Based on 19 experiences
Cartagena is a very touristic city, and as in any place, you should be careful with your belongings. I wouldn't recommend walking alone at night in areas that are not very crowded. It is a well-known destination both nationally and internationally, so I would recommend booking in advance to ensure the best rates and availability for the activities you want to do.
Posted: January 17, 2025Experienced: January, 2024Suhanna
Canada
For the most part I had a blast in Cartagena with my girlfriends and we ended up making a group of friends during our trip from a fun day tour. The food in Colombia in general is OKAY, the quality that we as tourists can afford is certainly higher than what is available to locals (which isn’t fair). I wouldn’t recommend visiting as a solo woman, had I not been with my friends I wouldn’t have felt as safe. The walled city is probably the safest area but the vendors in Cartagena are VERY aggressive (understandably so, the wealth disparities are extremely visible). While I had a fun time, it’s hard to relax on the beach of even the small islands as the vendors will be on you 24/7. A polite “no gracias” will be needed over and over. I recommend brushing up on your Spanish prior to visiting as English is not commonly spoken. Cartagena’s walled city is stunning, lots of beautiful architecture and sites. Getsemani was probably my favourite part of the city, just so beautiful especially with all of the art and appreciation/respect for Afro Colombian culture.
Posted: September 14, 2024Experienced: December, 2023