Your Team of Guides in Cartagena: Experience the Magic Like a Local

Yes, the main tourist areas like the Walled City and Getsemani are generally safe, especially during the day. However, it is always recommended to be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night in unlit areas, and travel with a certified local guide for the best experience.

The best time to visit Cartagena is from December to April. During these dry months, you will experience sunny skies and a pleasant tropical climate, making it ideal for walking tours, beach trips, and boat excursions to the Rosario Islands.

Hiring a private tour guide ensures a personalized, flexible, and stress-free experience. A knowledgeable local guide can help you avoid tourist traps, navigate the city efficiently, translate when necessary, and provide deep historical and cultural context that you would miss on your own.

Key attractions include the UNESCO-listed Walled City (Old Town), Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemani neighborhood, La Popa Convent, and the beautiful Rosario Islands.

While some high-end establishments and tour operators might accept US Dollars, it is highly recommended to use Colombian Pesos (COP) for daily transactions, restaurants, and street vendors to get the best exchange rate.

A 4 to 5-day trip is usually enough to explore the historical center, enjoy a local food tour, visit the main fortresses, and spend a relaxing day at the Rosario Islands.

You must try Arepa con Huevo, Ceviche, Coconut Rice, Fried Snapper, and exotic local fruits like Lulo and Granadilla. A local street food tour is the best way to taste these delicacies.

You can get by with English in major hotels, restaurants, and tours, but having a bilingual local guide significantly enhances your experience and helps you interact authentically with locals.

The cruise port is about a 10-15 minute taxi ride or private transfer from the Walled City. Pre-booking a shore excursion with a private guide ensures you are picked up exactly on time without haggling for rides.

The city beaches (like Bocagrande) are decent but have darker sand. For pristine, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water, taking a boat trip to the Rosario Islands or Baru is highly recommended.