Cartagena is one of the most captivating cities in Latin America—a place of colorful colonial streets, warm Caribbean beaches, lively plazas, and vibrant culture. For first-time visitors, the city feels magical, but it also comes with its own quirks that are helpful to know in advance.

This comprehensive guide shares the most important practical tips about safety, money, transportation, weather, scams, etiquette, cultural norms, and useful logistics to make your first trip to Cartagena smooth and unforgettable.

1. Understand the Layout of Cartagena

Cartagena is divided into several key areas tourists should know:

• Centro Histórico (Old Town)

UNESCO World Heritage site; colorful streets, churches, boutiques, best photography spots.

• Getsemaní

Trendy neighborhood full of street art, cafés, nightlife, and boutique hotels.

• Bocagrande

Modern beachfront district with high-rise hotels, shopping, and more predictable comforts.

• La Boquilla

Laid-back fishing village with affordable beach options and kitesurfing.

• Isla Tierra Bomba & Rosario Islands

Popular for beach days or overnight island stays.

Tip: For first-timers, staying in Centro or Getsemaní offers the best mix of charm and convenience.

2. Best Time to Visit Cartagena

Cartagena is hot and humid all year, but seasons still affect travel.

Dry Season (Best): December–April

✓ Sunshine
✓ Clear skies
✓ Perfect beach weather
✓ Peak tourism & higher prices

Rainy Season: May–November

✓ Afternoon rain showers
✓ Lower prices
✓ More humidity
✓ Heaviest rain in September–November

Tip: Book accommodation early for December–January and Holy Week.

3. Weather Tips: Be Prepared for Heat and Humidity

Cartagena is consistently 28–32°C (82–90°F) with high humidity.

Stay comfortable by:

• Wearing light, breathable clothing

• Choosing hotels with strong air conditioning

• Taking breaks indoors from 12:00–15:00

• Staying hydrated (carry a reusable water bottle)

• Carrying anti-humidity wipes for your camera gear

4. Safety Tips for First-Time Visitors

Cartagena is one of Colombia’s safer cities, but caution is still necessary.

Do:

✓ Use taxi apps (Uber, InDriver, Didi)
✓ Keep phones close to your body—snatching happens
✓ Use ATMs inside malls or banks
✓ Stick to well-lit streets at night
✓ Watch drinks in nightlife areas (Bourbon Street, Calle Media Luna, etc.)

Avoid:

✗ Flashing expensive jewelry or watches
✗ Walking alone on dark side streets
✗ Accepting “free gifts” from street sellers
✗ Leaving bags unattended, especially outdoors

5. Common Scams in Cartagena

1. Beach Scams

Vendors approach constantly:

• Unrequested massages

• Overpriced oysters

• Impromptu photos that demand payment

Tip: Politely say “No, gracias.” firmly and repeatedly.

2. Menu & Drink Overcharging

Check prices first—especially at beach clubs and nightlife zones.

3. Taxi Scams

Some drivers inflate prices for tourists.
Use apps or negotiate before entering.

4. Rosario Islands Tour Scams

Cheap tours often:

• Overpack boats

• Skip advertised beaches

• Charge hidden fees

Tip: Book reputable operators or private boats.

6. Money, Payments, and ATMs

Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)

Payments

• Credit cards accepted widely

• Small vendors prefer cash

• Tipping is customary (10%)

ATM Tips

• Best ATMs: Bancolombia, Davivienda, BBVA

• Avoid standalone street ATMs

• Daily withdrawal limits may be low—plan ahead

7. What to Pack for Cartagena

Essentials

• Light cotton clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunscreen (expensive locally)

• Hat and sunglasses

• Reusable water bottle

• Bug spray (for evenings & islands)

• Portable charger

Optional but useful

• Waterproof phone pouch

• Euro-to-Colombia adapter

• Lightweight rain jacket (May–Nov)

8. Transportation Tips

Cartagena is walkable in core areas, but transport is needed for longer trips.

Best Options:

• Uber/InDriver/Didi (safe, cheap, reliable)

• Taxis (ok if pre-negotiated)

• Private drivers for day trips

• Public buses exist but not tourist-friendly

Airport Tips (CTG):

• The airport is close to the city (10–15 mins)

• Expect occasional long taxi lines

• SIM cards available inside terminal

9. Eating & Drinking Tips

Food Must-Try Dishes

• Arepas de huevo

• Ceviche

• Coconut rice

• Posta Cartagenera

• Fresh fruit juices

Tips:

• Tap water is safe for locals, but many travelers prefer bottled

• Street food is generally safe but choose busy vendors

• Many restaurants add a “voluntary tip” to the bill—check before paying

10. Beach & Island Tips

Cartagena’s city beaches are fine, but the best beaches are in the Rosario Islands.

Best Options for First-Timers

• Playa Blanca (beautiful but crowded)

• Isla Barú private beach clubs

• Tierra Bomba (closer, more relaxed)

• Overnight stays for calmer experience

Island Tip: Bring cash—many beach clubs don’t accept cards.

11. Language Tips

Spanish is widely spoken; English is limited outside tourist zones.

Useful phrases:

• “No, gracias.” — No, thank you

• “¿Cuánto cuesta?” — How much?

• “¿Me puede ayudar?” — Can you help me?

• “Una cerveza, por favor.” — A beer, please

Locals appreciate any effort you make to speak Spanish.

12. Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

Politeness matters

Cartageneros are warm and friendly. Greet people before speaking:

• Buenos días (morning)

• Buenas tardes (afternoon)

Respectful behavior

• Dress modestly when entering churches

• Avoid photographing locals without permission

• Bargaining is acceptable in markets—respectfully

13. Connectivity & SIM Cards

Best networks: Claro → Tigo → Movistar

• Prices: €8–€15 for 20–30 GB

• SIM available at airport and malls

• Hotels often have weaker Wi-Fi—don’t rely on them

14. Day Trip Tips

Great for first-time visitors:

• Rosario Islands

• Isla Tierra Bomba

• La Boquilla Mangrove Canoe Tour

• San Basilio de Palenque

• Totumo Mud Volcano

Tip: Book early for islands on weekends.

15. Final Tips for Enjoying Cartagena

Do:

✓ Wander early morning (cooler & fewer crowds)
✓ Try fresh juices in the plazas
✓ Explore Getsemaní’s street art
✓ Watch the sunset from the city walls or a rooftop
✓ Carry small bills
✓ Stay hydrated

Don’t:

✗ Expect European-level service speed
✗ Wear flashy jewelry
✗ Overpack—humidity makes heavy clothes unbearable
✗ Feed street animals (many are monitored by NGOs)

Final Thoughts

Cartagena is a vibrant, colorful, sun-kissed destination that brings together Caribbean beauty, rich history, and joyful energy. With the right preparation—knowing how to navigate safety, weather, money, and local customs—your first trip will be filled with unforgettable experiences.