No More Cartagena Curfew – Current (March 2022) Restrictions in Cartagena, Colombia

If you are planning a trip and curious about the current Covid restrictions in Cartagena such as if there is currently a Cartagena curfew time and what restrictions there are on places of business, read on. *(Last update: March 6, 2022)

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I am a member of Amazon Associates, LLC and other affiliate programs and earn from qualifying purchases made after clicking those links. There is never any additional cost to you. To learn more please consult our Disclosure Policy.

Photo of a covid sign.
Read on to learn about the current Covid restrictions in Cartagena, Colombia.

Current Cartagena Curfew Time and Other Restrictions

*Disclaimer: Please note, I am not an official source, only passing along here current published coronavirus restrictions in Cartagena. These restrictions are subject to change, and while I will do my best to update, I suggest checking the Mayor’s Facebook or Instagram Page to confirm if it has been more than a week or so since I last updated.

*Last update: March 6, 2022 (updated to include the curfew time in Cartagena for March and April)

What are the current restrictions in Cartagena, Colombia?

Is there currently a curfew in Cartagena?

No!

What time is the curfew in Cartagena?

In early March 2022, the Cartagena curfew was eliminated. The previous largely symbolic curfew of 3 am to 5 am is no longer in effect, and there is no other restriction related to people being able to freely move around the city at any hour.

However, there are still some rules related to Covid and rules for closing times for bars and clubs, which I’ll share below.

Photo of a clock.
The current Cartagena curfew time is 2 am, practically normal.

Planning your trip to Cartagena?
Here’s what you need to know and some tips to plan

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You may want to see my post on the best areas to stay or simply check out my picks for the best boutique hotels, best luxury hotels, best beach hotels, or best hostels, and finally, check out my suggestions for things to do and things to pack!

Also, it was never a bad idea to begin with, but the last year has shown that it’s always a good idea to have health insurance. World Nomads is a leading provider of international travel insurance. Get a quote here.

->Click here to get a free planning checklist for your trip to Cartagena!<-

Photo of the clocktower in Cartagena where you might be able to check the time of the curfew in Cartagena.
Make sure you are back where to wherever you are staying before the start of the Cartagena curfew time. And also make sure you visit the iconic Clocktower at the entrance to the historic walled city.

Starting in late November 2021, Colombia instituted nation wide requirements to show proof of vaccine to enter many establishments, including bars and restaurants. Note that vaccine cards or digital certificates from other countries are accepted.

All persons age 12 and up must show they vaccinated to enter these places. You can read all about the vaccine requirements in Colombia for restaurants and other public places at the link.

Colombia also announced in early December that being vaccinated will be a requirement to enter the country as a tourist with some exceptions for Colombian citizens and foreigners considered permanent residents. Read more about the vaccination entry requirements for Colombia here.

For whatever reason vaccines were turned into a polarizing issue. I could say don’t shoot the messenger, but honestly, you should get vaccinated, especially if you want to be accepted as a visitor to another country right now. It’s a pretty small ask for the greater good, and if you can’t be asked to do it, then it’s best you plan to visit Cartagena at a later time or just don’t visit at all.

Photo of vaccine vials.
Cartagena does have one of the higher vaccination rates in Colombia and one more or less on par with the US.

What are Covid cases like in Cartagena?

After Colombia hit record deaths on several days in June 2021, the effects of expanded vaccines led to a drastic fall in case counts and deaths starting in mid-July and for most of the rest of 2021.

In Cartagena, there were days with no deaths, a trend that continued through November and most of December. In fact the city was celebrating 10+ days without a single death until late December, and case counts were routinely in the double digits.

That led me to be hopeful, the worse of the pandemic was behind Colombia and Cartagena. Hopefully that is still the case as Cartagena is amongst the leading cities in Colombia in vaccination. According to this statistic from the mayor’s office, 88% of the eligible population has at least 1 dose and 67% are fully vaccinated as of January 26, 2022.

That doesn’t specify if that includes children or only adults, but it is fairly high considering vaccines only became widely available mid to late 2021 and the start of 2022 has seen renewed shortages for 2nd doses of some of the vaccines. In fact, it’s more or less on par with the US.

Graphic of a graph showing an upward then downward trend.
The Omicron variant in Cartagena spread quickly but appears to be trending down.

Omicron in Cartagena

However, Omicron still spread quickly. Cases increased in just about all of Colombia, first in Medellín and Bogotá, and the first week of the new year saw Cartagena follow suit, with double digit cases nearly doubling day after day.

In January there were days with over 2,000 cases. However, February saw cases decline rapidly again. As of this last update on March 6, cases have stayed relatively low.

If you would like to follow case counts, the mayor’s Facebook and Instagram pages provide daily updates, as does the Dadis health office’s social media and local newspaper El Universal.

Photo of yellow tape blocking a street.
There is a current curfew in effect in Cartagena.

Despite the spike in cases in January, the same curfew in Cartagena remained in effect through February. However, with cases trending back down, they have decided to eliminate it entirely. Honestly, the 3 am curfew was a bit of a symbolic one anyway, but now there is no longer an Cartagena curfew at all.

It is important to note though, it is always possible the Cartagena curfew rules are tightened again at some point in the future should there be another big wave of another variant or something, although I think it’s not very likely. I think it’s basically impossible that full on shut downs happen again and probably highly unlikely curfews in Cartagena before 10 pm or midnight are declared again.

Still, I will do my very best to keep this up to date with the latest curfew in Cartagena time, so keep monitoring if you have a trip planned in the next couple months.

Photo of people on the street in Cartagena with the cathedral in the background and people obeying the current Cartagena Covid curfew.
Fortunately, cases have declined drastically, leading to some relaxation of Covid restrictions in Cartagena.

FAQ about the Cartagena Curfew

Are restaurants in Cartagena open?

Yes. Restaurants are open for indoor and outdoor seating. Restaurants are expected to maintain distance between customers, provide anti-bacterial gel or spray, and have capacity limits.

The vaccine requirements also apply to indoor and outdoor seating. While enforcement isn’t always strict, it’s best to make sure you have proof of vaccination on you in case you are asked.

Do I need to make a reservation for restaurants?

No. However, it is recommended. Restaurants are allowed to take walk ups, but given capacity limits, many more popular restaurants may fill up, especially on weekends.

By the way, if you’re looking for restaurant recommendations, check out this list of 50 restaurants worth trying I put together.

Photo of tables in a restaurant.
Restaurants are open and operating more or less normally.

Can restaurants serve alcohol in Cartagena?

Yes. At this time there are no active dry laws in Cartagena.

The one exception to this is places in Pie de la Popa are not meant to serve alcohol during the Virgen de la Candelaria festivities. This festival, however, isn’t very touristy and I would expect enforcement to be lax to be honest.

*Dry Laws for March Elections

While there hasn’t been any restriction on selling alcohol related to Covid for a while, there will be a ley seca, or dry law in effect from 6 pm Saturday March 12 until 6 am Monday March 14 due to elections on Sunday March 13.

This is a commonplace nationwide restriction when there are elections in Colombia. Every now and then you can find a little tienda that will sell to foreigners on the lowdown, but generally you will not be able to buy any alochol, including in supermarkets and bars and restaurants during that time, so stock up before hand if you want to party the night of Saturday March 12.

Are bars in Cartagena open?

Yes. Bars in Cartagena are allowed to open, but must close by the Cartagena curfew time. There is also a bit in the new rules that says they cannot open before 10 am.

The consumption of alcohol in smaller tienda and estanco style establishments is technically prohibited, as is drinking in public, although they are not being enforced strictly. These smaller establishments are technically meant to close by midnight in the new rules, although again, I don’t expect that to be strictly enforced.

Chiva tour and party buses can operate from 9 am to 12 am.

How late can bars and restaurants operate?

So, while they did eliminate the Cartagena curfew starting in March, they also issued a decree establishing restrictions on the operating hours of most businesses.

For cafés, tiendas, refresquerías, estancos (small shops/bars), billiard halls, and liquor stores they can only operate until midnight. For bars, gastropubs, and nightclubs they can operate until 3 am. This decree establishes this rule for a full year.

So in some ways, there is still a bit of an indirect Cartagena curfew in effect. 3 am is a pretty late closing time though.

Photo of people cheersing drinks.
Restaurants and bars are open and allowed to serve alcohol currently in Cartagena.

Are beaches in Cartagena open?

Yes. Beaches in Cartagena are open, although you are expected to make a reservation. Beaches are currently open from 8 am to 6 pm every day. Read about the best beaches here.

The decree of July 30 also allowed for navigation in Cartagena’s bay until 12 am, so it’s a good time to do a sunset cruise or dinner cruise (note that is just in the bay itself, not to the islands, more on those below).

Are the islands in Cartagena open?

Yes. The Rosario Islands, Playa Blanca, Barú, and Tierra Bomba are all open. If you reserve at hotels at the beach, you can use the beach until later. I’d recommend confirming before making any reservations, just to be on the safe side though.

Currently boats to and from the islands are permitted from 8 am to 5 pm (or 6 pm for larger boats). Boats are now also allowed to operate at full capacity.

*See a complete guide to the Rosario Islands here and Playa Blanca here

Photo of two sandals on a beach.
Fortunately, the beaches and islands of Cartagena are open.

If I am staying at a hotel at the beach, can I use the beach after the closure time?

Yes. If your hotel has its own private beach facilities and has the proper licenses to be open, you can use those spaces after the beach closure time.

This is more applicable to places out in the islands, since technically the beaches in town proper are public beaches. It’s probably worth double checking with the place you plan to stay, but you should be ok.

*Check out the top Cartagena beachfront hotels here

Can I use public spaces in my hotel like the pool, bar, and restaurant after the Cartagena curfew time?

Yes. As long as the hotel itself has it open, things like pools, bars, and restaurants inside hotels are allowed to operate and serve guests after the curfew hours in Cartagena.

This will of course be at the discretion of the hotel and depending size and number of guests, they may not keep restaurants and bars open. It is probably best to double check with your hotel.

->Click here to get a free planning checklist for your trip to Cartagena!<-

Photo of a balcony during the Cartagena curfew.
Fortunately the Cartagena curfew has been relaxed with fewer virus cases

Is there Pico y Cedula in Cartagena?

No. The decree of June 16, 2021 eliminated Pico y Cédula.

There had restrictions on the entry to banks, supermarkets, the Bazurto market and other large stores. These restrictions are based on the last number of your ID. Those that had ID numbers that end on even numbers can go to those places on even days, and those with IDs that end in odd numbers can go to those places on odd days.

Other Travel to Cartagena FAQ

Do I need a Covid test to travel to Cartagena?

It depends. Previously, foreign citizens entering Colombia had to show results of a negative PCR test.

However, the PCR test requirement for those that are fully vaccinated has now been discontinued.

Colombian residents who are not fully vaccinated will have to show a PCR test within 72 hours, and unvaccinated tourists cannot enter the country at all starting on December 14. Those with one vaccine or a completed vaccine course less than 14 days ago, do have to show a PCR test within 72 hours or, starting February 1, an antigen test 48 hours before departure.

Photo of a phone with a covid vaccine certificate.
Fully vaccinated travelers entering by air do not need to also do a test.

On December 28, the PCR test requirement was extended to those arriving by cruise or other boats, regardless of vaccination status.

That means if you are coming on a cruise, you must have a PCR test even if fully vaccinated. This does not apply if you are entering the country by air, and currently no vaccine proof or test is required for children under 18 years of age.

Read more about the current entry requirements here.

->Click here to get a free planning checklist for your trip to Cartagena!<-

Where can I get a Covid test in Cartagena?

Many countries, like the USA, are still requiring arriving passengers to show Covid tests. See a list of places to get a Covid test in Cartagena here.

Do have to be vaccinated to travel to Cartagena?

As of December 14, all international travelers to Colombia for tourism or business have to show proof of being vaccinated.

See above if you also need a PCR test depending on whether you are entering the country by sea or have not completed vaccination 14 days before travel. Again, you can read more about the new entry requirements here.

However, as mentioned above, recent nationwide requirements to be vaccinated to enter many public recreational spaces like restaurants mean most tourists will not be able to enjoy much without being vaccinated. Again, you can read more about the vaccine rules in Colombia here.

Photo of a doctor holding a covid test tube.
Fully vaccinated people do not need a Covid test to enter Colombia currently.

Do I have to wear a mask in Cartagena?

Yes, and no. In late February, the mask mandate in public was lifted outdoors. In other words, if you are outside, you do not need the mask. Indoors, masks are still required.

To elaborate, places like stadiums count as outdoor spaces. The language uses the phrase “direct ventilation.” The language from the mayor’s office says masks are recommended in places that have mixed open and closed air spaces such as open air malls or churches.

I think this is probably a welcome change by almost everyone at this point. It’s fair to say if you’re 6 feet plus away from anyone it isn’t really all that necessary, especially outside. I also get it, wearing the mask, well, kind of sucks.

I would predict, assuming there isn’t some other variant or massive uptick in cases, we’ll see the mask mandates go away entirely soon. I also expect enforcement, even indoors to probably get fairly lax, being most strictly enforced in places like supermarkets, malls, and doctors’ offices.

Photo of a girl wearing a facemask.
Mask mandates have been lifted for outdoors in Colombia.

My experience recently traveling Colombia before the lifting of the mandate is in larger cities, people were mostly still wearing masks everywhere, even outside. In smaller towns, it’s not as common.

My advice would be, do as the Romans when in Rome, and erring on the side of caution, and that is my advice to follow. If you’re somewhere where most people and/or most locals are wearing masks, it’s probably the best thing to do to just wear it, even if you don’t consider it all that necessary.

Doing that and dealing with the minor discomfort is a way to be extra sure that people who would probably prefer that tourism not be reopen feel more comfortable as well as ensuring no one working feels unsafe.

Photo of a man wearing a mask at night like in the current Cartagena restrictions for Covid.
Mask mandates do remain in effect in public in Cartagena. The best thing for everyone to do right now is to respect local rules and regulations even if it is a mild discomfort.

Should I be concerned about safety?

There has been an uptick in robberies in Cartagena. In the tourist areas, common sense precautions like avoiding carrying large sums of cash or valuables and being aware of who is around you should prevent you from having any problems.

See some practical safety tips here.

The last few days of February and start of March have seen protests from the city’s mototaxis over new restrictions that limit the days they are allowed to work. There have been some instances of property destruction and road blocks. Soldiers were deployed.

It’s hard to say what will happen with this. For the time being, it’s not something that I would worry about if I was planning a trip, and I think it’s highly, highly unlikely it becomes one I would worry about. The property destruction has been away from the tourists areas.

Still, it is worth keeping an eye on. This is especially true if you plan to travel to other cities overland or outside the touristy areas of Cartagena. Those are still extremely unlikely to be in any way unsafe but you might be delayed if roads are blocked.

This year will also see what are sure to be very divisive elections and there could be more protests over the mototaxi restrictions along with other things. I will do my best to update this if something drastically changes, but Cartagena should remain very safe to visit.

Photo of a yellow wall with wooden window frame in Cartagena.
Cartagena is very safe to visit.

Current Cartagena Covid Restrictions – Conclusion

There you have it, a simple and practical guide to the current restrictions in Cartagena, Colombia due to Covid. More or less we are back to full normalcy with only the mask requirement indoors. I will do my best to keep this up to date, especially if anything major changes, so bookmark it and check back close to your trip if it’s a ways away.

Cheers and Safe Exploring!

Are you planning a trip to Cartagena?

Be sure to check out these top resources to help you plan:
Insider’s Guide to the Best Areas to Stay
Top Things to Do
Complete Cartagena Packing List
Best Beaches in Cartagena
Where to Get a Covid Test in Cartagena

This Post Has 96 Comments

  1. Mark

    Hi I have a trip planned in early May. I was wondering if you are hearing about these curfews from a 3rd party or are you in Cartagena. Do you think I should cancel my trip as it will not be the same whatsoever with these restrictions. Any advise/perspective is greatly appreciated!

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Mark. I am in Cartagena. The truth is Colombia continues to hit record death tolls and Cartagena’s ICU occupancy is at 84% as of today April 29, so I feel pretty confident now that there will be restrictions beyond May 3. If they will be stricter it’s hard to say.

  2. Mark

    Thanks you for your reply and all the invaluable information you have posted. Are the curfews strictly enforced at restaurants? My girlfriend and I are both vaccinated so we were planning on trying to experience the city to the fullest extent, but obviously if restaurants are closed so early (especially on weekends) getting food would be a huge problem.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Mark. Yes, in the tourist areas of the city, they are being enforced. At this point there is no difference in restrictions for people vaccinated or not vaccinated. We will see what happens this weekend.

  3. Miguel G

    Hi Adam. Mi nombre es Miguel. En Junio 17 vamos a cartagena y queremos saber donde podemos hacernos el covid tes para el regress. Tu information se aprecia. Gracias

  4. Sam

    hi! I am traveling to Cartagena the first week of June. Do we think the likelihood of the curfews being extended is high?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Sam. Honestly, I do. I mean things can change quick, we were on 10 pm or 12 am curfews from Jan-April, and I know businesses are clamoring for a return to 10 pm, so it’s possible it goes back to that if case and ICU occupancy counts go down, but I would expect some form of curfew in place still given where counts are now.

  5. Rob H

    Hi Adam,
    Thank you so much for all the helpful info you post on Cartagena Explorer. My wife, daughter and I have flights booked to Cartagena in early July and a hotel in the walled city. I know things can change a lot between now and then but what’s the current tourist experience like inside the city with this curfew? Would we be confined to our hotels during curfew or are select restaurants/businesses/attractions open? Would hotels be able to keep their restaurants and bars open or does curfew demand everything shut down? Sorry if these are dumb questions…we just haven’t experienced a full up curfew. Thanks for any advice or insight!

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Rob. Not dumb questions at all. So, to be honest I have not been downtown since they went to the 8 pm curfew but my understanding is things are fairly normal besides that. Maybe good tips are to make sure you make reservations or go out to eat early to avoid having to rush. You are confined to your hotel, but my understanding is restaurants and pools and the like are staying open at hotels. It might be worth double checking with your hotel as perhaps smaller ones may not keep them open but I imagine most are.

  6. Rob H

    Thanks Adam, What’s the current state of COVID vaccinations in Cartagena and Colombia in general. Is the vaccine available? Are people getting them?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Rob. Vaccionation of people 60+ is wrapping up and they are getting ready to start teachers and people 18-59 with risk conditions. Not sure when it will move on to the general population.

  7. Jemeia

    Hi Adam, I have am scheduled to bring a group to Cartagena on the 27th, the date that the current curfew is set to expire. Do you think the restrictions will remain the same or do you believe they may become even stricter. I have activities planned and I am trying to rearrange everything to take place on Friday and Monday in the event that the curfew is enforced again on the weekend. It’s so hard to make a decision and I don’t want to cancel since we are only a week away. 9s there anyway to get any info prior to the 26th (since we fly out early on the morning of the 27th?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Jemeia. Honestly, I think it’s more likely than not they stay the same or possibly get stricter. Cases reported have been a bit all over the place the last week but that’s after several of consistently increasing, so I would wager the hospital bed situation may get worse. I would say, if you can reschedule free or at little cost, do it. I hadn’t been advising that, and I think most likely they will at least have things open during the week, but I think the weekend lockdown may be here to stay.

      1. Jemeia

        HI Adam, thanks for the info. I read that starting on 5/20 the curfew will start at 10pm and the weekend curfew for this weekend has now been canceled. As of now I am still planning to come with my group as majority of us are fully vaccinated and we will stay among ourselves. I will continue to check for updates but I am happy to hear that some of the restrictions are being relaxed.

        1. Adam McConnaughhay

          Hi, yes. Yesterday afternoon they announced curfew would be changed to 10 pm 7 days a week. It’s a bit ambiguous exactly when it will go into effect as I think the mayor said it would be on Saturday but that he would get the decree out by Thursday at the latest, so maybe it just goes into effect right away on Thursday. Either way, there will not be the 48 hour curfew over the weekend. Hope you all have a great time here! Please check out the rest of the site for idea of things to do if you like.

          1. Jemeia

            Hi Adam,

            Can you tell me if there is a location near the Estelar hotel to get a Covid test or would it be best to just get it from the Airport? Also, should we plan on paying for the test in Colombian pesos or will we be able to use our US currency?

            Also, I checked out the list you provided with the activities and I am planning to do a few with my group.

          2. Adam McConnaughhay

            Hi Jemeia. Great, glad you found the list useful! The Clinica MediHelp is not too far from Estelar. A lot of people have also spoken highly of Mely Contreras in the Facebook group I manage called Cartagena and Colombia Travel Forum. She will come to your hotel. I think you should plan to pay in pesos, there may be places that woudl take dollars, but probably you will end up paying more that way.

  8. Norm

    We have a weekend trip booked to Cartagena from May 27th evening arrival to May 31st, morning departure. My Colombian friend says they have now tightened the curfew for that weekend to closing everything at 2 PM in the AFTERNOON until the next morning.

    All my reservations are non-refundable, and I am fully vaccinated. My first trip to Cartagena pretty much ruined. We’ll have to start our day at sunrise to see anything. 2 PM curfews are insane.

    I live in Medellin and was in CC Sante Fe last week, and they were vaccinating everyone who wanted the shot. The line was hundreds of people long.

    The only good news is I haven’t booked my friends BOG-CTG flights and I expect a fire sale at the airlines, with ticket prices dropping by 50%. It is $91 RT now. And was going up to $125.

    Why is the situation so bad in Colombia while in the U.S. they are dropping mask requirements for fully vaccinated people? Why can’t Colombia crank up their vaccination timetable?

    They are literally killing their economy and putting the middle class into poverty. Makes me want to go back to the U.S. and wait it out.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Norm. The current restrictions are 9 pm curfews on weekdays. This past weekend it was 2 pm on Sat and Sun, and this coming Sat and Sun the 22 and 23 there will be full lockdowns. The current restrictions are until May 27, so it’s not clear what will happen that weekend. I would honestly say, if you can get full refunds, it may be best just to wait. Colombia is finishing vaccinations of people 60+ and now starting people with risk conditions, teachers, police, and the military. They are slightly ahead of schedule but still progressing slower than I would like too. One of the disadvantages of living in a less rich country. Maybe they will get more from the US now that they are starting to share more of the stockpile and ramp it up more. Fingers crossed they do.

  9. Harry

    Hi Adam,
    I have a boys trip planned from NY to Cartagena from June3 – 6th. I read your update and definitely very helpful. With the weekend lock-down, do you think we will still be able to get out on the boat? We have the booking for June5th.
    Also about the super markets, does the odd-even thing applies for tourists as well? One last thing, since it will be a boys trip we were planning to bring the party to the house.. Is that still doable?
    Truely appreciate your response.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Harry. As of the restrictions for this weekend the boat would not be allowed on Sat or Sunday, every other day is fine. That is only in effect this weekend. Hard to say for sure what it will look like in a few weeks though. Supermarkets does apply for tourists, using your passport, so hopefully you guys have some odds and some evens in your group. Partying at the house would be fine as long as whoever outside your group can crash there too

  10. Maria

    Hola Miguel, if you are vaccinated do you still need to have a covid PCR test?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Maria. Yes. You still need a PCR test to enter, there is no verification criteria for proof of being vaccinated at this time.

  11. Emily

    Hello, I am supposed to travel to Cartagena next week. Are the ICUs that are full the public hospitals? Are there private hospitals where one could go if there was an emergency? Also, it looks like the numbers are high for Covid. I am trying to decide if this is a safe trip to take and would love your opinion. Thanks

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Emily. They are the total number of hospital beds. I think it is probably safe, but they are numbers close to capacity. I think it’s a personal call to be honest. If you’re relatively healthy, probably you will be fine.

  12. Paul

    Had the protest reached Cartagena?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Paul. There have been protests here in Cartagena but they have been very small with for the most part no incidents and for the most part would hardly be noticeable here visiting. It’s probably worth monitoring if you have an upcoming trip, but unless there’s a drastic change, I wouldn’t think it’s a reason to cancel a visit.

  13. Dame

    Hello, do you know if the 9pm/10pm Curfew will expire at midnight May 31st or will it be extended?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Dame. I expect an announcement this afternoon. I will try to update asap once it’s out. The Mayor’s facebook page (Alacaldia Mayor de Cartagena) is usually where they announce it first.

  14. Gladys

    Hello, traveling to Colombia in a week. I’m super excited

  15. Raul

    Hi Adam,

    Me, my girlfriend and a couple of friends have a trip for Cartagena on June 27th. My question is, are there currently any restrictions due to the protests in Cartagena? For example are there certain areas that are blocked off from tourist?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Raul. Generally no. There have been a few times where some roads down by the industrial area of the city have been blocked. That is one way to go to Playa Blanca/Barú, but it’s possible to go around it in the event that happens. Otherwise no worries.

  16. Dan

    Hello Adam! Thank you so very much for all your help in this! I have a trip planned next week June 7, have the curfew hours changed? Also where exactly at the airport can I get a covid test to return back to the US? Does Medellin have the same curfew times?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hey Dan. Yes, the curfew at 10 pm will be in effect until June 16. To be honest, I’m not entirely sure exactly where they do the tests at the airport, if you like though, check this post for prices and other options to compare. Medellín, I’m not entirely sure what their curfew is right now. MedellinGuru.com probably will have up to date info on that. I hope you have a great time!

  17. Chris L

    Hello Adam,

    Thank you very much for keeping this information up to date! We will be arriving in Cartagena in a couple of days and my Spanish isn’t yet up to the task of understanding government decrees.

    For pico y cedura, do establishments often accept a photocopy of your passport? I’d rather leave the actual document under lock and key when possible.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      I think a copy should work. Worse case scenario, you’ll have to come back, but yes, I would feel uncomfortable carrying around my passport too

  18. Paul

    Will you fined if you caught past the curfew? I am not sure if there was a curfew in late March but I was stopped at 3am and the police demanded money for curfew.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Yes, you can be fined. The actual fines are quite high (like 1 million plus pesos if I’m not mistaken), but I have heard stories of police accepting a small sum paid to them. Best bet is to just not be out past the curfew.

  19. Jason

    Hi! For those that visited Cartagena recently, please provide details on your experience. Our group of friends are also trying to plan a trip there this fall. Any info on your experience would be helpful. Thanks!

  20. Tim

    Are the curfews set to end on June 16th? I have a trip planned into the city on the 17th. Do you think that it would be over by then? Secondly what has the nightlife, been with these curfews in place, has it been completely stopped? Lastly, does the local police fine, tourists for even being out during the curfews?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Tim. The current decree ends at midnight, but I expect it to be continued. Possibly it will be expanded to 12, but case numbers and deaths have not gone down, so I expect it will most likely stay the same. There is some nightlife but obviously not as big as if people could be out later. Yes, you can be fined for being out after curfew, although it’s actually more likely that the police ask for a bribe to let you go.

  21. Paul

    Hey Adam. Did they extend the curfew?

  22. DL

    Hi Adam

    Great site!

    I’m a little confused about the PCR test. On the Skyscanner site it says that a negative PCR test is STILL required while on your site it says that it isn’t. I’m not sure what to believe.

    Since I have not travelled during this pandemic, who is it at the airport who checks for the negative PCR test? Is it at the airline check-in? If so, would the airline know now that a test is not required?

    I’m not sure if you or anyone else would know.

    Many thanks

    DL

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi DL,

      It is no longer required as of a couple weeks ago. That being said, I’d say after buying your ticket double check with the airline. They usually are the ones to check and would not let people board before without it, however, it is no longer needed. Info online can be somewhat contradictory because they required it, then they didn’t, then they did again, now they don’t again. This is the official announcement: https://www.minsalud.gov.co/Paginas/Minsalud-expuso-las-nuevas-medidas-para-la-reactivacion-.aspx

  23. Paul

    We are going back in Sept and this doesn’t look promising. Hope these get better there soon.

  24. Joe

    Thank You Adam for the good information. I want to come down in mid July but am holding off till the 1st to make arrangements. I will keep looking for further posts. Once again Thank You

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Glad it’s helping Joe. I would expect there to still be some form of curfew in place, perhaps later. Hope you are able to come!

  25. Gaia

    Hi Adam, we are a family with two kids under age 4 planned to fly to Cartagena and stay in Boca Grande from July 1-17th. Due to COVID situation we are wondering if it’s better to come in August or do you think it won’t matter as maybe the situation won’t improve? We are vaccinated and the children have COVID antibodies. The question is how dangerous is it to be in Cartagena right now? And will we be able to enjoy beach and restaurants while there? Thanking you so much in advance, we are really at a loss and have no idea if to come now or not.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Gaia. I would say it is fine, you can do just about everything, including the beaches and restaurants, just know things close at 9, but with little ones I doubt you would be staying out much later anyways. It is true that virus case counts have remained elevated since Easter, however if you are vaccinated I think you are more ore less are from the virus, and the protests have more or less petered out here in Cartagena and were not violent to begin with, especially around Bocagrande it is very safe. Of course, it’s always possible things change with the virus case counts, but they are making a big push now to start vaccinating more people, even expanding the time between the first and second shot to get more people the first and July is an important month for tourism, I would be highly surprised if they shut down.

      1. Gaia

        Thank you so much for your input!

  26. Paul

    Hi Andrew. From what I’ve read Medellin is fully open. Is the mayor of Cartagena making the call on whether there is a curfew or not?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Yes, the mayor and local council proposes measures and then asks the national Ministry of Health to approve it.

  27. DL

    Hi Adam

    A friend here just told me that the curfew was changed to midnight.

    Have you heard this?

    Thanks

    DL

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi DL,

      Yes! Yesterday afternoon it was announced, and went into effect immediately and says until August 1. Am updating the page now!

      1. JD

        Hey Adam, on the decree it mentioned no alcohol sales, is it just no sale of alcohol after midnight?

        1. Adam McConnaughhay

          It prohibits consuming alcohol in little stores/tiendas and billard halls as well as in public spaces like parks and the street. This does not apply to restaurants and bars, and is aimed more at little spots in the barrios, and is honestly not really enforced strictly.

          1. JD

            Thanks Adam appreciate the quick reply

  28. Paul

    Hey Adam! Happy Friday.How are things going down there?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Paul. Things are ok. Vaccines are ramping up, although case numbers haven’t started to drop significantly yet, curfew is set at 12 midnight through August 1

  29. DL

    Hi Adam

    I just wanted to put in a good word for Mely Contreras and her PCR service. The nurse visits your residence and results are delivered the next day. I highly recommend her service.

    Cheers

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Nice DL. Yes, lots of people have been really satisfied with her service. Glad you enjoyed Cartagena!

  30. Enrique

    Hi Adam. I have a trip planned to Cartagena in early September. It will be for a bachelor party. My question is, is it safe at the moment? Two, are we allowed to have people over at our place past curfew?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Enrique. It is very safe. The protests here were never very large to begin with and have mostly fizzled out with no violence. Petty crime happens like any tourist town, but with normal precautions it is very safe, especially in the tourist areas. Having people over after curfew will depend on the place. Hotels usually do charge extra if an additional person spends the night. With AirBnBs, it will depend on the building, and sometimes the site says you can have guests and the buildings themselves have a no guest policy. That is usually only an issue in the newer buildings in Bocagrande. To be 100% sure see if you can get an apartment that has an independent entrance in the Old City or Getsemaní, and of course people will have to spend the night if they stay past curfew time.

  31. John

    Hi Adam,

    I am wondering if there were any guidelines ever announced as to when the curfew will be removed such as ICU capacity’s need to be within certain levels or is this solely based on the city’s guidance at the time. Was curious how the locals generally felt about the curfew and covid situation as well.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi John,

      No, there is no, at least to my knowledge, ICU threshold that will lead to removing the curfew. I think though as ICU rates go down (they are now below 80% for the first time in a long time), I think they will strongly consider lifting it. We will see what happens with the new decree on August 1st. I would lean towards it staying at 12 am, but they may lift it entirely. As far as locals, honestly it’s a mixed bag. Those that work in the tourist industry want things open, those that don’t are still pretty apprehensive about the restrictions being relaxed while case counts were still going up. Hopefully the declines the last few days as more and more people are getting vaccinated holds and we can have the best of all worlds!

  32. Jason

    Hi Adam,
    The easing of restrictions have been in place for a few weeks now. How are the COVID numbers in the area – stabilizing, improving, getting worse? We are continuing to plan on our trip, and are trying to keep track. Does everything seem to be getting back to normal? Are the numbers of visitors starting to pick up? Again, any advise/perspective is greatly appreciated.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Jason. Daily reported case counts are usually in the double, not triple digits now, and even the first cruise ship was authorized to arrive. I guess we’ve seen this thing can throw us curveballs and it’s unclear if there will be some effect from Delta but I think you should go ahead with your trip!

  33. Christine

    Is Cartagena allowing cruise ship? We have a port stop in December of this year in Cartagena. Thank in advance.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Christine. Yes, they recently reopened to cruises, so assuming all continues to go well, I think you should be fine!

  34. Jack

    Hi Adam
    Thanks so much for your brilliantly informative blog.
    I am considering an extended trip to Cartagena from the UK with my young family in Jan/Feb, and was just trying to figure out what the mask-wearing rules are there now? (Essentially because it’s a pretty hot time of year to be wearing a mask out in the sun all day…)
    Would you mind clarifying exactly where people are expected to wear masks now (street/bar/plaza/beach?) and whether this is being strictly enforced / adhered to now that infections are thankfully down and vaccination rates improving?
    Thanks v much

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Jack. On the street and inside places people are still expected to wear masks. When eating at restaurants and at the beach not interacting with people serving you, it’s fine to take them off. While it’s unlikely that you’ll be fined or anything, the respectful thing to do is just wear it. If you or your kids get hot out and about, take it down for a few minutes to catch your breath away from people and/or to take a drink of water, and I think it should be fine. My experience as well is the surgical masks do much better beating breathable in the heat.

  35. Anette

    Hi!
    May you please specify the mask mandate? Does public places mean beach and outdoor space as well?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Outdoors on the streets yes, it is generally expected that you wear it. At the beach, when arriving and interacting with people, when just lounging in the sun and swimming, it’s fine to take it off.

      1. Jason

        Do you still have to make reservations at the beaches or has this changed? I’m planning a trip in March 2022. Thanks.

        1. Adam McConnaughhay

          Hi Jason. Honestly, I don’t think there was ever anything official that said you didn’t, but in practice, you don’t. If you want to stay out in the islands, it’s still a good idea to reserve early as they can be booked up in advance, but just to go to the beaches in town, it’s not necessary.

  36. Maria

    Hi adam,

    Do you currently need to show proof of vaccine to go places?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Maria, yes. Currently, you need to show proof you have received at least one does of a vaccine to enter restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and other similar places as well as any events like concerts. If you’re coming as a tourist, a vaccine certificate, physical or digital, from where you were vaccinated is fine. Starting December 14, everyone will need to show they have the 2 doses (with the exception of the J&J one shot vaccine).

  37. lionel jones

    How about the ban on Prostitution in the Walled City, did that really happen yet?, I am curious, I overhead a conversation stating that tourists would be deported if they are caught soliciting in public.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      To be honest, I’m not sure. There has been talk of it for a while, and personally, I say they should do it. Morals aside, it’s a bad look in one of the most iconic images of the city. There was a video a while back of a guy being pickpocketed while talking to some of them and while it’s not very common in Cartagena it’s not unheard of that those girls drug guys to rob them in other parts of Colombia. I’d say they are best avoided.

      1. Jeffrey Rome

        hi Adam,

        I am celebrating my 75th birthday in Cartagena with my two sons and wife from the 22nd to 26 December. In the unlikely event I become sick, are there hospitals in Cartagena and what quality of medical service is available? thank you for your advice. Best, Jeffrey

        1. Adam McConnaughhay

          Hi Jeffrey! Happy early birthday! I hope you all have a great time. Yes, there are hospitals in Cartagena, the best is the Bocagrande Hospital. Quality of care is good but not quite as sophisticated as you might find in the US.

  38. Jennifer

    Hi Adam,

    What happens if I test positive before I’m suppose to fly back? Do I isolate on my own or does Colombia have some protocols?

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Jennifer, my understanding is you will have to isolate on your own.

  39. Matt

    Hey man,

    I have a bachelor party trip planned on February 9th. We have a few days to decide if we need to pivot and move the trip. Any advice you can give would be helpful. Are bars still open? Are they closing early? Is there still a crowd and good atmosphere? Is Cartagena right now a fun environment or is a lot more tame and not as many people out and about with the new variant.

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Matt. I haven’t actually been in Cartagena for a few months, so I can’t speak to exactly how the atmosphere is, but there’s been no move up to now to reclose anything and curfew at 3 am is more or less around the time bars closed before. I guess with cases going way up (they are in the 2k a day range the last few days), it’s possible they tighten things but I would be shocked if they actually close anything or institute an early curfew but we really won’t know until a day or two before the start of Feb. Most of the messaging has been around getting holdouts vaxxed not about closing down. I think you will still have a great time but there is a small amount of risk involved.

      1. Hayley

        Do you know if the Salinas de Galerazamba and Volcan de Lodo El Totumo are open right now? I heard they were previously not due to covid.

        1. Adam McConnaughhay

          Hi Hayley, they should both be open. You may need to show proof of vaccination but to my knowledge it has not reclosed since reopening last year.

  40. Steven Michael

    Thank you very much for this information and details. I am an American with permanent residency in Colombia and have my wife and 3 kids there but have not been able to see them due to the shot regulation that went into effect in Dec. I am not wanting to come back to Colombia for tourism or business, it is where I LIVE. Apart from getting the shot, isn’t there any exceptions for a man trying to see his family?? Please advise with your opinion. Several sites seem to say that a negative PCR test is enough, and then again, others say “all travelers” must have…etc…but then add exceptions….so confusing but I havent seen my family now for 7 months and my girls are crying for their daddy all the time!

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Steven. My understanding of the rules are that if you have a R resident visa there is an exception to the vaccine requirement and you can enter with a PCR test 72 hours before travel or an antigen 48 hours. My understanding is an M migrant visa does not allow this exception to apply.

  41. Shanna

    Thank you so much for all this info! I’m traveling to Colombia in April and will be in Cartagena Easter weekend (Wednesday-Sunday). Will everything be closed due to it being Holy Week? I’m a little concerned!

    1. Adam McConnaughhay

      Hi Shana! That’s great. I’m so glad you have found it useful. On the contrary, that’s one of the busiest weeks of the year. There may be some restaurants and businesses closed on Easter Sunday and maybe even a few on Good Friday but there should be plenty open as well.

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