After my first visit to Cartagena, Colombia I thought I would record my observations and tips for first time travelers.

While in Cartagena, you will experience a vibrant blend of history and Caribbean culture, but planning ahead will make your visit even more enjoyable.

Helpful tips:

  1. Although tap water is treated and adheres to international safety standards, visitors from the US are advised to only drink bottled water while there.
  2. Because the food and water may be different than what you are accustomed to, you may want to consider bringing Pepto Bismol tablets to ease potential ailments such as diarrhea and symptoms of an upset stomach like nausea.
  3. Language: In Colombia, the primary language spoken is Spanish. It is the language you’ll hear in daily conversations, signs, and in local media. If you’re planning a visit, knowing some basic Spanish phrases will be critical. Having a Translate app on your phone can help you navigate conversations and signage.
  4. Mobile Service: Check with your phone carrier for international plans prior to traveling to avoid surprise charges. Many hotels and businesses offer unsecured Wi-Fi allowing connectivity, but you may want to consider a VPN service on your phone to protect your data if you decide to connect.
  5. Transportation: Taxis are yellow and well-marked. Although Uber does operate in Cartagena, you may elect to only travel in yellow taxis if you have concerns with safety. The taxi driver will be fluent in Spanish but may also speak a little English. Yellow taxis are easy to find and reasonably priced, but be sure to agree on a price before entering the cab.
  6. Currency: The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). When you visit, you’ll notice prices listed in pesos. You can easily exchange your dollars or withdraw pesos from ATMs around the city, but you’ll often get a better exchange rate at a bank-operated ATM than a street exchange. Generally, the conversion rate is approximately 1 USD = 4,000 COP, but keep in mind that exchange rates can fluctuate day to day. It is advisable to carry some cash in Colombian Peso because not all places will accept credit cards.
  7. Street Vendors: You may notice that there will be many street vendors selling food, clothes, and souvenirs. Some vendors can seem pushy in advertising their products, and simple “No gracias” will suffice if you are not interested.
  8. Passport: Make sure you keep your passport secure at all times. This is one item you don’t want to lose. If you don’t feel comfortable carrying your passport with you with exploring the city, you can take pictures and a video of your passport showing your stamp of entry.
  9. Sunscreen: be sure to have plenty of sunscreen. The sunlight can be brutal and those with lighter skin tones will burn easily.
  10. Airlines and Airport: Although many of the international carriers will fly into Cartagena, you may find better deals with smaller carriers such as Copa Airlines. You arrive at Rafael Nunez, a small international airport in Cartagena with only one floor. You will disembark the plane on the tarmac and will be escorted to one of a few lines in a lobby where you will meet a customs officer who will ask you questions about your stay. Be advised that the time to pass through immigration can vary wildly from a quick few minutes to well over an hour wait.

Have a wonderful time exploring and experiencing all that Cartagena has to offer!