Cartagena, Colombia Cruise Port Guide Info

Located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea Cartagena de Indias is famous for its well-preserved system of fortifications, considered the most extensive and imposing of all the cities that were founded on the American continent. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in November 1984 under the name of "Port, Fortress and Monumental Complex of Cartagena". The streets are a beautiful mix of colonial, republican and modern architecture. The joy of its people and its radiant cultural wealth flood every corner with a festive atmosphere full of Latin flavor. 

The port of Cartagena is located just 4 kilometers from the famous walled city. You can reach the historic center could be foot, however the hot temperatures do not make it a good alternative. Taxi transportation costs around 7 USD but there are also a great variety of tour operators that offer urban excursions at the exit of the port with a different price range.

What to see in Cartagena de Indias

The Walled city
On several occasions, this beautiful place has occupied the first place in the list of "most popular attractions in Colombia" of the Tripadvisor portal. Its cobbled streets, forts, colonial architecture, squares, churches and the permanent smile of the natives, fill the route with magic and color. It is an open place that can be explored on foot or by carriage, although there are also vehicular passages that, however, do not offer the same perspective. Access is free and it is very close to the port, less than 4 km.
Many of the places that we will review below are within a close proximity to this area.
 
 
Castle of San Felipe de Barajas
The castle is located on the San Lázaro hill, its construction began in 1536 and ended in 1657 during the Spanish colonial era. It was a strategic enclave that protected this place from attacks by the English and French, being the French commander Baron de Pointis who took the castle in mid-1697. It has a network of tunnels and passages, as well as a privileged view panoramic part of the city. The entry time is between 8am and 6pm, the cost is around $ 7. It is located less than two kilometers from the Plaza Santo Domingo in the walled city.


Santo Domingo Square
This is an emblematic meeting place with other travelers, ideal to enjoy a tropical fruit juice, in the shade of old buildings and in front of one of the famous sculptures by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. It is an open space where you will find crafts, gastronomy and outdoor presentations. It is the heart of the walled city. In the 17th century, this place was used for the executions of the Inquisition.

Trinity Square
Within the squares of the city, it is one of those places that stands out for its architectural and artistic environment. Its name dates from 1643, the year in which the nearby church was finished. It was also known as "Plaza de la Libertad" because in this was the uprising of the people which contributed to the acceleration of the signing of the absolute independence of Cartagena de Indias. In the middle of the square there was a fresh water well that was covered in the 1860s. Its picturesque sculptures and historic buildings make it an ideal place for photography lovers. Admission is free.

Getsemaní
Next to to the walled city and the castle of San Felipe is a neighborhood full of color, graffiti and art, with colonial touches that blend with modern urban culture. There we can see the warmth of its people and their particular lifestyle. It is also the epicenter of gastronomic culture and nightlife. Bohemian bars in the middle of streets full of history make it a popular place to hang out.

Excursions near Cartagena de Indias
 
Totumo Volcano
It is a totally different volcano than what you are used to seeing. Despite having the typical cone silhouette, it is one of the few of its kind that can be found on the planet. Instead of lava, it is filled with mud whose chemical composition is said to have medicinal properties. Its height is only 20 meters and you can reach the top through a ladder. The volcano is located only 40 kilometers from Cartagena and is reached by land. The opening hours to the public are from 7 am to 4 pm.
 
 
Rosario Islands
Unlike the murky waters of the urban area of Cartagena de Indias, here you will find crystal clear waters in this archipelago full of marine fauna and coral reefs. In total there are 28 islands located in the Caribbean Sea less than 50 kilometers from the city. The only form of access is by sea and the journey can take between 60 and 90 minutes depending on the type of ship used. It is undoubtedly the best beach in Cartagena de Indias for the color of its waters, its natural wealth and white sands. It has a theme park on marine life, another on birds and a large ecological reserve. The costs vary according to the islands that are visited and the services that are included. On average, the minimum price of round trip transportation is around 80 $.