Top Things to do in Cartagena
Cartagena is a vibrant masterpiece of the Colombian Caribbean, where colonial history, tropical rhythms, and modern luxury collide. Known as the “Heroic City,” its skyline is a striking mix of centuries-old stone walls and gleaming glass skyscrapers, all set against the deep blue of the Atlantic. Whether you are wandering through cobblestone alleys draped in bougainvillea or escaping to a private island, Cartagena offers an intoxicating atmosphere that feels like a scene from a Gabriel García Márquez novel.
1. Island Hopping in the Rosario Islands
No trip to Cartagena is complete without leaving the mainland to explore the Islas del Rosario. This archipelago is a protected national park consisting of nearly 30 coral islands, each offering crystal-clear turquoise waters that are a far cry from the city’s darker urban sands. You can book a day trip to a high-end beach club like Bora Bora or Islabela for a day of cocktails and lounging, or hire a private speedboat to explore hidden lagoons and snorkel among vibrant reefs. If you’re traveling with family, a stop at the Oceanarium on Isla San Martín de Pajarales provides a chance to see dolphins and local marine life in their natural seawater enclosures.
2. Wildlife Watching at Parque Centenario
Nestled right between the Historic Center and the Getsemaní neighborhood, Parque Centenario is an unexpected urban oasis teeming with wildlife. While most people rush through it, if you slow down and look into the canopy of the massive mango and rain trees, you are almost guaranteed to see wild cotton-top tamarins and red howler monkeys leaping through the branches. The park is also home to several slow-moving sloths, iguanas, and a variety of tropical birds. It is a surreal experience to stand in the heart of a bustling city while watching monkeys play overhead—just remember to bring your binoculars and keep a respectful distance.
3. Sunset Drinks on the City Walls
The Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada) is the historic heart of Cartagena, and walking the top of the ramparts is a quintessential evening activity. The most famous spot is Café del Mar, which sits directly on the Baluarte de Santo Domingo and offers front-row seats to the sun dipping below the Caribbean horizon. For a more local experience, you can grab a few cold beers from a street vendor and find a spot to sit on the limestone wall itself. As the sea breeze kicks in and the city lights flicker on, you’ll understand why this is considered one of the most romantic spots in South America.
4. Exploring the Bohemian Spirit of Getsemaní
Once a gritty neighborhood, Getsemaní has transformed into the city’s cultural and artistic soul. Centered around Plaza de la Trinidad, this area is famous for its narrow streets lined with vibrant murals, hanging umbrellas, and fluttering flags. Spend an afternoon wandering through Calle de la Sierpe to see world-class graffiti, and return after dark when the plaza comes alive with street performers, food vendors selling arepa de huevo, and locals gathered to chat. It is the best place to experience the authentic people of Cartagena and dance the night away in legendary salsa clubs like Café Havana.
5. Scaling the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
To truly appreciate the strategic importance of Cartagena, a visit to the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is a must. This massive fortress is the greatest military building ever constructed by the Spanish in the New World. You can hike up the steep ramps to the summit for a 360-degree view of the city and the bay, but the real fun lies in exploring the intricate labyrinth of tunnels beneath the stone. These tunnels were designed with acoustics that allowed soldiers to hear the footsteps of approaching enemies from a distance—a fascinating piece of engineering that remains cool even in the midday heat.