Cartagena de Indias, Colombia attracts travelers from around the world to experience its many highlights: battleground history, revolutionary culture, picture-perfect cobblestone streets, and sizzling beaches.
I spent a week in this Caribbean hub while traveling through Colombia, but I put together this Cartagena itinerary for you to experience all the best sights in just 3 days. If you have more time, feel free to take it slower!
What is Cartagena Known for?
In all my travels, Cartagena is one of the brightest, most vibrant towns I have ever seen in the world.
This culturally-diverse travel destination, constructed with 16th-century buildings from past Spanish rule, comes to modern life with African languages, music, and food: traditions that have flourished since Cartagena’s independence.
You will visit many sunny plazas on this Cartagena itinerary.
It wasn’t always so bright and cheerful, however. After the land was claimed by the indigenous people, the Spanish “founded” Cartagena and ruled from 1533-1810, where it became an epicenter of the slave trade.
However, in 1691 the Africans in the walled city of Palenque were granted freedom - becoming the first free sanctuary in the Americas. As a result, the Afro-Colombian culture has been preserved over the last 500 years.
Why is the old city surrounded by walls? Well, Cartagena’s prime location allowed it to become the access point to South America - and tales of treasures. Pirates sailing along the Caribbean were seeking silver, gold, and other assets, which resulted in the Spanish building fortress walls to protect them from attacks.
The view of the Caribbean coast from Cartagena’s walled city.
Today, Cartagena is experiencing a cultural renaissance, now known as a global destination for its sunshine, soul, art, flavors, dance, architecture, and tropical islands. It is still the most important port of Colombia in the Caribbean for the trading of goods, and the second-largest city in Colombia’s Caribbean after Barranquilla.
Places to Visit in Cartagena
While greater Cartegena is comprised of many more neighborhoods, this itinerary revolves around the 3 main touristic areas: historical Old Town Cartagena, artsy Getsemani, and the tropical beaches (specifically Rosario Islands).
Old Town Cartagena (the Walled City)
Also referred to as The Walled City, Old Town is the most photographed part of Cartagena: those colorful streets full of colonial architecture, flower-bursting balconies, and Spanish-style cathedrals.
Old Town Cartagena is lined with beautifully preserved buildings from the Inquisition period.
The walled city, castle, and monuments have been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site due to their historical significance. The high walls protected the trade city during attacks like the Battle of Cartagena de Indias in 1741.
Getsemani
While bustling Old Town welcomes you with loud streets, ecstatic vendors, and rows of attractions, Getsemani is the historical center’s cool down-to-earth cousin to the south, complete with hidden gems and secret pathways.
The main highlight of Getsamani is the multitude of street art; it’s practically a walking gallery! Characterized by crime in the past, Getsemani is now a point of interest known for its murals, nightlife, and plazas peddled with cheap street food.
Getsemani, Colombia is colored with edgy art on every corner.
Getsemani is also very popular with backpackers due to its many hostels, and more local-centric restaurants and nightclub options.
Islands vs. Beaches
Though Cartagena delights with history and culture, you’re probably looking forward to hitting the beautiful beaches for a day or two!
There are a few options for beachgoers staying in Cartagena: staying on the shore near Bocagrande or taking a boat to the nearby islands.
Our view of Isla Grande when we arrived at the dock!
Seeking tranquility away from the crowds, I chose to visit the most private beach at Isla Grande in the Rosario Islands. Located one hour away from Cartagena by boat, the 20 small islands comprise a national park full of biodiversity and a coral reef. Isla Grande is the closest island, and you can stay overnight or for just the day. I’ll give you all the details on how it went in the Day 3 section!
On the other hand, you can simply visit the beaches in Bocagrande on your own by taxi or on a boat tour. The convenience is traded for peace and quiet, as these beaches attract lots of partygoers and hustling vendors, and many reviews claim the beaches are not as pristine. I hate large tourist crowds, so I didn’t go (but if you want to rage, by all means!).
Relaxing on the Rosario Islands was a highlight of our itinerary. Sometimes it’s fun to just do nothing.
Lastly, for a closer island that is less rowdy than Bocagrande but not as far or pricey as the private beaches of Rosario, you could take a boat to Tierra Bomba just off the coast. I’ve read Costa Azul is nice there. As far as the island of Baru, the beaches are gorgeous, but the negatives I have read about Playa Blanca are tourists getting overcharged/scammed and more aggressive vendors. I understand the hustle, but it’s something to consider.
While this Cartagena itinerary will detail my experience in Rosario Islands, you can make the choice for yourself depending on your budget and interests.
3 Day Cartagena Itinerary
Cost: mid-range / budget
This itinerary is perfect for mid-range or budget travelers. If you’re like me, I prefer to save on accommodations and shopping, but splurge more on attractions and experiences.
Things do cost a bit more in Cartagena than in other parts of Colombia, but it still remains an affordable destination in my experience.
Traveler type: any
This blog focuses on solo backpackers, but couples and groups can also follow this itinerary as Cartagena appeals to all types of travelers.
I did half of the activities on this Cartagena itinerary solo, and half with my friend Lindsay, who makes a great subject!
Days: 3
This is a 3-day itinerary, but you can certainly stretch it out to 4 or 5 days to have more ‘relax time’ in Cartagena.
Interests: diverse
If you’re interested in art, history, beaches, food, culture, architecture, nightlife, and a little magic - you will find all of it in this Cartagena itinerary.
Transportation: walk, boat, taxi
You can walk almost anywhere in the Old Town and Getsemani. If you choose to visit the islands, you will take a boat. Uber and taxis are prevalent in Cartagena, but the former is technically illegal (though everyone uses Uber anyway).
Old Town is definitely the most photographed part of Cartagena.
Day 1: Old Town Cartagena
DayTIME: Walk through Centro Historico - the Walled City
Either with a free walking tour or on your own, you’ll want to explore the historical center first within the walled city. I found it fun to roam around with a camera and no plan on my own, because the walking tours do not go inside the buildings.
Here are a few significant highlights in Old Town Cartagena:
Muelle de los Pegasos: The marina is technically not inside the walled city, but it’s the epic gateway! If you’re coming from Getsemani, you’ll stroll along the harbor, admiring the boats and pegasus statues on your way to the main attraction.
Monumento Torre del Reloj: This 19th-century clock tower outlines a striking entrance to the walled city, where things will start to get a bit crazy.
The Monumento Torre de Reloj is your grand entrance to the Walled City.
Plaza de los Coches: One foot in the door and you might be overwhelmed with color and excitement already! Dodge the vendors when you enter this lively plaza and you’ll get your first looks of the old city: yellow archways, shopping opportunities, and occasional street performers.
Portal de los Dulces: Speaking of yellow arches, inside the plaza you’ll find the portal to sweets, featuring traditional desserts from Cartagena and the region of Bolivar.
Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandria: You will probably recognize this cathedral as one of the most photographed buildings in Cartagena, and the perfect backdrop for every photo.
You’ll spot the Catedral de Santa Catalina in all your friends’ Cartagena photos… maybe you can take a better photo than me!
Santuario de San Pedro Claver: a beautiful church built for St. Pedro, a Spanish priest who dedicated his life to help abolish slavery. There is a museum inside the church as well to learn more about this history.
Palacio de la Inquisicion: This historical museum tells dark stories of Cartagena’s fragmented past, allowing you to learn about the real side of unadulterated history.
Museo de Arte Moderno Cartagena - Taking a break from old times, you can peruse an intimate collection of modern works from Latin American artists in this small museum.
Casa de Gabriel Garcia Marquez: While there isn’t much to see here besides a coral orange wall, readers of Colombian author Marquez may like to make a stop to see his old house by the coast.
I stopped by one of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s houses, author of 100 Days of Solitude.
Las Bovedas: Now converted to shopping stalls - these cells used to be part of 18th-century dungeons!
Museo de la Esmerelda and Museo del Oro - Interested in that pirate treasure we talked about? The Museum of Emerald and Museum of Gold are small information centers to take a break on your walk and view sparkling relics.
Lunch: Seafood or Street Food
Cartagena’s restaurants have a global influence, but if you want to try a fresh catch from the region, it’s the perfect place to have seafood.
While “La Cevicheria” restaurant was highlighted by Anthony Bourdain on his foodie adventures, you can try ceviche on most menus in Cartagena.
Other traditional options include pescado del dia (fried fish of the day), camarones (shrimp), cazuela de mariscos (seafood soup), arroz de mariscos (seafood rice), or posta negra (not fish, but a local saucey beef dish).
The best (and cheapest) lobster I’ve ever eaten was not in Cartagena exactly, but actually the Rosario Islands. Blessed memories…
Vegetarian readers can enjoy sancocho, a vegetable soup. For more non-meat options, a popular veggie-friendly restaurant in Old Town Cartagena is Gokela.
For a street snack, readers can indulge in arepas, a Colombian staple. You’ll see these fried cornmeal cakes stuffed with cheese, eggs, banana, or meat. I also love to buy a cup of tropical fruit on those hot days… much cheaper than where I’m from!
Evening: Sunset at the Wall
I don’t know how or why the sunsets in Old Town Cartagena are so magical, but the colors over the water are seriously stunning. Consequently, a favorite local and tourist pastime is enjoying drinks atop the wall while watching the sunset.
Meeting up at the wall with friends is a local fave.
For budget travelers, you can grab drinks on your own and have a picnic at the wall’s edge. It can be a bit windy at sunset as the hot day turns cooler.
However, the most popular dinner spot for a sunset view is Cafe Del Mar. Reservations are recommended, as this hotspot is always listed at the top of every Cartagena itinerary. I’ll admit I skipped dining at Cafe del Mar due to the high prices, but it’s a top recommendation for the view itself.
Night: Ride the Chiva Party Bus
All aboard the chiva! When walking around at night, you will surely see - and definitely hear - these loud decked-out school buses full of people dancing and blaring music through the streets.
The chiva party bus goes hard in the paint all over Colombia.
I like the party bus option because it starts and ends early, in case you are tired after a long day. After leaving at 8 or 8:30, the buses will drive you around through Laguito, Bocagrande, Centro, Castillo Grande, Manga, and Pie de la Popa before stopping at Los Bovedas in the historical center for an hour where you can mingle with folks from other chivas, dance or eat a snack. Then, they drop you off at a nightclub where you can stay as long as you want, or leave with the bus later and get home by midnight.
Of course, the bus includes an open bar! And, it’s popular with all ages of travelers.
Day 2: The Castle & Getsemani
Morning: Visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
In the morning, head to Cartagena’s sturdy fortress. You’ll beat the heat and the crowds if you get there on the early side (it opens at 7AM).
Built atop a green hill, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas gives you the best view of Cartagena from downtown to the sea!
You can view downtown Cartagena from the peak of the castle.
Besides offering a panoramic vista, this 17th-century fortress allows visitors to stroll through an elaborate tunnel system. The echoing acoustics of the tunnels allowed Cartagena’s military to hear any sound of possible enemies approaching.
Around the corners of the military structure, you’ll find canons, weapons, hideaways, and sniper vantage points.
Our introduction to El Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas.
Cost: You can choose to purchase a guided tour when you arrive, but we preferred to walk around on our own. The entrance cost in 2022 was 27,000 pesos (about $6 USD).
Duration: We spent about an hour exploring the castle walls. Bring water and sunscreen; there is a steep, hot climb to the top.
How to get there: We walked about 20 minutes from the walled city to the castle, but you can also take a short taxi ride there if the heat gets to you.
Lunch: Eat a Caribbean bowl
Tired of all the meat and fried food? Get your nutrients at El Bololó - Bowls del Caribe. I found this hidden place when looking up healthier options, and it’s located right in Plaza de la Trinidad.
The bowls were tasty, fresh, and a colorful alternative to much of the food I had been eating in South America for months.
Sweet and savory Caribbean flavors, with some much needed produce after all the fried food.
Afternoon: Stroll among street art & galleries in Getsemani
Thought-provoking and outspoken murals are the spotlights of Getsemani’s hip neighborhood. But it’s not ‘hip’ as if hipsters have taken over. On the contrary, Getsemani is a welcoming environment in the most real, authentic way, with the true grit of an artist.
You can easily spend hours walking around Getsemani, finding creative treasures of expression on each corner. However, I also really enjoyed browsing the art galleries (some being outside because this is Cartagena). You can speak with talented artists and purchase something small or unique to take home with you.
This street in Getsemani was practically an outdoor gallery.
If walls could talk, I’d let them speak for themselves. Feel free to let me know to credit any of these amazing artists.
Sunset: Waterfront dining at the Terraza Municipal
Want to eat gourmet bites under the sky without having to sit in a restaurant? The Terraza Municipal is a collection of counter-serve restaurants along Getsemani’s harbor that serves as an outdoor food court with chill lounge chairs. It still feels upscale as you have wait service and quality food options.
Eating burritos on the waterfront terrace in sun-soaked delirium.
One of my favorite moments in Cartagena was dining here with a friend, watching the dancing lights on the bay as the boats sailed by. We could each order from different restaurants, but still sit together and enjoy the perfect weather at sunset (we could, but actually both decided to get burritos. Must be the California in me).
Night: Visit a Nightclub
For well-visited nightclub options in Getsemani that won’t break the bank, head to Mister Babilla (popular on weekends) or Taboo Disco Club (any night) for a solid dose of rumba: hip-shaking dance!
This Cartagena Itinerary wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Cafe Havana, a spot world-famous for its live music parties. It’s not in Getsemani, but if you want to splurge for this special discoteca in the walled city, I wouldn’t blame you!
Day 3: Rosario Islands
Day: Trip to Isla Grande
I discussed several other beach options in the Places to Visit section, but if you’re thinking of taking a boat anywhere, I suggest you take advantage of your close proximity to the national park: Islas del Rosario.
Acting like an Instagram influencer on Rosario Islands… but with that background, I had to.
The Archipelago of the National and Natural Corales del Rosario is an oasis of clean white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. After all the hot streetwalking, visiting the Rosario Islands was the most relaxing day on our Cartagena itinerary.
With more time on my week-long agenda, I stayed overnight at the Gente De Mar resort on Isla Grande, but we saw plenty of daytrippers at the resort as well. With the trip taking about an hour from Cartagena’s harbor, you will arrive at the island around 10 AM and leave around 4 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the private beaches.
From the comfort of my beach chair, I indulged in fresh lobster and oysters caught in front of my eyes by the local fisherman. I will never forget the savory taste of that buttery, chewy lobster as we sipped on cervezas…
Eating delicious oysters freshly caught by a new friend - hand delivered!
On the islands, you can snorkel or sign up for other activities. I guess we were lazy and just chose to relax!
The only critique I will say about Gente del Mar is that while the ride there in the morning was smooth on a small boat, they must have sent us back on the public boat, because they just threw us on a random boat - it was the bumpiest, wettest, rockiest boat ride ever!
Night: Plaza Action
After a sun-kissed day on the islands, you’ll probably be tired. For a more chilled-out night back in Cartagena with still plenty of action, you can gather with the crowds in Plaza del Trinidad of Getsemani for a lively atmosphere of party people, street food, and the occasional street performer.
Mural in Plaza del Trinidad in Getsemani.
As you meet other locals, backpackers, and other travelers from around the world, enjoy a casual bite and drinks on the steps - Cartagenero style!
Where to Stay in Cartagena
During my week in Cartagena I stayed in hostels, hotels, and a resort on the islands, so that I could try out a mix of accommodations. All of them were pretty cute; almost everywhere in Cartagena has style.
All of the places I am about to mention offered a variety of tours, activities, and parties with other travelers, so definitely ask when you arrive; you don’t have to plan everything in advance.
Every street is like a painting in Cartagena’s old city.
Where to stay in Old Town Cartagena
Viajero Hostel - I was attracted to this popular chain hostel because they offer free activities most nights like salsa dance classes. It is a colorful, casual, spacious place and always busy with travelers. For me, it was a little loud, but that is the trade-off for being a social place where it is easy to meet people, on a budget. If you get a private room, it comes with a great breakfast.
Where to stay in Getsemani
Casa Zahri Boutique Hostel - Casa Zahri is by far my top pick for Getsemani, with a prime location and harbor view. The colonial-style pink house with balconies and a turquoise pool for those hot days, plus breakfast included, made my stay stylish and comfortable. There was an air-conditioned cafe bar attached where I could work while I pet the cat… I always pet the cat.
Casa Zahri is my favorite hostel in this Cartagena itinerary - super chic.
Santuario Hostel - You can spot Santuario Hostel by its striking mural of 3 women looking fierce and larger-than-life on the edge of Getsemani’s boulevard. This was a down-to-earth place to rest, also located across from the harbor, where I ate snacks and watched a magenta sunset one evening. Additionally, it is located very close to the Castle. The staff cooked us each a homemade breakfast in the morning after a good night’s rest in individual pod beds. And yeah, there was a cat there too.
Breaking news: Local cat makes it into article on Cartagena itinerary.
Where to stay on the Rosario Islands
Most hotels on Isla Grande offer day passes, but you can also choose to stay overnight as I did with my friend Lindsay if you have more time.
Note that there are not many resources on the Rosario Islands, like ATMs, and some eco hotels don’t have WiFi or running water. This is why we chose to splurge on a resort.
Sunrise on Isla Grande… Just us and a pelican.
The properties will provide you with directions on how to get there and back by boat after you book.
Gente De Mar (mid-range / luxury) - At $150 USD / room, we received an incredible value for this experience with a beachfront room… such a luxury after staying in all those hostels. You really get two beach days on the island, because you arrive in the morning and leave in the late afternoon the next day. There is a list of watersport activities you can participate in, or you can simply walk around the island.
Art and Adventure Eco Hostel Rosario Islands (budget) - At $28 USD / room, this is where I would stay if I was coming solo after doing my research. You’ll sacrifice comforts like air conditioning / electricity, but you’ll get the true island glamping experience with more money for activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or canoeing through the mangroves. Wake up in a national park, at a eco-conscious location run by friendly locals!
Note: When choosing a place on the islands for your Cartagena itinerary, make sure to read the reviews. I noticed there are several “eco-hotels” that only have a couple of reviews, and may not be truly experienced in hospitality. Just know that anyone can put a listing up on the internet, and I wouldn’t want you to be stuck on this remote island without the resources and comforts you need.
Just chillin’ at Gente De Mar on Isla Grande - totally worth it.
When is the Best Time to go to Cartagena?
The dry season in Cartagena is December - April, but I would argue that any time of the year is the best time to go. The temperature is pretty much the same year-round (hot).
I was in Colombia for 2 months during the rainy season, and it didn’t stop me from enjoying myself. That’s because it doesn’t rain all day, only for a short burst in the afternoon, and you can simply bring a travel-size umbrella.
Additionally, it will be less crowded in the off-season, with more hotel availability and better prices. So don’t let the overly-pessimistic weather forecast deter you!
Is Cartagena Safe?
In the tourist areas of Old Town, Getsemani, and the Rosario Islands, I felt incredibly safe. Although I explored with friends as well, I was also alone half of the time and walked around in the day as a solo young American woman with my camera, no problem.
I felt super safe walking around Cartagena, even when I was alone.
Interestingly, I did not hear any bad stories from the dozens and dozens of travelers I met in Colombia that had visited Cartagena, so that was a good sign, unlike the couple of stories I heard about getting scammed in Medellin or Cali, which is expected in big cities.
That being said, in Colombia, it’s always important to keep your valuables hidden and out of sight, as theft is probably the most likely concern. This is why I wear a watch to check the time, for example, instead of always having to take my phone out. My purse and camera both have cross-body straps to prevent someone from snatching them off my shoulder. Be mindful about inadvertently flaunting your wealth as there are many folks struggling in Colombia and South America, especially after the pandemic.
Cartagena is a lively place that loves to party and welcome you warmly. This is my experience, but you must use your own discretion. Be careful with getting caught up in the excitement, drinking too much, and then wandering into the street late at night. Ladies, always watch your drinks.
One of the coolest art pieces I saw outside of a cafe in Getsemani.
Tips for Traveling in Cartagena
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
Honestly, travel insurance is not something you want to skip in Colombia. With all the fun you are going to have, there are also going to be more risks, and it’s not worth being vulnerable.
If you have travel insurance, you can enjoy all the action adventures, tours, hikes, and water activities with peace of mind. There isn’t a required level of protection or liability in Colombia.
To make sure everything runs smoothly, I use SafetyWing Travel Insurance. It’s affordable and you can get a quote in one minute, right now! Just enter what country you are going to, and for how long, and you are covered.
Don’t Drink the Water
Even when they say it’s clean, you don’t want to end up like me, having to get antibiotics at the pharmacy for a sick stomach (I’ll spare you the details). And that, my friends, is why I ended up in Cartagena for a week instead of just a few days, which is all you need in this Cartagena itinerary.
Negotiate Prices
This is quite a touristy place, so vendors will quote you inflated prices. Don’t battle to the death, if you can spare a few extra bucks for someone in need, but definitely be firm on what you are willing to pay, even if it’s a fraction of the price they gave you. If you don’t agree, just walk away!
Bring Cash
Almost everything will be paid in cash, from your first taxi at the airport to your accommodation.
For all your credit purchases on your trip, make sure you use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. I linked to Chase because their card gives me so many rewards, almost all my flights are free.
Take a Taxi from the Airport (No Uber)
A taxi should cost you about 15,000 - 17,000 COP from the airport. The taxi line was fair and honest and not pushy at all. There is Uber in Colombia, but it is technically illegal. So if you call an Uber once you’re in the city, just know they might ask you to sit up front.
Buy a SIM Card when you arrive
Instead of using your pricey phone plan, you will find a better deal if you wait until you arrive and then buy a SIM card at any kiosk or even convenience store in Colombia. You will see the signs that say “Claro” or “Tigo”, and you can also top up at these locations. I think I got a full month of data for $11?
What to wear in Cartagena? Lindsay is rocking this breezy jumpsuit and comfortable shoes.
What to Wear and Pack in Cartagena
No matter what time of year you go, it is going to be HOT with the full equator sun. Choose comfort first, always. Don’t forget sunscreen and shades.
As far as style, anything goes in Cartagena. It is beachy, casual, and colorful. But despite being casual, fashion is alive and well here, with collared shirts everywhere and a reason to dress well for dinner.
What to Wear in Cartagena
Yes, Cartagena is a fun destination to show off some creative expression. Here are a few suggestions you can sweat in:
- Open-toed sandals: You can wear sandals on the street here, something I don’t normally recommend in other parts of Colombia. But there is certainly a lot of walking, so try Tevas or Chacos that are like, literally the best backpacker sandals ever, with arch support.
- Light Sundresses, rompers, or maxi skirts
- Loose shirts and linen pants
- Sun hat, though there are a million Panama hats for sale there too.
- Sunglasses (UV polarized) - the sun is ridiculously bright, like your travels...
I found this flowy skirt in humid Mexico, which also worked for Cartagena’s climate.
What Else to Pack in Cartagena
To make your Cartagena itinerary even more comfortable, here are commonly forgotten items to pack for the region specifically:
- Anti-theft Crossbody purse - I've taken this one to 6 continents and never had problems.
- Mosquito repellant - for the evenings
- Travel size umbrella - especially if you’re going during the rainy season
- Sarong - works as a beach towel, or beach cover up
- Quick drying travel towel - for the beach or your hostel
- Reusable water bottle - keep your drinks cold. Thank me later.
- Waterproof phone case OR GoPro - for those underwater shots
I have so many more suggestions (portable power bank, travel adaptors), so definitely take a glance at my full packing list to make sure you don’t forget anything.
pack for colombia
What to Wear, Essential Gear, and more
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Do I need Spanish for Cartagena?
If you don’t know Spanish in Cartagena, you’ll be fine… I think.
After learning Spanish in school, I am an intermediate speaker, so I have a biased experience. That being said, I met many European travelers who didn’t know any Spanish at all and survived.
It will certainly help you a lot if you know at least the following:
How to order food / drinks
Numbers up to 100 (for prices)
Greetings
Vocabulary for checking in your room
Most tours will be in English, but many of the museums are only in Spanish. Not only can it help you in times of safety, but you can also make way more friends (and even get discounts) if you know a little Spanish!
You can practice speaking in a chill, safe environment from your phone or laptop. The reason I prefer Italki is because you can filter teachers by country so you are ready for the unique accent.
Teachers charge as little as $5 USD / hour and offer trial sessions. I initially tried it out for this blog, but Juan from Peru ended up helping me so much that I honestly still book sessions with him to this day!
Me, smiling on Islas Rosario because I could communicate in Spanish… (or maybe it was the Club Colombia beers.)
What to Read in Cartagena
For those hammock moments and poolside days, I like to immerse myself in the location I am visiting by reading a book that takes place there; it really enhances my experience!
As I mentioned, Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s house is in Cartagena, so it’s only fitting to read 100 Years of Solitiude, a surrealist novel that takes place near the Colombian author’s mainstay. It will give you a mystical glimpse of the region’s past, with a little bit of Marquez’s fairytale weirdness.
Where to go after Cartagena?
Heading to Medellin, the Coffee Triangle, or other parts of Colombia? Be sure to check out all my other articles on Colombia for itineraries in all my favorite places :)
Here are just a few:
Conclusion: Cartagena Itinerary for the Spirit
Despite its popularity with tourists (like me), Cartagena still wows with a unique mysticism. I learned about an absolutely inspiring rise from the ashes to become the authentic place it is today, and witnessed the joy from both travelers and locals to be a part of this cultural renaissance.
When I think of Cartagena, I think of the color yellow. It is imprinted in my mind like thick yellow paint. I remember the high energy and hospitality of the smiling locals. I think of the sunny days of delirium, the cobblestone streets. It really felt like I was in a storybook.
You can experience it all on this Cartagena itinerary whether you have 2-3 days, or more if you do day trips. Solo backpackers, feel free to tag your photos with #LoneWolfette to share your adventures with me, and let me know if you have any questions!
Hi wolfette, i’m molly
Travel is a spiritual experience for me, especially when adventuring solo.
After visiting 6 continents on my own, I’ve dedicated this project to assisting other Lone Wolfettes on their journeys.
I hope my travel guides help you find the same joy, connection, and empowerment that exploring our planet has given me.
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How many days do you really need in Colombia’s sunny hub? Check out my ideal itinerary, the best things to do, and day trips from Medellin!