Barranquilla Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for exploring the vibrant city of Barranquilla in Colombia. Read on for our complete travel guide.


Introduction to Barranquilla

Nestled on the western coast of Colombia, Barranquilla is a vibrant city known for its colorful Carnaval de Barranquilla celebrations and rich cultural heritage. This bustling metropolis is home to bustling streets, colonial architecture, and friendly locals. As you explore the city, you’ll discover a vibrant arts scene, delicious food, and fascinating museums. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in Barranquilla.

List of Places to Visit in Barranquilla

Here are some of the top places to visit in Barranquilla:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo del Caribe
  • Teatro Amira De La Rosa
  • Castillo de Salgar

Natural Attractions of Barranquilla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monserrate Hill
  • La Troja
  • Puerto Velero Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barranquilla

If you’re an adventure-seeker, then heading out to the numerous hiking and biking trails in Barranquilla will be a great experience. Here are some top spots:

  • Parque Natural Jardín Botánico
  • Parque Nacional Natural Isla Salamanca
  • Parque Metropolitano Suri Salcedo

Best Things to Do in Barranquilla: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Barranquilla Zoo
  • Explore the historic Las Bovedas
  • Take a walk along the Malecón

Week-Long Itinerary for Barranquilla

Here’s a sample itinerary that you can follow for a week-long visit to Barranquilla:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Museo del Caribe and explore downtown
2 Go on a day trip to Isla Salamanca and take in the natural beauty
3 Explore the historic Las Bovedas
4 Head out to Monserrate Hill for some panoramic views
5 Visit the Barranquilla Zoo
6 Spend the day at Puerto Velero Beach
7 Take a walk along the Malecón and end the night with a Carnaval de Barranquilla performance

Food and Drink Scene of Barranquilla

No trip to Barranquilla is complete without tasting the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arepas con huevo
  • Sudado de pescado
  • Arroz con coco

Local Beverages

  • Limonada de coco
  • Jugo de corozo
  • Cerveza Costeñita

Where to Stay in Barranquilla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Barranquilla, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Park Inn by Radisson - budget-friendly option in the heart of downtown
  • Movich Buró 51 - mid-range option close to the airport
  • Dann Carlton Barranquilla - luxury option with a rooftop pool

What to Buy in Barranquilla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the most popular souvenirs and local products to bring back from Barranquilla:

  • Wayuu bags
  • Handcrafted hammocks
  • Artisanal pottery

Local Culture and Customs of Barranquilla

Barranquilla is known for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. One of the most important events in the city is the Carnaval de Barranquilla, a four-day festival celebrating the city’s ethnic diversity. The people of Barranquilla are known for their warm hospitality, and it is considered impolite to arrive late for appointments.

Best Time to Visit Barranquilla

The best time to visit Barranquilla is from December to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. Keep in mind that February is the busiest time of the year, thanks to the Carnaval de Barranquilla.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barranquilla

Do:

  • Sample the local cuisine
  • Attend the Carnaval de Barranquilla
  • Learn a little bit of Spanish before your trip

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places
  • Drink tap water
  • Forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent

Safety and Health

Safety in Barranquilla

While Barranquilla is considered to be a safe city for travelers, there are still a few precautions you should take. Don’t carry large amounts of cash, avoid walking alone in secluded areas at night and keep your belongings close to you.

Health in Barranquilla

Before your trip, make sure you are up to date with all of the necessary vaccinations.
It is also advisable to carry a first aid kit with you and avoid eating food from street vendors.

Getting to Barranquilla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Barranquilla

If you’re arriving by air, your best bet is the Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to the city center.

Bus Stations Near Barranquilla

If you’re arriving by bus, Arcotrans operates a number of routes to and from Barranquilla.

Other Options

There are also several car rental companies that operate in Barranquilla, and taxis are readily available.

How to Get Around in Barranquilla

The best way to explore Barranquilla is by taxi or bus. Taxis are cheap and widely available throughout the city. The local buses are a bit more challenging but are an affordable and authentic experience.

Where to Go Next from Barranquilla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some nearby destinations to add to your itinerary:

  • Santa Marta
  • Cartagena
  • Taganga

Conclusion

Barranquilla is a city full of color and culture, from its vibrant festivals to its delicious cuisine and rich history. With this travel guide, you should feel prepared to plan your trip and fully immerse yourself in everything this fantastic city has to offer. So pack your bags, brush up on your Spanish, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Barranquilla.

Carnival's queen 2009 Carnival's queen 2009 Barranquilla's main commercial corridor, Paseo de Bolívar Barranquilla's main commercial corridor, Paseo de Bolívar Museo Carnaval Museo Carnaval Monument to Cumbia Monument to Cumbia Instituto La Salle Instituto La Salle Arepas in Barranquilla Arepas in Barranquilla San Nicolás of Tolentino Church San Nicolás of Tolentino Church Shakira statue Shakira statue Antigua Aduana – the Old Customs House Antigua Aduana – the Old Customs House Cumbia dancers during Carnival Cumbia dancers during Carnival