CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA
Some would say that Cartagena is the most beautiful city in South America and I would find it hard to argue with them! Cartagena is situated on the Caribbean coast, is home to a tropical climate, and is just a short boat ride from some of Colombia’s most beautiful islands. In addition to this, one stroll through town will expose you to lively colors and gorgeous architecture! This city is a must-visit!
Attractions:
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas: This is the main attraction in Cartagena and costs 25,000 COP (between $7-$8 USD) to enter. Watching the sunset over Cartagena with the giant Colombian flag waving in the foreground is something I highly recommend! Don’t forget to explore the tunnels!
Walk around the colorful city: This Caribbean city is known as being one of the most photogenic in the world. The colors are truly beautiful and you will find yourself wanting to take lots of pictures! Be sure to walk through the main city gate - Puerta del Reloj.
Baru and/or Rosario Islands: These two islands are a short boat ride from Cartagena. Here, you can snorkel, relax on the beach, swim in the bioluminescence, and explore even more islands. Note: The boat times can be inconsistent so give yourself time to get out there. The boats also tend to be commuter boats - dropping off and picking up people along the way.
Los Zapatos Viejos: This small statue is something I wouldn’t go out of my way for but is a short 5 minute walk from the castle.
Totumo Mud Volcano Tour: The day tour costs 40,000 COP and is a 4 hour excursion in total (1 hour of driving to the site followed by climbing the volcano, jumping in the mud bath, washing off in the lake, eating, and driving 1 hour back to town).
Other things to do: Walls of Cartagena, Palace of Inquisition, Las Bóvedas, and Iglesia de San Pedro Claver.
Accommodation:
Selina: Social hostel with a rooftop bar. It is very well located and isn’t a bad spot to stay! You may be able to do better though.
Transportation:
Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) is a 20 minute taxi ride from Cartagena’s Old Town and costs between 15,000-20,000 COP. There are also colectivo buses that pick up on the road outside the airport that cost 2,000 COP.
Note: All buses from Cartagena will run in and out of Terminal de Cartagena.
Santa Marta is 5 hours by bus (via Barranquilla) from Cartagena and costs 25,000 COP if you book via your hostel. If you book online, you’ll have to buy two separate tickets. Cartagena to Barranquilla (2 hours; 15,000 COP) and Barranquilla to Santa Marta (2 hours; 15,000 COP). This route can also be done by direct, private tourist minivan (5 hours; 120,000 COP); these vans hold 14-20 passengers.
Medellín is 14 hours by bus from Cartagena and costs 170,000 COP. The flight is slightly over 1 hour and costs between 130,000-250,000 COP on LATAM, Avianca, or Viva Air.
Bogotá is 21 hours by bus from Cartagena and costs 235,000 COP. The flight is 1.5 hours and costs between 130,000-525,000 COP on LATAM or Viva Air.
