Help keep our prices low: Share with Friends
Cartagena, Colombia: An All-In-One Travel Guide
Cartagena, Colombia is a destination that might just have it all! The 500-year-old city is filled with history and intrigue. Yet, it’s also filled with color and life!
Join us to explore Cartagena, a walled city full of hidden depths—and joyous surprises.
Discover The Walled City of Cartagena: Seaside Landscapes, History & Culture
Cartagena, Colombia was first built in 1533. A port town crucial to international trade, it was a target of pirates and marauders. So, its leaders built walls of coral stone around the city’s borders. The walls were built in segments, and their arched gates and passageways have been preserved to this day.
Today, Cartagena, Colombia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protected and celebrated for its unique history and architecture.
Intrigued? Consider a few of the city’s highlights.
Tour Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (Cartagena Castle & Fort)
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is a 400-year-old fortification, built on the highest point of Cartagena. First built in 1536 to defend the port city from pirates, it was subsequently expanded in the 17th century, and it faced numerous sieges by the English and French.
The fortification protected the castle’s heart with a maze of tunnels, numerous parapets, and batteries. These enabled defenses from all angles at all times, so long as each parapet and battery was stationed.
Explore The Underground Maze of Tunnels
The beguiling network of underground tunnels forms a labyrinth that’s easily several kilometers long altogether. As you explore them, the castle’s storytellers bring its history to life. Skilled guides infuse the tunnels you traverse with context, historical narratives, and legends.
Boca del Puente (Grand Entrance)
The grand entrance of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is a majestic, raised cobblestone road, bordered on either side by setts in the medieval style.
The entrance is so beautiful, particularly during golden hour, it’s a popular location for local wedding and engagement photos.
Retreat To La Candelaria Monastery
Augustine monks began building the Monasterio de La Candelaria in 1597, and they spent the next sixty years bringing it to fruition. The monastery’s museum depicts much of its history.
It’s a wonderful space for peaceful contemplation. The monastery’s caves have grottos and centuries-old lamplight; the courtyard likewise offers plenty of tranquil spots and gardens.
Experience The Magic of Getsemani
Getsemai is a vibrant neighborhood tucked away in Old Town Cartagena. Every wall seems to reveal a new piece, from long, meticulous murals to splashy, punk-like street art—portraits, icons, and scenes of all kinds.
The neighborhood also offers a symphony of tastes. As a historic port town, Cartagena developed a unique culture of chocolate and rum, and many of Getsemani’s eateries offer tastings of both!
Coffee & Music In Plaza de la Trinidad
During the day, the Plaza de Trinidad, one of Getsemani’s central squares, is alive with the sound of music and the smell of freshly roasted coffee. Street musicians and performers often play, and you’ll never know what kind of show to expect!
Rum & Nightlife
After dark, affordable-yet-chic nightclubs awaken. Some are enclaves of jazz, sophisticated cocktails, and smooth conversation. Others invite you to spend the night on the dancefloor, jumpstarting a fiesta of live salsa, cumbia, and even retro champeta in the heart of Cartagena.
Savvy & Safe: Colombia Travel Tips
Getting To and From Cartagena
Most travelers get to Cartagena, Colombia by air, flying into the Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG). From there, most head to Old Town Cartagena by taxi or ride-sharing apps (although a few opt to rent bicycles).
Street Smart
Stay safe when traversing the streets. Don’t carry too much cash on your person, and stay alert to your surroundings. Thieves and scammers often target people distracted by their phones. Travel on foot in groups.
Staying Safe In The Heat
Cartagena, Colombia has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Prepare for heat and humidity by traveling with loose-fitting clothing, wearing sun protection, and drinking plenty of water.
Walking is the most used mode of transit, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Call 123 or 125 For Emergencies (Heat Stroke)
Stay alert and act quickly if you experience symptoms of heat stroke. Move immediately to a cool location, and drink cold fluids until your body’s temperature goes down.
Severe symptoms can require emergency medical services (EMS). In this case, call the emergency number provided by your hotel, or dial 123 for Colombia’s emergency services operator line, or 125 for emergency medical services specifically.
Spotlight: Caravan’s 10-Day Colombia Tour
Caravan’s all-inclusive tour of Colombia is ten days of extraordinary experiences.
During the last, three-day leg of the tour, guests stay in a seaside resort hotel. The days balance scheduled events with lively cultural experts, and freedom to explore the city’s surprises and delights on one’s own terms.
About Caravan
Since our company first launched in 1952, we’ve offered a great experience of our own: safe, all-inclusive tours of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.
Caravan has honed the art of crafting all-in-one travel packages, each guided by experts. Every affordable trip includes meals, transportation, and rooms—no strings attached!
At Caravan, we guarantee safety and adventure alike.
Take an unforgettable trip without the stress of planning it. Travel with Caravan, and we’ll do the work for you! Just call one of our agents at 1 (312) 321-9800, or call 1-800-CARAVAN.
2025 Hotels
2025 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are usually rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Days 1, 2, 3 • Bogotá
Bogotá Marriott Hotel
The hotel is four miles from Bogota’s El Dorado International Airport, in the city’s financial and entertainment district. The Marriott has 24 hour front desk reception, two restaurants, a bar, fitness center, indoor lap pool and full service spa. Free Wifi.
Days 4, 5, 6 • Medellín
Estelar Square Hotel
The hotel is ideally located in El Poblado, Medellin’s most exclusive area. The Estelar Square Hotel is within easy walking distance of the Santa Fe and Oviedo Malls. The hotel has 24 hour front desk reception, a restaurant, bar, rooftop pool and fitness center. Free Wifi.
Days 7, 8, 9 • Cartagena
Estelar Cartagena de Indias Hotel
The hotel is in the upscale Bocagrande neighborhood. It directly faces the beach, and is just a 20 minute walk to the Walled City of Cartagena. The hotel has 24 hour front desk reception, two restaurants and a lobby and pool bar. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, full-service spa, and beauty salon. Free Wifi.
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
arrival Transfers
Transfer on your own from the El Dorado International Airport (BOG) to Bogota Marriott Hotel (Av. El Dorado #69 B-53, Fontibon) in Bogota. Once you have exited customs and collected your baggage at the airport, proceed to the official taxi service known as “Imperial”. The Imperial kiosk is located as you exit baggage claims. Here you can request your taxi. The driving time from the airport to your hotel, Bogota Marriott Hotel, is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. You can pay using US Dollars, Colombian Pesos, or with a credit card. Taxi fares range from 40,000 - 60,000 Colombian Pesos, or $15 - $20 US Dollars (depending on the exchange rate) plus tip. ATMs and a currency exchange are available at the airport. When you arrive at your hotel, please identify yourself as a Caravan tour member to the front desk personnel.
departure Transfers
Caravan includes fixed departure transfers from your hotel to Cartagena’s Rafael Nunez International Airport (CTG), scheduled to arrive at 5:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. These transfers are only available at these set times on the day the tour ends. If you extend your stay in Colombia or if you wish to go at a different time, you will need to transfer on your own, at your own expense. Please ask the hotel bellman to arrange a taxi. Fares are approximately $25 U.S. Dollars per taxi, plus tip. The driving time from the hotel to the airport is usually 15 - 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
Colombia requires a current U.S. passport valid for six months after your date of entry. Non U.S. citizens, please check passport and visa requirements. Note: If you are travelling with children under 18 years old without both parents or legal guardians, you should carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws.
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Bogotá | Medellín | Cartagena | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 66/44 | 1.6 | 77/62 | 4.4 | 87/76 | 0.1 |
| Feb | 66/46 | 2.6 | 77/63 | 4.6 | 87/76 | 0.1 |
| Mar | 66/48 | 4.2 | 78/63 | 5.5 | 87/77 | 0.1 |
| Apr | 65/49 | 7.7 | 78/64 | 9.3 | 87/78 | 1.0 |
| May | 65/49 | 7.8 | 78/64 | 10.5 | 88/79 | 3.4 |
| Jun | 64/48 | 5.4 | 78/63 | 8.5 | 88/79 | 3.4 |
| Jul | 63/47 | 4.0 | 78/62 | 7.5 | 88/79 | 3.6 |
| Aug | 63/47 | 3.9 | 78/62 | 8.3 | 88/79 | 4.0 |
| Sep | 64/46 | 5.1 | 78/62 | 9.1 | 88/79 | 4.8 |
| Oct | 65/47 | 7.2 | 77/63 | 10.3 | 87/78 | 6.1 |
| Nov | 65/48 | 6.0 | 77/63 | 9.3 | 87/78 | 4.3 |
| Dec | 65/46 | 3.3 | 77/63 | 6.3 | 87/77 | 1.4 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bogotá | ||||||||||||
| temp | 66/44 | 66/46 | 66/48 | 65/49 | 65/49 | 64/48 | 63/47 | 63/47 | 64/46 | 65/47 | 65/48 | 65/46 |
| rainfall | 1.6 | 2.6 | 4.2 | 7.7 | 7.8 | 5.4 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 5.1 | 7.2 | 6.0 | 3.3 |
| Medellín | ||||||||||||
| temp | 77/62 | 77/63 | 78/63 | 78/64 | 78/64 | 78/63 | 78/62 | 78/62 | 78/62 | 77/63 | 77/63 | 77/63 |
| rainfall | 4.4 | 4.6 | 5.5 | 9.3 | 10.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 8.3 | 9.1 | 10.3 | 9.3 | 6.3 |
| Cartagena | ||||||||||||
| temp | 87/76 | 87/76 | 87/77 | 87/78 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 87/78 | 87/78 | 87/77 |
| rainfall | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 1.0 | 3.4 | 3.4 | 3.6 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 6.1 | 4.3 | 1.4 |
Clothing Tips
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are never required.
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. In a typical year, most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best air fare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
