Alternatively, this post could be titled “ways to escape the humidity in Cartagena,” but either way–you’ll want to keep these ideas in mind when visiting Cartagena. Located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, Cartagena de Indias is best known for its old walled city, beautiful colors, nightlife and nearby islands.
After relaxing in the cool coffee farms of central Colombia, the heat and humidity in Cartagena seemed quite oppressive, but we still found ways to enjoy the city without being completely drenched the whole time. [Or at least, we found ways to let the sweat cool before heading out into the heat again. ;)]
1. Take an early-morning walk
The earlier, the better! We visited in mid-May, and by 8 a.m., I was ready to duck into a cafe for a cold drink. Early morning walks are also recommended in Cartagena because the streets are fairly empty, which means you can take all the pretty door pictures your heart desires without pesky pedestrians or vendors getting in your way.
2. Explore the galleries at Castillo San Felipe
History buffs probably have this fort, which protected the city from the 16th to 19th centuries, on their to-do list already, but it has an exciting benefit even for those who are lackluster about history: tunnels! Cool, shaded tunnels (also known as galleries, in the fort’s terminology). Ahhhh…. (Travel tip: When you arrive, head to the old hospital at the top left of the fort for an educational video. The room is air conditioned!)
3. Splurge on a room with air conditioning
Speaking of air conditioning, you’ll want it in your room. For sure. And the splurge doesn’t even have to be that major! We stayed in a private room at Don Miguel Hostel for only $25 USD per night, and that AC was cold. I actually had to get up in the middle of the night to turn it down–the only time I was cold during our week in Cartagena! (Travel tip: Most accommodations in Cartagena do not have hot water, so if this is something you’ll want for your shower, be sure to check before booking.)
4. Enjoy a cold drink on a rooftop bar
Cartagena has rooftop bars aplenty, and you don’t have to drop a ton of cash for a cold drink with a gorgeous view. As mentioned in our Colombia budget post, Cartagena is a bit more expensive than central Colombia, but it’s still affordable by U.S. standards. Expect to spend $3-6 USD on a cocktail at a rooftop bar. Alquimico, Movich, Malagana and Townhouse are just a few options to consider. Some bars only open their rooftops on certain days of the week, so check before you go. And if the rooftop is too hot for you and you need to be inside, Be Lounge has 2-for-1 drink deals. We had to take a nap after visiting them!
5. Sample the craft coffee of Cartagena
Drinking coffee is a must while in Colombia, so why not cool off with a cold brew? Personally, I would skip Juan Valdez; there appears to be one on every corner, but the coffee isn’t impressive. (It seems to be the Starbucks of Colombia.) Instead, we recommend Epoca in the Old Town or Café del Mural in Getsemani [above right], but there are plenty of coffeeshops that won’t disappoint. And if you’re looking for a full brunch, Café Stepping Stone has great food and a mean iced coffee, plus a community-minded mission.
6. Read a book at Ábaco Libros y Café
You know I love visiting bookstores when traveling, and Ábaco did not disappoint. This little bookstore/café is a great place to duck inside on a hot afternoon. May I suggest reading a book by Colombia’s most famous writer, Gabriel García Márquez, during your visit? Ábaco has a whole bookshelf of his books in English. (Also, the café has some great cold coffee cocktails, so you can combine tips 4-6 in one shot!)
7. Indulge in a sweet treat
If my “thing” when traveling is visiting bookstores, Jonathan’s is definitely sampling ice cream (and gelato) everywhere we go. Not only are frozen treats refreshing in Cartagena, but Colombia’s impressive fruit biodiversity means they also have delicious ice cream flavors you might not have seen elsewhere. (Megan votes for guanabana!)
