Cartagena: The Jewel of the Caribbean. History, Beaches, Food, Nightlife-This city has it all.
Cartagena is a beautiful and historic city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and delicious food. Here is a travel guide to help you make the most of your visit:
Accommodations:
Getsamani: This is a popular neighborhood for travelers, known for its vibrant street art and lively nightlife. There are a wide variety of accommodations available here, from budget-friendly hostels to more upscale boutique hotels.
Walled City: The Walled City is the historic center of Cartagena and is home to many of the city's most iconic sights. Visitors can stay in one of the many charming colonial-style hotels in the area.
Restaurants:
La Cevicheria: A must-visit for seafood lovers, this popular spot in the Walled City serves up delicious ceviche and other seafood dishes.
Donde Fidel: This restaurant in Getsemani serves up traditional Colombian food with a modern twist.
La Mulata: This restaurant is located in the Walled City and offers a wide variety of traditional Colombian dishes, including arepas and bandeja paisa.
Transportation:
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Cartagena and are a convenient way to get around the city. Be sure to use a reputable company and agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Buses: Buses are a cheap and convenient way to get around Cartagena and the surrounding areas. The main bus terminal is located in the city center.
Bikes: There are bike rental services available in the city, a great way to explore the city and its surroundings.
Island Trips:
Islas del Rosario: These beautiful islands are located just a short boat ride from Cartagena and are a popular destination for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. Rosario and Baru are known for their party atmosphere.
Playa Blanca: This is one of the most popular beaches in the area and is located on the nearby island of Baru. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island for a day of sun, sand, and swimming.
Isla Coralina: Also known as Coralina Island, this is a small island located in the Gulf of Morrosquillo, off the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It is located near the town of Turbaco, in the Bolivar department. The island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life. It is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling, as well as for those seeking a peaceful, natural environment.
The island's main attraction is diving, with a diverse array of coral reefs and marine life, such as schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The island is also home to several shipwrecks, which can be explored by divers. The island is also a great place for snorkeling, with a variety of shallow coral reefs that can be accessed directly from the beach.
The island is also a perfect destination for beach lovers, with several miles of pristine beaches, many of which are secluded and ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are also a few small restaurants on the island, which serve fresh seafood and traditional Colombian dishes, and a few small shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs and beachwear.
Isla Coralina is a small island, and the only way to get there is by boat, usually from the nearby town of Turbaco. Visitors can take a day trip or stay overnight on the island at one of the simple but comfortable accommodations. Keep in mind that the island is mostly unspoiled, with limited services and infrastructure, so visitors should be prepared to bring along all necessary supplies and be self-sufficient.
The island is also a great spot for bird watching, as is home to a variety of tropical bird species. The island's natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some time in nature.
Fishing:
Cartagena is a great place for fishing, both in the sea and in the river. Visitors can take a fishing tour with a local guide and try their hand at catching a variety of fish, such as snapper, grouper and tuna.
Nightlife and Dancing:
Cartagena is known for its lively nightlife scene, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.
Visitors can also find salsa dancing classes and socials around the city, a great way to experience the local culture and learn some new moves.
Food Markets:
Mercado de Bazurto: This is the largest market in Cartagena, located in the Getsemani neighborhood. Here you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Colombian snacks and street food.
Mercado de San Francisco: This market is located in the city center and is known for its selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as its traditional Colombian food vendors.
Day Long Road Trips:
Palenque: This is a small Afro-Colombian village located a short distance from Cartagena. Visitors can take a tour to learn about the village's history and culture, and see the traditional palenque houses.
Mud volcano: The Totumo mud volcano is located about an hour from Cartagena. Visitors can take a tour to the volcano to experience the therapeutic mud bath.
Keep in mind, that it's always important to stay informed about any travel advisories or safety concerns before planning your trip to Cartagena, as conditions can change. Additionally, it's always a good idea to let someone know your itinerary and to keep a copy of important documents such as your passport and travel insurance information with you at all times.
When exploring the Walled City, don't miss some of the main attractions such as the Palace of the Inquisition, the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, and the Clock Tower. Also, take time to stroll along the historic streets, admire the colorful colonial architecture, and take in the vibrant street art.
When it comes to island trips, be sure to plan ahead and book your tour or boat transportation in advance, particularly during peak travel season. Also, keep in mind that many of the islands have limited facilities, so bring along plenty of sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks.
For fishing, it's important to research the different types of fishing available in the area, as well as the best time of year to catch certain types of fish. It's also a good idea to bring your own fishing equipment if you have it, or to inquire about rental options.
For the day trips, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring along sunscreen, hats, and water. Also, keep in mind that some areas may be quite hot, so it's best to plan your trip for early in the day or later in the afternoon.
Aside from the main sights and activities that I've previously mentioned, there are several other things to see and do in Cartagena that you might consider adding to your itinerary:
Visit the Museo del Oro: The Gold Museum is located in the Walled City and offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the region. The museum has a large collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts, as well as other indigenous objects and art.
Take a walking or bicycle tour: Cartagena has a rich history and culture, and taking a walking tour with a local guide is a great way to learn more about the city and its sights. There are several different tour options available, from food tours to historical tours, and from street art tours to photo tours.
Go shopping: Cartagena is a great place to shop for traditional Colombian crafts and souvenirs. The Walled City and Getsemani are great places to find local artisans selling handmade jewelry, textiles, and other crafts.
Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: The castle is located on a hilltop overlooking the city and offers great views of the Walled City and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can take a tour of the castle to learn about its history and architecture.
Visit the Convento de la Popa: This is a former convent located on a hilltop above the city. It offers panoramic views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea and is a popular spot for sunset viewing.
Visit the neighborhood of Manga: This is a residential neighborhood located on a peninsula across the bay from the Walled City. It's a great place to take a stroll, enjoy the sea views and local street food.
Take a cooking class: Cartagena is known for its delicious seafood, traditional Colombian dishes, and Caribbean flavors. Taking a cooking class is a great way to learn more about the local cuisine and how to prepare it.
Cartagena is a vibrant and fascinating destination with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or nature, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Remember that it's always a good idea to plan ahead, research your options, and be prepared for any eventuality.With a bit of planning and preparation, you can make the most of your trip and have a truly unforgettable experience.
