Caribbean coast and islands holidays
Caribbean coast and islands holidays at a glance
Cartagena, the colonial jewel that draws most visitors here, is only part of the story – its city beaches are fun rather than exceptional, and the real beauty lies further along the coast.
East from Cartagena, the road passes the seaport of Barranquilla and the bird-filled marshes of La Ciénaga before reaching the pleasant resort town of Santa Marta. Just beyond, the hills of Tayrona National Park tumble down to golden, coconut-palm-backed beaches, with monkeys and iguanas in the forest behind them.
Offshore, the picture changes again. The Rosario Islands are a scatter of blissful coral atolls just off Cartagena, while further out lies Providencia, a quirky, English-speaking volcanic island that feels like nowhere else in Colombia. Together they make up some of the best islands in Colombia for a proper beach escape, with excellent snorkelling and diving among the draws.
Alongside its natural beauty, the coast is known for its colourful culture, music and cuisine, brought vividly to life each February or March at Barranquilla’s carnival – one of the most exciting times to visit, if also one of the busiest.
Along the whole wild stretch of Caribbean coast Colombia protects within Tayrona National Park alone, it’s easy to see why this remains one of the country’s most complete Colombia beach destinations.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday to Caribbean coast and islands
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
The Caribbean Coast and Islands blend heritage, laid-back beach life and crystal waters, creating one of Colombia’s most captivating and diverse regions.
When to visit Caribbean coast and islands
The Caribbean coast enjoys warm temperatures throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for beach holidays and island escapes in every season.
These are some of the busiest months for visitors, with the least rainfall. You can expect high humidity and hot temperatures around 30°C. In February or March, the Barranquilla carnival ignites the city’s streets with vivid-costumed parades, live music, dancing and competitions.
Expect hot, humid weather with plenty of sunshine. April is one of the driest months of the year, making this a great time to explore the golden beaches of Parque Tayrona.
By August, there are frequent showers of rain which are often short but heavy. The climate is hot and steamy, with high levels of humidity and temperatures hovering around 30°C.
During these months there are frequent showers of rain which can be torrential. Temperatures remain hot and the tropical climate brings high humidity.
Top Things to do in Caribbean coast and islands
Between carnival in Barranquilla, the trails of Tayrona and a day out on the Rosario Islands, there’s no shortage of things to do on Colombia’s Caribbean Coast.
Enjoy the spectacle or join in the fun at Barranquilla’s extravagant carnival, a riot of passion and colour.
Visit the family house of Latin America’s most celebrated author, now converted into a museum of his life and works.
Accommodation in Caribbean coast and islands
Accommodation options range from boutique island retreats and beachfront resorts to charming coastal properties offering easy access to the Caribbean Sea, many designed around relaxation with direct access to beaches, reefs and island excursions.
Small, family-run guesthouse with its own dive centre and a typically Caribbean feel, just steps away from one of Providencia’s most beautiful beaches.
Unique, eco-conscious beachfront cluster of thatched cabins inspired by indigenous design, each with two floors and idyllic sea views.
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Holidays to Caribbean coast and islands
Group Caribbean coast and islands Tours
Our group tours follow expertly designed, well-planned routes with an experienced local guide throughout. Prefer to keep it to your own party? Book the same trips privately for four or more.
Weaverbird: Spirit of Colombia
Places visited: Bogota · San Agustin, Popayan and Cali · Coffee Region (Zona Cafetera) · Caribbean coast and islands · Villa de Leyva & Barichara · Cartagena
16 days from £3,326
Tailor-Made Caribbean coast and islands Tours
Prefer to travel on your own terms? We’ll build a trip around your dates, your pace and the things you most want to see – whether that’s a first run at Machu Picchu, a family adventure mixing history and wildlife, or a food-focused journey through Lima and the Sacred Valley. Our Travel Experts can help shape it with you.
Magdalena River Cruise: Colombia’s Hidden Gems
Places visited: Cartagena · Caribbean coast and islands · Bogota · Medellin
13 days from £4,800
Signature Colombia: Culture and coffee
Places visited: Bogota · Coffee Region (Zona Cafetera) · Medellin · Caribbean coast and islands · Cartagena
15 days from £4,050
FAQs about visiting Caribbean coast and islands
Caribbean coast and islands is one of the most popular destinations, and there’s plenty to think about before you go. Here, our specialists share their best advice.
- When is the best time to visit the Caribbean coast of Colombia?
The coast and islands are an all-year destination, with plenty of sun throughout. The rainy season is Aug-Nov when showers can be torrential. Dec-Apr should be pretty rain-free. The beaches can be very busy – and noisy – during holidays and festivals.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What language is spoken on the Caribbean coast of Colombia?
The main languages spoken on the Caribbean coast is Spanish and English.
- What currency do I need on the Caribbean coast of Colombia?
The Peso is the main currency used on the Caribbean coast. Notes can be withdrawn from the many ATMs in Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta using a UK credit or debit card, though you may have to advise your bank first and amounts that can be withdrawn may be lower than in the UK. Be aware that some ATMs are often out of service but there should be a working one nearby. Banks will offer advances on a credit card, but with a lot of paperwork. Money exchanges (casas de cambio) change US dollars cash (very few accept euros or sterling and the rate will be poor). Don’t change money on the street. Acquire local currency before travelling to Providencia.
- What is the time difference between the Caribbean coast of Colombia and the UK?
The time difference between the Caribbean coast and the UK is GMT -5 hours
- What places combine well with the Caribbean coast of Colombia?
Colombia’s most graceful and atmospheric cities, Cartagena; Bogotá, Colombia’s vigorous capital, where the dynamic of this mountain city contrasts with the laid back attitudes of the Caribbean (1.5hrs by air).
- How do I get to the Caribbean coast of Colombia?
There are frequent flights from Bogotá to Cartagena, Santa Marta and Barranquilla (each 1.5hrs). The three main cities on the coast are a couple of hours apart by road. Santa Marta is the closest city to Tayrona, the beach and national park which is a 4hr drive from Cartagena. Combines with: Colombia’s most graceful and atmospheric cities, Cartagena; Bogotá, Colombia’s vigorous capital, where the dynamic of this mountain city contrasts with the laid back attitudes of the Caribbean (1.5hrs by air).
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events on the Caribbean coast of Colombia?
Carnival: Barranquilla, 5 days in Feb/Mar, variable: 28 Feb–4 Mar 2014. A riotous mélange of Afro-Caribbean-Latin exuberance, with vivid-costumed parades, live music, dancing and competitions.
Ready to start planning?
Tell us where you want to go, and we’ll take it from there. No obligation, no sales pitch – just a conversation with someone who knows the region inside out.