Overview
Romantic and evocative Cartagena de Indias is without doubt one of the most captivating cities on the continent. The colonial heart of this Colombian Caribbean treasure, embraced by 17-metre thick walls, has a swashbuckling history.
Since its founding at the time of the Spanish Empire, the city was subsequently attacked by waves of pirates and national fleets, and the forts and cannons erected to protect it are still in place.
Nowadays, Cartagena is a cultured city, where gentle harmonies filter through the walls of music academies, language schools attract international students, and artists flock to capture the sensual delights of flower-decked balconies and literary cafés.
Visit Cartagena and explore the city’s fascinating history along the ramparts and cobbled streets of its well-preserved historic centre. The city is also a great base for a holiday on Colombia's stunning Caribbean coast.
Holidays Cartagena
From expertly designed Private Journeys to trail-blazing Group Tours, browse our range of carefully crafted holidays.
Group - Classic
Colombia
Chachalaca: Colombia’s Colonial and Coffee Culture
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Colombia
Magdalena River Cruise: Colombia’s Hidden Gems
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Colombia
Signature Colombia: Culture and coffee
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Peru / Colombia
Signature Peru and Colombia – Andean Wonders to the Caribbean Coast
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation . Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you’ll relax in utter comfort.
Where to go when - our guide to Cartagena
The weather in Cartagena is wide and varied
Cartagena remains one of Latin America’s most captivating and romantic cities, with cobbled streets soaked in sunshine and fascinating cultural events. This is an all-year destination where you can always expect sun. Visit Dec - Apr for the drier season which tends to be rain-free, whilst June - November can be prone to torrential showers. The Hay Festival of literature will draw keen readers and aspiring writers in January, while the horse-riding parades of Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria are delightful in January / February. March is another exciting month with its Caribbean Music Festival, where revelers can dance to reggae, salsa and many local genres. The same month sees the city’s venues come alive with the International Film Festival, which draws stars from across the globe. During holidays and festivals such as these the city will be very busy, but all the more atmospheric.
View our Cartagena weather guidePapagaio
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