Cartagena Caribbean Coast, Colombia Travel Guide
From water sports to unique natural phenomena, many ways to experience Cartagena's environment.
Snorkeling/Diving (Rosario Islands). Kayaking/Paddleboarding (Tierra Bomba Island or calm bay areas). Jet Skiing (Bocagrande beach). Sailing/Catamaran Tours (sunset cruises or day trips to islands).
Parasailing (Bocagrande beach, aerial perspective). Mud Volcano (El Totumo: unique low-adventure, therapeutic volcanic mud crater, one hour north).
Hiking limited within city (botanical garden paths, San Felipe fort ramps). Serious trekking inland to Sierra Nevada mountains (multi-day trip). Cycling for leisurely rides (Old City, Getsemaní, Bocagrande promenade). No mountain biking trails in Cartagena.
Immediate hiking trails limited within Cartagena city due to its urban and coastal nature.
Engage with Cartagena's rich culture through interactive experiences.
La Boquilla Mangrove Tours: Support local fishermen who guide canoe tours. Palenque Tours: Visit San Basilio de Palenque (first free slave town, UNESCO site). Deep dive into Afro-Colombian culture.
Spanish language schools available in Cartagena. Intensive courses for various proficiency levels. Structured way to improve Spanish.
Cartagena International Music Festival (Jan), Cartagena International Film Festival (FICCI - Mar), Independence of Cartagena (Nov, "Fiestas de Noviembre" - celebration).
Many luxury and boutique hotels (Old City, Bocagrande) comprehensive spas with treatments (massages, facials, hydrotherapy). Standalone spas also options for different budgets.
No hot springs immediate vicinity. El Totumo Mud Volcano (unique natural therapy experience, mud believed to have therapeutic properties).
Beach Clubs (Tierra Bomba/Barú): Day passes for pools, music, food, drinks. Hotel Pools: Many hotels in Cartagena (especially Old City) rooftop/courtyard pools, refreshing escape from heat.
Cartagena a nightlife scene, from live music to dancing.
Nightclubs typically close late, often between 2 AM and 4 AM on weekends. Street parties in Getsemaní can go on until early hours.
Many hotels or specialized restaurants traditional dance shows, a glimpse into Colombia's diverse dance forms.
Check local event listings or ask your hotel concierge for current happenings.
Las Bóvedas: Arches in old city walls, house souvenir shops, artisan stalls. Mercado de Bazurto: Chaotic, authentic local market, raw local experience (best with guide).
Artisan workshops: Small shops in Old City/Getsemaní sell handmade jewelry, leather goods, textiles. Luxury shopping: High-end boutiques (Calle del Arzobispado, Calle de la Santísimo), modern malls in Bocagrande.
Emeralds (reputable jewelers with certificates), Wayuu Mochila bags (colorful patterns), Coffee (high-quality Colombian), Sombrero Vueltiao (traditional hat), Cocadas (local coconut sweets).
Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and luxury goods in Cartagena's diverse shopping venues.
For larger purchases like emeralds or art, clarify shipping costs and customs procedures with the seller.
Seller all necessary customs documentation and insurance.
Research your home country's import regulations for specific items to avoid unexpected duties or restrictions upon return.
