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Imagine stepping into a place where every corner bursts with color and life—that’s Cartagena. The moment you wander through its cobblestone streets,you’re wrapped in a warm embrace of history and vibrant energy. The colonial buildings,painted in sun-soaked yellows,pinks,and blues,seem to hum stories of centuries past,while the salty breeze from the Caribbean Sea carries the scent of tropical flowers and fresh ceviche sizzling nearby. It’s a city that feels alive,where the past and present dance together effortlessly.
As you stroll along the old city walls,you’ll hear the distant rhythm of cumbia and salsa spilling out from lively plazas,inviting you to join in the celebration. Street vendors call out with tempting treats—sweet arequipe,juicy mango slices sprinkled with chili,and the unmistakable aroma of freshly brewed Colombian coffee. The laughter of locals mingles with the chatter of travelers,creating a soundtrack that’s both comforting and exhilarating.
Cartagena’s charm lies in its contradictions:the fortress walls guarding tales of pirates and conquest,alongside the carefree spirit of beachgoers soaking up the sun on nearby shores. The city pulses with creativity,from vibrant street art to bustling markets filled with handcrafted treasures. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in history,savor bold flavors,and feel the heartbeat of Colombia in every smile and sunset.
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Eng word: Hello
Eng pronunciation: OH-lah
Local language: Hola
Eng word: Goodbye
Eng pronunciation: ah-DYOS
Local language: Adiós
Eng word: Thank you
Eng pronunciation: GRAH-syahs
Local language: Gracias
Eng word: How much
Eng pronunciation: KWAN-toh KWEH-stah
Local language: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
Eng word: Toilet
Eng pronunciation: BAH-nyoh
Local language: Baño
Eng word: Help me
Eng pronunciation: ah-YOO-dah-meh
Local language: Ayúdame
Eng word: Yes
Eng pronunciation: SEE
Local language: Sí
Eng word: No
Eng pronunciation: NO
Local language: No
Eng word: Excuse me
Eng pronunciation: pehr-DOHN
Local language: Perdón
Cartagena was founded on June 1,1533, by the Spanish commander Pedro de Heredia. It quickly became a major port for trade between Spain and its overseas empire.
The historic center of Cartagena, known as the 'Ciudad Amurallada' (Walled City), was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 in recognition of its well-preserved colonial architectural integrity.
To protect the city from pirate attacks, a massive fortification was built around Cartagena in the 17th century. The walls still stand today and are a famous landmark, encapsulating much of the city’s history and charm.
The San Felipe de Barajas Castle, built by the Spanish during the colonial era, is a testament to Spain's military engineering prowess in the New World. It's one of the most impressive fortresses ever built and played a crucial role in protecting the city from invaders.
Cartagena was one of the major ports for the shipment of gold and other riches from the Americas to Spain. The city's wealth made it a prime target for pirates and privateers in the Caribbean.
The Palace of Inquisition, completed in the late 18th century, is a dark yet fascinating chapter in the city's history. It now serves as a museum showcasing the period of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena.
Cartagena has been immortalized in the literature of Gabriel García Márquez, the Nobel Prize-winning Colombian author. Many of his works are inspired by the city's magical realism, intertwining its historical aura with fictional narratives.
Cartagena hosts the prestigious Festival Internacional de Música annually, attracting classical music enthusiasts from around the world. The festival celebrates the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant contemporary arts scene.
Cartagena played a significant role in Colombia's struggle for independence from Spanish rule. The city declared its own independence on November 11,1811, which is still celebrated annually with the Independence Day Parade.
TrainThere is no train service available from the airport to the main area in Cartagena. It is recommended to use other modes of transportation such as taxis, ride-sharing services, or shuttle buses.
TaxiTaking a taxi is the most convenient and quickest way to get from the airport to the main area in Cartagena. Taxis are readily available outside the airport and can take you directly to your destination.Ride ShareUsing a ride-sharing service like Uber or Cabify is another convenient option for getting from the airport to the main area. Simply request a ride through the app and wait for your driver to pick you up.Airport Shuttle BusSome airports in Cartagena offer shuttle bus services that can take passengers from the airport to various locations in the city, including the main area. Check with the airport information desk for more details on shuttle bus schedules and routes.
In Cartagena, the most common Power Adaptor is Type A, Type B.
Lockers are available near the main entrance
entrance
Price not specified
Opening hours: near the main entranceLockers are available at various locations within the Old Town areathe Old Town areaPrice not specifiedOpening hours: at various locations within the Old Town areaLockers are available near the arrivals areaLocation not specifiedPrice not specifiedOpening hours: near the arrivals area
Fresh fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, typically served with onions, cilantro, and sometimes avocado.
A hearty stew made with various meats, plantains, yuca, and corn, typically enjoyed as a comforting meal.
A slow-cooked beef dish marinated in a rich sauce made from cola, spices, and brown sugar, served with rice and plantains.
Twice-fried green plantains, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with a garlic sauce.
A deep-fried cornmeal cake filled with a whole egg, often served with a side of spicy sauce.
Coconut rice cooked with coconut milk, often served as a side dish with fish or meat.
Yuca (cassava) dough balls, often filled with cheese or meat, and steamed or boiled.
A traditional soup made with corn, cheese, and spices, offering a comforting and hearty flavor.
Mochila Wayuu BagsEmerald Jewelry or StonesColombian CoffeeHandmade HammocksCartagena-Inspired Art or PaintingsCaña Flecha Products (e.g., Hats, Wallets, or Accessories)Traditional Colombian Sweets (e.g., Cocadas or Arequipe)Handcrafted Jewelry with Coral or ShellsVallenato or Cumbia Music CDsColorful Ceramic or Wooden Souvenirs
Imagine stepping into a place where the Caribbean sun wraps you in a warm embrace,and the air carries the salty tang of the sea mixed with the sweet scent of tropical fruit. That’s Santa Marta for you—a city that feels alive with a laid-back rhythm,where the past and present dance together effortlessly. Walking through its colorful streets,you’ll hear the lively chatter of locals,the distant strum of a guitar,and the occasional call of street vendors selling fresh arepas or juicy mangoes. It’s a place where time slows down just enough for you to savor every moment.
Santa Marta’s charm lies in its blend of natural beauty and rich culture. The city sits at the edge of the Sierra Nevada mountains,so you can watch the lush green peaks rise dramatically against the bright blue sky. The nearby beaches invite you to dip your toes in warm,crystal-clear waters or lounge under swaying palms while the ocean breeze cools your skin. But beyond the scenery,it’s the people who make Santa Marta unforgettable—their warmth,their stories,and the vibrant festivals that fill the streets with music and color.
If you’re craving a taste of authentic Colombian life,Santa Marta offers it in every bite of freshly caught seafood,every smile exchanged in the plaza,and every sunset that paints the sky in shades of pink and gold. It’s a city that invites you to slow down,breathe deeply,and fall in love with its easygoing spirit.
A Caribbean island city famous for its crystal-clear waters,coral reefs,and vibrant marine life. It’s a top destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
ExploreIf you ever find yourself craving a place where energy hums in the air and every street corner bursts with color,Barranquilla is that kind of city. It’s like stepping into a lively painting where the rhythm of cumbia and salsa pulses through the warm Caribbean breeze. The vibe here is unapologetically joyful—people laugh loudly,dance freely,and welcome you with open arms,making you feel like you’ve stumbled into a big,vibrant family gathering.
Walking through Barranquilla,your senses come alive. You’ll catch the scent of fresh arepas sizzling on street grills,mingling with the salty tang of the nearby Magdalena River. Bright murals splash across walls,telling stories of the city’s rich Afro-Caribbean heritage and its famous Carnival,which is nothing short of a spectacular explosion of costumes,music,and dance. The chatter of vendors,the clinking of glasses filled with chilled aguardiente,and the distant beat of drums create a soundtrack that’s impossible to ignore.
What makes Barranquilla truly special is its spirit of celebration and resilience. It’s a city that wears its history proudly but looks forward with a contagious optimism. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling Mercado de Bazurto or catching a sunset over the river,you’ll feel the heartbeat of a place that’s alive,warm,and endlessly inviting. Trust me,once you’ve experienced Barranquilla,its vibrant soul stays with you long after you leave.
A cosmopolitan city with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic charm. It’s also a gateway to the San Blas Islands,known for their pristine beauty and indigenous culture.
ExploreIf you ever find yourself dreaming of a place where the energy feels alive but never overwhelming,Medellín is that rare city that wraps you in a warm,vibrant hug the moment you arrive. Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by emerald mountains,the air carries a fresh,earthy scent mixed with the sweet aroma of blooming flowers and the distant hum of salsa music drifting from open windows. Walking through its neighborhoods,you’ll notice how the city pulses with life—colorful street art splashes across walls,and locals chat animatedly over cups of rich,dark coffee that tastes like a little piece of heaven.
What really makes Medellín special is its spirit of transformation and resilience. The people here are incredibly welcoming,always ready with a smile or a story about their city’s journey from its past to the vibrant cultural hub it is today. You can feel this optimism in the lively plazas where artists perform,in the bustling markets filled with fresh tropical fruits,and in the innovative cable cars that whisk you up the hills,offering breathtaking views of the sprawling city below.
Don’t miss the chance to savor bandeja paisa,a hearty local dish that’s as bold and comforting as Medellín itself. Whether you’re wandering through the trendy El Poblado district or exploring the historic charm of Laureles,the city invites you to slow down,soak in its rhythms,and discover a place that’s as warm and dynamic as the people who call it home.
Imagine stepping into a city where the air feels crisp and alive,perched high in the Andes with volcanoes standing guard in the distance. That’s Quito for you—a place where history and modern life dance together on cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings. The moment you wander through its old town,you’ll hear the lively chatter of locals mingling in plazas,the distant strum of guitars,and the occasional church bell echoing through narrow alleys. There’s a warmth here,not just from the sun but from the people who greet you with genuine smiles and a relaxed pace that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Walking around,you’ll catch the scent of fresh coffee mingling with the earthy aroma of nearby markets bursting with vibrant fruits and spices. Don’t miss trying a cup of Ecuadorian coffee paired with a slice of guava-filled empanada—it’s a small taste of the city’s rich flavors. Quito’s character shines in its blend of old and new:centuries-old churches and plazas sit alongside buzzing cafes and art galleries,reflecting a culture that honors its roots while embracing creativity.
What really stays with you is the city’s energy—a mix of history,nature,and everyday life that feels both grounded and inspiring. Whether you’re gazing out over the city from the Panecillo hill or chatting with artisans in La Ronda,Quito invites you to explore deeply and connect with a place that’s as vibrant as it is welcoming.
Scammers install skimming devices on ATMs to steal card information from unsuspecting tourists.
Beach masseuses offer massages without clearly stating the price, then demand exorbitant amounts after the service is completed.
Tourists may be given counterfeit bills or shortchanged when exchanging money at unofficial exchange points.
Tourists, especially in nightlife areas, may have their drinks spiked to facilitate theft or robbery.
Tourists are sold fake emeralds or low-quality stones at inflated prices, as Colombia is known for its emeralds.
Scammers posing as police officers may accuse tourists of minor infractions and demand on-the-spot fines or bribes.
Unlicensed individuals pose as tour guides and charge tourists for subpar or incomplete tours of the city.
Some restaurants may add hidden charges or inflate the bill, especially if they know the customer is a tourist.
Taxi drivers may overcharge tourists by not using the meter or quoting inflated prices, especially for airport or hotel rides.
Tourists are charged high fees for taking photos with exotic animals, often without being informed of the cost beforehand.
Street performers or dancers may aggressively demand tips after performing near tourists, even if the tourists did not request the performance.
Street vendors may charge tourists significantly higher prices for souvenirs, food, or drinks than they would charge locals.
The use, possession, and trafficking of illegal drugs are strictly prohibited in Cartagena, as in the rest of Colombia. The country has stringent laws and severe penalties for drug-related offenses, including imprisonment. Tourists should avoid any involvement with illegal drugs to avoid legal trouble. Additionally, while Colombia has decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use, it is still illegal to consume it in public places.
In Cartagena, Colombia, smoking is regulated by national laws that prohibit smoking in enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public transportation. There are designated smoking areas in some public places, but it is important to look for signs indicating where smoking is allowed. Smoking is also prohibited in certain outdoor areas, such as near schools and hospitals.
Vaping in Cartagena is subject to similar regulations as smoking. It is generally prohibited in enclosed public spaces and public transportation. While vaping is less regulated than smoking, it is advisable to follow the same guidelines and look for designated areas where vaping is permitted. Always be considerate of others and avoid vaping in crowded or confined spaces.
28.4 °C / 83.12 °F
1.03 Million
3/5
Colombian Peso (COP)
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