Caratgena, Colombia Travel Guide: Epic Things To Do and See
This Cartagena travel guide is your key to unlocking the best of Cartagena, combining adventure, culture, and relaxation in one unforgettable journey. Cartagena is an ideal weekend getaway for a girls’ trip, a baecation, and even a solo trip. I went as a solo Black woman traveler and had a wonderful time, feeling safe throughout.
I think 3-4 days is the perfect amount of time to explore the best of Cartagena. The city’s Afro-Caribbean culture is distinct from the Pacific coast culture I grew up with in my family, offering a different but equally rich perspective on Colombia’s African heritage.
Fair warning, though: Cartagena can be extremely hot and humid (pack a small hand towel and a portable fan, because you WILL need them). It’s also definitely more touristy and a bit pricier than other Colombian cities. But if you’re prepared for that, there are some incredible cultural experiences waiting for you.
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do Americans need a visa to go to Colombia?
U.S. citizens can enter Colombia without a visa for stays up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date.
What language is spoken in Cartagena?
Spanish is the official language. While some people in tourist areas speak English, Colombians are incredibly kind and patient with non-Spanish speakers. Learning a few basic phrases like “gracias” (thank you), “porfa” (please), “buenas” (good morning) is greatly appreciated and will earn you warm smiles.
Is Cartagena safe for Black travelers?
Absolutely. Cartagena has a significant Afro-Colombian population, so you’ll see Black and brown faces everywhere. I felt completely safe and welcomed. As a curvy woman, I did get catcalled, but honestly about the same amount I get anywhere in the U.S.
How expensive is Cartagena?
More expensive than other Colombian cities due to its touristy nature, but still affordable when converted from U.S. dollars. Expect to pay premium prices in the Old City and tourist areas.
Is Uber available?
Yes, it is widely available but it’s technically illegal in Colombia. Don’t let that scare you, you can still use the app in Cartagena but drivers will sometimes you to sit in the front as a workaround.
Don’t feel like reading? Watch the guide instead
Best Things to Do in Cartagena
Visit San Basilio de Palenque (MUST DO!)
Step into a living history lesson on this incredible tour. San Basilio de Palenque is one of the first free Black towns in the Americas, and visiting here will completely change your perspective on Afro-Colombian history.
San Basilio was founded around 1603 by self-liberated Africans who escaped from the slave ports of Cartagena. Palenque has preserved its African roots through language, music, and traditions, offering visitors a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in living history. You’ll hear about groups like Kombilesi Mi, a rap-folkloric group from Palenque that has performed at Lincoln Center and the NPR Tiny Desk, fusing traditional instruments like the marimba.
Book with Travel Palenque – the owner is from Palenque. This day trip includes all transportation, lunch, and lasts about 6-7 hours. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Cartagena.
Take a Salsa & Champeta Dance Class
Dance classes are one of my favorite ways to immerse myself in local culture, and Colombia, being the land of 1,000 rhythms, offers incredible options. Champeta originated from Afro-Caribbean Colombian communities and represents a unique cultural fusion.
I took a class with Jose that lasted about an hour, and regardless of your dance level, it’s incredibly fun. Champeta connects you to Cartagena’s Afro-Caribbean roots in a joyful and participatory way.
*Book: Salsa & Champeta Dance Class
Book a Professional Photoshoot
Let’s be real – Cartagena is incredibly photogenic. From the colorful colonial architecture to the stunning street art in Getsemaní, this city is made for photos. Consider booking a professional photographer who knows the best spots and can capture you against these incredible backdrops.
I booked a shoot with Keiner Lopez.
Explore All the Art in Getsemaní
Getsemaní neighborhood is an open-air gallery of street art and murals. You can spend hours walking through the colorful streets, discovering incredible artwork around every corner. It’s perfect for photography and getting a feel for the creative spirit of modern Cartagena.
The art tells stories of local culture, history, and contemporary life, making it both beautiful and meaningful to explore. This is usually where a lot of Black tourists fall in love with Cartagena, it’s something about seeing so much Black art that stirs the soul.
Day Trip to San Andrés Island
If you have extra time or want to skip Rosario Islands, about a 2-hour flight from Cartagena, San Andrés feels like a completely different country. First-time visitors often confuse the island with Jamaica because the locals, the Raizal people, have a distinct Afro-Caribbean culture that differs from that of mainland Colombia.
Rosario Islands Day Trip
Escape the heat of the main city with a day trip to the Rosario Islands. These Caribbean islands offer crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and a chance to cool off from Cartagena’s intense heat.
Island hopping here gives you that tropical paradise experience while still being accessible from the city. You can find tons of island-hopping tours on sites like Viator, Airbnb, and Tripadvisor.
Take a Walking Tour of the Old City
The walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason. A walking tour helps you understand the colonial history, architecture, and cultural significance of this incredibly preserved historic center.
Take a Cooking Class
Learn to prepare traditional Caribbean-Colombian dishes and understand how African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences created the unique coastal cuisine you’ll experience throughout your visit.
Volcán de Lodo El Totumo Experience
This unique mud volcano, about an hour from Cartagena, offers a quirky experience – you literally float in warm mud that’s supposed to have therapeutic properties. It’s touristy but undeniably memorable.
Ride a Chiva Bus
These colorful traditional buses are part party, part transportation, part cultural experience. Chiva buses often include music, dancing, and a fun way to see the city while experiencing local party culture.
Go Shopping for Local Crafts
Cartagena offers an incredible selection of Colombian-made goods for shopping. I found stunning earrings at Agua de León and Mercedes Salazar, as well as at various vendors throughout the city. Anytime I wear these pieces, I can say I got them in Colombia.
Where to Stay in Cartagena
For Budget Travelers: Casa Zahri (Getsemaní)
Why it works: Inspired by Moroccan riads, conveniently located in Getsemaní overlooking the water
Room options: Private rooms and dorm rooms available. I stayed in the deluxe private room with balcony, bathtub, and crucial AC.
Best feature: Free breakfast! The pancakes with arequipe were incredible.
Location advantage: Short walk to the heart of Getsemaní and close to everything you’ll want to explore.
For Stylish Luxury in Getsemani: Hotel Casa Lola Deluxe Gallery
Why I loved it: Very beautiful and eclectic design that exceeded my expectations
Standout feature: The stunning rooftop pool and bar with breathtaking views of the city and Caribbean Sea. This is where you’ll want to spend your evenings.
Service: Friendly and knowledgeable staff always ready to provide recommendations or help with any needs.
Perfect for: Travelers who want luxury accommodations within walking distance of Old City attractions.
For Luxury Escape: Aimarawa Hotel (2 hours from city)
When to choose this: After you’re done exploring the main city and want to disconnect
The experience: True luxury oasis offering tranquility away from tourist crowds. I stayed in a bungalow room with private terrace, jacuzzi, and stunning garden views.
Perfect for: Reading, relaxing in private cabanas, being serenaded by ocean sounds
How to get there: Book a private transfer directly through the hotel
For Island Luxury: Sofitel Isla Barú Calablanca (1.5 hours from city)
When to choose this: If you don’t want to explore the main city and prefer a beach resort experience
Important note: Not all-inclusive but gorgeous. Only recommend if your goal is pure relaxation rather than cultural exploration.
What Surprised Me About Cartagena
Coming from a family from El Pacífico, I’m used to that specific Afro-Colombian culture, but experiencing Cartagena’s Afro-Caribbean culture was fascinating. The cultural expressions, music, and community feel distinctly different yet authentically Afro-Colombian.
The level of tourism was higher than I expected. While this means good infrastructure and services, it also means crowds, higher prices, and experiences that can feel less authentic than other Colombian destinations.
Cartagena Rating
Culture (★★★★★) The Afro-Caribbean heritage and access to San Basilio de Palenque make this culturally invaluable.
Unique Activities (★★★★) San Basilio de Palenque tour alone makes the trip worthwhile, plus champeta dancing and unique Caribbean experiences.
Food (★★★½) Good Caribbean-Colombian fusion, though not as diverse as other Colombian cities.
Weather (★★) Hot and humid can be challenging for extensive sightseeing.
Price (★★★) More expensive than other Colombian destinations but reasonable for international tourists.
Tourism Infrastructure (★★★★) An array of cute boutique hotels, restaurants, and services, though this comes with crowds.
Authenticity (★★★) Mixed – incredible authentic experiences like Palenque balanced against very touristy main city areas.
Safety for Black Travelers (★★★★★) Felt completely safe and welcomed throughout both visits.
Overall Score: 3.8 out of 5 Stars
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