Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8–18 | $25–60 |
| Food | $5–12 | $12–25 |
| Transport | $2–5 | $5–12 |
| Activities | $5–15 | $15–40 |
| Nightlife | $5–10 | $10–25 |
| Daily Total | $30–70 | $80–180 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Most nationalities get 90-day visa-free entry to Colombia — stamped on arrival
- Proof of onward travel (flight or bus ticket out of Colombia) may be asked for at immigration
- Cartagena has direct international flights from Miami, New York, Panama, and major Latin American cities
Health & Safety
- Cartagena is generally safe for tourists in the Walled City and Getsemaní — use common sense after dark
- The heat is intense (30-35°C year-round) — stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in shade
- Travel insurance is essential. The hospital Bocagrande provides decent medical care
Getting Around
- The Walled City, Getsemaní, and major sights are walkable — walking is the best way to experience the city
- Taxis are cheap (minimum fare 8,000 COP) — always confirm the fare before getting in. Uber and InDriver also work
- Public buses run along the main corridors for 2,800 COP but routes can be confusing for visitors
Connectivity
- Buy a Colombian SIM card at the airport — Claro and Movistar offer tourist data packages from 20,000 COP
- WiFi is available at most accommodation, restaurants, and cafes in the tourist areas
- Share your itinerary with someone at home — standard safety practice for solo travellers in Colombia
Money
- Currency: COP (Colombian Peso). Cards accepted at most restaurants and shops. Cash needed for street food, taxis, and markets
- ATMs are widespread — Bancolombia and Davivienda have the lowest fees. Withdraw in COP, not USD
- Tipping 10% at restaurants is standard. Tip 5,000-10,000 COP to guides and drivers
Packing Tips
- Light, breathable clothing is essential — Cartagena is hot and humid year-round (30-35°C)
- Bring strong sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a light rain jacket for sudden tropical downpours
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestoned streets — flip-flops for the beach, closed shoes for the city
Cultural tips
Respect Afro-Colombian Heritage
Cartagena's culture is deeply rooted in its African heritage — the music, food, and community spirit of Getsemaní and Bazurto reflect centuries of Afro-Colombian tradition. Engage with curiosity and respect, and learn about the history of slavery that shaped the city.
Be Aware of Gentrification
Getsemaní and parts of the Walled City are gentrifying rapidly — local communities are being displaced by tourism and rising property prices. Support locally-owned businesses, eat at local comedores, and be mindful of the impact your spending has on the community.
Photography Etiquette
The palenqueras (women in colourful dress selling fruit) at the Clock Tower are iconic Cartagena figures — they expect a tip of 5,000-10,000 COP for photos. Always ask before photographing people, especially in markets and residential areas.
Learn Basic Spanish
English is limited outside tourist hotels and restaurants. Basic Spanish — hola, gracias, cuánto cuesta, and por favor — will transform your experience. Cartageneros are warm and patient with language learners.
Support Local Communities
Buy mochilas from Wayúu indigenous vendors, eat at family-run comedores, and use community-based tour operators. Your spending choices directly impact whether tourism benefits local people or displaces them.
Caribbean Pace
Cartagena runs on Caribbean time — things start late, move slowly, and lunch is sacred. Embrace the rhythm rather than fighting it. The midday heat makes siesta a survival strategy, not laziness.
