Is It Safe to Travel to Cartagena? Your Ultimate Safety Guide

Is It Safe To Travel To Cartagena? Cartagena, Colombia, is a vibrant and historically rich city that attracts tourists worldwide; SIXT.VN is here to guide you through your travel and safety concerns. While it boasts stunning colonial architecture and lively culture, safety is a crucial consideration for any traveler.

1. Understanding the Current Risk Levels in Colombia and Cartagena

Understanding the current risk levels is essential for anyone planning a trip to Colombia, including Cartagena. While Cartagena is generally safer than some other regions in Colombia, it’s still crucial to be aware of the overall safety landscape in the country.

1.1. What are the Risk Levels in Colombia?

The Canadian government, like many others, provides travel advisories that outline different risk levels for various regions within Colombia. These risk levels help travelers make informed decisions about where and how to travel. The categories typically include:

• Exercise a High Degree of Caution: This is often the advisory level for major cities like Cartagena. It indicates that there are elevated levels of crime and other safety concerns that travelers should be aware of.
• Avoid Non-Essential Travel: This level is applied to regions where there are significant risks due to criminal activity, armed groups, or other unstable conditions.
• Avoid All Travel: This is the highest risk level, reserved for areas with extreme dangers such as kidnapping, violence, or terrorist activity.

According to the Canadian government’s advisory, “Exercise a high degree of caution in Colombia due to high levels of crime.”

1.2. Specific Areas to Avoid

Certain border areas and departments within Colombia are considered particularly dangerous and should be avoided altogether. These include:

• Arauca
• المناطق الحدودية مع فنزويلا والإكوادور وبنما
• Caquetá (excluding Florencia)
• Cauca (excluding Popayan)
• Cesar (municipalities of González and Río de Oro)
• Chocó (excluding Bahía Solano, Capurganá, and Nuquí)
• Norte de Santander (excluding Cúcuta)
• The Port of Tumaco and the city of Buenaventura

1.3. Regional Advisories: Non-Essential Travel

Several departments and cities are under an advisory to avoid non-essential travel due to drug-related criminal activity. These include:

• Antioquia (border area with Choco, north of highway 60 and west of highway 62, and all areas north of Buriticá)
• Córdoba (Paramillo National Natural Park)
• Cúcuta
• Florencia
• Ipiales and the Ipiales border crossing
• Popayan
• Guainía
• Guaviare
• Meta (excluding Caño Cristales and Villavicencio)
• Nariño (excluding Pasto)
• Putumayo
• Bahía Solano, Capurganá, and Nuquí in Chocó
• Valle del Cauca (excluding Buga, Cali, and Palmira)
• Vaupés
• Vichada

If travel to the excluded areas is necessary, it is recommended to do so by air to minimize risk.

1.4. Precautions for San Andrés and Providencia

The islands of San Andrés and Providencia are generally considered safer, with advisories to “Take normal security precautions.” However, it is always wise to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

1.5. How This Affects Cartagena

While Cartagena itself doesn’t fall under the “avoid non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel” categories, the general advisory to “exercise a high degree of caution” still applies. This means that travelers should be aware of potential risks and take precautions to protect themselves from crime.

1.6. Staying Informed

• Check Travel Advisories: Regularly check the latest travel advisories from your government for updates on risk levels and specific threats.
• Monitor Local News: Stay informed about current events and safety issues in Cartagena through local news outlets.
• Consult Local Authorities: Speak with hotel staff, tour guides, and other local authorities for up-to-date information on safety conditions and areas to avoid.

1.7. Practical Tips for Staying Safe

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables out of sight and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Use Reputable Transportation: Utilize reliable transportation services such as licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps. Avoid hailing taxis on the street.
• Avoid Vulnerable Neighborhoods: Stay away from informal housing developments (“comunas”) where gang-related violence is more prevalent.

By understanding the risk levels and taking appropriate precautions, you can have a safer and more enjoyable trip to Cartagena.

2. Crime in Cartagena: What Travelers Need to Know

Understanding the types of crime that occur in Cartagena and how to avoid becoming a victim is crucial for a safe trip. While Cartagena is a popular tourist destination, it is not immune to criminal activity.

2.1. High Crime Rates

Crime rates are high throughout Colombia, including in major cities like Cartagena. It’s important to recognize that these rates can impact your travel experience.

2.2. Violent Crime

Muggings and assaults occur even in the safer areas of Cartagena. These incidents can quickly turn violent, and firearms and other weapons are common in Colombia. Armed robberies are frequent and can happen in various locations, including:

• Streets
• Buses
• Taxis
• Restaurants
• Shopping malls

Criminals won’t hesitate to use weapons on victims who refuse to cooperate.

2.3. How to Minimize the Risk of Violent Crime

• Avoid Walking Alone: Especially in isolated or deserted areas.
• Avoid Traveling Alone After Dark: Stick to well-lit and populated areas.
• Dress Down: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches that could make you a target.
• Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Hide cell phones, cameras, and other electronic equipment.
• Avoid Carrying Large Amounts of Cash: Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls during business hours only.
• Cooperate if Robbed: Hand over cash, electronic devices, and valuables without resistance.

2.4. Petty Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse and cell phone snatching, is common in all parts of Cartagena. Drive-by snatching by thieves on motorcycles occurs regularly, both in impoverished and wealthier parts of the city.

2.5. Protecting Yourself from Petty Crime

• Secure Your Belongings: Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
• Stay in Reputable Accommodations: Choose accommodations with good security.
• Keep Doors and Windows Locked: At all times, whether you are in your room or not.

2.6. Scopolamine and Other Incapacitating Drugs

Scopolamine is a drug that temporarily incapacitates victims, leaving them disoriented and unable to make clear decisions for 24 hours or more. Once incapacitated, victims are vulnerable to robbery, assault, express-kidnapping, and extortion. Overdoses have also been reported.

Criminals often target those traveling alone and may put drugs into food, drinks, hand sanitizer, or women’s makeup. Incidents are most likely to occur in:

• Nightclubs
• Bars and restaurants
• Public transportation, including taxis
• On the street

Criminals often work in teams, with women easing the victim into a false sense of security. Incidents occur most frequently in larger cities, including Cartagena.

2.7. Staying Safe from Incapacitating Drugs

• Never Leave Food or Drinks Unattended: Or in the care of strangers.
• Be Wary of Accepting Items: Such as snacks, beverages, gum, cigarettes, or anything else from new acquaintances or someone in the street.

2.8. Vulnerable Neighborhoods

Vulnerable neighborhoods (commonly known as “comunas”) are characterized by informal housing developments, crowded quarters, poorer conditions, and irregular construction. Gang-related violence and organized crime are prevalent in these areas, and police assistance is very limited.

2.9. Avoiding Risky Areas

• Avoid Renting Accommodations: In vulnerable neighborhoods.
• Avoid Traveling to These Areas: Even on a guided tour.

2.10. Kidnapping

There is a risk of kidnapping for ransom in Colombia, and armed groups may target foreigners in all parts of the country. Express kidnappings are frequent and often occur in affluent areas, as well as in tourist areas. Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. The victim is sometimes held overnight so that a second withdrawal can be made the next day.

2.11. Reducing the Risk of Kidnapping

• Avoid Hailing Taxis on the Street: Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing apps.
• Stay Calm and Don’t Resist: If threatened by armed criminals.

By being aware of these risks and following the recommended precautions, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime in Cartagena.

3. Specific Safety Tips for Cartagena

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Cartagena, it’s important to implement specific safety measures tailored to the local environment. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:

3.1. Transportation Safety

Safe transportation is crucial in Cartagena to avoid potential risks associated with unlicensed taxis and unsafe driving conditions.

• Use Reputable Taxi Services: Avoid hailing taxis on the street. Instead, use reputable taxi companies that are connected to hotels or use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Cabify.
• Share Your Ride Details: When you take a taxi or ride-sharing service, note the license plate number and share it with a friend or family member.
• Avoid Unlicensed Taxis: Never enter a taxi if it already has a passenger.
• Be Cautious at the Airport: El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá only allows authorized taxis to pick up passengers at its terminals. Arrange for a pickup in advance with your travel agency or hotel.
• Driving Safety: If you plan to drive in Cartagena, be aware that drivers can be aggressive and reckless. Avoid driving at night and on secondary roads, as they are often targeted by criminals. Keep your doors locked and windows closed, and always place belongings under your seat.

3.2. Personal Awareness and Conduct

Being aware of your surroundings and practicing responsible conduct can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a target for crime.

• Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas.
• Avoid Isolated Areas: Do not walk alone in isolated or deserted areas, particularly after dark.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to crime.
• Be Discreet with Valuables: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics. Keep your cell phone and camera out of sight when not in use.
• Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself from it immediately.

3.3. Accommodation Safety

Choosing the right accommodation and taking basic security measures can enhance your safety during your stay in Cartagena.

• Select Reputable Hotels: Stay in well-known and reputable hotels with good security measures.
• Secure Your Room: Always keep your hotel doors and windows locked.
• Use Hotel Safes: Store your valuables, such as passports, money, and electronics, in the hotel safe.
• Avoid Vulnerable Neighborhoods: Do not rent accommodations in vulnerable neighborhoods known for high crime rates.

3.4. Financial Safety

Protecting your finances while traveling is essential to avoid fraud and theft.

• Use ATMs Wisely: Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business. Avoid using card readers with irregular or unusual features and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
• Monitor Card Transactions: Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements regularly.
• Beware of Card Fraud: Credit card and ATM fraud are common. Pay careful attention when others are handling your cards and never accept assistance from strangers.
• Avoid Carrying Large Amounts of Cash: Use credit or debit cards whenever possible.

3.5. Health and Well-being

Taking care of your health and well-being is crucial for a safe trip.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled water to avoid dehydration.
• Eat Safely: Only eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unknown vendors.
• Be Aware of Food and Drink Safety: Never leave food or drinks unattended or accept them from strangers to avoid being drugged with scopolamine or other incapacitating substances.
• Medical Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.
• Consult a Doctor: Visit a healthcare provider or travel health clinic before your trip to get personalized health advice and necessary vaccinations.

3.6. Legal and Cultural Awareness

Understanding local laws and customs can help you avoid legal issues and cultural misunderstandings.

• Respect Local Laws: Be aware of and respect local laws, including those related to drugs, firearms, and political activities.
• Avoid Illegal Activities: Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Show respect for local customs and traditions.
• Identification: Carry photo identification at all times.

3.7. Emergency Preparedness

Knowing what to do in case of an emergency can help you stay safe and get assistance quickly.

• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including local police, ambulance, and your embassy or consulate.
• Travel Documents: Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa in a safe place in case they are lost or confiscated.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations, strikes, or other events that may affect your safety.

By following these specific safety tips, you can minimize risks and enjoy a safer, more secure trip to Cartagena.

4. Understanding Scopolamine and Drug-Related Dangers

One of the significant safety concerns in Cartagena is the use of scopolamine and other incapacitating drugs. Understanding these dangers and how to avoid them is crucial for a safe trip.

4.1. What is Scopolamine?

Scopolamine, often referred to as “the devil’s breath,” is a drug that temporarily incapacitates victims, leaving them disoriented and unable to make clear decisions for 24 hours or more. It can be administered without the victim’s knowledge, making it a particularly insidious threat.

4.2. How Scopolamine Affects Victims

• Disorientation: Victims become confused and lose their sense of direction.
• Impaired Judgment: The ability to make rational decisions is severely compromised.
• Memory Loss: Victims often have little to no memory of what happened while under the influence of the drug.
• Vulnerability: Incapacitated victims are highly susceptible to suggestion and manipulation.

4.3. Common Scenarios Where Scopolamine is Used

• Nightclubs and Bars: Drinks are often spiked with scopolamine when left unattended or accepted from strangers.
• Restaurants: Food and beverages can be laced with the drug.
• Public Transportation: Including taxis, where criminals may offer drugged items.
• On the Street: Victims may be approached by individuals offering drugged items under false pretenses.

4.4. Who is at Risk?

• Solo Travelers: Those traveling alone are often targeted because they lack immediate support.
• Tourists: Criminals may view tourists as easier targets due to their unfamiliarity with the local environment.
• Those Who Appear Wealthy: Individuals who display expensive items may be seen as more lucrative targets.

4.5. How to Protect Yourself from Scopolamine

• Never Leave Drinks or Food Unattended: Always keep your beverages and meals in sight and do not leave them unattended, even for a moment.
• Refuse Drinks or Food from Strangers: Politely decline any offers of drinks, food, gum, cigarettes, or anything else from people you don’t know or trust.
• Be Wary of Overly Friendly Individuals: Criminals often work in teams, with one person creating a false sense of security while another administers the drug.
• Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uneasy or sense that something is not right, remove yourself from the situation immediately.
• Stay with Friends: When going out, stick with a group of trusted friends who can look out for each other.
• Use Reputable Establishments: Choose well-known and reputable bars and restaurants.

4.6. Other Drug-Related Dangers

In addition to scopolamine, there are other drug-related dangers to be aware of in Cartagena.

• Drug Trafficking: Colombia has a history of drug trafficking, and while efforts have been made to combat it, the issue persists.
• Severe Penalties: Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can result in lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Avoid Involvement: Never transport packages, bags, or suitcases for other people, and do not exchange money for strangers, as this is a common practice among money launderers.

4.7. What to Do If You Suspect You’ve Been Drugged

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you feel disoriented, confused, or experience unusual symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
• Inform a Trusted Friend: If you are with friends, let them know how you are feeling and ask for their assistance.
• Contact the Police: Report the incident to the local police.

By understanding the dangers of scopolamine and other drugs, and by taking the necessary precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk and enjoy a safer trip to Cartagena.

5. Safe Use of Dating Apps in Cartagena

Dating apps have become a popular way to meet people while traveling, but it’s important to exercise caution when using them in Cartagena. There have been reported incidents of criminals using these apps to target and harm foreigners.

5.1. The Risks of Using Dating Apps

• Criminal Targeting: Online dating applications are sometimes used by criminals to identify and lure foreigners looking to meet local people.
• Virtual Relationships: Victims often build virtual relationships and attend multiple dates with the same person, often in public places, creating a false sense of security.
• Drugging: Once trust is established, the victim may be drugged with scopolamine or another incapacitating drug.
• Robbery and Kidnapping: After being drugged, victims are often robbed and/or kidnapped. Overdoses resulting in death have also been reported.

5.2. Precautions to Take When Using Dating Apps

• Be Cautious: If using online dating apps, exercise a high degree of caution.
• Avoid Isolated Locations: Do not agree to meet in isolated locations where there is no one else around.
• Don’t Bring New Acquaintances to Your Accommodation: Always meet in public places and avoid inviting someone you’ve just met back to your hotel or rental.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Tell a family member or friend about your plans, including details of with whom and where your date is.
• Meet in Public Places: Arrange initial meetings in busy, public places during the day.
• Verify Identity: Ask for the person’s full name and try to verify their identity through social media or other online platforms.
• Use Reputable Apps: Stick to well-known dating apps with security features.

5.3. During the Date

• Stay Sober: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can impair your judgment.
• Watch Your Drinks: Never leave your drinks unattended, and do not accept drinks from someone you don’t know or trust.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or you sense that the person is not who they say they are, end the date and leave.
• Keep Communication Open: Share your location with a friend and stay in contact with them throughout the date.

5.4. After the Date

• Don’t Share Too Much Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information like your home address, financial details, or work schedule.
• Report Suspicious Behavior: If you have a negative experience or suspect that someone is using the app for malicious purposes, report them to the app provider and local authorities.
• Consider Background Checks: For added security, consider using online services that conduct background checks on potential dates.

5.5. Alternative Ways to Meet People

If you’re concerned about the risks associated with dating apps, consider alternative ways to meet people in Cartagena.

• Join Group Activities: Participate in group tours, cooking classes, or dance lessons.
• Attend Social Events: Look for local social events or meetups that align with your interests.
• Network at Hostels: Hostels often have common areas where travelers can meet and socialize.
• Use Social Media Groups: Join travel-related social media groups to connect with other visitors and locals.

By being aware of the risks associated with dating apps and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy meeting new people in Cartagena without compromising your safety.

6. Staying Safe During Demonstrations

Demonstrations and strikes are common in Colombia, particularly in large cities like Cartagena. It’s important to know how to stay safe if you encounter one.

6.1. Why Demonstrations Occur

Demonstrations and strikes in Colombia often arise from a variety of social, economic, and political issues. They can be organized to protest government policies, demand better working conditions, or express grievances related to social inequality and human rights.

6.2. Potential Risks

• Violence: Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time.
• Disruptions: Demonstrations can lead to disruptions in traffic and public transportation.
• Arrests: In some cases, participants and bystanders may be subject to arrests.
• Roadblocks: Strikes may involve roadblocks on major transit routes, causing significant travel disruptions.

6.3. How to Stay Safe During Demonstrations

• Avoid Areas Where Demonstrations Are Taking Place: Steer clear of areas known for demonstrations or large gatherings.
• Follow the Instructions of Local Authorities: Comply with any instructions given by police or other local authorities.
• Monitor Local Media: Stay informed about ongoing demonstrations and potential disruptions by monitoring local news.
• Have an Escape Plan: If you find yourself near a demonstration, have a plan for quickly and safely leaving the area.
• Be Discreet: Avoid taking photos or videos of demonstrators, as this may provoke a negative reaction.
• Stay Calm: If you are caught in a demonstration, remain calm and avoid making any sudden movements that could be misinterpreted.

6.4. Practical Tips

• Check for Planned Demonstrations: Before heading out, check local news sources for any planned demonstrations or strikes.
• Plan Alternative Routes: If you know that certain areas are likely to be affected, plan alternative routes to avoid them.
• Carry Identification: Make sure you have your passport or other form of identification with you at all times.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including your embassy or consulate, with you.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

6.5. Roadblocks

Unauthorized roadblocks and bandits also pose a threat. If you’re planning to travel by land in Colombia:

• Dial 767: From your cell phone to receive advice on current road closures from the Colombian Highway Police information line (in Spanish).
• Never Hitchhike: Avoid picking up hitchhikers.
• Consult Local Media: Stay informed about current road conditions and potential threats.
• Follow the Instructions of Local Authorities: Comply with any instructions given by police or military personnel.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risks associated with demonstrations and strikes and stay safe during your visit to Cartagena.

7. What to Do in Case of an Emergency

Knowing what to do in case of an emergency in Cartagena can make a significant difference in your safety and well-being. Here are essential steps to take:

7.1. Important Contact Information

Keep a list of important contact numbers readily available.

• Local Police: 123
• Ambulance: 123
• Fire Department: 119
• U.S. Embassy in Bogotá: +57 1 275-2000
• Canadian Embassy in Bogotá: +57 1 657-9700
• Your Country’s Embassy or Consulate: Research and note the contact information for your country’s diplomatic mission in Colombia.

7.2. Reporting a Crime

If you are the victim of a crime, report it to the local police as soon as possible.

• File a Police Report: Visit the nearest police station (estación de policía) to file a formal report (denuncia).
• Obtain a Copy: Make sure to get a copy of the police report for insurance purposes and potential follow-up.
• Provide Accurate Details: Provide as much detail as possible about the incident, including the time, location, and description of the perpetrator.

7.3. Medical Emergencies

In case of a medical emergency, seek immediate medical attention.

• Locate a Hospital or Clinic: Identify the nearest hospital or clinic that offers emergency services.
• Emergency Services: Private clinics typically require advance payment in cash or by credit card. If you don’t have proof of travel insurance, you may be transferred to a public hospital.
• Call an Ambulance: If necessary, call 123 for an ambulance. Be aware that response times may be slow in rural areas.
• Communicate Your Needs: If you don’t speak Spanish, try to find someone who can translate or use a translation app to communicate your needs.
• Inform Your Insurance Company: Contact your travel insurance company as soon as possible to inform them about the emergency and get guidance on next steps.

7.4. Lost or Stolen Passport

If your passport is lost or stolen, take the following steps:

• Report to the Police: File a police report detailing the loss or theft.
• Contact Your Embassy or Consulate: Notify your embassy or consulate and request assistance in obtaining a replacement passport.
• Provide Documentation: Provide any available identification or documentation that can help verify your identity.
• Follow Instructions: Follow the instructions provided by your embassy or consulate for obtaining an emergency passport or travel document.

7.5. Natural Disasters

Colombia is subject to various natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes.

• Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather reports for updates on potential threats.
• Follow Local Authorities: Follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.
• Evacuation Plans: Be aware of evacuation routes and emergency shelters in your area.
• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies, such as water, food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.

7.6. Fraudulent Police Officers

Be aware that individuals posing as police officers have approached foreigners to verify their documents or foreign currency with the intent to rob them.

• Verify Identity: Don’t hand over your money or documents unless you feel threatened.
• Request Verification at a Safe Location: Request to provide your documents or currency at the nearest police station, your hotel, or another public place.

7.7. General Safety Tips

• Stay Calm: In any emergency situation, try to remain calm and think clearly.
• Assess the Situation: Take a moment to assess the situation and identify the best course of action.
• Seek Assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from local authorities, hotel staff, or other reliable sources.

By being prepared and knowing what to do in case of an emergency, you can better protect yourself and handle unexpected situations during your trip to Cartagena.

8. Cultural Considerations and Etiquette

Understanding and respecting local culture and etiquette can greatly enhance your experience in Cartagena. It can also help you avoid misunderstandings and potential safety issues.

8.1. Language

• Spanish is the Official Language: While some people in tourist areas may speak English, it’s helpful to learn basic Spanish phrases.
• Politeness: Using polite phrases such as “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) is greatly appreciated.
• Greetings: Greet people with “buenos días” (good morning), “buenas tardes” (good afternoon), or “buenas noches” (good evening).

8.2. Customs and Traditions

• Punctuality: Colombians generally have a relaxed attitude towards time. Don’t be surprised if people are late for appointments.
• Greetings: A handshake is common for initial greetings. Close friends and family members often greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.
• Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. In general, dress comfortably but avoid overly revealing clothing in public.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 10%) if a service charge is not already included. It’s also common to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.

8.3. Social Interactions

• Respect: Show respect for elders and authority figures.
• Personal Space: Colombians tend to stand closer when talking than people from some other cultures.
• Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact during conversations to show sincerity and interest.
• Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection are generally accepted, but avoid overly intimate behavior.

8.4. Dining Etiquette

• Table Manners: Keep your hands above the table and avoid resting your elbows on the table.
• Utensils: Use utensils provided; eating with your hands is generally not acceptable, except for certain street foods.
• Paying the Bill: Ask for the bill (“la cuenta, por favor”) when you are ready to pay. It’s acceptable to split the bill among friends.

8.5. Cultural Sensitivity

• Avoid Stereotypes: Be mindful of stereotypes and avoid making insensitive comments about Colombian culture or history.
• Political Discussions: Exercise caution when discussing political topics, as they can be sensitive.
• Drug-Related Jokes: Avoid making jokes or references to drugs, as this is a serious issue in Colombia.
• Respect Local Customs: Show respect for local customs and traditions, even if they are different from your own.

8.6. 2SLGBTQI+ Travelers

• Colombian Law: Colombian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.
• Discrimination: 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

8.7. Child Sex Tourism

• Illegal: It’s a serious criminal offense to have sex with minors in Colombia. Conviction may result in a lengthy prison sentence.

8.8. Photography

• Ask for Permission: Before taking photos of people, especially in indigenous communities, ask for their permission.
• Military and Government Buildings: Avoid taking photos of military or government buildings, as this may be prohibited.

8.9. Religious Sites

• Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting churches and other religious sites.
• Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful demeanor and avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.

8.10. Bargaining

• Markets: Bargaining is common in markets and with street vendors.
• Politeness: Bargain politely and respectfully, and be prepared to pay a fair price.

By being mindful of these cultural considerations and etiquette guidelines, you can have a more enriching and respectful experience in Cartagena.

9. Health Precautions for Travelers

Taking the necessary health precautions is vital for a safe and enjoyable trip to Cartagena. Here’s what you need to know:

9.1. Consult a Healthcare Provider

• Pre-Travel Consultation: Schedule a visit with your healthcare provider or a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before your trip.
• Personalized Advice: Discuss your travel plans, activities, and medical history to get personalized health advice.

9.2. Vaccinations

• Routine Vaccines: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), and seasonal flu.
• Recommended Vaccines: Depending on your itinerary, your healthcare provider may recommend vaccines for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, and rabies.

9.3. Yellow Fever

• Risk Areas: There is a risk of yellow fever in Colombia.
• Vaccination Requirement: Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in one of these countries.
• Recommendation: Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary. Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip.

9.4. Malaria

• Risk Areas: There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in Colombia.
• Antimalarial Medication: Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are traveling. Consult a health care professional before traveling to discuss your options.

9.5. Zika Virus

• Risk: Zika virus is a risk in Colombia.
• Prevention: Prevent mosquito bites at all times by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in accommodations with air conditioning or mosquito nets.
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, discuss the potential risks of traveling to this destination with your healthcare provider.

9.6. Food and Water Safety

• Safe Food Practices: Eat only at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unknown vendors. Ensure that food is properly cooked and served hot.
• Safe Water Practices: Drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes in your drinks. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth.
• Avoid Unpasteurized Dairy: Avoid consuming unpasteurized milk and dairy products.

9.7. Insect Bite Prevention

• Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to exposed skin.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Stay in Screened or Air-Conditioned Accommodations: Ensure that your accommodations are properly screened or air-conditioned to prevent mosquito bites.

9.8. Altitude Sickness

• Symptoms: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath.
• Prevention: Acclimatize gradually by spending a few days at a lower altitude before traveling to higher elevations. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol and strenuous activity.

9.9. Medical Facilities and Insurance

• Medical Services: Good health care is limited but available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.
• Private Clinics: Private clinics offer emergency services but typically require advance payment in cash or by credit card.
• Travel Insurance: Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

9.10. COVID-19 Precautions

• Vaccination: It is recommended that all eligible travelers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses before traveling.
• Entry/Exit Requirements: Before traveling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements.
• Personal Protective Measures: Clean your hands regularly, wear a well-fitting mask in crowded settings, and maintain physical distance from others.

9.11. Medication

• Sufficient Quantities: Bring sufficient quantities of your prescription medication with you.
• Original Container: Always