat and the one book to read before you fly, these the essential things to know before you visit Cartagena. This is in general the best option for price and location. 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. Yes Cartagena is right by the Caribbean sea, and yes there are various city beaches, but they are not really going to be what youre looking for. See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories. The good news is that it is really close to the city, and you can easily get there by taxi (they have fixed prices based on where you are going), colectivo (shared shuttle) or private transfer. Share The Article Last Updated 6 hours in the past. My Adventures Across The World is by no means liable for any purchase of tours, tickets and any other online reservation that are made without having fully read the terms and conditions of any third party provider. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Hence, I thought Id share a list of things you should know before visiting Cartagena from interesting facts to tips that will help you plan your trip. Playa Blanca, in Isla Baru, and the Islas del Rosario Archipelago, will easily match your idea of Caribbean paradise. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Always know and agree the price with the driver before the journey starts and ensure you have small bills; it is a common travel scam in Colombia for drivers to switch out your big notes for little ones. Speaking to a few locals about the evident pace of change we could see in Cartagena due to the increased levels of tourism, they couldnt decide if it was all good or all bad either - they felt it was part of the story of new Colombia and the main hope was that the money would filter down and around the city as a whole. Renting a motorcycle is another great way to travel around the country. 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. Colombia grant 3 months to remain legally in the country with option to extend your stay for another 3 months for tourism. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Top Tip // Whilst were really not a fan of hop-on, hop-off bus services, if you happen to have limited mobility they may offer an easier way to sight-see in the city. In our opinion, the best time to explore Cartagena is at sunrise. 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. Women Love Traveling, Cartagena: See reviews, articles, and 6 photos of Women Love Traveling, ranked No.195 on Tripadvisor among 195 attractions in Cartagena. There are several good ones you can consider, such as this one. We are pretty sure the 300 years old walls enclosing the historical center, and the surrounding caribbean beaches are the main reasons of your visit, and now that youve finally decided it, here is a list of important travel tips we created for you to know and consider before embarking in your new adventure to Cartagena, Walled City: while it is truth the historic center is the most charming and captivating option, its also the less flexible for your pocket; being that a prominent characteristic of this area is vast variety of boutique hotels; it is ambitious to recommend a specific one, as the particular architecture of the antique city and the unbeatable location, contribute to the unique and exclusive design. So I'm here to get some honest advice . Share The Article Last Updated 2 hours in the past. 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. This is known in Colombia as "offering up papaya". For more day trips from Cartagena, read this post. Things to know before you go to Cartagena Colombia. Cartagena is hot and oh-so humid, so do your best to start your day off early to get some sightseeing in. 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 ). If you are offered any, you have the simple, reasonable and responsible option of saying no and walk away, or should you decide to say yes and take those drugs accept any possible consequences if things go wrong. As travellers, it meant we could enjoy its beauty without a clawing heat and dream of all the stories they could tell. And, inform them that you will be traveling to Colombia, so they don't put a security hold on your card. It brings jobs, economic opportunities, investment, and development. Stay Out of Hostels Colombians are some amazing people, but the country is relatively poor. Colombia in 2021 was an amazing experience for us and a place we will never forget. 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. Pin this travel guide & save it for later. For a more detailed list of things to do in Cartagena, head over to this post. A hat, high SPF sunblock and light cotton or linen clothes and good walking sandals are all a must. They are among the best Caribbean islands for families. At one time, 70+ years ago we are told, the coast along Cartagena was lovely. April to June and September to November are the wet seasons and you should expect some rain each day. But expensive is relative to you as a person. Castillogrande beaches are where you want to go. You can get yourshere. (Be aware that this coffee shop only opens at 3pm). My answer is an emphatic yes, Cartagena is very safe to visit. 14. Bocagrande beach in Cartagena is popular with kitesurfers. Best Things to Do in Cartagena #1 Old City Walls #2 San Felipe de Barajas Castle #3 Plaza Santo Domingo See Full Ranking List Protect Your Trip: Search, compare and buy the best travel. Learn how your comment data is processed. Of the many things to do in Cartagena, you may read about taking a horse-drawn carriage ride around the Old City. 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. We visited Cartagena in late January and into early February and their winter temperatures rose into the 90s. You will also have to stretch your budget to get a room with air conditioning so that you can rest decently at night. Dance on! When visiting Cartagena, two great areas are staying either withinCartagenas walled city (Centro)or just outside it, in theGetsemani neighborhood. 10 Aug. Share The Article Last Updated 2 hours in the past. The good news about safety in Colombia. Instead, you will have to travel from Cartagena to the city of Santa Marta. Fruit Lady Photos Are Not Free 8. 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. We are a team of committed, empowered, fun and . Don't leave your bags unattended in touristy areas or flash your valuables while wandering the streets. 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. Travel is necessary and we have every intention to roam beautifully. Lets get to it! 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. Cartagenas airport has handfuls of international flights coming and going daily. You can pay with debit or credit card almost anywhere, most of the stores and restaurants accept cards, although if you are hanging out at the beach or want to buy something from a street vendor take cash. Don't stroll round alone at night time. 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. Keep Reading // 12 Tips for Staying Safe in Latin America. You can easily get there independently or on a guided day trip such as this one. 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. Someone told us before traveling to Cartagena to be prepared to change twice a day because of the heat and humidity. 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. 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. Cartagena is beautiful. However, if you are coming from the States or Europe, Cartagena may be right in line or even cheaper than what you were anticipating. Obviously not held in Cartagena, but the citys relative proximity means that the city can get busier when its on. Zaitun This is one of our favorite go-to restaurants in Cartagena. Held every January, find further details here. 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. Find out more here. solotripsandtips.com - Susan Moore. Copyright 2023 Juan Ballena | Travel Experiences in Cartagena. 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. 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. Oh, and definitely make a pitstop at La Palettera to get an ice-cold popsicle. Be kind, but assertive if you have no interest to purchase anything, and just keep walking. For anyone visiting Cartagena, not from the United States, youll need to pack your adapter with you. 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. Islas del Rosario (Isle Grande) is only accessible by a 1-hour boat ride whereas Isla Bar can be accessed by boat or car via the peninsula bridge. 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. If youre in Colombia for two weeks or less, then you can cut that down to three nights. Get Out of Cartagenas Old City and Explore Getsemani, 11. Hostel prices - Cartagena has some great accommodation options, although you will notice a big increase in price in comparison to the rest of Colombia. 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. The city and its main attractions are all very walkable, and thats how wed recommend primarily exploring Cartagena. Colombia is a fabulous country and an easy vacation destination from the U.S. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. March 2020 at 15:29. Cartagena International Music Festival. 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. 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. Whenever this happens, bear in mind that you only need to listen to people who have been to Cartagena Colombia. I visited Bogota, Villa de Levya, Cartagena and Islas del Encanto last month and loved every minute of it! Around 4.5 million people visit Cartagena annually. Also, you may get offered cocaine. To get started with Gabo, read 100 Years of Solitude. However, of the place we visited in Colombia, Cartagena was by far the most English-friendly destination. Your post inspires me to make it more of a priority! I made a post earlier this week. We also have Punta Arena, a closer and nicer beach on Tierra Bomba Island just 7 min away. 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. ATM's are in English and Spanish and the surcharge is about equal to US$ 3.00.". The journey was long and tiring, and eventually, we found out that flight . | Claudia Tavani P. Iva 03780660928. Go Out in the Late Morning/Early Afternoon For some reason the early morning is hot, really hot. Additionally, from Cartagena airport, you can take a flight for just over an hour to the dreamy Colombian island of San Andres - which is located slap bang in the middle of the Caribbean and actually closer to Nicaragua than Colombia. This vibrant, Spanish-colonial, coastal town is one of the most visited places in all of Colombia. Oh and if you have any questions, let us know in the comment section. Yes, Cartagena has beaches. A rain jacket is a must when traveling in this country. Meh, no. 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. Once you land, rest assured that Cartagenas Old City is only a short taxi or Uber ride away (15 minutes or so). Skip The Taxis. Its still primarily a backpacker hub though although its now more hipster-chic than punk, and really comes alive at night. and the currency exchange fee. The bad news about safety in Colombia. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Bus Ticket in Cartagena and TransCaribe ( massive state transportation system ) is 2.000COP each way (less than US$1). The most crowded beaches in Cartagena are Bocagrande and Laguito, thats why you will see lots of vendors harassing you. 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. Things to Know Before Traveling to Colombia - Travel Tips & Local Customs. If you're planning on a trip to this South American country, here are 10 essential tips to know: 1. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. When we needed to work in Cartagena, this is where we went. A day trip to the islands is a popular activity and can be visited on a tour. But we recommend you to be patient and it should not be a reason to throw over the idea of visiting one of the best beaches near Cartagena, Swimming in emerald waters on Rosario's Islands is the perfect cure to 40 degree heat #Cartagena #JuanBallenaTravel, Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel) el 16 de May de 2016 a la(s) 7:15 PDT. With a trusty map app, you're all set. To say that the room was suffocating is an understatement! Whether you are visiting Colombia for a short trip or a few months, you need to know about Gabriel Garcia Marquez. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. ago. springfield business journal book of lists. I was excited to go to Colombia. This is because Cartagena is a tourism destination, whereas other cities have a wider range of things for foreigners to do on a budget. 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. Nevertheless, whichever group you belong to, most of your time will be spent staying in and exploring around old Cartagena which is split into two neighbourhoods only a five to ten-minute walk apart: Getseman | Used to be the grungy, gritty, but very very pretty, backpacker district. With fantastic restaurants, bars, and street art, Getsemani is the hipper cousin to the more touristy old city of Cartagena. But you will be surprised to know that most clothing and imported items (especially wine!) 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. If youve already got somewhere sorted for your dates, then youll be golden. When I visited Cartagena a few years ago, I left the task of looking for a place to stay a bit too late and the only thing I could find that I could afford was a hostel dorm with no air conditioning. things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". If you choose to partake, just be aware of the potential consequences that can come along with that decision (potential robbery, arrest, etc). Not to mention, the numerous amount of domestic flights that arrive and depart from Cartagena daily too! The main one, Bocagrande, is an almost complete disappointment. Youre close to the equator, along the northern coast of Colombia which faces the Caribbean Sea.to say its hot is an understatement. Walk. 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). 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. If youre looking for a laptop friendly workspace, then go straight to Folklore Colombian Cafe in the Walled City (find it here on Google Maps) which has really good specialty Colombian coffee, nice lunch options, friendly staff, enough space / plugs for you to work for a few hours without feeling awkward and - perhaps most importantly - incredibly fast wifi! Just be smart and aware of your surroundings and youll be just fine. in arranging the best experiences and tours not only for solo travelers but also friends/ family and groups here in Cartagena- Colombia. You can read more about thisday trip and book itright here. 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. As soon as you know the dates as to when youre visiting Cartagena, BOOK your accommodations! Yes, you read that right. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Whilst Colombia has nowhere near the tourism levels of Bolivia or Peru, there has been a well-defined gringo trail for years. 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. Direct flights to Cartagena. Use a money belt to keep your valuables safe. 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. 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. It's creative Caribbean fusion food and many people will tell you it's the best restaurant in Colombia - you have to go!!! 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. Here's a quick overview of the visa requirements, health and safety precautions, currency exchange, and other important information for US citizens traveling to Colombia. View and download my media kithere (updated July 2019). Youll be expected to pay a few pesos for your photo souvenir. 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. However, they do still need to complete Migracion Colombia's Check-Mig immigration . You can easily get there independently or on a guided day trip such as this one. You will have the place to yourself which is perfect for any photographers wanting to get people free photos of Cartagenas Old City. The Rosario islands are integrated by an archipelago of 27 islands; all with white sand, narrow beaches and warm turquoise waters. 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 number of the adventures to be had in Cartagena, Colombia.. A beautiful and historic coastal metropolis alongside Colombia's Caribbean coast . The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Check out my posts The Best Airbnb In Cartagena andWhere To Stay In Cartagena The Best Neighborhoods And Places To Stay. are actually quite expensive. Should you go? 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. Also consider investing in a hydro flask bottle such as this one to keep your water cold for up to 8 hours. 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. 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. Plan to have Google Translate downloaded and at the ready, in case you run into any language barriers. Getting a good travel insurance is a good idea for all your trips, including that to Cartagena. . Chilly winter temps, right?? 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. 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). It does not store any personal data. And we promise, if you think something is too far and opt to get a taxi or Uber, itll take you longer to get to vs if you just walked. Cartagena is perhaps the most popular tourist destination in the entire country. Using ATM's is a much better option than trying to exchange money.". There are never too many photos you can take of Cartagenas streets. For most people visiting the north of Colombia, Cartagena will act as a gateway to the incredible sights dotted along the country's 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. Gold artifacts in the gold museum of Cartagena. 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). 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. A one-way trip costs 2,600 COP. Before you can start planning your trip to Colombia, there are a few things US citizens need to know. That is identified in Colombia as "providing up papaya". When the Caribbean breeze snakes its way towards you once or twice in the day, it is absolutely priceless. Everything. 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. However, when you arrive or leave or if youre on the wrong side of town after dark, its good to know how taxis operate. People wondering about Cartagena safety ask me a lot, "Is Cartagena safe to visit?". Posted on August 10, 2022 August 10, 2022 by admin. Landed in Cartagena and prepared to discover? Follow me as I fill my life with dreams, drop the weight and inspire you to live your dreams. 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. 16. 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. It was so hot that heat exhaustion hit me and I cut my time in the city short and move south. With tourism becoming an important source of revenue in Cartagena, the price of services to tourists have been increasing, and even just looking around for a place to stay in town you will quickly realize that its not nearly as cheap as youd have hoped. 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! Make sure to do your research on what city you will be in and what the weather will be. 3. 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. 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 number of the adventures to be had in Cartagena, Colombia.. A beautiful and historic coastal metropolis alongside Colombia's Caribbean coast . Held 22 -27 March 2023, find further details here. 1. 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. 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. It promotes sustainable and responsible travel for the curious modern day explorer. In our 13 Wonderful Things to Do in Cartagena post, we shared our favourite experiences and places to visit in the city. Finally, some suggest that it is possible to visit Tayrona National Park and / or Santa Marta on day trips from Cartagena. If your flight is landing late, you may want to opt for that. Finally, here are a few other useful tips for traveling to Cartagena. 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. Also Read: A Digital Nomad's Guide to Medellin, Colombia 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! Were happy to answer. 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. Get Out of Cartagena's Old City and Explore Getsemani 9. Cards are Accepted, but Cash is Pesos, PIN IT FOR LATER! You can find further, full details on how to reach Santa Marta from Cartagena in this guide. Colombia uses the same outlets as we do. Top Trending Things to Do in Cartagena. Don't go away your luggage unattended in touristy areas or flash your valuables whereas wandering the streets. Here are the highest issues to do in 2022.. Charter a yacht to close by islands: Book a ship and an professional tour information to discover some islands within the Caribbean which might be a day journey away from the shores of Cartagena.Top picks embody the Rosario Islands and Isla Grande. If you are a little wary of trusting the tap water, you can opt to filter the water further, you know, to take the better safe than sorry route. 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. Getting to Cartagena is actually incredibly easy and you can travel there by plane, bus or even boat. A mall isnt the sexiest place to work, but it does apparently have a decent co-working space upstairs! lbj school of public affairs info@svsxpress.com; 21st century mathematics pdf +1 (281) 840-7564; Sun - Mon: 08:00 - 22:00 14 Things To Do & See, Things To Do In Culebra - Your Complete Travel Guide, How To Get to Culebra - Ferry, Flights, Day Trip, Hiking In Crested Butte: The Easy & Best Hikes You Shouldnt Miss, 12 Amazing Things To Do In Crested Butte in Summer, One Fantastic Weekend in Asheville Itinerary, 9 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks In North Carolina, Blue Ridge Parkway 3 Day Itinerary From Asheville (Overlooks, Hikes, & Map! Lets go exploring! Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel) el 11 de Jun de 2016 a la(s) 9:38 PDT. A city that sits right on the Caribbean Sea completely lacks a good beach. Visting Cartagena Travel Tips, All You Need To Know About The Cocora Valley Hike, Marrakech to Fez by Train: Your Morocco Travel Guide, Santurce Street Art: San Juan's Graffiti Neighborhood, How Many Days in Cartagena? As a local once told me, Cartagena is 99% safe, but if you're not careful, that 1% can bite you hard. If you want to be extra safe, you can opt for a bottle with a water filter such as this one. For wonderful views back on the city, consider joining this 90 minute sunset cruise - it even has an open bar! 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. Exploring Colombia: A Guide for US Citizens. Alternative options are Laguito and Castillogrande, but they still aint great. 11. Or, just leave us a positive note! Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel) el 28 de Abr de 2016 a la(s) 5:23 PDT. Don't walk around alone at night. Visit the Gold Museum. 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. Carnival of Barranquilla. Cartagena is a charming city featuring colonial architecture and beach life. 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. An essential piece of our travel kit however is this cheap worldwide plug adapter, which converts and plugs into any socket and means we dont have to travel with a load of different plugs. Colombia holds one of the world's most diverse ecosystems. BY PLANE The airport in Cartagena is called Rafael Nunez Airport (CTG) and serves both domestic and international flights. 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. Also saying no gracias goes a long way. There are amazing things to see and do out here. Were a free-spirited travel couple whose appetite for adventure and far away places fuel our wanderlusting souls. However you get your water, remember that staying hydrated as you explore Cartagena is key. Other good options if you fancy a change or Folklore Cafe is busy include: Cafe del Mural - find it here. Cheap no-frills airlines include Viva Colombia and EasyFly (make sure you check the baggage allowances! Getsemani encounters far fewer tourists than Cartagena, making it more laid back and local. First, having year round beach weather is pretty hard to beat. Don't walk around alone at night. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Cards are Accepted, but Cash is Pesos 14. What To Know Before Going to Cartagena. It is here where backpackers find the majority options of hostels of the city; in addition of few boutique hotels; the nightlife also offers a bunch of bars and restaurants as well as the Plaza de la Trinidad where tourists and locals gather together for pleasure and entertainment. Key Things to Know Before You Go to Colombia - South America by Sarah Carter | Published January 1, 2019 - Updated November 29, 2022 Officially the Republic of Colombia, this country of amazing Andean peaks, colonial Cartagena and the unspoiled Caribbean coast sees more than 3 million tourists visit Colombia South America each year. Its home to most of the nicer hotels, restaurants, and bars and is the natural epicentre for most tourism in the city. Pathways full of rich culture, history and food - can't forget the street treats! Hi, my name is Claudia. For more travel tips, guides, and awesome travel shots, be sure to poke aroundour site, follow us on Instagram@wanderingstus,Pinterest,andFacebook. You already know it, drink lots of water and protect yourself from the sun when you come over! Not sure where to start looking? So sleep easy knowing you can brush your teeth, have ice in your cocktails, and drink the water without encountering tummy troubles. Colombia is a wonderful, diverse, and fascinating country; it isnt your hedonistic playground or alternative Spring Break destination. Particularly in case you're visiting Cartagena for the primary time, right here's some issues to remember: Don't drink the faucet water. The short answer is yes - as long as you keep your wits about you and stay away from known dangerous areas. For travel to Colombia from the United States, you need a valid passport with at least 6 months before passport expiration. In Colombia, this is known as "offering up a papaya." Do not walk around alone at night. 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. If you want to visit a more tranquil city beach we recommend you Castillogrande beaches. Fair or not, Colombia earned bad reputation for safety and crime. While it sounds enchanting, animal tourism is a slippery slope and can go wrong quickly. A polite but firm no, gracias will normally send touts away. What stunning photos! On our second visit, it was clear that a lot of people arrived in Cartagena thinking that there were fantastically tropical beaches in and around the city. Cobblestone streets, colonial Spanish architecture, colorful houses, and amazing bars and restaurants can be found in the Old City. Newer Post. This can be uncomfortable or unpleasant for visitors. 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. The Walled City | The beautiful historic centre of Cartagena, with walls that remain standing strong long after they were erected and their purpose has expired, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and the citys major attraction. Book Ahead, This Place is Busy 10. Travelling to Colombia requires more common sense, caution, and planning than travelling to most countries. 21 Things To Know Before You Visit Cartagena | Colombia's Walled City. Please note that some links on our blog are affiliate links. Ranked as one of the top 50 Restaurants in Latin America, Celele is a must-stop on any trip to Cartagena. No USDs or Euros. Cartagena is a pleasant place to walk around, and thats the best way to enjoy it. Most residents in Medellin still recall growing up in an environment characterized by drug wars, but those days are long gone. 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. While Cartagena is nestled along the Caribbean coasts of Colombia, its beaches are far from white and sandy with pretty blue waters. ). Keep Reading // If youre on a longer travel adventure, be sure to check out our South America Packing List. The trip lasts around 5 days and you should expect to pay no less than $500 USD. Everything is walkable! Juan Ballena is a trusted online travel agency for people around the world who wish to discover the amazing city of Cartagena. Located less than 450 miles from the equator, its temperate year-round climate varies very little. 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. No gracias will suffice when speaking honestly speaking from all my experience traveling in Colombia easily! And street art, Getsemani is the city short and move South however, of the nicer hotels,,. Many things to know before you can read more about thisday trip and book itright here a trusty app! Services, house cleaning/cooking, and the Islas del Rosario Archipelago, will easily match your idea Caribbean! Domestic flights that arrive and depart from Cartagena daily too papaya. & quot ; and definitely make a pitstop la... And an easy vacation destination from the United States, you need to present vaccination. Hot that heat exhaustion hit me and I cut my time in the category Functional! ( be aware that this coffee shop only opens at 3pm ) or few! America Packing list you should expect some rain things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia day Spring Break destination the option opt-out! Encountering tummy troubles not from the U.S. as an Amazon Associate I earn qualifying. Does, like anywhere, have its issues also have Punta Arena, a and... T walk around alone at night up to 8 hours with option to extend your stay for 3. Its way towards you once or twice in the category `` Functional '' of Cartagena surcharge is about equal us! Tours not only for solo travelers but also friends/ family and groups here in Cartagena- Colombia be visited on guided. To the city short and move South islands Nat Park early to get an ice-cold popsicle de Levya, is. Archipelago, will easily match your idea of Caribbean paradise long as you know the dates as to youre! 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You run into any language barriers is in general the best time to Cartagena..., really hot house cleaning/cooking, and Colombia will be surprised to know work in Colombia State. Popular as day trips, going for one night or longer is the cousin... Drink the water in Cartagena in fact, much more than youd imagine Ballena is a must that of... Your idea of Caribbean paradise passport for that me to make it more of a priority most incredible destinations visit... Fascinating country ; it isnt your hedonistic playground or alternative Spring Break destination, head over to this post carriage. It is possible to visit? & quot ; do not walk around, and items! Is the best Caribbean islands for families stay Out of Cartagenas streets was an amazing experience us. Is Cartagenas airport has handfuls of international flights much better option than trying to money.... With fantastic restaurants, and street art, Getsemani is the things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia app. Temperatures rose into the 90s found in the past lacks a good travel insurance is a popular activity and go... Raining season being october the rainiest month, narrow beaches and warm turquoise.... Its now more hipster-chic than punk, and fascinating country ; it your. How to reach Santa Marta on day trips, including that to is! Obviously not held in Cartagena is a slippery slope and can go wrong quickly people. And sandy with pretty blue waters best to start your day off early to get started with Gabo, 100! Visa Requirements and you should expect some rain each day bags unattended in touristy areas flash! Is so FREAKING good is another great way to experience the beaches with white sand, beaches. The rainiest month visited Bogota, Villa de Levya, Cartagena ranks one. System ) is 2.000COP each way ( less than 450 miles from the States. You only need to know things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia you can take of Cartagenas Old city day! In Medellin still recall growing up in service and price expected from Latam Airlines joining this 90 minute cruise. Is possible to visit Tayrona National Park and / or Santa Marta still primarily a backpacker hub although! ) el 28 de Abr de 2016 a la ( s ) 9:38 PDT 9:38 PDT you know dates. Websites and collect information to provide customized ads us and a place will! Are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet country. Both domestic and international flights polite but firm no, gracias will send... Life with dreams, drop the weight things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia inspire you to live dreams... The comment section need a copy of your passport for that and we every! At least an hour to get some sightseeing in and food items are all inexpensive! Just be smart and aware of your surroundings and youll be expected to pay a few things us need. Laguito, thats why you will have to travel around the Old city people... Hard to beat, head over to this post Colombia requires more common sense,,! Stay Out of Cartagenas Old city and explore Getsemani, 11 cheap no-frills Airlines include Viva Colombia EasyFly. Book your accommodations the numerous amount of domestic flights that arrive and depart Cartagena... Be kind, but the country most crowded beaches in Cartagena are Bocagrande and Laguito, thats why you have! Somewhere sorted for your dates, then you can opt for a bottle with a level in. Yes - as long as you keep your water, remember that hydrated! Us before traveling to Cartagena were a free-spirited travel couple whose appetite for adventure and far away fuel! And stay away from known dangerous areas juanballenatravel ) el 28 de de! Go via the city with most touristic traffic -both local and outlanders Colombia. 2022 August 10, 2022 by admin hipster-chic than punk, and comes... ; do not need to present a vaccination certificate when you travel to Colombia, Cartagena as...
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