Cartagena, Colombia, was such a great city to experience! Check out my previous post where I shared the itinerary of my trip with my friend to Cartagena! It was the perfect mixture of old-world charm, relaxing beach views, and tropical vibes. Although I did research before my trip there, there were a few things I wish I knew before the trip, and what others should know before going. Whether you’re a solo traveler or heading to Cartagena with a group, here are a few things you need to know before going to Cartagena:

1. Currency $$$

Before you even step foot in Cartagena, it’s helpful to know the local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Many businesses accept credit cards, but it’s better to carry cash for small purchases like street food or for souvenirs. You can exchange money at the airport or use ATMs throughout the city, but be cautious of fees (I personally prefer going to the ATM at the airport). 

Side note concerning money: When paying your bill at restaurants, the tip may already be included, or you can tip 10%.

2. Finding the Right Area to Stay

Cartagena is a diverse city with different vibes in various neighborhoods. I recommend staying near the Walled City. My friend and I stayed in the Getsemaní area, which has art murals, vibrant nightlife, and other affordable accommodations. Bocagrande, on the other hand, is a beachside district with resorts and modern amenities, which I would also recommend.

3. Dealing with Street Vendors

One of the things you’ll quickly notice in Cartagena is the presence of street vendors, offering everything from handmade jewelry to refreshing fruit. If you aren’t interested in what they are selling, it is okay not to engage and politely walk away. There may be instances where they may follow you a few steps if they perceive you want to buy something from them. Again, it’s best to politely decline and walk away if you aren’t interested, as they can sometimes be persistent. I had to mentally remind myself that it’s their hustle and they need money too. Also, taking a photo with the Palenque ladies was NOT free. I thought I would just be taking a picture with one, but then two more walked up. I ended up having to pay all three. While it was only around $10 USD, it is wise to ask them upfront how much it would cost to take a picture with them.

4. Airport Customs and Immigration Lines

Upon arrival, be prepared for long waits at customs and immigration when arriving and leaving. My friend and I waited for 2 hours upon arrival and I believe it took around 1.5 hours when going through the line before boarding to leave. While the process is straightforward, it can take time, especially during peak travel seasons and times of the day (I’ve heard it’s better the earlier you arrive). Make sure you have all your documents ready, and I recommend packing snacks and water to keep comfortable during the wait.

5. Be Prepared for the Heat

Cartagena has a tropical climate, meaning it’s hot and humid year-round. Lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, and plenty of sunscreen are a must (I’m just recovering from getting sunburned). If you’re going out during the day, try your best to stay hydrated.

6. Phone Apps

If you aren’t fluent in Spanish, I recommend downloading a translation app, such as Google Translate, before you go. Everyone there does not speak English. I also recommend having the Uber app downloaded. The cost of all of our trips over 4 days only totaled to $32 USD. Before going, I heard people share that taxi drivers will tell you that Uber is illegal, which is untrue. It’s just a ploy for you to pay them much more than you would for Uber. Earlier, I mentioned currency. Additionally, I recommend having a currency app on your phone so you can approximate how much it translates into USD. For iPhone users, there is a way to set up your calculator as a currency converter. 

These gems should help you know what to expect before traveling to Cartagena. It’s a great getaway, and I recommend visiting the city at least once. Cheers to more adventures!