Cartagena is a beautiful Colombian city located along the coast in the northern part of Colombia. It is filled with many different interesting things to do including the Old Town, Getsamani and so much more. This article explores what you can do in Cartagena, Colombia and what you can’t miss.
THE HISTORY OF CARTAGENA
Cartagena also known as Cartagena de indias is a coastal Colombian town founded in 1533. The city is located in the northern part of Colombia along the Carribbean coast. During the colonial period Cartagena was used for trade between Spain and other allied empires.
There were many indigneous peoples living in the Cartagena region before the Spanish conquered the land. The Puerto Hormiga Culture was the first documented human civilization in the Cartagena region. Because of the long history of indigenous culture many locals have indigenous and spanish descent.
In addition to indigenous influence, Cartagena was unfortunatly the main port for slave trade from Africa into South America. The slave trade brought thousands of africans over to South America to be used for manual labor. The slave trade, the indigneous roots and the spanish colonial empire are what make up the culture and the people of modern day Cartagena.
10 THINGS TO DO IN CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA
Getsemani
Getsemani is a neighborhood in Cartagena. It is covered with beautiful murals and street art. A lot of trendy and popular hostels are located in this neighborhood. It is walking distance from the Old Town, which is convenient, and there are tones of great restaurants to chose from.
Old Town
Old Town Cartagena is the oldest part of the city. It is full of historical building, rich history and cultural experiences. There are many free walking tours that you can go on to learn more about Cartagena. The tours start at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. You can sign up online or go to the plaza between Old Town and Getsemani. The tours are called FREE but remember that they are tip based. An appropriate tip is anything from 15.000 – 30.000 pesos.
La Cevicherria
Located in Old Town Cartagena, La cevicherria is the place to go for all things ceviche. The food is spectacular and a must try when visiting Cartagena. Be sure to arrive an hour early so that you can add your name to the list. La cevicherria is a bit pricey but it is worth the money.
Scuba Diving La isla Grande
Diving off of Isla Grande is a great experience. if you are new to diving this is a perfect place to practice. The current is gentle, the water warm and clear and the people are great. If you are interested in diving look into diving with Diving Planet Cartagena.
You can learn more about diving off of Isla Grande here: Scuba Diving Off Of Isla Grande, Colombia
Day Trip to the Rosario Islands
The Rosario islands are located about an hour boat ride from the Cartagena port. If you are looking for beautiful tropical islands the Rosario islands are a great place to start. You can take an island tour for the day for anywhere between 150.000 COP – 350.000 COP.
La playa blanca
La playa blanca is a commonly visited beach just outside of Cartagena. However, do not expect a quiet and isolated beach. The beach is often very crowded on weekends so try to visit during the week. To get to the beach you can take the public bus that picks up at 8:00 am right outside of Media Luna Hostel.
Sunset at Cafe del Mar
Cafe del Mar is a popular spot to watch the sunset. It has music, drinks and a very social atmosphere. The downside is that everything is overpriced. Instead of going into the cafe buy some beers at a local store and sit right next to the cafe del mar. You will be able to watch the sunset for free.
Dancing at Cafe Havana
Cafe Havana is a cuban bar located in Getsemani. It costs 30.000 COP to enter and is open from 10:00pm to 4:00am . Live music starts at midnight and is followed by dancing. If you are looking for a salsateca to dance the night away this unfortunately is not the place. But Cafe Havana is a great place to go have a drink and listen to great salsa music.
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
This castle is a symbol of the colonial period in Cartagena. The castle is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm. Tickets cost 20.000COP for Colombians and 25.000COP for everyone else.
Parque del Centenario
Parque del Centenario is a public park located right outside the Old Town and Getsemani. At first look it is nothing special but if you look closely you can find tones of amazing animals. High up in the trees are sloths. In addition you can see giant iguanas and tiny little monkeys. The park is free to enter and open all day.
EXTRA ACTIVITY: Overnight Trip with Media Luna Hostel to Baru
Media Luna is a Hostel located in Cartagena. The hostel has a sister hostel that is in Baru. Media Luna has a overnight trip that they plan and sell for 160.000COP. The price includes transportation there and back, a bed, free breakfast and one lunch. The hostel in Baru is right on the ocean with a private beach, a restaurant, free kayaks and water shoes and great hammocks to relax in.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Overall, Cartagena is a must see when visiting Colombia. It is however, very hot so be prepared to sweat. It is best to visit for two or three days and then move on after that.
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