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Colombia

Top 15 Travel Tips for Colombia

October 18, 2019 By Eden Fite

Rosario Islands, Cartagena
Rosario Islands, Cartagena

Colombia was one of the most exciting and unique destinations I’ve visited in a while.

I had an incredible time and learned a ton while I was there. So whether you’ve got a few days or even three weeks in Colombia, I’ve got you covered with these Top 15 Travel Tips for Colombia.

The country has made a conscious decision to put its past behind it, and move on to a bigger and brighter future.

With this transformation in progress, tourism is on the rise and for good reason. Visitors will find a Colombia that is beautiful, fun and affordable.

I encourage you not to wait for everybody else to catch on. Go now while the crowds are small and the prices are low. There is never a bad time to visit Colombia.

Top 15 Travel Tips for Colombia

Travel Tips for Colombia

1. You must visit Cartagena

My favorite days in Colombia were spent in Cartagena.

Cartagena is one of the most fun and lively cities in Latin America. It has incredible beaches, food, and nightlife.

Its colorful streets are both photogenic and extremely walkable. It’s an easy place to love, and one you’ll likely want to come back to someday.

I recommend booking your hotel in the walled section of the city so you’re close to the action. This is where you’ll find the beautiful streets, fantastic restaurants, and rooftop bars. 

If possible, I would spend at least three or four days in Cartagena. This will give you time to check out the various neighborhoods and even get out to some of the nearby islands. 

If you’ll be spending any time here, this Cartagena travel guide will help you plan your trip.

2. Be prepared for the humidity

If you have long hair, this might be the most important of these travel tips for Colombia. 

The weather in Colombia is hot and humid, just about all the time. Be prepared for this weather by packing light, comfortable clothing.

This means shorts, tank tops, sundresses, sandals, and sun hats. You will not want to wear pants, or even shoes and socks, trust me. 

Being prepared for humidity also means knowing what to do with your hair. This is a big mistake I made during my visit. I normally flat iron my hair each day, which I also did while in Colombia.

The problem.., as soon as I walked outside, my hair became a fluffy mess. I didn’t have one good hair day the whole time I was in Colombia. 

My advice is to bring a really good hair product that will take the volume and fluff out of your hair. Whatever you choose, bring a lot of it. You’ll be using much more than usual. 

Cartagena skyline

3. Find the rooftop bars

The rooftop bars in Cartagena are the perfect way to watch a sunset and end a long day of exploring the city.

You’ll find dozens of them all around the walled city, each with its own character and ambiance. 

Here are just a few to get you started:

  • Alquimico
  • Movich Hotel
  • Townhouse

I recommend not hitting up the rooftop bars until the sun begins to set. You do not want to be sitting on a rooftop in the hot midday Colombia sun while drinking alcohol.

But once the sun goes down, all bets are off. Many of the rooftop bars have a pool too, so if it’s still too hot, bring your bikini. 

Downtown Cartagena

4. Get on a boat

If you’re going to be spending time along the beautiful Caribbean beaches of South America, you really should get in some time on a boat. 

Just off the coast of Cartagena, you’ll find the Rosario Islands. The islands make up one of the country’s national parks, which was created to protect the nearby coral reef. 

Visitors to the islands can go swimming, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even jet skiing.

The beaches can get a bit crowded on some of the islands, but not all. If you end up renting a private boat for the day, ask to go to some of the more remote areas.

If that’s not an option, plan to arrive early before the crowds arrive. 

Be advised that the return trip to Cartagena from the Rosario Islands can get a little, how do I say this? Bumby? Rough? If you are nervous on boats at all, you’ll want to make sure you get back earlier in the day as opposed to late afternoon. I was told the waves get bigger the later you return.

In all honesty, this was the least favorite part of my day. I was kind of terrified and hung onto the boat so tight my hands began to cramp.

Though my friends were all laughing hysterically at how big the waves were. 

No matter how you feel about boats and big waves, just be prepared for this adventure. You’ve been warned.

Cartagena restaurant

5. Enjoy Colombian cuisine

One of my favorite things about Colombia was the food. If you’ve never tried Colombian food before, you’re in for a real treat.

During your entire time here, I recommend trying as many different things as you can handle. 

Due to the country’s location on the Caribbean coast, you’ll find plenty of fresh seafood and fish. If you’re not a seafood fan like me, don’t worry, there’s plenty of other options. 

You’ll find the majority of Colombian cuisine to be fresh and flavorful.

There are great restaurant scenes in Cartagena and Medellin if you’re looking for some nice restaurants to try in the evenings. 

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, try the local street food in Cartagena, or stop into one of the local restaurants outside the main tourist zones. 

6. Get Colombian Pesos

If you’re going to be traveling around Colombia, especially in rural areas, you’ll want to have Colombian Pesos (COP) on you at all times.

Try to keep small denominations in your wallet so you can pay for low-cost items like street food or tips.

Many small family-owned restaurants do not take credit cards and may not have change for large bills. So just to be on the safe side, keep cash on you whenever possible.

I encourage you to do a little research before you arrive so you know where to get the best deal on Colombian Pesos.

For most people, pulling cash out at an ATM will be a much better deal than using a currency exchange in an airport or in touristy areas.

You might want to contact your bank ahead of time and ask about any foreign transaction fees or exchange rates.

As of October 2019, the conversation rate is about: 10, 000 COP to $2.91 USD

Travel Tips for Colombia

7. Explore on foot

One of the best ways to get to know a city is to get out there and see it on foot. Have a general destination in mind and then just explore.

I’ve had some of the best times and stumbled upon some of the most interesting things when just out walking around in a new place. 

When walking around a new city, you get to see it slowly and up close. It’s also easy to stop and get a closer look at anything that catches your eye. 

The walled city in Cartagena is especially great to explore on foot. There’s not a whole lot of traffic and the area is fairly small.

There are tons of great shops, restaurants, and bars to check out. Plus, without a car, you don’t have to worry about parking and you can save that rental car money for more food or drinks.

8. Wear sunscreen

While in Colombia, you’re going to get a lot of sun exposure and you’ll be very close to the equator. Bring a high SPF sunscreen with you and bring a lot of it.

You’ll want to make sure to cover any exposed areas with sunscreen before you leave your hotel room each day.

It is recommended that you reapply your sunscreen several times throughout the day.

Make sure to bring a reef-safe sunscreen and one that is water-resistant. If you’ll be in or near the water, reapply your sunscreen every half hour or so.

You may also wish to bring a sun hat to help protect your face and eyes.

Fruit ladies, Cartagena

9. Talk with the locals

Another thing you’re going to love about visiting Colombia is the friendliness of the people.

You’ll notice immediately that Colombians are both fun and welcoming. They’re also incredibly talkative. 

If you get the opportunity, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation. It’s such a great way to get to know what local life is like.

Plus, it’s the perfect way to get inside information on the best things to see, where to grab dinner, or find drinks. Never underestimate the power of good advice from a local. 

Engaging with locals is the best advice you can follow from these travel tips for Colombia. Connections with locals often make some of the best memories, ask anyone!

10. Dress nicely

By dress nicely, I do not mean to wear expensive or fancy clothes.

I only mean that you might want to plan your outfits each day so that you feel confident and you’ll look the way you want to in your pictures.

Colombia is a beautiful country, especially the streets of Cartagena. Trust me, you’re going to be taking a ton of pictures.

I don’t usually wear dresses, like ever! But I packed a few on this trip because I knew I would be going out in the evenings with the other girls and I wanted to look put together in my photos.

While certainly not the most fashionable person you’ll ever meet, I do try to look presentable when I’m on a trip. Some days work out better than others, that’s for sure.

Getsemani, Cartagena

11. Explore smaller neighborhoods

Many times, the most interesting things to see and do in a new city will be found outside of the city center and main tourist areas.

Look into exploring nearby residential neighborhoods or the fun artsy neighborhoods that tend to be on the outskirts of the city. 

If you’re visiting Cartagena, walk over to the Getsemani neighborhood for lunch or coffee. While you’re there explore the streets and check out all the great street art. 

If you’ll be in Medellin make your way over to Comuna 13. This neighborhood was formerly known as one of the most dangerous places in the country due to the incredibly high number of homicides.

The area has since reinvented itself and is now home to some of the world’s best street art.

This is also where you’ll find some amazing views of the surrounding city. Book a walking tour so you don’t miss out on the fascinating history of this area. 

Guatape Rock, Colombia

12. Explore outside the big cities

These travel tips for Colombia are designed to help you have the best trip possible, and that includes seeing as much of the country as you can.

There’s so much to see outside the big cities of Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota.

Colombia is a huge country and its full of natural beauty and unique small towns.

Getting outside the cities is a great way to see another side of the country and see what life is like in rural areas. 

Just outside Medellin is the small town of Guatape, known for the massive rock pictured above. Visitors can hike to the top of the rock for some incredible views of the surrounding countryside.

There’s also a lake nearby where you can go swimming, kayaking, and even parasailing.

Whatever you’re into when it comes to outdoor adventure, you can do it in Colombia.

Even if you don’t feel comfortable renting a car and driving outside the city, there are tons of day tours available that can take you anywhere you want to go. 

If you’re looking for some outdoors time, consider a road trip to Tayrona National Park or Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta National Park.

Both offer great hiking opportunities and the latter is home to the famous Lost City.

13. Consider a private driver

If you’re going to be exploring Medellin or any other of the other large cities, consider hiring a private driver while you are there.

This is an especially good deal if you want to get to areas outside of the big cities to explore the smaller towns and national parks.

During my visit earlier this year, our group ended up hiring a private driver for two days while in Medellin.

Our driver was wonderful and took us on a tour of the city, out to Comuna 13, and even out to Guatape Rock and the city of Guatape.

While I don’t remember the cost, I do recall that it was totally worth the price we paid. We also felt this was a safer option for 5 ladies traveling together.

Had we taken Ubers or taxis everywhere, we likely would have ended up in two separate cars on multiple occasions, so we felt better knowing we could get from place to place in the same vehicle.

Travel tips for Colombia

14. Spend a day at the beach

While there is so much to see and do exploring the cities of Colombia, be sure not to miss a day at the beach.

You should take advantage of the beautiful Caribbean waters and sunny weather at least once during your visit. 

You’ll find long stretches of sandy beaches along the Cartagena coast near the city center.

If you prefer a more remote experience, you can take a private boat out to the nearby Rosario Islands.

If you have at least half a day to spend by the water, this is the option I would choose. The beaches are much prettier on the islands.

The water surrounding these islands is calm and the most beautiful shade of blue.

If you have your own boat you can visit several of the islands on your own time. If you have a few people to share the cost with, even better.

15. Purchase travel insurance

A post about travel tips for Colombia would not be complete if I didn’t mention travel insurance.

If you’re ever going to be traveling outside your home country, I always recommend purchasing some travel insurance.

This is especially important if you plan on participating in extra adventurous activities. 

When you’re in an unfamiliar place, and you’re moving around a lot and trying lots of new things, you never know when something might go wrong.

It’s better to be safe and have the insurance, then trying to figure out what to do if you happen to hurt yourself. 

Travel insurance is quite affordable considering the coverage you get. It’s definitely a lot more affordable than the cost of emergency health care in a foreign country. 

If you’re wondering where to purchase travel insurance, I use World Nomads.

Is it safe to travel in Colombia?

Is Colombia safe? In short, yes it is. If you use common sense as you would anywhere else you are traveling you should not have any problems.

As I’m sure you are aware, Colombia has a bad reputation due to its long and storied past filled with drug cartels and violent crime.

But truth be told, the days of Pablo Escobar are long gone and the country is undergoing a positive and happy transformation.

As a result, violent crime is way down, tourism is way up, and the streets of Cartagena are calling.

Here are a few common-sense travel tips for Colombia that will keep you safe while traveling around the country:

  1. Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t walk around with your face in your phone. Stay alert and look around.
  2. Don’t flash your money around. If you’re paying for something on the street, be discreet and pull out just the amount you need.
  3. Don’t wear expensive jewelry, clothing, or accessories. Leave your designer items at home and don’t dress flashy.
  4. Don’t wander around at night. If you plan to go out in the evenings, take a taxi. You don’t want to be walking around on deserted streets or in the big cities if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
  5. Don’t be waving your cell phone around. Keep it in your purse or pocket and only use it when you need it.
  6. Keep your bag or purse close to your body. Wear a cross-body purse and keep it zipped up.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these travel tips for Colombia and found them useful in planning your own trip. If you have any Colombia travel tips of your own you’d like to share, let me know. I’d love to hear from you.

Book Your Trip

Find the best flight deals by using SkyScanner. This is the search engine I use to compare flights and prices before booking my own trips.

BOOK YOUR ACCOMODATION
I recommend searching for hotels through Booking.com to compare hotels on amenities, location, and price. If you are a member of a hotel’s rewards program, always book direct with the hotel. If you are not loyal to a specific hotel brand, using Booking.com for the best price.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is more important than ever. For just a few dollars a day you can protect yourself and your trip. I personally use World Nomads, but whomever you choose, don’t skip out on travel insurance. It can literally save you thousands of dollars.

Want to save it? Pin it.

Pinterest Pin Travel Tips for Colombia

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Eden Fite
Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

Filed Under: Colombia

10 Fun Things to do in Guatape

May 20, 2019 By Eden Fite

Things to do in Guatape
Things to do in Guatape

If you’re looking for some unique and fun things to do in Guatape, you’re in the right place.

Guatapé is one of the most vibrant and colorful small towns in northern Colombia, maybe even all of South America.

If you’ve been spending time in Medellin and looking to take a few day trips to see more of the country, you don’t want to miss Guatape.

The town of Guatape is popular for its brightly painted houses, while the surrounding area is popular for outdoor activities and water sports.

No matter what you’re in to, there are plenty of things to do in Guatape.

To help you maximize the time on your day trip from Medellin to Guatape, I’ve put together this list of my 10 top things to do in Guatape. 

Things to do in Guatape - rights reserved - affiliate links - 000 cop

Medellin to Guatape

The drive from Medellin to Guatape takes about two hours.

The roads are well-paved and once you’re outside of Medellin, there is not much traffic on the roads.

It’s easy to rent a car in Medellin, but there are restrictions on when vehicles can enter the city.

If you want to make the trip from Medellin to Guatape even easier, I recommend hiring a private driver. With a private driver, you won’t have to worry about parking, directions, gas, or anything else. 

You’ll get door to door service, they will take you wherever you want, and it’s not expensive.

Our driver charged us about $100 USD per day, but there were 5 of us, so we each only had to pay $20. It was beyond worth it. 

If you prefer to make the trip a bit more affordable, you can also take the bus from Medellin to Guatape for just a few dollars. The ride will take about 2 hours each way. 

Guatape Lake in Guatape Colombia

1. Guatape Lake

Guatape Lake, a man-made reservoir, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The lake and surrounding area are known as a popular destination for adventure sports. With so many activities available, one could easily spend a full day here.

Visitors can rent boats, jet skis, kayaks, and even paddle boards to take out on the lake. A

ll of the above can be rented for incredibly reasonable prices. Jet skis, for example, can be rented for about $40 USD per hour. 

For those not interested in water sports, visitors can also go hiking, mountain biking, rappelling, fishing or sky diving.

If you’re into history, you can also visit one of the former mansions of Pablo Escobar.

There are several companies that provide rental equipment and tours. Getaway Colombia is one such option with plenty of equipment rentals and fun tours available. 

2. Go Hang Gliding

If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous activity, consider hang gliding over Guatape lake with Hang Glide Colombia.

This is surely one way to make you Colombia getaway unforgettable.

I didn’t get to try this activity myself, but they get excellent reviews and I wish I had. It’s cool that for this type of hang gliding, you take off from the lake on the back of a boat instead of jumping off a cliff somewhere.

I feel like this would be much easier to handle for those of us with a fear of heights.

Prices are reasonable as well, according to reviews it will cost about $100 USD per person. It’s recommended that you make reservations in advance, but they can occasionally accommodate walk-ins.

Be advised, this activity is very weather permitting. Inclement weather or especially windy days may result in last-minute cancellations, so always have a backup plan just in case.

Hit play on their video and have a look for yourself. 

Things to do in Guatape - San Rafael - El Penol, Colombia

3. Visit Viejo Penol

Viejo Penol is a replica town sitting on a hillside overlooking Guatape lake. The original town of El Penol was flooded and now sits at the bottom of the lake.

You can see a cross from the old cathedral poking out of the water where the original town once stood. While Viejo Penol is just a replica, and primarily a tourist attraction, it is still an interesting place to stop and learn more about the area.

The views from the hillside here are beautiful as well so it makes a good rest stop and opportunity to get some nice pictures of the town and lake. 

Things to do in Guatape - Guatape Rock

4. Guatape Rock

Guatape Rock, or Piedra del Penol, is a massive rock formation overlooking the lakes of Guatape. Visitors can reach the top by climbing some 740 narrow stairs winding back and forth from the base to the lookout.

The rock stands over 720 feet tall and is the most visited landmark in Guatape. It’s a fun excursion and a great workout if you need to burn off some of those extra vacation pounds. Once you reach the top, you’ll be happy to find vendors selling snacks, beer and micheladas.

The trip to the top and back down should take about 2 hours or less if you’re in reasonably good condition. The cost to climb the rock is about $18,000 Colombian or $6.50 USD. 

streets of Guatape

5. Explore the colorful streets of Guatape

Begin your visit to Guatape by just walking around the town and exploring. The entire town of Guatape if filled with colorfully painted homes and businesses.

The town is incredibly photogenic, so take your time and get all the photographs you want. The streets are narrow but well-paved and there’s not a lot of traffic.

You’ll have no trouble navigating the entire town on foot in just a few hours. 

Things to do in Guatape - Guatape Murals

6. Guatape zocalos

As you’re walking through the streets of Guatape, pay attention to the small murals (or zocalos as they are called) painted on the side of the houses.

The residents of the town paint their homes in bright colors with small panels at the bottom depicting images. These images can depict an animal or symbol to indicate their family heritage or profession.

For example, the local florist may paint small flowers onto the zocalos of her home, while the local baker may paint small loaves of bread. Walking through the town you’ll see a variety of animals, objects and designs painted onto the zocalos. 

It is believed that the tradition of the zocalos started over a century ago, but no one really knows for sure or how it began. Today, the locals maintain the zocalos and brightly painted buildings for the purposes of tourism. 

Shops of Guatape

7. Visit the shops of Guatape

You’ll find family-run souvenir shops all over the place while walking through the streets of Guatape. The prices here are quite reasonable, so if you’re looking to bring some unique and locally made items back to your friends and family, this is the place to pick some things up.

You’ll find plenty of handmade clothing, bags, and shoes made by locals or those living nearby. Shopping here is a great way to support the local economy as well. Your dollars will be more appreciated here than they would be at the airport gift shop. 

La Vina Cafe, Guatape

8. Get Coffee at La Vina Cafe

Colombia is known for its fantastic coffee, so Guatape is no exception. The town has several great coffee shops, but this is the one I enjoyed most. You can order just about any coffee beverage you want, from a regular cup of coffee to a cappuccino, or even a latte.

They have some pretty delicious pastries to go with the coffee if you’re in the mood for something sweet. You can also purchase beans grown in various parts of the country. The ladies working here are happy to explain to you the differences in the varieties that they sell.

You can order beans in different sized bags, and they can even grind it for you if you like. 

Whether you want to bring beans home or not, I really recommend at least stopping in for a coffee, it’s delicious. 

Things to do in Guatape

9. Plaza De Los Zocalos

The Plaza De Los Zocalos is the main square of Guatape and the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee or cappuccino and just hang out for a bit.

This colorful plaza is surrounded by cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops. It makes a great place to get to know the character of the town and strike up a conversation with one of the locals.

As an added bonus, you’ll also get to hang out with some of the local dogs. They have large bowls of food and water set out for the pups and there seemed to be quite a few of them hanging around. 

10. Church of Our Lady of Carmen

The Church of Our Lady of Carmen is a Greco-Roman style church located in the town square. The church was built in 1865 but took more than 70 years to build.

The church is known for its beautifully carved wooden altar at the front of the church. The exterior is painted a vibrant white and red, matching the colorful theme of the town. 

Visitors can enter the church and have a look around on most days. Be mindful of services on Sundays and holidays, as visitors are not allowed at this time. Admission to the interior of the church is free. 

Where to eat in Guatape
Photo by Don de Sam

Where to eat in Guatape

Guatape is small, but you’ll still find plenty of restaurant options during your visit. See the list below for ideas on where to eat in Guatape:

  • Pizzeria de Luigi: If you’re looking for pizza or Italian while in Guatape, this is where to find it. They serve salads, pizzas, pasta, and wine. 
  • Don de Sam: A lakeside restaurant serving international cuisine such as Italian, Chinese, Indian, or Thai. They even serve beer and wine. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio overlooking the lake!
  • La Fogata: This lakeside restaurant serves grilled steak, barbeque chicken, and fried fish. They also serve breakfast and have a full bar. 
  • Rame: If you’re on the hunt for something vegetarian, Rame serves local vegetarian cuisine. They do not have a menu but serve a meal of the day which typically includes a fresh fruit salad, rice and, grilled vegetables, and fresh juice.  
  • Veccio Forno G: Restaurant serving Mexican, Italian, and American cuisine. You can order anything from pizza to tacos or burgers. 
  • Thai Terrace: Delicious Thai food restaurant serving traditional Thai cuisine. They have lots of vegetarian options as well.

If you’re undecided about what to eat, keep an eye out as you explore the town’s colorful streets. There are plenty of family-run restaurants serving fresh homemade meals. 

Where to find cocktails in Guatape

Where to find cocktails in Guatape

Guatape is a super small town with not a whole lot going on in the evenings. But, when there is a will, there is a way. Here are a few options on where to find cocktails in Guatape:

  • Bar Barojoa: Fun little bar located right next to the zocalo. Both the bar and its owner have received wonderful reviews from other travelers. Stop in and say hi. 
  • El Zaguan Bar: Another small spot for drinks near the city center. They serve beer, wine, and cocktails. They even have a foosball table if you’re looking for some entertainment. 
  • Discoteka Caribbean Blue: If you’re looking to go dancing on the weekend, this is your spot. They have a full bar and play music from a variety of genres. 
Where to stay in Guatape
Photo courtesy of Bosko

Where to stay in Guatape

There are several nice hotel choices in the Guatape area, some of which are especially cool. Here is a shortlist of recommended accommodations in Guatape:

Budget

  • Casa Rosa Hostel: If you’ve got a backpacker’s budget and want to be in the center of town, this is your spot. The hostel is located right near the center of town. This is a quiet hostel with comfortable beds and great prices. 
  • Lake View Hostel: Affordable hostel right on Guatape Lake.

Moderate

  • Hotel Los Recuerdos: This hotel is located very close to Guatape Rock and overlooks the surrounding lakes. Rooms are comfortable with large windows, balconies, and some even have a private outdoor jacuzzi. There is also a pool and restaurant on site. 

Luxury

  • Bosko: This hotel is made up of several eco-friendly yet luxurious tents. The property is situated overlooking Guatape lake and makes a unique place to stay during your time in Guatape. The rooms at Bosko feature comfortable beds, large windows, attached individual restrooms and showers. Guests even receive a complimentary breakfast each morning. 

Best time to visit Guatape

I recommend visiting Guatape during the dry season from approximately December to March and July and August.

However, you can visit any time and will likely experience lighter crowds if you visit in the shoulder season or rainy season.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post about 10 Fun Things to Do in Guatape and that you’ve found it helpful in planning your own trip to Colombia. If you enjoyed this post I would love it if you shared it. It really helps me a lot. Thanks for reading.

If you’ll be spending more time exploring Colombia check out my Cartagena travel guide for recommendations on things to see and do in beautiful Cartagena. 

Book Your Trip

Find the best flight deals by using SkyScanner. This is the search engine I use to compare flights and prices before booking my own trips.

BOOK YOUR ACCOMODATION
I recommend searching for hotels through Booking.com to compare hotels on amenities, location, and price. If you are a member of a hotel’s rewards program, always book direct with the hotel. If you are not loyal to a specific hotel brand, using Booking.com for the best price.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is more important than ever. For just a few dollars a day you can protect yourself and your trip. I personally use World Nomads, but whomever you choose, don’t skip out on travel insurance. It can literally save you thousands of dollars.

Want to save it? Pin it. 

10 Things to Do in Guatape Pinterest Pin

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Eden Fite
Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

Filed Under: Colombia Tagged With: Guatape, Medellin

The Ultimate Guide to One Day in Cartagena

April 3, 2019 By Eden Fite

Cartagena Travel Guide
Cartagena Travel Guide

If you’re looking for the best things to do with one day in Cartagena, this guide is for you.

Cartagena is one of the most vibrant and exciting destinaitons in South America right now and its on just about everybody’s bucket list.

If you’ve been on the fence thinking about booking a visit, now’s the time.

With great weather, beautiful beaches, and a historic city center, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy during your visit.

I put this post together to give you just a glimpse of all the fun things you can do with one day in Cartagena. So let’s dive in, shall we?

Your Ultimate Guide to One Day in Cartagena

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This ultimate guide to one day in Cartagena will take you around to the city’s top tourist destinations. I encourage you to also add in activities and stops to make this trip your own.

If you love art, hit up the musuems. If you love to dance, hit up the clubs. Whatever you love to do, you can find it Cartagena.

Walk around the walled city

Cartagena is a vibrant walkable city, perfect for exploring on foot.

Grab your best camera and some comfortable shoes and start exploring. You can see the majority of the walled city (historic city center) in a few hours with stops at any places you find interesting.

The Colonial architecture within the walled city is beautiful and well-preserved, featuring lots of churches, plazas and mansions.

There are walking tours of the old town available (book online or with your hotel) and are a good idea if you’d like to learn about the history of the buildings and Cartagena itself. 

Cartagena Clock Tower

The Cartagena clock tower was built in 1601 to connect the Getsemani neighborhood to the city center via a drawbridge.

The opening below the clock tower now serves as the primary entrance to the historic city. 

The structure previously held a chapel and weapons room. In the early 1800s it was rebuilt to include the clock tower and pendulum.

It now stands as one of the most iconic structures in the city. If you walk across the street from the tower you can get nice pictures of the entire structure. 

Cartagena Islands

Explore the Rosario Islands by boat

The Rosario Islands are a beautiful chain of 36 islands located off the coast of Cartagena.

You can reach the islands by boat in about one hour.

Once there you’ll find long white sandy beaches surrounded by bright blue waters.

Some of the islands are rocky and not for swimming, but the boat ride out to the islands is just stunning.

The image above was taken on the way to the islands and is not edited. The water really looks like that. 

There are several islands where boats can drop you off to enjoy the beaches. You can find beer, cocktails and snacks at all of them.

On some of the islands they even serve fresh oysters right from the water on kayaks, complete with lime and hot sauce. 

The ride to and from the Rosario Islands from Cartagena will take about one hour each way.

If you have a small group you can arrange for a private boat for the whole day. This will run about $80 (US) per person. 

I recommend asking the concierge at your hotel to help you make these arrangements when you arrive in Cartagena. 

You should also know that the boat ride out to the Rosario Islands in the morning is smooth.

However, the ride back in the afternoon will be something entirely different.

The water gets rough and the waves get big, so be prepared to hold on tight, it’s quite the adventure. 

Just make sure you purchase that travel insurance policy you were looking at. I’m joking, I’m joking. You’ll be fine.

If you’d like to spend a bit more time out in the water and don’t mind a longer boat ride, consider a visit out to Casa En El Agua, or House on Water.

Casa En El Agua is a hostel set right in the middle of the beautiful Caribbean. It’s a unique experience and a great way to add some adventure to your trip to Colombia.

If you’re looking for even more adventure, consider making the trip out to San Andres Island.

The flight from Cartagena is about an hour and 25 minutes, but it’s a cheap flight and you’ll find lots of fun things to do on San Andres Island.

Getsemani Street Art

A one day in Cartagena itinerary would not be complete without suggesting a visit to Getsemani.

The Getsemani neighborhood is covered in elaborate street art with gigantic murals around every corner.

It’s the perfect place to take yourself on a photo walk and get to know the city from a different perspective.

Getsemani was formerly a rough neighborhood riddled with crime, drugs, and prostitution.

It has since recovered and transitioned into a working-class neighborhood home to local families and young artists. 

You can walk through the neighborhood in about an hour or so and view all the various murals, but I recommend slowing down and taking your time to get to know the area.

Getsemani is home to some great coffee shops, restaurants, and cocktail bars.

Walk around the area and take a chance just stepping into a place that looks interesting. Order a drink or some food and have a good time. 

Cartagena Restaurants

Cartagena Restaurants

One of the top things to do with one day in Cartagena is to enjoy the food. Colombian cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and inspired by the diversity of the country.

In Cartagena especially, seafood is a popular choice. You’ll find some of the freshest fish at the restaurants here, so take advantage of the city’s location on the Caribbean and try some of the local dishes.

If you’re not a seafood fan, not to worry. Cartagena has plenty of delicious dishes prepared with high-quality meats, fresh vegetables, and plenty of savory spices.

If you’re looking for some lunch or dinner ideas, give any of these places in the old city a try:

  • Carmen: Serving contemporary food with Colombian flavor. This was easily my favorite dining experience in Cartagena. The bar is fun and the food is incredible. If you’re looking to treat yourself to a special evening, this is the place to do it. 
  • La Cevicheria: La Cevicheria is another popular dinner option when in Cartagena. I’m sure you can guess they are known for their ceviche, but their paella is pretty fantastic too. The wait here can get long, so put your name on the list and then head over to the bar next door for drinks while you wait. 
  • Demente: Demente is a fantastic tapas bar located in the artsy Getsemani neighborhood. They serve Spanish tapas with a Caribbean twist, making Demente the perfect stop before a fun night on the town. 
  • Di Silvio Trattoria: If you’re looking for some Italian while you’re traveling (I know I always am) then head over to Di Silvio Trattoria in the Getsemani neighborhood. They serve delicious homemade pasta and pizza. 
  • La Perla: A popular spot for Peruvian food inside the walled city. Their oysters and ceviche get rave reviews and apparently the coconut mojito is the drink to get. 

If you’re not in the mood for a sit-down restaurant, hit up one of the many street vendors selling everything from fresh fish to traditional Colombian arepas. 

Even if you’re short on time during your one day in Cartagena, don’t skip the food. It’s worth the time out of your day to try some local dishes.

Cartagena nightlife

Cartagena Nightlife

There are plenty of nightlife options to end your one day in Cartagena.

If you’re like me and prefer a nice sit-down bar with fantastic drinks, check out some of the places I’ve listed here.

You won’t be disappointed with any of these. In fact, I suggest you visit them all. 

  • Alquimico Bar: Swanky hipster bar on the inside, laid back tiki-style bar on the outside. Grab a drink on the ground floor to check out the menu. Then close out your tab and head upstairs to the rooftop. Laidback vibe with delicious Caribbean inspired drinks. 
  • Cafe del Mar: All first-time visitors to Cartagena must make a stop at Cafe del Mar to grab a cocktail at sunset. The setting is beautiful, lively and fun. Watch the sunset over the ocean from their massive outdoor patio with a fruity cocktail in hand. 
  • Townhouse: This is a super cute boutique hotel with a really fun rooftop bar. They serve beer, fruity cocktails, and wine. They also have some incredible food. If it’s hot, you can jump into the rooftop pool to cool off. 

Cartagena Coffee Shops

You must start your one day in Cartagena off with a hot cup of coffee.

Colombia is known for producing some of the best coffee on the planet. So with that, be sure to spend some time during your visit trying coffee at the various cafes around the city.

Many of the city’s coffee shops experiment with different roasting techniques and recipes for special drinks.

You’ll be able to have a completely different coffee experience at each cafe you visit. Here’s a list of some of the most popular cafes in Cartagena to get you started:

  • Abacus Books and Coffee:  The last independent book store in Cartagena, packet to the gills with books of all kinds. To add to your enjoyment, they serve a fantastic cup of coffee to enjoy while you read. 
  •  Cafe del Mural: This is the must-visit coffee shop located in the city’s artsy Getsemani neighborhood. They serve a wide variety of coffee drinks and even offer special tasting sessions where you can sample different varieties and learn about the coffee. Contact them ahead of time if interested in the tasting. 
  • Epoca Espresso Bar: They serve fantastic coffee in a beautiful space. Order a cup of coffee and a light healthy breakfast and enjoy the experience. 
Cartagena hotels - 000 cop

Cartagena Hotels

Even with just one day in Cartagena, you’re going to need a place to sleep.

There are several neighborhoods in Cartagena where you can choose to stay.

For first time visitors, I suggest staying inside the walled city. This area is touristy, but it’s also beautiful and will keep you in close proximity to fantastic restaurants and good spots for cocktails.

Here are some great hotels inside Cartagena’s walled city:

  • Movich Hotel: The Movich Hotel is a trendy luxury hotel with a beautifully decorated lobby. The hotel has a rooftop pool and bar with stunning views of the surrounding city. 
  • Hotel Sofitel: This is the go-to hotel for in the know visitors. The hotel features colonial architecture paired with French luxury. The grounds and pool area are especially fabulous. 
  • Bantu Hotel: Bantu Hotel is a bit more affordable than Movich and Sofitel, but also has plenty of amenities and spacious rooms. This is a well-appointed boutique hotel featuring a swimming pool, bar, restaurant, and spa. 

I hope you’ve found this Ultimate Guide to One Day in Cartagena useful in planning a trip of your own. 

If you’re looking for another fun beach town to visit outside of Colombia, consider a visit to Costa Rica’s Puerto Viejo for beautiful relaxing beaches and fantastic food. 

Book Your Trip

Find the best flight deals by using SkyScanner. This is the search engine I use to compare flights and prices before booking my own trips.

BOOK YOUR ACCOMODATION
I recommend searching for hotels through Booking.com to compare hotels on amenities, location, and price. If you are a member of a hotel’s rewards program, always book direct with the hotel. If you are not loyal to a specific hotel brand, using Booking.com for the best price.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is more important than ever. For just a few dollars a day you can protect yourself and your trip. I personally use World Nomads, but whomever you choose, don’t skip out on travel insurance. It can literally save you thousands of dollars.

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One day in Cartagena

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Eden Fite at Chichen Itza in 2020
Eden Fite
Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

Filed Under: Colombia, Favorite Destinations

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Eden Fite at Chichen Itza in 2020

I help busy people travel more by creating ambitious itineraries and inspiring shorter trips to far away destinations.

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