Must-Know Tips for Traveling to Cartagena Colombia

by - 4/19/2018 12:00:00 AM



The New York Times voted Cartagena the number #2 travel destination of 2018. I recently traveled to Cartagena Colombia (you can read all about it here) and I honestly had so many questions prior to traveling and after my trip. Below, I’m sharing some must-know tips to traveling to Cartagena Colombia, Whether it’s on your bucket list or even if you have a trip planned for this year. These are tips that you should keep in mind prior to visiting.

Money

The currency in Colombia is Pesos. Some places do accept credit cards. However, I would suggest possibly exchanging money with your bank prior to visiting Colombia. Know that there are plenty of ATM’s everywhere from hotels to supermarkets. But to start off. I would suggest exchanging at least $100 if you’re traveling solo and staying in a tourist area. Remember that most places will have different rates.
Even some of the well know restaurants still don’t accept credit cards so please keep this in mind. Also, make sure that you’re using a credit/debit card that doesn’t have any foreign transaction fees.

Credit Cards

As prior stated, credit cards are accepted at most locations. The only time I mostly used pesos is when I dined or if you decide to purchase something from a street vendor.

Transportation

I honestly used Uber for most of my transportation needs. I wanted to know how much it was going to cost me upfront and I honestly didn’t feel like negotiating any prices with a taxi driver. I did take a cab from the airport. Colombia also had bus service. It didn’t make much of a huge difference budget wise for me to take the bus. So I opted to use Uber.

Coffee

Yes, you can bring coffee on a carry on bag. I believe there is a limit though to the amount that you can bring.

Transportation From The Airport

You can set up transportation on your own through a transportation company. When you exit the airport. Money exchange is on your right and right next to it, is the kiosk for taxis. Someone is also outside setting up transportation and there is taxi line. You can go directly to the person or use the kiosk.


Excursions/ Tours

I didn’t do any excursions or tours. However, there are plenty offered. I know a lot of people used some that are posted on Trip Advisor. Make sure to do your due diligence when booking a trip.


Spanish/English

Spanish is spoken in Colombia. Most people that I encountered did not speak English that was from Colombia. If you do not speak Spanish. I would highly suggest using Google translate. I had phrases saved in my note section with a header in English so I could remember what the phrase for. If you’re taking a taxi or planning on wandering off and you don’t have WiFi. Save the information. I do not speak Spanish, read or even write it. However, I didn’t allow that to stop me. I know the common phases which helped a lot.


Have you visited Cartagena Colombia? Do you have any trips planned?

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20 comments

  1. These are awesome travel tips. I am not sure if I will ever make it to Columbia or not, but at least I will be prepared if I go.

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  2. Good traveling tips for those thinking about traveling to Columbia. Columbia is one place we have never thought about visiting but who knows we could always change our mind.

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  3. These are great tips! I'd probably use that translator app for sure. I don't speak a lot of Spanish. I'd also be sure to exchange some money.

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  4. Thanks for the tips. I've never been there but now I know a couple of tips. And who would've thought of using Uber.

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  5. I love to travel and I love learning about traveling. This post is definitely informative. I've never thought that places don't take credit cards. That is definitely something to keep in mind when traveling and I never thought of it.

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  6. Columbia must be so beautiful to visit! My husband speaks Spanish so we would be good for that in terms of communication!

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  7. Great tips! We're a travel junkie family, and may one day make our way to Colombia.

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  8. These tips are SO SO SO great to know because traveling to another country that doesn't speak the same language as what you speak can be intimidating and overwhelming! When I went to Africa I was so so so happy I planned everything in advance! We had a driver waiting for us at the airport!

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  9. I would love to visit Columbia eventually. It's on my list! Hopefully once the kids are grown :)

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  10. Colombia is in one of our must visit destination someday. I would love to explore there with my family. I love everything that you have shared. I am excited even more to go.

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  11. Thanks for sharing your tips. We traveled to Ecuador years ago, and we did so much research before going. I would love to visit Colombia next time we travel to South America.

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  12. These are great tips especially the money and coffee. I agree, it is better to bring the currency of money they use before you go.

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  13. I had some friends who just went to Rome and they brought coffee back with them. They were able to bring more back than they realized.

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  14. I've never been to Colombia. I do love to travel and wish I could afford to do it more often.

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  15. Haven't visited Columbia before but I was recently in Mexico and you're right about the foreign transaction rates on ATM and credit cards. I used my card that didn't charge such but my travel mate, well she didn't and she had a nice little surprise added to her credit card when she glanced at her bill.

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  16. i have never been to Columbia but, I have many colombian friends though.They have always said it’s a great place to visit. These tips are great if I ever go

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  17. I've never been there! I've never heard of this place on internet either! Sounds like a great place to visit!

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  18. Love Colombian music,food and people, so just might be traveling up there some day. Thinking BB's Spanglish will be understandable to most there. Gracias for the tips. BB2U

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  19. I have friends in Cartagena that I would love to visit one day. Thanks for the tips!

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  20. These are some great tips for when you are travelling to another place you are unfamiliar with. You gave some valuable info. I definitely would have been unprepared.

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