Is Cartagena, Colombia Safe?

An Honest Take on Safety, Culture & Solo Female Travel

One of the questions I get constantly is:

“Is Cartagena safe?”

Closely followed by: “Is it safe for women travelers?”

I recently traveled to Cartagena this past November, and after experiencing it firsthand, I wanted to share a real, grounded perspective — not based on headlines or fear-driven narratives, but on actually being there as a woman.

The short answer?

Yes — I felt safe, welcomed, and comfortable.

But as with any destination, context matters. So let’s get into it.

My Experience as a Woman Traveling to Cartagena

From the moment I arrived, Cartagena felt alive, warm, and deeply cultural. I explored the Old City, Getsemaní, rooftops, restaurants, beaches, and walked along the historic walls — sometimes solo, sometimes at night — and I never felt unsafe or uneasy.

That doesn’t mean you let your guard down completely. It means you travel smart.

Being a Woman of Color & Speaking Spanish

As a woman of color, Cartagena felt especially powerful to experience. The city is rooted in Afro-Colombian culture — from the people and music to the food, history, and everyday life. That cultural connection made the destination feel grounding rather than intimidating.

Speaking Spanish was also a huge benefit. It helped with:

• Clear communication

• Setting boundaries when needed

• Navigating transportation, restaurants, and tours

• Feeling confident and aware

You don’t need to speak Spanish to enjoy Cartagena, but it does add an extra layer of comfort.

Where I Stayed: Boca Grande

I stayed in Bocagrande, specifically at the InterContinental Cartagena de Indias by IHG, and it was a wonderful location.

Boca Grande is a mix of locals and tourists, which made it feel balanced and lived-in — not overly touristy, but not isolated either. There are restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and easy beach access, which made getting around simple and stress-free.

Transportation & Feeling Secure

One major plus was Uber. Knowing I always had access to a secure, reliable ride made a huge difference — especially in the evenings. I never felt stranded or unsure about getting back to my hotel, which is something women travelers really value.

A Real Note About the Beach Scene

Let’s talk honestly.

The beaches in Boca Grande are very active — full of locals and non-stop vendors offering food, drinks, massages, and souvenirs. This is part of the culture, but it can feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

My advice:

• Be polite but firm when declining

• Avoid engaging too long if you’re not interested

• Keep valuables minimal

• Don’t feel pressured to buy anything

Once you understand how to navigate it, it becomes manageable — just something to be aware of so it doesn’t catch you off guard.

Is Cartagena Safe for Women Travelers

In my experience: yes — with awareness and intention.

Cartagena reminded me a lot of major cities like New York, Paris, or Barcelona. Safety comes down to how you move, not just where you are.

Smart Safety Tips for Women in Cartagena

• Stay in well-known areas like the Old City, Getsemaní, or Boca Grande

• Use Uber or trusted taxis, especially at night

• Avoid flashing valuables or expensive jewelry

• Dress comfortably and confidently

• Trust your intuition — always

I explored freely, enjoyed nightlife, walked often, and felt empowered

Final Thoughts

Cartagena is vibrant, historic, culturally rich, and full of soul. It rewards travelers who arrive informed, confident, and open-minded.

If fear has been holding you back from visiting Colombia, I hope my experience helps shift that narrative — because beautiful places deserve to be experienced, not avoided.

Do your research. Travel smart. But don’t let fear rob you of unforgettable moments...

✨Erika Star

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