Walking is a great way to get around the historic old town of Cartagena. The entire area can be explored by foot and this way, you’ll see all the amazing design and wonder of this fascinating area. Most places in the Bocagrande area are also easily within walking distance.

Buses are not recommended for Cartagena. Getting around by bus can be tricky at best because there are no printed maps to guide you. Taxis are preferred for a less confusing experience.

Taxi is the preferred way to get around in Cartagena. There is an abundance of taxis to select from very few will cost more than a few dollars (USD) for a ride to just almost anywhere in the city. If you would like a special ride take the old-fashioned way to your destination, consider a Horse-drawn carriage. There are regular drivers with their horse and cart waiting for passengers at the Santa Clara Hotel and at the Plaza Bolivar. You can also wave down a driver when you need a ride. The price of taxis from the port into the Old Town has risen. The taxis from the port has increased the fare from about $10 to a minimum of $20. Be careful some drivers will try to charge whatever they can get away with. Always negotiate before getting in a cab in Cartagena.

Cartagena Colombia is served by Rafael Nunez International Airport (IATA code CTG) which is located 7.1 miles northwest of the Cartagena center. If you have not booked a private transfer with us, a taxi is the recommended transportation from the airport. A taxi from the airport to the center of Cartagena will cost approximately 20,000 Colombian Pesos (about $6.50 USD). There will be taxis waiting at Rafael Nunez International Airport or by calling +57 315 8993583.

Yes, for the most part, it is safe. Travelers rave about Cartagena saying it’s beautiful and safer than other South American countries as long as you stick to the popular tourist destinations and do not wander off the beaten path. Ask the locals or other travelers which areas to avoid. Crime in Colombia is not as bad as it once was, but you need to use be cautious and use common sense to stay safe. The number of kidnappings is down dramatically from its peak in 2000, but it’s a threat that occasionally exists.

US dollars and credit cards are not accepted at most stores or restaurants. ATMs are available in the city center, but not outside the tourist center. The currency used locally is the Colombian Peso. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for Colombian Pesos upon arrival. Also, traveler`s checks are near impossible to cash and not useful for a trip to Cartagena.

No, very few Colombians speak English. The most common language in Colombia is Spanish which is spoken by 99.2 percent of Colombians. English may be spoken at your hotel and in the tourist areas, but is not common elsewhere. We suggest you purchase a good English- Spanish dictionary and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as basic greetings and numbers 1-10.