Create Guide
Picture of Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia

Travel Guide for
Cartagena

Colombia

Tropical, hot, humid, rainy seasons

Introduction

Cartagena, nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, blends stunning colonial architecture with vibrant street life. Its UNESCO-listed walled city is rich with history, warm colors, and tales of pirates and Spanish rule. During mid-January, expect hot, sunny days and a lively, breezy atmosphere—ideal for exploring with friends.

Wander cobblestone streets, sample tasty street food, and enjoy the city’s energetic culture. Beaches like Bocagrande and nearby islands are perfect for group adventures without breaking the bank, making Cartagena a fantastic spot for fun and shared memories.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates16-20 January 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHostel

Interests and Activities:

outdoor adventuressightseeing and toursfestivals and eventsarts and culturenightlife and entertainment

Not what you're looking for? Create Your Own Guide!

Picture of Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia

Itinerary

Immerse yourselves in Cartagena's iconic Old Town, exploring its colorful streets and absorbing the unique blend of colonial history and Caribbean atmosphere.

Stroll Through the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)

Begin your adventure by walking the colorful streets of Cartagena's Old Town, marveling at colonial architecture, charming balconies, and lively plazas. Stop for photos along the vibrant city walls and take in the Caribbean breeze.

Visit Plaza Santo Domingo and Admire Botero’s Sculpture

Relax at the iconic Plaza Santo Domingo, surrounded by cafés and music. Don’t miss the famous reclining Botero sculpture—legend says rubbing her curves brings good luck! This is the perfect spot to people-watch and soak up the ambiance.

Discover the Charm of Calle de las Sombrillas

Explore the photogenic Calle de las Sombrillas, where colorful umbrellas create a striking canopy overhead. Ideal for group photos and experiencing the energy of Cartagena’s vibrant street art culture.

Walled City, San Felipe Castle & Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour

Walled City, San Felipe Castle & Popa Convent Cartagena City Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Whether you are short of time or you are wanting to have the complete experience in Cartagena, this full-day tour is made for you! Come to the most important places of the city and live them authentically. Discover Cartagena’s top landmarks: Getsemani neighbor, San Felipe Castle and more. You’ll be able to choose whether you want it to last 6.5 hours with La Popa convent, a city viewpoint, or 5 hours without this top. Join us! • San Felipe Castle, and Getsemani neighbor guided tour • Historical landmarks in the Walled City its squares, fortresses and bastions • Tasting of typical Caribbean cuisine • Optional: visiting La Popa, on the top of a hill, and enjoying Cartagena’s landscapes • Plenty of spectacular photo spots for unforgettable memories of your trip to Cartagena.

4.8 (418 reviews)

From $94 USD

View Details

Key Facts

Location

Caribbean region, Colombia

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

1,075,000

Language

Spanish (official), English

Electricity

110V, 60Hz, plug types A/B

Time zone

UTCColombia Standard Time (UTC-5)

Country code

+57

Internet access

Widespread, 4G/LTE, affordable Wi-Fi

Climate

Tropical, hot, humid, rainy seasons

See More Colombia Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-ohs)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta? (kwan-to kwes-tah)
  • please

    por favor (por fah-vor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-ahs)
  • excuse me

    perdón (pair-dohn)

Map

Logistics

Cartagena is most easily reached by air, with Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) welcoming direct flights from major Colombian cities and some international hubs. Affordable domestic airlines like Avianca, LATAM, and Viva Air make flights a great choice for groups of friends on a budget. Airport taxis and rideshares are available for a quick transfer into the city.

If you prefer overland travel, comfortable long-distance buses connect Cartagena with nearby cities such as Barranquilla, Santa Marta, and Medellín; this can be cost-effective but may take several hours. While there are no train options, some travelers also arrive by boat or cruise, especially from nearby Caribbean locations. In January, weather is warm and dry, perfect for smooth travel and enjoyable sightseeing.

Weather

Cartagena, Bolivar, enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). The weather is generally humid, but ocean breezes help keep things comfortable. There’s a dry season from December to April and a wetter season from May to November.

From January 16 to January 20, you can expect sunny skies, low rainfall, and pleasant evenings—ideal for outdoor adventures, sightseeing tours, or exploring local arts and culture. No extreme weather events are likely during this time, making it perfect to enjoy Cartagena’s vibrant nightlife, colorful festivals, and historic streets without weather-related disruptions.

Food & Drink

Cartagena’s cuisine bursts with Caribbean flavors—try arepas de huevo (fried corn cakes with egg), ceviche, fried fish with coconut rice, and tropical fruit juices. For drinks, sip a local aguardiente or enjoy rum-based cocktails. Street food is excellent, especially in Getsemaní’s vibrant plazas.

For great meals on an average budget, visit La Cevichería, Di Silvio Trattoria (pizza and Italian in Getsemaní), and Café Stepping Stone for brunch. Café del Mar is perfect for sunset drinks with sea views, while El Barón offers creative cocktails. Tipping is typically 10%, sometimes included as a “servicio” on your bill.

Vegetarian options are increasingly available, but always ask, as many dishes use seafood or chicken. Cartagena’s peak tourism season (December–March) means busier restaurants—reservations help. Hydration is key in this tropical climate, so carry water with you.

A picture of Ajiaco

Ajiaco

Ajiaco is a hearty Colombian soup made with chicken, corn, potatoes, and a variety of herbs. It's a...

A picture of Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa is a traditional Colombian platter featuring a generous serving of rice, ground beef, chicharrón, chorizo, black...

A picture of Arepa

Arepa

Arepa is a popular Colombian staple made of corn dough and often filled with cheese, meat, or eggs....

A picture of Sancocho

Sancocho

Sancocho is a traditional Colombian stew featuring a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, and beef, along with...

A picture of Lechona

Lechona

Lechona is a popular Colombian pork dish made by stuffing a whole pig with rice, peas, and a...

Accommodation

For a fun, social vibe, some of Cartagena’s best hostels include Viajero Cartagena, Media Luna Hostel, and Makako Hostel in the heart of the walled city or trendy Getsemaní. Book early on Hotels.com, especially for popular dates like January 16–20, when hostels fill up fast due to the city’s peak travel season.

Neighborhoods like Getsemaní and the Historic Center offer easy access to nightlife, restaurants, and top attractions. You’ll find clean dorms, chill common areas, and helpful staff, making them perfect for friends on an average budget. For more privacy, budget hotels and posadas are also plentiful nearby.

Recommended Stay

Sponsored
Nomadico - Medellin

Nomadico Coliving Medellin

Medellín, Colombia

4.9

(56 reviews)

High-Speed WiFi

Desks in Rooms

Community Events

Coworking Space

Community Manager

Weekly Cleaning

Attractions

5.0 (186 reviews)
The Howling Trail Hike

The Howling Trail Hike

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Explore with us on a nice hike, the Tropical Dry Forest, just 1 hour away from Cartagena. Discover this amazing ecosystem with incredible species that were able to adapt to the no rain season. Within the fauna, there is a charismatic monkey, the Cotton Top Tamarin, a squirreled – size primate that takes the first place as one of Colombia’s most appealing endemic mammals. Through this unique off-the-beaten-path trip will make you enjoy the flora and fauna of this forest while you´re learning of it, having fun and exercising yourself. With a maximum of 8 people in the group expect a warm, friendly and personal atmosphere that will make you feel you´re with a close friend who has a great travel experience to share with you

From $145 USD

View Details
5.0 (47 reviews)
Romantic Date Night in the Bay of Cartagena

Romantic Date Night in the Bay of Cartagena

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a romantic tour aboard a private boat, sailing through the beautiful bay in an exclusive setting just for you and your loved one. During this intimate journey, you'll be greeted with fresh roses, a bottle of champagne, and delicious chocolates, setting the perfect scene for a memorable evening. As you sail, you can relax and admire the breathtaking views of the sunset, surrounded by the tranquility of the sea and the magic of the moment. A tour designed to make your experience truly special and unforgettable.

From $729 USD

View Details
5.0 (36 reviews)
Authentic Cartagena City Tour

Authentic Cartagena City Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

-You will will learn about art and history -Unique experience -Opportunities for great pictures -You will see the other face of Cartagena -Calm and quiet time in the mangroves -Graffities

From $530 USD

View Details
5.0 (33 reviews)
Birdwatching in a private nature reserve

Birdwatching in a private nature reserve

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

I want to take you to live our passion for birds in the most beautiful natural reserve located near Cartagena de Indias, it will be a spectacular day. We will make a walking tour in the middle of the tropical dry forest, you will feel in the jungle listening to beautiful animal sounds that will disconnect you from the hustle and bustle. You will be able to take pictures, our guide will teach you how to observe birds and identify them. We will have breaks to hydrate and have a delicious Colombian coffee with fruits in the farm house. We will continue walking through different places and you will have a typical breakfast that will surprise you and from there you will be able to see species of flora and fauna that will mark your day. At the end we will continue the tour in another area of the nature reserve until we get back to the ranchers' house to say goodbye. Afterwards we will return to the hotel.

From $358 USD

View Details
5.0 (30 reviews)
Cartagena Memory Session

Cartagena Memory Session

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Cartagena Memory Session it is a curated memory making experience. We combine creative photography, cultural atmosphere, and visual storytelling so travelers do more than pose in Cartagena’s beautiful streets. They experience the city while being intentionally portrayed within it, creating images that feel natural, cinematic, and emotionally true. We bring a strong background in tourism, lifestyle, and visual storytelling, approaching each session with a professional and creative vision. Our expertise allows us to transform each traveler’s purpose into carefully crafted visual pieces images that not only look exceptional, but also convey meaning, identity, and experience. Paola H Sanchez and her creative team have more than 8 years sharing moments with travelers, travel agents, businesses, families, and groups, capturing the essence and experiences of their journeys through photography and video.

From $216 USD

View Details
5.0 (24 reviews)
Cartagena-Boquilla Bike Ride Adventure

Cartagena-Boquilla Bike Ride Adventure

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Boquilla Bike Ride, an adventure! You come to my place where I welcome you and where history starts, choose the bike according to your size, have a bottle of water, a souvenir and we take off, ride through town, visit a President's house, the neighborhood of el Cabrero (1920's), ride on the beach through fishermen's villages, canoe ride through mangroves, dirt roads, have a fish lunch on the beach and head back with the wind on our backs. 15klm going and 10 back. Also enjoy the special COVID price of today. Before was USD120/rider. I'm a Certificated Tourist Guide with Card Number 3034 and registered in the Chamber of Commerce of Cartagena with the RNT 89099. All tours end at your hotel. We go when you want. Check our Facebook- Cartagena Bike Tour and our reviews on TripAdvisor with our Certificate of Excellence.

From $115 USD

View Details
5.0 (24 reviews)
Cultural excursion to Palenque from Cartagena

Cultural excursion to Palenque from Cartagena

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience a unique and transformative adventure in Palenque, the first free town in America! Immerse yourself in the history of the struggle for freedom of enslaved Africans and discover the cultural traditions that have endured for generations. This tour is an authentic connection to the rhythms, flavors, and ancestral knowledge of this emblematic community. Available schedules with departures from Cartagena: Morning: 8:00 - 8:30 a.m. Return 1:30 - 2:00 p.m. Afternoon: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. Return 4:30 - 5:00 p.m. Includes: ✔ Guided tour by a local Palenquero ✔ Live cultural showcase: music, traditional dances, and ancestral storytelling. ✔ Tasting of traditional sweets, traditional rum (ñeque), and a delicious lunch prepared by Palenquero women. ✔ Workshop on Palenquero language, traditional medicine, and production of traditional rum. ✅ Do you prefer the morning or afternoon departure? Choose your schedule and live this unforgettable experience!

From $135 USD

View Details
5.0 (24 reviews)
Private Boat to Rosario Islands & Barú

Private Boat to Rosario Islands & Barú

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A private speedboat, crystal-clear waters, and elite island hopping; this is the life! Sail across the stunning Rosario Archipelago, passing through mangroves, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life while enjoying the warm Caribbean breeze. As you cruise through the islands, enjoy a panoramic tour showcasing some of the most exclusive real estate in the Caribbean, including luxury beachfront villas, private islands, and the iconic ruins of Pablo Escobar’s Caribbean mansion. Dive into adventure with snorkelling, subwing, or scuba diving, or simply unwind on the deck as you take in the spectacular scenery. * Exclusive Island-Hopping – Explore 27 untouched Caribbean islands. ‍* Water Adventures – Dive into the vibrant marine world with snorkelling, subwing, swimming, or scuba diving. * Secluded Beach Retreats – Escape the crowds and indulge in pure paradise. * Champagne & Sunset Cruise – End your day in style, sailing into the golden horizon.

From $1680 USD

View Details
5.0 (23 reviews)
Cartagena Party Tour to Cholon: 5 Stops, Lunch, Drinks & Music

Cartagena Party Tour to Cholon: 5 Stops, Lunch, Drinks & Music

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Hop on a party boat and enjoy an unforgettable Caribbean experience with nonstop music, drinks, and high-energy vibes from the very start. This isn’t your typical tour—it’s a full-on party at sea that takes you to some of Cartagena’s most incredible spots. Kick things off in Bocachica with stunning coastal views, then head to Barú, where paradise beaches meet an increasingly lively atmosphere. Continue to the Rosario Islands, where you’ll enjoy a Caribbean lunch before diving right back into the party. Along the way, cruise past Pablo Escobar’s former mansion, adding a touch of history to this one-of-a-kind experience. And for the grand finale: Cholón, Cartagena’s most iconic party island. Loud music, boats all around, people dancing everywhere, and a vibe that never slows down. Meet new people, dance, toast, and live the moment to the fullest. This experience is made for those looking for unlimited fun.

From $54 USD

View Details
5.0 (23 reviews)
Jet Ski Cartagena Rental Thrilling Experience

Jet Ski Cartagena Rental Thrilling Experience

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

At Jet Ski Cartagena, we stand out from the competition in several key ways. Firstly, our fleet boasts the latest jet ski models, ensuring a thrilling and smooth ride for every adventurer. Additionally, our team of expert guides is fluent in English, providing clear instructions and personalized assistance throughout your journey on the water. Safety is paramount to us, with comprehensive briefings and ongoing support to guarantee a secure and enjoyable experience. Choose Jet Ski Cartagena for an unparalleled jet ski experience in beautiful Cartagena, Colombia.

From $65 USD

View Details

FAQ

Find quick answers to your Cartagena travel questions with our travel guide chatbot. Your questions will be added to this section to help other travellers.

Primary hero image

Ready to plan your trip?

Share your travel insights or create a new guide for fellow adventurers!