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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

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Picture of Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia

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.

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.

Private Walking Tour in Walled City and Getsemani Cartagena

Private Walking Tour in Walled City and Getsemani Cartagena

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join us in this 4-hour tour around the famous Walled City of Cartagena de Indias and Getsemani Neighbor, led by a local expert tour guide who will show the best of them. You will visit places of great cultural importance for the country such as Plaza Santo domingo, Plaza de la trinidad, Las bovedas and the famous Clock Tower. Besides, you will have a glimpse of Caribbean cuisine with some local hand-made snacks. • Historical interesting facts about the Walled City • Main spots along Getsemani neighborhood and discover numerous ways of expression • A visit along fortresses, bastions and squares • Local experiences of traditional food tasting • A walk along colonial and heritage houses and churches

4.8 (126 reviews)

From $63 USD

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Attractions

4.3 (32 reviews)
Party without limits! Cartagena; VIP Party.

Party without limits! Cartagena; VIP Party.

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We present you the best and most exclusive nightlife in the city of Cartagena with VIP access. Live, laugh, dance, and enjoy the best party in places that look like a postcard. We are open minded hosts. ;)

From $60 USD

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5.0 (19 reviews)
Private Walking Tour Old City with Street Food

Private Walking Tour Old City with Street Food

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Cartagena is the perfect combination of history and culture and honoring our culture we offer one of the best routes to taste, feel and live the daily life of all Cartagena and if you are one of those who like to do something different, something that Normally or perhaps never done, this is your best option. We offer you the possibility to try some of the most desirable street foods in Colombia with a local experience , touring the main squares and also with the best bilingual guides so you do not miss anything. "The best story is what Locals tell you directly , try to live a different journey, a journey that everyone wants to take".

From $105 USD

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3.0 (2 reviews)
Cartagena Treasure Hunt Tour

Cartagena Treasure Hunt Tour

MANUAL

Keep your little treasures safe and sound and away from the hand-held devices with a unique and fun way to explore Cartagena's rich cultural heritage.

From $80 USD

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5.0 (11 reviews)
Historical private Tour

Historical private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This tour gives you a historical perspective of the city of Cartagena, what makes it different is the opportunity to get it from the professional perspective of a local.

From $130 USD

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4.0 (2 reviews)
Private Tour to Tayrona National Park

Private Tour to Tayrona National Park

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you like adventure, nature and hiking this is your best option, a private tour from the city of Cartagena to the Tayrona National Park round trip in which a bilingual guide will accompany you to visit the most beautiful national natural park in the country, which is located within a reserve of indigenous Tayrona. It is habitat for a large number of species that are distributed in regions with different thermal floors that go from sea level to heights of 900 m. Of the 15,000 hectares that make up the park, 3,000 are marine area. In the park's maritime strip, more than 350 species of algae are distributed, while the terrestrial flora has more than 770 different species of plants. You will be able to enjoy the best paradisiacal beaches, while enjoying nature and exercising while hiking.

From $450 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Cartagena : Private City Tour in the Walled city with Fortress

Cartagena : Private City Tour in the Walled city with Fortress

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On this visit to the pearl of the Caribbean you will visit the Convent of the stern founded and built since 1606-1611, which is located on a mountain at 140 meters altitude and where the patron saint virgin of the city (Virgin de la candelaria) is located, and then arrive at the largest fortification of the Caribbean The Fort of San Felipe de Barajas, which witnessed and executioner in the most epic naval battle of the Caribbean in 1741 against Admiral Vernon, and finally will make a tour of the walled city visiting its squares, churches and monuments being part of this magnificent city, ending with a panoramic tour in the bay of Cartagena to better understand the defense system of the city and see the social distribution in Cartagena.

From $190 USD

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5.0 (170 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 $139 USD

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5.0 (61 reviews)
Cartagena Efoil FliteBoard Baru con transport y daypass

Cartagena Efoil FliteBoard Baru con transport y daypass

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the indescribable thrill of efoiling in stunning Colombia! It combines the best of surfing, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and kite surfing. This must-try water activity is suitable for all ages, starting from 12 years and up. Glide through the mesmerizing Caribbean waters anytime, independent of wind or waves. Book now and feel the ultimate excitement yourself!

From $150 USD

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