Colombia Travel Guide
Barranquilla
Colombia
Barranquilla, Colombia’s fourth largest city and a significant port on the Magdalena River, is bustling with cultural activity. The city is best known for its stunning February carnival, among the most renowned globally. Other than the carnival, it doesn’t have many tourist attractions at the moment.
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KEY INFORMATION ABOUT BARRANQUILLA, COLOMBIA
For making smart choices quickly and effortlessly.
general overview
The 3rd most famous carnival in the world.
Barranquilla, the capital of the Atlántico Department in Colombia’s Caribbean region, is a major port city on the banks of the Magdalena River, the country’s largest river. Its strategic position makes it an important hub for river and maritime transport.
It is also the main urban, political, and economic center of Colombia’s Caribbean region. Its economy revolves around commerce, industry, and services.
With nearly 1,330,000 inhabitants, it is located 130 km north of Cartagena (2 hours), 100 km from Santa Marta (2 hours), 45 km from Santa Veronica (45 minutes), 1.5 hours from the stilt villages of Nueva Venecia and Buenavista, and 6 hours from Mompox.
Once inhabited by the Camash Indians, Barranquilla first appeared in writings in 1533. The site was already described as a trading place where the natives exchanged shrimp and salt. Supporting Cartagena de Indias, the city actively participated in the movements leading to the country’s independence, and on April 7, 1813, it gained municipal status.
Lacking natural mineral resources, the Spaniards found little interest in it during the Conquista. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the city began developing significant trade via the Magdalena River with major cities in the country and internationally. It became the main port for coffee exports.
Attracting numerous migrants, Barranquilla quickly became a dynamic and multicultural city with a growing economy.
The city’s cultural diversity is celebrated every year through its carnival.
People come to Barranquilla mainly to attend and participate in its famous carnival, a major event in Colombian culture with a worldwide reputation. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to party with friends.
Barranquilla is also an interesting destination if you want to spend some time in a Caribbean coastal city, enjoying its good restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Additionally, the coast has pleasant beaches with varied atmospheres, ideal for lounging and water sports.
Kitesurfers particularly love Barranquilla for its consistent winds and great waves.
Barranquilla enjoys a warm, tropical climate. Daytime temperatures average around 30°C with humidity levels at 80%. In the evenings, temperatures gently fall to 25°C.
The rainy season occurs from Avril to May and September to November.
The dry season is from December to March, which is ideal for visiting Barranquilla and attending its carnival, which happens in February or March, depending on the year. The city is packed with tourists during carnival week, so it’s advisable to book your stay 6 to 12 months in advance if you want to be part of the celebration.
Kitesurfers will find the best conditions during the dry season.
Barranquilla also enjoys a relatively pleasant period called the “Veranillo de San Juan” in the last weeks of June and the first weeks of July.
For the 4-day carnival, it’s best to plan for at least 5 nights. Extend your stay to a week to include a beach day, a city tour, and a visit to the Magdalena River banks.
If you just want to know the city, 1 night will be more than enough.
Barranquilla is also an interesting option for remote workers.
© ErickSalasA
Barranquilla Carnival
“Quien lo vive es quien lo goza” (He who lives it, enjoys it). This is the carnival’s slogan!
The carnival tradition in South America was likely brought by the Spaniards during colonization. The exact year of the first Barranquilla carnival is unknown. Initially mentioned as a “modest celebration” in writings from 1829, it was later described as having an “indescribable, dizzying atmosphere”.
The various waves of immigration and blending with the native population brought an incredible cultural richness, showcased in the dances, music, costumes, and customs, some of which are still part of the 4-day Barranquilla carnival. The carnival soon became a shared space for all Barranquilla residents, regardless of social origin or religious belief.
Its fame has grown over the years, becoming the third-largest carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro and Venice.
A major event in Colombian culture, the Barranquilla carnival is now listed as one of the masterpieces of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity by UNESCO
The Barranquilla carnival lasts from Saturday to Tuesday (Mardi Gras) before Ash Wednesday, not counting the “pre-carnival” period. In fact, the city gets into a frenzy a month before to prepare for the event.
During these four days, under the leadership of the two main carnival figures, the “Reina del carnaval” and “Rey Momo,” nearly 1.5 million visitors and locals come together to witness the parade of about 850 groups (nearly 30,000 artists) in colorful, glittering costumes dancing to wild rhythms, attend outdoor concerts, and watch circus and theater performances.
You will be amazed by the diversity and richness of the costumes. Some represent traditional carnival figures like the “Congo” or the “Garabato”, while others depict all kinds of animals, mythological beings, indigenous people, and other popular myths. Masks are also part of the folklore (Bull, Verbenas), along with satirical costumes that mock current events.
The Barranquilla carnival is also about discovering traditional music like cumbia by attending fantastic outdoor concerts.
Last year, I went with my in-laws, and I loved it!
You can get tickets online. They are sold only as a 3-day pack (Saturday to Monday). The official seller’s website is Tuboleta, where you can reserve seats in the covered bleachers (“Palco”).
You can also purchase tickets on the street on the day of the event, but you will only get tickets for days 2 and 3 of the carnival when people start reselling theirs.
On-site, you can also buy tickets for simple chairs or uncovered bleachers. The first time I attended, I opted for a chair. It’s cheaper, but with the heat and the massive crowd, it’s much less enjoyable.
If you have the urge to put on a costume and mingle with the parade groups, you can join collectives like Disfrazatecq and La Puntica No Mas for the “Carnaval de la 44.” You’ll need to pay a fee, and the costume will either be rented or purchased.
You will spend long hours waiting or parading under the sun, which is exhausting.
Here are some good tips to know:
- Book your accommodation 6 to 12 months in advance. El Prado is a good choice, being the historic neighborhood.
- Arrive a few hours before the festivities start, and if you need a taxi to leave Barranquilla, leave before the parade ends.
- Get into the carnival vibe by wearing colorful attire and comfortable shoes.
- Be extremely cautious of pickpockets; they will be active while you’re having fun.
- It’s very hot, so make sure to drink plenty of water.
- For updates, follow these Instagram accounts @alcadiabarranquilla and @carnavalbaq.
© Tomplanmytrip
Barranquilla Carnival
Barranquilla’s main carnival events.
Several official festivities precede the carnival:
- The crowning of the new “Reina del Carnaval” involves the previous year’s queen passing on her role, accompanied by dance and music performances.
- The “Lectura del Bando” officially kicks off the carnival, with the mayor of Barranquilla handing the city’s key to the new “Reina del Carnaval.”
- On the Thursday before the carnival begins, groups present their flags during the “Izada de bandera.”
- The major pre-carnival event is the “Guacherna”, a nighttime parade held on the Friday before the carnival Saturday, one week ahead. Costumed folkloric groups parade to the sound of drums by candlelight and colorful lanterns.
- Santo Tomas: The day following la Guacherna (Saturday) features concerts.
- The “Noche de Tambó”: On Friday evening, the night before the first day of the carnival, you can start dancing at the massive Cumbia concert at “Plaza de la Paz.”
The festivities kick off with the “Batalla de flores” (Battle of Flowers) on “Via 40” (Avenue 40), a grand float parade led by the carnival queen followed by folkloric groups dancing to cumbia rhythms. This is the oldest parade of the Barranquilla carnival, commemorating the end of the Thousand Days’ War.
I recommend securing a seat in the covered bleachers (“Palco”) along Via 40 to be right in the middle of the festivities. You’ll be shaded from the sun, there are public restrooms, it’s airy, and you’ll have a fantastic view of the parade. When I visited, we even received free beers. You can also bring your own drinks. The atmosphere is lively, with plenty of music.
Simultaneously, the Carnaval de la 44 or Carnaval del SurOccidente takes place on “Carretera 44” (Avenue 44), the more affordable version of the carnival. This free event is held directly in the street with no bleachers, only chairs along the route. These are the participants who weren’t selected for the official parade. You’ll be closer to the action, but you’ll be under the sun.
On Via 40, the day features the Grand Parade of Traditions and Folklore, highlighting traditional music and dances in their pure essence.
As with the Batalla de Flores, there’s a similar parade on 44.
The third day of the carnival features the “Gran Parada de Fantasía” (Grand Parade of Fantasy), a stunning parade combining traditional folklore and innovative elements with costumed groups and decorated floats.
In the afternoon, the “Festival de Orquestas” (Festival of Orchestras) kicks off at the municipal stadium. This competition has groups and orchestras performing three songs, with at least one dedicated to Barranquilla and featuring Caribbean rhythms.
The carnival ends with the “Entierro de Joselito Carnaval” (the Burial of Joselito Carnaval). Elaborate mock funerals take place in many neighborhoods, officially concluding the festivities.
The Barranquilla carnival is also about dancing all night. Many locals bring their speakers to street corners to celebrate and enjoy time with family. There are also more organized events:
- Baila en la Calle (Carrera 50): The most well-known party, with many concerts and drink stalls (all three nights), but it gets so crowded that it’s hard to enjoy. Pickpockets are also common.
- Malecon del Caiman: Food halls with a large open area facing the Magdalena River. I went on Sunday to enjoy a great free cumbia concert.
- La Carnavalada: Many concerts and shows (3 nights) at Parque Sagrado Corazón (free).
- Fiesta post-Batalla de la Punta: A party organized on the Saturday of the carnival.
© Tomplanmytrip
Things to do in Barranquilla
Not a lot.
However, two monuments are worth a look as they beautifully reflect Barranquilla’s cultural diversity and innovative spirit.
The Catedral Metropolitana María Reina de Barranquilla is a superb modern building, impressive regardless of religious beliefs.
Another iconic landmark is the Ventana al Mundo. This colorful glass structure stands 45 meters tall.
The beautiful neo-colonial buildings of El Prado reflect Barranquilla’s rich history. Amid the charming homes, elegant restaurants, and cafes, visit the Hotel Prado.
© charlesecarlini
BARRANQUILLA SURROUNDINGS
Best Barranquilla day trips.
Barranquilla has only one urban beach. Fortunately, pleasant beaches with various vibes are accessible within a few minutes by car.
You have options ranging from peaceful spots like the cozy Sabanilla Beach to lively places like Playa Pradomar with shaded cabanas and live music. If you enjoy paddleboarding, Salgar Beach is ideal.
For water sports enthusiasts, Barranquilla’s coast is perfect for surfing and kitesurfing.
Barranquilla has earned a reputation among kitesurfers who appreciate its consistent winds (18 to 25 knots in the dry season) and great waves reaching up to 2.5 meters. The best spots are Santa Veronica and Puerto Velero.
A day by the sea is also a great opportunity to enjoy delicious local seafood.
Approximately an hour’s drive south of Barranquilla, inland, is the town of Usiacurí. Founded in the 16th century, it is famous for its intricate weaving crafts made from iraca palm.
As you pass the town’s entrance, marked by a large spider sculpture symbolizing the detailed weaving work, take a walk through the vibrant streets where this complex, ancient art is showcased.
Just 20 minutes from the city is the Castillo de Salgar, a beautifully restored Spanish fort serving as an event space. Its cliffside setting provides stunning sea views, making it a perfect spot for a drink or dinner at sunset. The atmosphere is serene and romantic, ideal for a quiet moment or a special celebration.
If you have the energy to spare, you can take the path to the beaches and capture unforgettable photos.
WHERE TO STAY IN Barranquilla
Barranquilla’s best hotels and the atmosphere of its neighborhoods.
If you’re looking for a combination of luxury and comfort, the upscale Alto Prado neighborhood is the perfect spot. With safe streets, lively nightlife, high-end hotels, good restaurants, and shopping centers, you’ll feel pampered whether you’re visiting for leisure or business.
The BH Barranquilla offers great value with its contemporary architecture, functional and comfortable rooms, and a good breakfast included in the price.
In the same price range with equally good value, Hotel Dorado Plaza is a recent establishment with an outdoor pool. The rooms are spacious, elegant, and comfortable, and the breakfast buffet is included and delicious.
If you prefer an apartment hotel, Estelar Apartamentos offers spacious and bright apartments with a kitchen area that can accommodate up to four people. You can enjoy a generous and tasty breakfast here. Although some minor renovations would be beneficial, it offers great value for money.
I was charmed by the old-world atmosphere and elegant, well-preserved colonial architecture of this tree-lined neighborhood. It’s the perfect spot to appreciate history and tranquility while enjoying a central location.
There are charming colonial hotels like the friendly Hotel Casa Colonial with its garden and solid wood furniture. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and a superb breakfast with fresh products is served in a lovely patio. The price is reasonable.
In the high-end category, Hotel El Prado is a beautiful establishment with stunning colonial architecture set in a wooded park. A large patio houses a beautiful pool lined with palm trees. The rooms are very spacious and elegant. A good breakfast is included in the price.
While it lacks the charm of a colonial hotel, the Hotel Faranda Collection Barranquilla is a high-end hotel very well located, offering beautifully decorated family rooms and a very good breakfast. The view of the city from its small rooftop pool is stunning.
Located north of Barranquilla, along the Magdalena River, Riomar features luxury residential towers and high-end shopping centers. It is a quiet option for travelers who prefer to stay away from the city center. On the outskirts of Riomar, you can also admire the Ventana al Mundo.
This area hosts some of the most renowned hotel chains.
Dann Carlton is a large, modern hotel with ample spaces, a pool, and a gym. The rooms are very spacious and comfortable. The hotel frequently hosts conferences, so it can be quite busy and noisy.
In the high-end category and for a slightly higher budget, Movich Buro 51 is a beautiful hotel with large, tastefully decorated spaces and a nice rooftop pool. The rooms are comfortable and well-insulated from noise.
The Barranquilla Marriott Hotel is another excellent high-end option. It features stunning architecture, chic modern decor with touches of Colombian craftsmanship, a fantastic rooftop pool, and an excellent breakfast.
If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, I recommend the Centro Histórico, with its interesting mix of architectural styles. Its affordable accommodation options make it an excellent base for exploring the city while saving money.
The Ribai Hotel offers good value. It is a modern establishment with a small pool and ultra-minimalist decor—perhaps a bit too much so.
More intimate and colorful, with a lovely garden and a tree-lined patio with a pool, Hotel Genova Centro offers comfortable double and quadruple rooms with breakfast included, all for great value. The surroundings aren’t very touristy and can be less pleasant in the evening.
For very tight budgets, Danes Barranquilla offers very simple but clean rooms. The warm welcome and the superb city view from the terrace make it worthwhile. The breakfast is adequate and very affordable.
GOING OUT IN BARRANQUILLA
Barranquilla’s best bars and clubs.
If you want an immersive experience with a music video atmosphere, cocktails, and snacks, go to the Frogg Club in the energetic Zona Rosa or Barrio Colombia—the temple of “Rumba” (party).
For fans of the King, the Elvis Night Club & Diner is a crossover disco bar with a nightclub and restaurant. Enjoy live rock music, colorful shows, delicious cocktails, and friendly, stylish servers. There’s even a small museum dedicated to Elvis.
Head to the Lobo Cocktail Bar with your friends if you want to enjoy amazing cocktails with unique flavors that truly capture Barranquilla’s creative spirit. Plus, the music is great.
It’s impossible to visit Barranquilla without grabbing a reasonably priced beer and immersing yourself in the vibrant and rhythmic atmosphere of La Troja, a pillar of Barranquilla’s musical and cultural heritage. Since 1966, this renowned establishment has been the heart of Salsa and Caribbean rhythms like Cuban Guaracha. It’s a fantastic place to dance or watch others dance with friends.
For an authentic atmosphere, I recommend The Matriarca. With great live music featuring traditional rhythms like Salsa and Vallenato, it’s the perfect place to experience Colombians’ good humor and warmth. Plus, they serve excellent typical Colombian dishes at reasonable prices.
© Tomplanmytrip
EATING IN BARRANQUILLA
Barranquilla’s best restaurants.
stumbled upon Pescayé by chance during the carnival, and I had a fantastic time! I loved their seafood dishes, especially the bandeja Pescayé, and the music was absolutely amazing. The service is super friendly too.
If, like me, you’re a fan of live music, another great option is Varadero, where fresh and delicious seafood dishes blend perfectly with Cuban music.
Casa Jharikanda is another one of my favorite restaurants – I love their coconut milk lemonade! It’s not just the food, but the entire atmosphere that’s special here. The value for money is excellent, and there are plenty of vegan options. It’s cozy, with an artsy and musical vibe. The owner adds a personal touch by managing everything with great care.
Barranquilla’s diversity and cultural richness are reflected in its cuisine, which blends traditional Colombian flavors with tastes from around the world. For those with an adventurous palate, exploring the Lebanese culinary options in Barranquilla is a must. The fusion of Middle Eastern and Colombian flavors creates delicious and unique dishes.
Try it out at SARAB or M Cocina Árabe.
If you’re more of a meat lover, the MIURA Steak House should be your choice. Located in a lively part of the city, it offers a wide selection of perfectly prepared cuts of meat.
© Tomplanmytrip
How to get to BARRANQUILLA
By plane or bus.
Barranquilla’s airport is one of the largest in the country. It is located 17 kilometers south of El Prado in the municipality of Soledad (40 minutes by taxi).
Regular flights connect Barranquilla to certain U.S. cities and Panama. If you’re coming from Europe, you’ll easily find connecting flights through Bogotá or Medellín (Avianca, LATAM).
Direct domestic flights from Valledupar, Monteria, Cali, and San Andres also exist.
The Terminal Metropolitana de Transportes de Barranquilla is located in the municipality of Soledad, close to the airport (30 minutes from El Prado). Regular buses run from almost all major cities in the country. The coaches are comfortable and air-conditioned.
- From Cartagena de Indias: 2.5 hours
- From Santa Marta: 2 hours
If you want to save money and prefer the bus to the plane for a scenic journey through Colombia’s landscapes, expect around 19 hours from Bogotá and nearly 15 hours from Medellín.
© Tomplanmytrip
Getting around Barranquilla
You’ll probably take a taxi.
With 29 routes and numerous dedicated bus lanes, Barranquilla has a good city bus network: Transmetro
In Barranquilla, taxis don’t have meters, so it’s wise to negotiate the fare before beginning your journey. Always asking for the fare upfront has helped me avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of the ride.
© Transmetro
IS Barranquilla SAFE?
A few basic rules to follow.
Barranquilla is known for being safe for tourists, but like any major city, it has more or less recommended areas. Be sure to find out which neighborhoods to avoid. Tourist areas are well-patrolled, and residential districts are typically peaceful. Nonetheless, remain cautious, particularly during carnival time.
Opting for mobile apps such as Uber or Didi or Cabify is practical and safe.
I repeat, there are tons of pickpockets during the carnival. Try to take as few items as possible and keep them in a bag that you wear in front of you.
© Tomplanmytrip
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