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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.

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Travelling with friends · 16–20 Jan · Average budget · Hostel

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Picture of Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia

Itinerary for Cartagena · January 2026

Itinerary

Cartagena · January 2026

Viewing Day 1 · Sat 17 Jan. Numbered pins match today's itinerary stops; purple markers are recommended experiences. Click a pin for details.Pins match today's stops. Purple pins are experiences.

  1. 1
    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.
  2. 2
    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.
  3. 3
    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.
Historic Center & Getsemaní Shared Tour in Cartagena

Historic Center & Getsemaní Shared Tour in Cartagena

4.9 (713 reviews)

Instant confirmation
Free cancellation

Discover the Historic and Gethsemane Center on this tour through the scenes of enslavement, pirates and privateers, battles, Graphitis, Salsa and Champeta and much more as a result of the mixture of indigenous, African and Spanish, migrants from libantes, migrants from libantes. This shared tour lasts about 21⁄2 hours, touring the main squares, churches and important stages of the walled city of Cartagena. This is the best way to know the history of the city and understand its impact on the dynamics present today. You will learn to dance Champeta, Salsa and we will touch on themes with the gentrification that lives in Gethsemane. Without a doubt, the best experience to know the wonderful city of Cartagena de Indias, along with professional guides who will make the tour the best possible experience. When you book you will be joining a shared tour in which your tip is already paid. This is the way to offer our tour on this platform.

From $46,172 COP

per person

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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)

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.

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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 (191 reviews)
The Howling Trail Hike

The Howling Trail Hike

Manual confirmation
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 $515,000 COP

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

Romantic Date Night in the Bay of Cartagena

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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 $2,589,207 COP

View Details
5.0 (44 reviews)
Champeta with us, it's a vibe

Champeta with us, it's a vibe

Instant confirmation
Free cancellation

We are passionate about talking about our Cartagena culture and today is the day to tell you about Salsa and Champeta. You will learn to dance with us, Master or test your dance skills with these dance classes that offer you to learn basic steps, sequences of Champeta and Salsa movements, and how to immerse yourself in the music. Grab a mojito from the bar and enjoy the sunset on this amazing rooftop and sip this tropical cocktail while learning a few moves. This experience is designed for all experts and also for beginners.

From $124,310 COP

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5.0 (36 reviews)
Authentic Cartagena City Tour

Authentic Cartagena City Tour

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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 $1,882,414 COP

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5.0 (34 reviews)
Birdwatching in a private nature reserve

Birdwatching in a private nature reserve

Instant confirmation
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 $1,271,517 COP

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5.0 (34 reviews)
Specialty Coffee Workshops in Cartagena

Specialty Coffee Workshops in Cartagena

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Free cancellation

This walking route of some of Cartagena’s best cafés takes place within Cartagena's historic area. Your guide, a certified coffee expert, will take you on a journey of discovery as you learn all there is to know about Colombia’s rich coffee culture and as you sample some of its finest brews along the way. We have been coffee educators since 2014 - learn about coffee in Colombia with us! Our public workshops are only in English.

From $176,343 COP

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5.0 (34 reviews)
Private Airport Transfer to Hotel or viceversa

Private Airport Transfer to Hotel or viceversa

Instant confirmation
Free cancellation

Immediately you arrive at the Cartagena de Indias airport you can contact us( No matter how long you are in Immigration, we do not charge additional money for waiting) , once you are outside the airport (domestic or international arrivals) Look for a member of our staff who will be waiting for you holding up a sign with your names on it to take you to the parking area where our comfortable air-conditioning vehicle is ready to transport you directly to the address you have provided us accompanied by an expert driver who will be willing to help you and inform you some aspects about Cartagena de Indias "World Heritage Site", This Private service was designed for people who are used to high quality service.

From $106,552 COP

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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 $958,966 COP

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5.0 (30 reviews)
Cartagena Streets and Appointments Tour

Cartagena Streets and Appointments Tour

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Free cancellation

This is an experience that every traveler should live when visiting Cartagena, because during this tour we learn important details of the local national culture such as details of the history of Colombian coffee in a quick tasting and of the emerald that is the national stone during the visit. to a museum with a replica of a mine, in addition to knowing how its people lived in the colonial era and how they live today, it is a fun, educational walk with a fresh narrative full of stories of daily life, we talk about the myths of some corners and haunting legends of the streets and squares, which today are part of the historical heritage of Cartagena.

From $142,069 COP

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5.0 (24 reviews)
Cartagena-Boquilla Bike Ride Adventure

Cartagena-Boquilla Bike Ride Adventure

Instant confirmation
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 $408,448 COP

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