Planning a family trip to Cartagena, Colombia? You’re in for a colorful adventure. Cobblestoned plazas, pirate fortresses, island escapes, and plenty of sweet treats to keep the kids happy. But traveling with little ones also means balancing fun with comfort, safety, and logistics. This guide covers everything you need: age-appropriate activities, family-friendly hotels, safety tips, and how to make the most of Cartagena with kids. Plus how our local partner, Rebecca Adventure Travel, helps families experience it all stress-free.

Is Cartagena Safe With Kids?

Yes. Cartagena is one of Colombia’s safest and most tourist-friendly cities. You will see families strolling the Old Town into the evening, and kids playing in the lively plazas. We felt incredibly safe during our visit and we found the city had plenty of family friendly activities to keep the kids happy. Still, here are a few tips to keep your trip running smoothly:

• Stick to well-lit areas of the Walled City at night. 
• Use official taxis or ride shares for longer distances. We found Uber to be inexpensive and easy.
• Keep valuables tucked away (pickpocketing happens in busy plazas just like most tourist hot spots around the world).
• Beaches: choose calmer waters. You’ll notice flags on most beaches to let you know if it’s safe to swim. The waves can get pretty intense at some of the beaches. We found the islands to have our favorite spots for swimming.

Pro tip: Traveling with a vetted local company like Rebecca Adventure Travel means vetted guides, private drivers, and trusted island boat operators, huge peace of mind when you’re with kids in a new country.

Best Things To Do in Cartagena With Kids

Here’s how to plan activities so everyone stays engaged (and cool!).

Wandering Through Getsemaní

No trip to Cartagena is complete without wandering the streets of Getsemaní, the city’s colorful and artistic neighborhood. We spent a morning strolling through the narrow streets, admiring the vibrant murals that cover nearly every wall. Each one tells a story, some celebrate Cartagena’s history, while others highlight the community’s Afro-Caribbean culture and modern creativity. It honestly felt like walking through an open-air gallery.

Of course, Getsemaní is also famous for its Instagram-worthy spots. Here are a few of our favorites (with pins so you can find them easily):

• Umbrella Street (Callejón Angosto): A narrow alleyway covered in a canopy of colorful umbrellas—probably the most photographed spot in the neighborhood.
• Flag Street (Calle Tripita y Media): Lined with flags from all over the world, this is such a cheerful street and a fun way to get the kids excited about recognizing different countries.
• Kite Street (Calle 29): A whimsical stretch where pastel kites float overhead, creating a dreamy, colorful canopy. It’s less crowded than the umbrella or flag streets, which makes it feel like a hidden gem for photos.
• Street Murals (around Plaza de la Trinidad): Some of the most striking murals in Cartagena, perfect for photos and for taking in the neighborhood’s creative energy.

What I loved about visiting Getsemaní with my kids is that it’s not just about the photos, it’s a chance to slow down, wander, and really soak in Cartagena’s energy. The girls loved pointing out their favorite murals and picking which umbrella or flag street they thought was “the best.” These slow wandering days are some of my personal favorites.

Snack & Coffee Stops in Getsemaní:
Exploring in the Cartagena heat definitely calls for breaks! A few spots we enjoyed:

• Café del Mural: A cozy little café known for its specialty coffee. The perfect place to recharge.
• Demente Tapas Bar (Plaza de la Trinidad): Great for small plates if you’re ready for something more filling while people-watching in the lively square.
• La Palettería (nearby in the old town, but worth the walk): Handmade popsicles with local fruit flavors—my kids’ top pick.
• Street Arepas: Don’t skip the street vendors—an arepa con queso makes for the perfect quick snack while wandering.

Whether you’re there for the art, the food, or the atmosphere, Getsemaní is one of those neighborhoods that captures Cartagena’s spirit best; colorful, lively, and full of surprises around every corner.

City walls at sunset

Easy walk, stroller-friendly in spots. Little ones will love to see all the bright colored buildings, street performers and stop for the yummy treats along the way. 

Cooking class

Hands-on, messy fun with empanadas or arepas. We opted for a class to learn how to make the famous ceviche and it was one of our favorite experiences from our trip. We love how much the girls learn by experiencing food from other cultures. This was so fun and interactive, plus the included lunch afterwards was delicious. I was so grateful that Rebecca Adventure Travel set this up for us at Ohh La La restaurant in the Getsemani neighborhood. The space was gorgeous and in the perfect location after a morning of touring the murals. Our instructor was so kind and patient with the girls, answering their million questions, and taught us so much about the famous dish. Finding hidden gems from personal recommendations are always the best, so trust me this cooking class is a must!

Naval Museum

Interactive exhibits, pirate ship play area, and plenty of shade. We didn’t get a chance to visit on our trip but heard amazing reviews from other parents.

Drum Workshop with Corporación Cultural Kilele

One of the most powerful and unexpected things we did in Cartagena was join a drum workshop with Corporación Cultural Kilele, a community organization that uses music to preserve Afro-Colombian traditions and support local youth. Their programs give teens a positive outlet and a chance to share their culture with visitors, and by joining, you’re helping sustain that mission.

We met in their community space, and from the moment the drums started, the energy was contagious. My girls loved getting their hands on the drums and learning the rhythms step by step. The teens leading the session were so patient and enthusiastic—they didn’t just teach us how to play, they showed us how the beats connect to dance, storytelling, and Cartagena’s identity.

What I loved most was the bigger picture: by participating, we were supporting a project that keeps local youth off the streets and channels their talent into something positive. It felt less like a “tourist activity” and more like being invited into the heart of the community.

Tips for doing the drum workshop:

• Where: Corporación Cultural Kilele has its base in Cartagena (they often host workshops in their cultural space).
• Cost: Prices vary depending on the group size and length of the session.
• Best for kids: My girls (ages 12, 11, 9) picked it up quickly. It’s hands-on, noisy, and fun, so it’s perfect for kids who love music and movement.
• What to expect: You’ll spend time learning basic rhythms, trying them out in a group, and sometimes even ending with a little performance or jam session.

This was one of those experiences that went way beyond sightseeing, it gave our family a deeper connection to Cartagena and created a memory we’ll never forget.

Street Market Food Tour with a guide

Colorful food stalls, music, and energy… especially with a trusted local guide. We got picked up from our hotel, in a large air condidionted van, and taken on the most special tour around the city. We walked streets with the locals, stopped to grab snacks at hidden gems, and tried foods we never would have if we didn’t do this tour. This was such a special day and our guide made it even more special with his heartfelt stories and picking spots no tourist would ever be able to find. We tried everything from arepas to a world famous cocktail shrimp. Fruit juices from a local shop that’s been around for 50 years, special candy made from coconuts, and the girls even got to make their own shaved ice from an antique machine. This is a must do and Rebecca Adventure Travel set us up with the most amazing guide to ensure it was a day we will remember for a long time to come. Be sure to bring your water on this trip, you’re trying lots of different flavors and most of the tour is outside so it can get really hot. We did find this tour to be good for all ages because the stops are really customized to your specific liking and the ages of your kids.

Bike ride along the walls

You get to see so much of the city this way and it’s a great activity for older kids.

Don’t Waste a Minute of Your Trip 

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Getting Our Hair Wrapped with Ros

One of the most unexpected highlights of our time in Cartagena was getting our hair wrapped by Ros, the woman behind the Instagram account @ros_coronandoando. If you’ve spent any time scrolling Cartagena content, chances are you’ve seen her—Ros is famous for her colorful, intricate hair wraps that have become a must-do experience for visitors.

I went with all three of my girls, and we each picked our favorite thread colors and bead accents from her huge selection. Sitting with Ros felt like more than just getting a wrap, it was a little cultural moment. She chatted with us while she worked, making the whole experience relaxed and fun. By the end, we were all showing off our new wraps like they were treasures, and honestly, they became one of our favorite souvenirs from the trip.

Tips for getting your hair wrapped with Ros:

• Where to find her: Ros usually sets up in Cartagena’s historic center. To make it easy, I put her exact location in my Cartagena map.
• Cost: Prices vary by length and design. We paid around $10 each, very fair considering the time and detail she puts into each wrap.
• Plan ahead: Ros is popular (especially in the afternoons when the streets are busier), so if you want to avoid waiting, go earlier in the day.
• Colors & designs: Let your kids pick out their color combos in advance if they get overwhelmed by too many choices it makes the process smoother.
• How long they last: With care, the wraps can last for weeks, and my girls loved keeping theirs in long after we left Cartagena. The perfect souvenir!

It’s such a simple but special way to bring home a piece of Cartagena, and for us it turned into a sweet mother–daughter memory we’ll never forget.

Day trip to Barú or Rosario Islands

The islands are the perfect escape from the city for calm waters and white sand. We opted to stay two nights to get the full experience and I couldn’t recommend that more! Find our more about our time in the islands down below

Island snorkeling & oceanarium visit

Adventure mixed with learning. This was my kids favorite day of the trip! Our trusted guide to us to all the best snorkeling spots and we got to see so much ocean life. 

Island Day Trips: Rosario, Barú & Tierra Bomba

The islands are a highlight, but with kids you’ll want to plan carefully:

• Travel time: Boats take 45–90 minutes depending on the island.
• Waves: Afternoons can be rougher. Morning departures are best.
• Shade & naps: Pick beach clubs or private tours that offer shaded loungers.
• Private boats: Flexible departure and child-sized life jackets make them worth it.

👉 Why book with Rebecca Adventure Travel? They match families with safe, vetted boat operators, provide bilingual guides, and even arrange private island days where kids can set the pace.

Where to Stay In Cartagena With Kids

• Old Town (Centro Histórico): Walkable, charming, but pricier. Great for families with older kids.
• Getsemaní: Artsy, vibrant, budget-friendly, though noisier at night.
• Bocagrande/Castillogrande: High-rise hotels with pools and calmer beaches, ideal for younger kids.

Look for hotels with family suites, pools, and breakfast included. Some favorites: 

Bondo Estudio – Contemporary Design With Family Comfort

Bondo Estudio is a boutique-style apartment close to everything you will want to see in Cartagena’s . It’s the perfect mix of modern convenience for families and beautiful design. Our apartment had a private Jacuzzi, sea views, and plenty of space for the kids to spread out after a day of exploring. The location was right across the street from the beach and just a short uber ride away from all the other sites. The lobby included the cutest restaurant which made grabbing a snack or having breakfast before sightseeing really easy.

Why we loved it: Spacious apartments, self-catering options, central yet peaceful location, and a Jacuzzi and rooftop pool to cool down after hot Cartagena days.

Hotel Isla del Encanto – Family-Friendly Island Escape

Located in the Corales del Rosario Natural Park, Isla del Encanto was the highlight of our trip. After a 1.5-hour boat ride, we arrived at a resort-style escape where everything was included: meals, beach loungers, and fun activities. The kids loved swimming in the calm waters and pool, while we soaked in the Caribbean views from our spacious room

Meals were fresh and family-friendly, with plenty of kid-approved options. The best part? The balance between relaxation and activities: snorkeling, boat rides, and island tours are all available if you want more adventure.

Why we loved it: All-inclusive dining, calm beaches with shade, spacious suites, and activities for all ages just steps from your room.

Our Cartagena Family Itinerary With Rebecca Adventure Travel

Rebecca Adventure Travel created a tailor-made experience for our family that balanced culture, food, relaxation, and fun. Here’s how it went:

Day 01: Arrival in Cartagena & Street Food Tour

Day 02: Ceviche Workshop & Drum Workshop

• Arrival at Rafael Núñez Airport (Rebecca Adventure Travel provided private transfer with an English-speaking guide).
• Check-in at Bondo Estudio, a cozy apartment with so much space and a Jacuzzi and sea views.
• Evening Street Food Tour: tasted exotic fruits, arepas, coconut water, ice cream, and local sweets while exploring hidden corners of Cartagena.

• Morning Ceviche Workshop Experience at Oh Lalá! – we learned how to prepare ceviche (vegetarian options available), enjoyed tropical drinks, dessert, and it was the perfect family friendly activity to escape the heat of the day.
• Afternoon Drum Workshop – an Afro-Colombian fishing village where we learned about the history of drums in cumbia, Mapalé, and Champeta. The kids got to play and dance alongside local musicians at the Drum Workshop.

Day 03: Isla del Encanto

• Transfer from the hotel to Muelle de Bodeguita port (we had a pre-booked transfer and our guide was there to make sure it all went smoothly).
• Bus ride (~1.5 hours) to Hotel Isla del Encanto, located in Corales del Rosario Natural Park.
• Afternoon on the beach, swimming and relaxing. Meals included. Stayed in a spacious room with plenty of amenities, gorgeous design, and the dreamiest outdoor shower.

Day 04: Snorkeling around the Rosario Islands

• Took a boat trip to explore the other islands, we had an English speaking guide who took us to the best snorkeling spots, 3 different beaches, and gave us advice on the perfect spot for lunch. 
• Another night at Hotel Isla del Encanto, where we had a gorgeous dinner overlooking the water.

Day 05: Return to Cartagena & Departure

• Boat transfer back to Cartagena by afternoon.
• Direct transfer to the airport, all set up by Rebecca Adventure Travel.

👉 Having Rebecca Adventure Travel handle the logistics gave us total peace of mind. Every transfer, guide, and meal was arranged, so we could just enjoy the trip.

Eating in Cartagena With Kids

Cartagena has plenty of family-friendly restaurants where the food is delicious and the atmosphere is relaxed enough for little ones. Here are some top picks with great reviews:

• Di Silvio Trattoria (Getsemaní): Known for its large pizzas and hearty pasta dishes. Perfect for picky eaters and big family portions.
• Crepes & Waffles: A Colombian favorite chain with sweet and savory options, plus ice cream. Fast service and affordable for families.
• Amasa Café Brunch: Great for breakfast and brunch, think pancakes, eggs, pastries, and smoothies. Kids love the sweet options, parents love the coffee.
• Terraza Municipal: An open-air food court offering multiple cuisines. Great if everyone in the family wants something different. Plenty of space for kids to move around.
• La Palettería: A must-stop for artisanal popsicles in tropical flavors like passionfruit, coconut, and chocolate. A fun way to cool down between activities.
• Café del Mural (Getsemaní): Best for parents who love coffee while kids can sip fresh juice or enjoy a snack.

Pro tip: Street food is a big part of the Cartagena experience. Stick to busy vendors, and try kid-approved favorites like arepas de huevo (egg-stuffed arepas), empanadas, and fresh fruit juices.

Safety & Practical Tips

• Stroller-friendly? The Old Town is walkable, but cobblestones can be tricky, use a lightweight stroller.
• Heat strategy: Do outdoor sightseeing in the morning, siesta mid-day, pool in the afternoon.
• Water: We stuck to bottled water; many restaurants use filtered ice.
• Transport: Uber is common; for day trips, hire through a trusted company.

Why We Chose Rebecca Adventure Travel

We partnered with Rebecca Adventure Travel because they specialize in tailor-made family tours across Latin America. In Cartagena, that meant:

It turned a trip we thought might be stressful into a seamless, memory-filled adventure.

• A bilingual guide who engaged our kids with history stories and scavenger hunts.
• Private transport with car seats on request.
• A vetted boat company with child-sized life jackets for the islands.
• On-call support for last-minute changes.

Exclusive Reader Discount With Rebecca Adventure Travel

We’ve partnered with Rebecca Adventure Travel to make your family trip even more affordable and rewarding.

• 5% Discount: Use code Blinks5 when booking your Cartagena or Colombia adventure.
• Every booking made through our referral link supports our family and helps us keep creating guides like this at no extra cost to you.

→ Claim Your 5% Discount With Rebecca Adventure Travel

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Cartagena With Kids

Is Cartagena safe for families with children?

Yes, Cartagena is generally considered safe for families, especially in tourist-friendly neighborhoods like the Old Town, Bocagrande, and Getsemaní. As with any city, use common sense: stick to well-lit areas at night, keep valuables secure, and use registered taxis or rideshare apps.

What is the best time of year to visit Cartagena with kids?

Cartagena is warm year-round, with average temps between 80–90°F (27–32°C). The dry season (December–April) is the most popular time to visit, but also the busiest. The rainy season (May–November) brings brief showers but fewer crowds and better prices.

How many days do you need in Cartagena with kids?

For a family trip, 4–5 days is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, enjoy cultural activities (like cooking or drum workshops), and take a day trip to nearby islands without feeling rushed.

If you are looking for a longer trip consider this 8 day itinerary through Colombia as well.

What should we pack for kids in Cartagena?

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hats & sunscreen (the sun is strong!)
• Swimsuits and water shoes
• Bug spray (especially if visiting islands or mangroves)
• Refillable water bottles

Can you drink the tap water in Cartagena?

It’s best to stick to bottled or filtered water. Many hotels provide safe drinking water for guests. Bring reusable bottles you can refill.

What are the best things to do in Cartagena with children?

• Explore the colorful Old Town walls and plazas
• Try exotic fruits on a street food tour
• Learn to make ceviche or play drums in a cultural workshop
• Spend a day at the beach or take a boat to the Rosario Islands
• Visit Parque del Centenario to spot iguanas and monkeys
• Cool off with a visit to La Palettería for artisanal popsicles

Are the islands near Cartagena good for kids?

Yes! Places like Isla del Encanto are great for families, offering calm beaches, shallow water, and all-inclusive stays. Just pack motion sickness bands for the boat ride, it can get bumpy.

Do I need to speak Spanish in Cartagena?

While many people in the tourist areas speak basic English, having a few Spanish phrases helps (and locals appreciate it). Tour guides from Rebecca Adventure Travel are English-speaking, which makes family travel much easier.

How can I save money on a family trip to Cartagena?

• Book tours through trusted local operators like Rebecca Adventure Travel (and don’t forget to use code Blinks5 for 5% off).
• Travel during the shoulder season (May, September, October).
• Eat at local spots for lunch, when menus are cheaper than dinner.
• Stay in family apartments (like Bondo Estudio) with kitchens to cook some meals.

Final Thoughts

Cartagena is a family-friendly gem full of color, culture, and kid-approved fun. Whether you’re wandering through Getsemaní’s murals, building sandcastles on Barú, or exploring the fortress tunnels, this city blends adventure with ease. And with local partners like Rebecca Adventure Travel, you can focus on memories, not logistics.

👉 Ready to plan your Cartagena family adventure? Check out Rebecca Adventure Travel’s Cartagena tours for tailor-made options.

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