FAQs

Question

Is it Safe for Tourists in Cartagena, Colombia?

Answer

Cartagena is a safe city and has been for many years. You will find many police officers in touristy areas like the walled city or La Ciudad Amurallada, Getsemaní, and Bocagrande. Avoid drug dealers and prostitutes, watch out for pickpockets, and you should not encounter any safety issues. Still, don't forget your travel insurance! La ciudad amurallada or el centro it is the most touristic area of Cartagena. It’s also one of the favorite areas to go out for travelers. You’ll find nightclubs, luxury hotels, and rooftops. There is a strong police presence, day and night. Beware of pickpockets, though. You will find some bars and restaurants open until 11-12 pm. As long as there are people in the alleys, no worries. Afterward, I would advise you to call a taxi if you need to return to your hotel. Getsemaní is a neighborhood that is great for young travelers who want to enjoy Cartagena’s nightlife without breaking the bank. It’s my favorite neighborhood to go out because the atmosphere seems more authentic. No security concerns during the day and early evening. Afterward, some of the alleys become a bit dodgy and deserted. Once again, as long as people are on the streets, you can walk. Bocagrande is the modern area of Cartagena, with seaside skyscrapers. Many locals choose to stay there because it is closer to the beach and the accommodation prices are more economical. You’ll also find many beach resorts. Avoid venturing onto the beach at nightfall because there is no public lighting. For the rest, there is nothing to worry about.

Question

Pickpockets

Answer

To avoid them, you must use your common sense: Don’t keep anything in your back pockets. Don’t show off with your valuables. Don’t leave your stuff unattended (restaurants, beaches).

Question

Double-Check the Bill

Answer

Check that you have not been given an extra drink or dish at the bar or restaurant. You will also observe that most add a line “propina voluntaria.” This corresponds to a tip of 10% of the bill. You do not have to pay for it — although it is customary to do so if you are satisfied with the service.

Question

The Guy Who Wants to Sell You the Perfect Tour

Answer

My advice is the following: don’t buy tours in the street. Mainly for 3 reasons: They’ll tell you anything to get you to buy the tour. You’ll always end up paying more than the official price. They may take your money and not take you anywhere.

Question

Street Sellers Inside the Old Walled City

Answer

You’ll meet street sellers who want to sell you hats, cigars, and so on. Don’t hesitate to bargain. A hat should cost from 20 to 40,000 COP - $5 to $10 dollars. When you visit Cartagena, you will also meet the palenqueras. They are women dressed in colorful clothes and with a fruit basket on their heads —they traditionally come from the village of Palenque. To make a living, they offer tourists to take pictures of them. In exchange, you give them a tip. It should 10 to 20,000 COP - $3 to $5 dollars per palenqueras. Finally, you will also be the “victim” of the rappers. They carry around a speaker and do improvised raps on passers-by. Don’t hesitate to tell them “no gracias” from the beginning and then let them sing. You can also enter one of the many coffee shops to escape them. They are looking for a tip.

Question

Oyster Sellers, Shrimp Sellers, and Masseuses

Answer

You’ll find them on the beach, trying to offer you a free sample. Keep in mind this: It’s NEVER free. Always refuse the free sample. Then, you can ask for the price if you’re interested. The masseuses will try to give you a "free massage" but IT'S NOT TRUE. BE CAREFUL. A full body massage on the beach shouldn’t be over 100,000 COP - $25 dollars. Better to avoid this kind of services.