Safe neighborhoods in Cartagena
- Walled city (Ciudad Amurallada): patrolled, tourist-heavy
- Getsemani: bohemian, nightlife, safe main streets
- Bocagrande: modern hotels, beach, safe day and night
- Manga: residential, quieter
Common scams to avoid
- Bracelet scam (refuse and walk away)
- Overcharged street food (ask price first)
- Fake tour sellers (book through licensed providers)
- Unmarked taxis (use Uber or InDriver)
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Solo travelers, including women, report feeling safe in the walled city, Getsemani and Bocagrande. Use Uber at night and stay aware in crowded areas.
The bracelet or rosemary scam (vendors tie a bracelet on you then demand payment), overcharging at street food stalls without posted prices, and taxi overcharging. Agree prices before anything.
Inside the walled city, Getsemani main streets and Bocagrande: yes. Use Uber to move between neighborhoods. Avoid empty streets after midnight.
