Bolívar

The walled city and main tourist areas of Cartagena are generally safe for tourists who exercise standard precautions. Stay in well-lit, populated areas, don't flash valuables, and use official transportation.

Boats depart daily from Cartagena's Muelle de la Bodeguita. You can book a day tour through hotels or tour operators, or hire a private lancha. The journey takes about one hour.

Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and New Zealand, do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. Always check the latest requirements with the Colombian embassy before travel.

Must-tries include arepas de huevo (fried corn cakes with egg), ceviche, fried fish with coconut rice, and posta negra cartagenera (a slow-cooked beef dish). Try tropical fruits like lulo, guanábana, and níspero.

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Bolívar. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available. Use bottled water for brushing teeth in areas outside major hotel zones.

Many nationalities (US, UK, EU, Canada) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Check with the Colombian consulate.

Yes, but solo travelers should stay in well-trafficked areas, avoid walking alone at night, and use official taxis.

Colombian Peso (COP). US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas but at poor rates.

No, tap water is not safe. Drink bottled or filtered water.

Spanish. English is spoken in tourist areas but learning basic phrases helps.

Taxis cost around $10-15 USD; Uber is also available. Official airport taxis are safe.

Yes, in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Cartagena. Cash is needed for small vendors and rural areas.

Lightweight clothing, rain jacket (if visiting May-Nov), insect repellent, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat.

Generally yes, but choose busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruit.

Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for travel to rural areas. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines are advised.

10% in restaurants if not included. Tip tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff a few dollars.

Yes, buy a local SIM (Claro, Movistar) for data. Roaming can be expensive.