Cartagena for gay travelers
Cartagena sits on Colombia’s Caribbean coast and offers a mix of history, culture, and tropical flair that makes it stand out for LGBTQ+ travelers. The old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, wrapped in stone walls and filled with plazas, churches, and brightly painted colonial houses. Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping into another era, with bougainvillea spilling from balconies and music drifting out of cafés.
Daytime activities go beyond sightseeing. White-sand beaches are close by, with islands like Barú or Rosario offering turquoise waters perfect for swimming and boat trips. Street vendors sell fresh fruit, and small restaurants serve Caribbean-inspired food. The city also has a growing art scene, with galleries and murals that reflect Cartagena’s creative side.
Colombian people are known for their friendliness, and Cartagena is no exception. Travelers often mention the warm welcome they receive, both in hotels and in the nightlife scene. It’s easy to strike up a conversation in a bar or on the beach, which makes solo travel here enjoyable.
When the sun sets, Cartagena reveals its gay nightlife. Though the scene is smaller compared to Bogotá or Medellín, there are bars and clubs that draw both locals and visitors. Venues are mostly in the Getsemaní district, where colonial buildings now house cocktail bars, lounges, and dance spaces. Drag shows and Latin beats keep nights lively, and many venues stay open until dawn.
Cartagena is more than a beach stop. It combines culture, history, and social life into one compact destination. For LGBTQ+ travelers, the mix of charm, friendliness, and nightlife makes it one of the most rewarding cities to visit on Colombia’s coast.
