General Safety Tips
• Cartagena's main neighborhoods, la ciudad vieja (old city), getsemaní, and bocagrande are safe and tourist friendly.
• However, be mindful of your belongings and aware of your surroundings - keep smartphones in bags/pockets (do not leave on tables), watch jewelry, keep purses/bags close (we suggest crossbody bags), and do not walk unaccompanied at night.
• A few words in Spanish go a long way! If you are approached by a street vendor and are not interested simply say "no, gracias."
✅ Cash. We recommend having some (~$20) USD on hand for taxis at the airport. Best way to get COP (pesos) at a good exchange rate would be to exchange before you leave, or take out at ATMs in CTG. Remember, Colombia is fairly cash based. Tips on how to withdraw cash at the airport here.