Areas to Avoid in Cartagena
Colombia
|⚠️ ModerateHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Cartagena. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Cartagena is generally Moderate
1 area to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Walled City, Getsemani, Bocagrande
Travel Insurance for Cartagena
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Cartagena are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Marginal neighborhoods outside the tourist zones (e.g., Olaya Herrera, La Ciénaga)
These areas have higher crime rates and lack tourist infrastructure, posing safety risks and offering little for visitors.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Walled City
Historic colonial charm meets vibrant Caribbean energy, packed with colonial architecture, boutique shops, and lively plazas.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Cartagena
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Cartagena Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Cartagena on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Cartagena Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Cartagena with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Cartagena: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Cartagena's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Cartagena: Scenic Excursion
Escape Cartagena for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Cartagena Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Cartagena's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Cartagena
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Cartagena on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Cartagena safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Walled City
Historic colonial charm meets vibrant Caribbean energy, packed with colonial architecture, boutique shops, and lively plazas.
Generally safe during the day with high tourist presence, but be aware of pickpockets and keep valuables secure at night; some streets can be quiet after dark.
Getsemani
Bohemian and artistic hub known for its vibrant street art, lively plazas, and authentic local atmosphere.
Generally safe, especially around Plaza de la Trinidad at night, but exercise normal city precautions; be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
General Safety Tips for Cartagena
At Night
Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially in the Walled City and Getsemani (like Plaza de la Trinidad). Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted streets. Taxis or rideshares are recommended after dark.
Solo Female Travel
Cartagena is generally welcoming, but solo females should be aware of persistent catcalling and unwanted attention, especially in tourist hotspots like the Walled City and Getsemani. Dress modestly to avoid drawing unnecessary attention and be firm in rejecting unwanted advances.
Emergency Number
123
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Cartagena
- 1Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare before getting in.
- 2Street vendors selling 'handicrafts': Be wary of overly aggressive sellers or those trying to pressure you into buying.
- 3Bogus 'guides': Unofficial guides may approach you offering tours; ensure they are licensed if you choose to hire one.
Travel Insurance for Cartagena
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Walled City
Historic colonial charm meets vibrant Caribbean energy, packed with colonial architecture, boutique shops, and lively plazas.
Generally safe during the day with high tourist presence, but be aware of pickpockets and keep valuables secure at night; some streets can be quiet after dark.
Getsemani
Bohemian and artistic hub known for its vibrant street art, lively plazas, and authentic local atmosphere.
Generally safe, especially around Plaza de la Trinidad at night, but exercise normal city precautions; be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
Bocagrande
Cartagena's modern beach resort district, featuring high-rise hotels, shopping malls, and a long sandy beach.
Generally safe due to its tourist-oriented nature, but be cautious of petty theft on the beach and around ATMs; stick to well-lit areas at night.
Castillogrande
A more residential and tranquil stretch of beach south of Bocagrande, offering a relaxed atmosphere.
Generally safe, similar to Bocagrande, but standard precautions against petty theft on the beach apply; stick to main streets at night.
Safety in Cartagena
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Cartagena is generally welcoming, but solo females should be aware of persistent catcalling and unwanted attention, especially in tourist hotspots like the Walled City and Getsemani. Dress modestly to avoid drawing unnecessary attention and be firm in rejecting unwanted advances.
At Night
Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially in the Walled City and Getsemani (like Plaza de la Trinidad). Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted streets. Taxis or rideshares are recommended after dark.
Emergency
123
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare before getting in.
- 2Street vendors selling 'handicrafts': Be wary of overly aggressive sellers or those trying to pressure you into buying.
- 3Bogus 'guides': Unofficial guides may approach you offering tours; ensure they are licensed if you choose to hire one.
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