Cartagena Bolivar, Colombia Travel Guide
A chronological planning guide for your Cartagena adventure.
Organize your preparations well in advance for a relaxed journey.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure.
Determine if your nationality requires a visa and begin the application process if so.
Secure better prices and availability, especially for high season travel.
Select comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
Discuss required and recommended vaccinations and obtain any necessary prescriptions.
Secure your hotel, hostel, or vacation rental in Cartagena.
Double-check flight, hotel, and tour reservations.
Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.
Store digital and physical copies of important documents separately.
Certain theements benefit from advance reservation.
Deepen your understanding and secure your home.
Ensure your home is secure and cared for during your absence.
Register with your country's embassy or consulate (e.g., STEP for US citizens). This alerts you and helps your embassy locate you in an emergency.
Transition smoothly upon arriving in Cartagena.
Have your passport and any required documents ready for inspection.
Proceed to baggage claim and retrieve your checked bags.
Use an ATM inside the airport (if available) or a secure bank ATM for Colombian Pesos.
Consider getting a local SIM card for affordable data and calls if no international roaming plan is active.
Settle into your hotel or rental upon arrival.
Take a walk around your immediate surroundings to note landmarks and nearby shops.
If you did not use an ATM at the airport, exchange a small amount of cash at a reputable currency exchange office.
Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival, especially after travel.
Use official airport taxi stands or ride-sharing apps for a safe and straightforward transfer to your accommodation.
Avoid accepting rides from unofficial touts for your security.
Get a physical map of the Old City or Getsemaní for easy navigation and to aid overall orientation.
Locate nearby ATMs, pharmacies, and convenience stores for daily needs.
Ensure your first steps are smooth by planning your airport transfer and initial access to cash before you land.
Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth exit from Cartagena.
Adhere to recommended airport arrival times for a stress-free departure.
Create a digital folder on your phone or in a cloud service for all your travel documents.
Include flight confirmations, hotel bookings, tour vouchers, passport copies, and insurance details as a backup.
