Cartagena
South America · Colombia
Best Months
Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Rec. Nights
5 nights
Airports
CTG (Rafael Núñez International)
Avg. Cash
$200 - $350/night
Best Value
1.7¢via Hyatt
Overview
Cartagena is Colombia's crown jewel -- a UNESCO World Heritage walled city where colorful colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and Caribbean beaches converge. The Old City's cobblestone streets, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and centuries-old fortresses create one of the most photogenic destinations in the Americas.
For points travelers, Cartagena offers one of the best CPP values anywhere. The Hyatt Regency Cartagena books at just 12,000 Hyatt points per night for a property that regularly commands $200+ in cash -- an extraordinary value that makes this a top Chase UR redemption. The Conrad Cartagena provides a luxury beach resort alternative through Hilton.
Beyond the stunning Walled City, Cartagena is a gateway to the Rosario Islands (pristine beaches and snorkeling), world-class food tours through Bazurto Market, and a nightlife scene that pulses until dawn. The combination of history, culture, beach access, and incredible points value makes Cartagena a must-visit for savvy travelers.
Cash vs Points
Hotels in Cartagena range from $200 to $350 per night. Points redemptions offer 1.7+ cents per point value.
Points Hotel Recommendations
2 properties in Cartagena bookable with points, sorted by value
| Hotel | Program | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hyatt Regency Cartagena Top Pick | Hyatt | 12,000 | $200 | 1.7¢ | 8.7/10 | |
Conrad Cartagena | Hilton | 95,000 | $350 | 0.4¢ | 9.0/10 |
Transfer Points Strategy
Maximize your points value with the best transfer path
Best Value
If you have World of Hyatt Points:
Hyatt Regency Cartagena
HyattHyatt (1:1)Hyatt Regency Cartagena
Cost12,000 pts/night × 5 nights = 60,000 Hyatt
Value$1,000 cash ÷ 60,000 pts= 1.7¢
Transfer time: Instant
If you have Hilton Honors Points:
Conrad Cartagena
HiltonHilton (1:1)Conrad Cartagena
Cost95,000 pts/night × 5 nights = 475,000 Hilton
Value$1,750 cash ÷ 475,000 pts= 0.4¢
Transfer time: Instant
Recommended Activities
Curated experiences in Cartagena
Must-Do
Cultural
Old Walled City Walking Tour
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage walled city with a local guide. See Plaza Santo Domingo, the Palace of the Inquisition, colorful Getsemaní street art, and centuries of colonial history brought to life.
3 hours$25
EveryoneHistory
Must-Do
Water
Rosario Islands Day Trip
Take a boat to the Rosario Islands archipelago for pristine beaches, snorkeling in coral reefs, and a fresh seafood lunch on a private island. The turquoise Caribbean waters are stunning.
8 hours$50
EveryoneBeach
Must-Do
Food
Bazurto Market Food Tour
Dive into Cartagena's most authentic market with a local guide. Sample exotic fruits, fresh ceviche, arepas de huevo, and local juices. This is where cartageneros actually shop and eat.
3 hours$40
FoodiesCulture
Must-Do
Relaxation
Sunset on the City Walls
Walk along the historic city walls at sunset with views of the Caribbean and the modern Bocagrande skyline. Street vendors sell cocktails and snacks. The golden hour light on the colonial buildings is magical.
5 hours$0
CouplesEveryone
Cultural
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Explore the largest Spanish colonial fortress in the Americas. An engineering marvel with underground tunnels, strategic battlements, and panoramic city views from the top.
2 hours$8
EveryoneHistory
Cultural
Getsemaní Street Art Walk
Wander through Cartagena's hippest neighborhood with vibrant murals, live music spilling from bars, and a creative energy that's transforming this once-overlooked barrio into the city's cultural heartbeat.
5 hours$0
EveryoneArt
Adventure
Totumo Mud Volcano
Bathe in warm, mineral-rich mud inside a small volcanic crater. A quirky, uniquely Colombian experience followed by a rinse in a nearby lagoon. It's weird, wonderful, and unforgettable.
4 hours$25
AdventureFamilies
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Getting There
CTG (Rafael Núñez International)
Visa & Entry
Check your country's requirements
Budget
From $200/night
Packing Essentials
Pack for the climate
Cultural Tips
Respect local customs
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