Cartagena is where Colombia’s culture shifts away from the modern city buzz of Bogota, to amazing tropical vibes and gorgeous Spanish colonial architecture. It’s a dream for travelers looking to spend their vacation sunbathing on the beaches, learning about the history of the area or getting involved in the energetic nightlife. There are also many family-friendly activities to enjoy, including kid’s clubs and day trips to nearby islands.
The best time to visit Cartagena is between December and April, which are the primary dry season months. Outside of these times it’s humid and rainy more often than not, which can make it difficult to sightsee or do outdoor activities like boat tours or island hopping. Regardless of the weather, it’s always good to have a hotel with a pool and AC so that you can cool down at the end of the day and prepare for the next activity!
A top Cartagena attraction is the old city walls, which are an excellent place to watch the sunset. You can find a great spot on top of the walls and enjoy drinks and appetizers as the sun sets over the city.
There are plenty of other things to do and see in the city as well, from museums and churches to parks where green parrots sit and balconies adorned with colorful flowers. The Museo Naval del Caribe is the best museum in town and shows a lot about the history of Cartagena, including some cool dioramas.
Those interested in water sports should book a tour to one of the nearby islands to enjoy sailing, snorkeling or diving. Isla Baru and Rosario Islands are the most popular, but there are many others as well.
All-inclusive hotels in Cartagena are a great option as they include all meals, drinks and tinto at one rate. This helps keep your expenses low and makes it easier to budget your trip.
Cartagena is generally a safe place, but as with any large city in Latin America, you should practice some caution, especially when traveling alone or late at night. The most common scams in the city are people trying to sell you things on the streets, so be direct when saying no and don’t give them your attention. It’s also a good idea to only travel in the more touristy areas of the city as this is where there’s a higher police presence. Prime Cartagena Group Vacation Packages