Cartagena with Kids: Our 4-Day Family Itinerary

Q:Is the water safe for toddlers?
A: The beaches we visited (Manzanillo del Mar, Cocoliso) had calm, shallow water perfect for young children. Always supervise closely, but the calm waters and clear visibility made it less stressful. The Caribbean side of Colombia generally has calmer water than the Pacific, but there definitely are seasons where winds and swells are high.

Q: What about vendors on the beach? Are they as intense as the ones in the Old City?
A: This is very real in places like Playa Blanca, but at our beachfront property in Manzanillo del Mar and at Cocoliso (private beach club), vendor pressure was minimal. The vendors who did approach were friendly and respectful of a polite “no gracias.” 

Q: Can kids handle the heat?
A: Cartagena can get HOT. We’re talking 85-95°F (29-35°C) with high humidity. My strategy: early mornings for outdoor activities and late afternoons for pool or beach days or finding something indoors. Hydration is a must. And definitely get to the aviario right as they open so you can time your departure before peak heat.

Q: Is Cartagena safe for families?
A: We felt very safe throughout our trip. The touristy areas (walled city, Manzanillo del Mar, Getsemaní) are well-patrolled and family-friendly. Standard travel precautions apply: don’t flash expensive items, be aware of surroundings, use registered taxis or trusted transportation services, keep your phones safe and not in your back pocket. Colombia has changed dramatically in the past decade and is very welcoming to tourists.

Q: How do you handle naps?
A: This was easier staying in a vacation rental versus a hotel. Morning activities, back to the property for lunch and naps, then evening activities. Not every nap happened at the same time or even at all, but having a quiet space with actual beds helped maintain some routine. Our days are not packed with things to do either. The first half of the day is usually when we get out and we relax the second half. No stress or rushing to the next “thing.”

Q: Do restaurants have high chairs and changing tables?
A: Most restaurants in touristy areas have high chairs. Changing tables are less common. We got used to changing diapers in creative locations (car trunks, bathroom floors, beach towels, even once on a bench). Pack a portable changing pad and you’ll be fine.

Q: What about language barriers?
A: In tourist areas, many people speak at least some English. However, learning basic Spanish phrases goes a long way and is genuinely appreciated. “Por favor” (please), “gracias” (thank you), “la cuenta” (the check), and “dónde está el baño” (where is the bathroom) will get you far. Google Translate is also incredibly helpful. 

Q: Is it worth it with kids this young?
A: This is the question I get most. Here’s my honest answer: If you’re expecting a relaxing, stress-free vacation like your pre-kids beach trips, adjust your expectations. But if you’re open to a different kind of adventure, one where you’re creating memories, exposing your kids to new experiences, and stealing moments of beauty between diaper changes — then absolutely yes. Our kids may not remember this trip years from now, but we will. And we’re teaching them that the world is big, beautiful, and worth exploring. 

Q: How many days should we spend in Cartagena with young kids?
A: Four full days is ideal. It’s enough time to experience the walled city, visit a beach club, do a unique activity like the aviary, and have rest days without feeling rushed. Less than 3 days feels too short; more than 5 days might be too much for young toddlers.

Q: Is the Aviario Nacional worth visiting with toddlers?
A: Absolutely! It was one of our trip highlights. The walking paths are manageable, there’s lots to see, and kids are genuinely engaged by the colorful birds flying around them. Plan for 2-3 hours and arrive right when they open in the morning when it’s cooler and birds are more active.

Q: Can we visit Cartagena during rainy season with kids?
A: Yes, but plan for afternoon rain showers. Morning activities work well, and you can retreat to your pool or back to your room when rain hits. Prices are lower and crowds smaller, which has its advantages.

Q: What’s the best time to visit Cartagena with kids?
A: December through April offers the driest weather, but it’s also peak tourist season. May and November can be good shoulder season options with fewer crowds and lower prices, though you may encounter some rain. Mid-January to Mid-February has worked great for us in terms of crowd and weather.

Q: Are there direct flights to Cartagena?
A: Cartagena’s Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) has direct flights from major US cities including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, New York, and Fort Lauderdale, as well as connections throughout Colombia and Latin America. From Medellín, it’s about an hour flight.

Q: What currency should we bring?
A: Colombian pesos (COP). While some tourist establishments accept US dollars, you’ll get better rates using local currency. ATMs are widely available in Cartagena, but we recommend bringing some cash for beach vendors and small purchases and definitely have it handy when you’re going to the islands just in case.

Q: Is Manzanillo del Mar better than staying in the walled city for families?
A: Depends on your needs, but IMHO for families with young kids, absolutely. The space, pools, beach access, and quieter atmosphere make it significantly more enjoyable than cramped hotel rooms in the city. You can always visit the walled city for dinner or activities.