It is no surprise that more and more people are adding Cartagena to their travel list. This colorful colonial city offers all the trappings of an exciting tourist destination: a rich history, delicious food, friendly locals, and beautiful beaches. However, many visitors often overlook the climate while making their travel plans. Especially from June through October, the high temperatures, humidity, and equatorial sun create a heat that can challenge even the hardiest of travelers. The good news? With proper planning, it is easy to find ways to beat the heat. Use these tips to stay happy and cool while planning your visit to this Colombian paradise:
1. Take a Dip
A sure way to cool off is to take a relaxing dip in one of Cartagena’s many swimming pools. If your accommodation does not have a pool of its own, don’t fret! You can easily find a day pass to visit a hotel pool. The 5-star Hotel Caribe offers a luxurious poolside experience that includes a buffet-style lunch for around $40. Don’t be surprised if you spot animals wandering around by the pool—parrots, sloths, and deer call the hotel grounds home.
If you’d rather just pop into a pool for a short visit, check out the Rooftop at Townhouse. This trendy spot features a wading pool where guests can soak their feet while enjoying specialty cocktails and seafood tapas.
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2. Get into the Water
To find the strongest breeze in Cartagena, look to the ocean. A great way to enjoy the cool breeze and stunning views is to hop on a boat for a day or evening tour. Bona Vida Catamaran offers a sunset tour of the Cartagena Bay on a brand-new 85-foot catamaran, making it a truly memorable experience. While sipping on a complimentary drink and munching on appetizers, watch the sun slip below the horizon. After 2 hours of enjoying the refreshing sea breeze, you will return to shore just in time to partake in Cartagena’s famous nightlife.
Cool down, or heat up, with water.
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3. Visit a Museum and Savor Local Frozen Treats;
Visiting a museum is a great way to take in some culture during peak heat hours. There are several free or low-cost museums in the historic center worth a visit. In Plaza de Bolívar you can find the Museo del Oro Zenú (Museum of Gold) that features golden artifacts from indigenous tribes of the Caribbean region. Head to Plaza San Pedro to take in modern paintings and sculpture pieces by Colombian artists at the Museum of Modern Art. Try a paleta (Colombian popsicle) from local vendors. Flavors like coconut, passion fruit, or tamarind are as refreshing as they are delicious. For something fancier, check out gourmet ice cream spots like Crepes and Waffles ice cream.
4. Indoor Activities in Cartagena
When the afternoon heat becomes too intense, step inside for a refreshing and cultural experience. Cartagena offers a range of indoor activities that blend comfort with discovery. Explore these top picks:
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Chocolate Workshop: Learn about the history of Colombian cacao while crafting and sampling your own chocolate creations. A delicious and educational way to cool off!
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Colombian Coffee Tasting: Dive into Colombia’s coffee culture by tasting some of the world’s finest brews. Perfect for coffee enthusiasts!
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Colombian Rum Tasting: Discover the rich history of Colombian rum while sampling a variety of aged rums paired with local delicacies.
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5. Lay on the Beach
The ultimate way to stay cool on a hot Cartagena day is to head to the beach. If you’re looking to spend just a few hours oceanside, the beaches of Bocagrande and Castillogrande are both within a 10-minute cab ride of the city center. But if you’re longing to spend an entire day relaxing by the sea, consider a day trip to one of the more pristine beaches of the Rosario Islands.
Spend your day lying under an umbrella with a cold drink in hand, enjoying crystal-clear waters. The heat of the city will become a distant memory.
BOOK HERE THE BEST BEACH DAY TRIPS IN CARTAGENA
6. Explore the City at Dawn or Dusk
Cartagena’s colonial streets are stunning, but they can get toasty during the day. Beat the heat by exploring early in the morning or after sunset when the temperatures are cooler, and the Walled City lights add a magical touch to your photos.
Cartagena’s heat can sneak up on you, so staying hydrated is key. Always carry a bottle of water, wear sunscreen, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours (12:00 PM–3:00 PM)..