Cartagena, Colombia
Based on Black traveler community reports.
Why BLKNomads love Cartagena, Colombia
Nearby San Basilio de Palenque was the first free African town in the Americas, founded by escaped enslaved people. Afro-Colombian Palenque culture and champeta music define the region.
Cartagena is Caribbean Colombia at its most vivid — a UNESCO walled city wrapped around deep Afro-Colombian roots and the champeta beat.
Traveling here as a Black woman
The walled city is very safe for solo women. Take official taxis after dark.
Instagram's most photogenic girls trip — colorful walls, flower crown ladies, rooftop bars, Afro-Colombian culture
Plan the girls trip →Limited natural hair options in tourist areas. Protective styles recommended before arrival.
Cartagena rewards COLOR. Flowy dresses in bold prints — the colorful architecture is your backdrop.
Stays in Cartagena, Colombia
Black-owned hotels
We spotlight Black-owned and Black-run properties in Cartagena, Colombia. Estimated 550+ Black-owned businesses call this destination home.
See Black-owned stays →Fly private to Cartagena, Colombia. Stay Black.
Safety & welcome
Based on Black traveler community reports.
Generally safe; use normal big-city awareness. Here’s what to know — honest, not fearful.