Cartagena Acclimation Playbook
4 steps to get settled | 0 of 4 complete
🇨🇴Colombia GuidePre-Arrival
What to sort before flying into the Caribbean's hottest colonial city
Visa and entry requirements
US passport holders enter Colombia visa-free for 90 days on arrival — no prior visa required. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. The 90-day period can be extended once at a Migracion Colombia office (there is one in Cartagena, near the Manga neighborhood) for an additional 90 days, costing approximately COP 115,000 (USD 28), giving you up to 180 days per calendar year. For longer stays, Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa (Visa V Nómada Digital) is available for up to 2 years — requirements include proof of remote employment with a foreign employer, minimum income of roughly 3x the Colombian minimum wage (approximately USD 900/month as of 2026), valid health insurance, and a clean criminal record. Apply at a Colombian consulate or online through the Cancilleria website.
Get an eSIM before departure
Buy an eSIM from Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad eSIM before you fly. A Colombia plan with 5–10 GB data typically costs USD 12–20 for 30 days and gives you immediate connectivity on landing — essential for navigating the short taxi ride to Bocagrande or Getsemaní and for using ride-hailing apps right away. Claro Colombia has the best overall coverage in Cartagena and the surrounding coast. Movistar is a solid alternative. Buy a local Claro prepaid SIM within your first 48 hours for better long-term data rates — available at the airport arrivals hall or at any Claro store downtown.
Airalo
eSIM for 190+ countries
Book short-term accommodation in Getsemaní or Bocagrande
Do not commit to a long-term rental before arriving. Book a furnished Airbnb or guesthouse for your first 2–3 weeks so you can experience neighborhoods in person. Getsemaní is the most interesting base for nomads — a gentrifying historic neighborhood adjoining the Walled City, full of street art, low-key bars, small restaurants, and genuine local life. It is more affordable than the Old City or Bocagrande and has the best vibe for longer stays. Bocagrande is the modern beach resort strip across the bay — walkable to a beach, more chain restaurants and hotels, slightly safer at night but less characterful. Castillogrande is quieter and upscale. Expect COP 100,000–200,000/night for a decent studio on short-term bookings. Monthly furnished rates in Getsemaní or Bocagrande run COP 2,500,000–4,500,000 (USD 600–1,100).
Booking.com
Monthly stays & apartments worldwide
Travel insurance and health coverage
Colombia has strong private hospitals in Cartagena, but travel insurance is essential for emergencies and medical evacuation. SafetyWing Nomad Insurance (approximately USD 45/month) covers Colombia and is widely used in the nomad community. World Nomads and Genki are solid alternatives. For Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa, valid health insurance covering Colombia is a required document. Private consultations at Cartagena clinics typically cost COP 150,000–300,000 (USD 35–70). The main private hospital is Clinica Medihelp on the causeway, with English-speaking doctors available for complex cases.
SafetyWing
Travel & medical insurance for nomads