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Cruising248 saw things this way:


Please exercise extreme caution. This city is not tourist-friendly., January 23, 2017
Reviewer: Cruising248

Pros: The port terminal itself was outstanding - you will miss it, buses go to ship.

Cons: Not tourist friendly.

I'm just going to come right out and say it - the cruise ships are selling their passengers a bill of goods when it comes to docking in Cartagena, Colombia. My husband and I were looking forward to visiting the second-oldest city in Columbia. The port terminal is fantastic - we were told it is by far the "nicest terminal in all of South America." Yes. I believe that statement. However, the moment we were on the local roads after docking, we knew it was a mistake to have left the terminal. Traffic is far worse than NYC. As for the cab ride itself - complete chaos. I recall it taking 40 minutes when we expected it to be a 10-minute cab ride. Once at our on-shore destination, the historic district, panhandlers and street vendors were literally harassing all of us with each step. Somewhat unnerving. Went to cross the street and we were nearly hit. Nearly all the other cruisers we spoke to said they also wished this port was not on the itinerary. One of our friends had tried to buy a single-serve beverage (juice) and the vendor had attempted to charge her and her husband $20. Not only were the excursions the worst value of the entire trip, but absolutely everything was priced ridiculously high with the intent to confuse and deceive tourists. Unfortunately, as I stated at the beginning of this review, the cruise ships are deliberately overlooking the port for what it is. My husband sums it up best when he says, "This port isn't ready for tourists."

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Scross11 saw things this way:


A surprising find....what a delightful and charming village/city, January 16, 2013
Reviewer: Scross11

Pros: Easy 10-minute cab ride from port to Old City Cartagena

Cons: None

Old City Cartagena -- Wow, what a surprise. It's a charming old time city (village) that boasts street vendors, excellent restaurants and shops. Friendly people. We had a very safe and enjoyable visit. This is NOT the mountains of Colombia. About a 10-minute cab ride from cruise port ($15). Be sure to ask to go to "old city" or you may get a cab ride to the hustle and bustle of Cartagena's other skyscraper city.