Is Cartagena, Colombia Safe to Visit in 2026? Travel Advisory, Tips & Local Guide

A Straightforward Guide for Travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe

Is it safe to travel to Cartagena, Colombia in 2026? We break down official travel advisories, real risks, safe zones, and practical tips for international travelers.

Cartagena de Indias often appears in postcards as a Caribbean dream: centuries-old walls, balconies draped in bougainvillea, and the sea gently crashing against colonial stone.

But behind that idyllic image, many travelers today ask a fair question before booking a flight:
Is it really safe to travel to Cartagena, Colombia in 2026?

This concern doesn’t come out of nowhere.
Colombia remains under official travel warnings such as the Level 3: Reconsider Travel issued by the U.S. Department of State, citing crime, civil unrest, and other risks. Canada and the UK also recommend a high degree of caution.

Yet, millions visit Cartagena every year without serious incidents.

As with most international travel, the truth lies in the nuance.
This article offers a clear, no-nonsense look at what you need to know — without fear-mongering or naïve romanticism — so you can decide with real facts and informed judgment.

What Does the “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” Advisory Mean?

A Level 3 advisory from the U.S. does not prohibit travel. It’s a call to plan carefully, stay aware, and take responsibility for your movements.

In practical terms:

Crime is possible in major cities
Certain regions in Colombia (not including Cartagena) are conflict zones
Travelers are urged to use formal transport, registered accommodations, and local guidance

🧭 For travelers booking organized cultural experiences with certified guides, the actual risk level is significantly lower.

Cartagena’s Reality for Visitors in 2026

Cartagena is Colombia’s top international tourist destination.
The city receives:

Cruise ships from Miami and Europe
Destination weddings
Luxury travelers
Cultural tourists from the U.S., Canada, and the UK

The most visited areas — Old Town (Walled City), Getsemaní, and Bocagrande — are safe, busy, and actively patrolled by tourist police. Restaurants, hotels, and tour operators cater specifically to international guests.

Realistic Risks in Cartagena

No city is entirely risk-free.
Here are the main incidents reported by authorities and embassies:

Pickpocketing in crowded areas
Non-violent theft (bags, phones, etc.)
Tourist scams (unofficial guides, fake tours, inflated prices)

These issues often occur when travelers:

Display expensive items
Wander into unfamiliar neighborhoods alone without a trustable local at night
Accept unsolicited “help” from a person who you didn’t create a trustworthy relationship on the street

🛡️ These are manageable risks — similar to those in parts of Barcelona, Paris, Rome, or New York — with common-sense behavior.

Areas to Visit Safely

✅ Old Town (Centro Histórico)
Highly secured, well-lit, and packed with attractions, hotels, and dining.

✅ Getsemaní
Culturally vibrant and increasingly popular. Stick to main streets and avoid quiet alleys late at night.

✅ Bocagrande
Modern beach area with upscale hotels and good security.

Where to Be Cautious

🚫 Avoid:

Non-touristy neighborhoods unless you’re with a trustable local
Unregistered taxis or random street encounters
Walking alone in dark, quiet streets after midnight

Again — this isn’t about paranoia. It’s about recognizing where tourism infrastructure is strong… and where it isn’t.

Safety Tips for International Travelers

Use official transportation
Stick to hotel services, trusted apps (InDriver, Uber, DiDi), or booked tours with legal and official companies.
Travel light and low-profile
No flashy jewelry, designer bags, or pro camera gear hanging from your neck.
Know your timing
Cartagena is fun at night — but stick to populated, well-known zones. Avoid “just walking around” and more ”walking to much drunk” after dark.
Be cautious with strangers
Like anywhere, avoid overly friendly strangers offering to “help.”
Travel insurance is a must
Make sure it covers theft, medical issues, and cancellations.

What U.S. and European Travelers Are Saying

Most reviews follow this trend:
When you stay in the right areas, book guided experiences, and travel smart — Cartagena feels safe and rewarding.

Visitors rave about:

Walking the Old City at night
Learning about Afro-Colombian heritage
Dancing in Getsemaní
Eating fresh ceviche on rooftop bars or even the streets
Feeling welcomed by local people

Cartagena vs. Medellín: Which Is Safer?

There’s no absolute answer.

Medellín is amazing for digital nomads and urban culture, but nightlife can be riskier for solo travelers.
Cartagena is more compact, heavily tourist-focused, and has stronger police presence in key zones.

Either way, your choices matter more than the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cartagena safe for U.S. travelers in 2026?
Yes — if you take standard precautions and stay in recommended zones.

Why is Colombia under Level 3 travel advisory?
Because of security issues in rural areas. It doesn’t reflect the safety of cities like Cartagena.

Which city is safest for tourists in Colombia?
There’s no single answer. Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá all have safe and risky zones.

Should I worry about kidnappings?
Not in tourist zones. Opportunistic theft is the more realistic concern.

Can I walk at night in Cartagena?
Yes — in well-lit, tourist areas like Old Town or Bocagrande. Use common sense.

Travel Smart. Travel Deep. Travel Beyond the Wall.

At Beyond the Wall Cartagena, we design premium cultural, Afro-heritage, and food experiences led by certified local guides.

✅ Explore Cartagena’s living history
✅ Book confidently with curated tours
✅ Go beyond the postcard — and into the real Caribbean

Final Takeaway: Travel Informed = Travel Better

Cartagena remains one of Latin America’s most captivating cultural destinations.
Yes, government warnings exist — but so do millions of safe, inspiring experiences every year.

Visiting Cartagena in 2026 isn’t reckless — it’s responsible travel when done with awareness and local guidance. Just like in New York, Barcelona, or Paris, zero risk doesn’t exist. The difference lies in how well you know where you’re going and how you get there.

Travel Beyond the Postcard

At Beyond the Wall Cartagena, we design premium cultural, culinary, and Afro-heritage experiences with certified guides and local expertise.