US Traveler's Guide to Cartagena, Colombia: Everything You Need to Know

Cartagena de Indias has become one of the favorite destinations for US travelers looking for a Caribbean getaway with history, culture and beaches, without needing an all-inclusive resort. If you're planning your first trip from the United States, this guide covers everything you need to know: flights, entry requirements, money, language, safety and the best experiences.

Flights from the US

Cartagena is served by Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), with increasingly frequent connections to North America:

• Miami - Cartagena (direct): several airlines operate this route, taking just under 3 hours. It's the fastest option from the US.
• New York, Houston, Los Angeles, Chicago: usually require a connection through Miami, Bogotá or Panama City, with total travel times of 6-10 hours.
• High season: December-January and Easter week see the highest demand and prices; book 6-10 weeks ahead for the best fares.

Entry requirements for US citizens

US citizens don't need a visa to enter Colombia as tourists and can stay up to 90 days (extendable for another 90). However, you do need:

• A valid passport: ideally with at least 6 months of remaining validity.
• Check-Mig: a mandatory online pre-registration form, required before each flight in and out of Colombia.
• Proof of onward travel: in some cases you may be asked for a return or continuing ticket.

Money: cash, cards and currency exchange

The official currency is the Colombian peso (COP). While hotels, tourist restaurants and tours accept international cards, you'll need pesos in cash for taxis, markets, tips and street vendors.

• ATMs: available in tourist areas like Bocagrande and the Centro Histórico; check your bank's fees for international withdrawals.
• Authorized exchange houses: a better option for exchanging dollars than the street.
• Tipping: restaurants often include a voluntary 10% service charge; an extra tip for tours and services is appreciated but not mandatory.

To keep track of prices while planning your trip, Dunas & Olas shows every rate in COP or USD with the currency converter at the top of the site.

Language: is English spoken in Cartagena?

Spanish is the official language. In tourist areas like Bocagrande, the Centro Histórico and hotels, staff usually speak basic to intermediate English. Outside those areas, English is less common. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases ("how much does it cost?", "the check, please", "where is...?") will go a long way, and most cartageneros are patient and friendly with visitors who try.

Safety for US travelers

As in any major city, basic precautions apply: avoid flashing jewelry or expensive electronics, use authorized taxis or apps like Uber/InDriver at night, and stick to well-known tourist areas (Bocagrande, Centro Histórico, Getsemaní, Manga, Castillogrande). Cartagena welcomes hundreds of thousands of US tourists every year without major incidents when these basic recommendations are followed.

Best time to visit

Cartagena has a warm tropical climate year-round (82-90°F / 28-32°C). The dry season (December to April) is the most popular among US travelers, especially around winter holidays. The rainy season (May to November) brings brief downpours but also lower prices and fewer crowds.

Best experiences for your first trip

To make the most of your visit, we recommend combining the Centro Histórico with at least one full day at sea:

• Private boat day to the Rosario Islands: snorkeling in emerald waters, lunch on board and stops at uncrowded beaches. See our available experiences.
• Sunset sailboat or boat tour: one of the favorite ways to end the day, with views of the walled city from the sea.
• Walking tour of the Centro Histórico: the city walls, plazas, San Felipe Castle and the Getsemaní neighborhood.
• Kitesurfing in La Boquilla: if you enjoy water sports, check our Cartagena kitesurf guide.

Frequently asked questions