Cartagena, Colombia is one of those cruise vacation stops that manages to surprise everyone—first-time travelers fall for the colorful streets and Caribbean warmth, and repeat cruisers always find something new tucked between the centuries-old stone walls.
But before you’re wandering past bougainvillea-covered balconies or sipping a limonada de coco in the Old City, you need to solve one very practical question: How do you actually get from the Cartagena cruise port to the places you want to explore?
This guide breaks down every easy way to leave the cruise port, what to expect, when to choose each option, and which choices make the most sense depending on your travel style, budget, and timing. It’s written with both seasoned cruisers and first-timers in mind, with a friendly, simple tone designed to keep your planning stress-free—especially if your cruise ship is only docked for a few hours.
Understanding Cartagena’s Cruise Port Layout
Cartagena’s cruise port (Terminal de Cruceros) sits about 10–15 minutes from the Old City, depending on traffic. What’s great about this port is that it’s one of the most welcoming in the Caribbean. You step off your cruise ship into a shaded walkway that leads through a small eco-park full of flamingos, toucans, butterflies, and shaded gardens.
Before you even think about transportation, know this: you must walk through the port’s Welcome Center to reach taxis or meet your shore excursion group. The area is safe, well-organized, and designed with cruise passengers in mind.
Transportation Options from Cartagena’s Cruise Port
Instead of breaking this into dry steps, here’s a traveler-friendly format: who each option is best for, what it costs, when to avoid it, and how easy it is. This gives you quick answers while still keeping all the detail you need.
Official Taxi Stand — The Most Popular & Easiest Choice
This is the default option for most cruisers because the taxi stand is located right outside the Welcome Center, with prices clearly posted.
Why choose it
If you want something quick, straightforward, and reliable without having to open an app, this is your best bet.
Typical travel time
10–15 minutes to the Old City or Getsemaní.
Advantages:
- Flat, posted prices
- No haggling
- Very easy for first-timers
- Taxis are plentiful on cruise days
Consider if you’re doing a shore excursion:
Taxi rides can be combined with DIY exploring if you skipped a guided shore excursion and want freedom. It’s a flexible option—even last-minute cruise booking planners will find this effortless.
Pre-Booked Private Transportation — Ideal for Groups & Mobility Needs
If you want a smoother arrival, especially for families or travelers who don’t want to navigate crowds, arranging private transportation ahead of time can feel luxurious.
Best for:
- Groups of 4+
- Travelers who prefer set pricing
- Guests who require larger vehicles or accessible vans
Perks:
- Driver greets you with a sign
- No waiting
- Often includes return pickup time
Note:
This is also a solid option if your cruise vacation is during peak season when taxis get busier.
Uber in Cartagena — Yes, It Exists… but Read This Carefully
Uber does operate in Cartagena, but it can be unpredictable at the cruise port itself. Many drivers are hesitant to enter the port area, meaning some pickup attempts get canceled.
Pros:
- Often cheaper than taxis
- In-app payment
- English not required
Cons:
- Not always reliable for port pickup
- May require walking slightly outside main port gates
- Sometimes longer wait times during peak cruise ship arrivals
When Uber works well:
Returning to the cruise port from the Old City or beaches is usually no problem. Getting picked up at the port is the tricky part.
Cruise Line Shore Excursions — Most Organized, Least Flexible
If your cruise booking includes a shore excursion with transportation, the process is incredibly simple. Guides meet you inside the port zone, and buses depart directly from designated spots.
Why it’s worth considering:
- Zero guesswork
- Great for travelers who dislike navigating in unfamiliar cities
- Ideal if you’re doing activities outside Cartagena’s main tourist areas
Why some skip it:
- Less freedom
- Higher cost
- You stick to the cruise ship’s timetable, not yours
Still, for historic tours, beach days, or visits to La Popa Convent, using an organized shore excursion can save stress.
Independent Tour Guides — Great Value for Cultural Highlights
Cartagena has a strong community of licensed bilingual guides who offer private or small-group tours. Many include pickup at the cruise port.
This is often the sweet spot between cruise line excursions and DIY exploring.
Benefits:
- Personalized experiences
- Great storytelling and local insight
- Flexible routes
Look for tours focusing on:
- Historic Old City walks
- Bazurto Market
- Getsemaní street art
- Coffee workshops or rum tastings
You can book through reputable platforms or directly through reviewed operators.
Walking from the Cruise Port — Can You Do It?
Short answer: Not really.
The cruise port is located in a heavy-traffic industrial zone, and walking beyond the Welcome Center isn’t safe or practical. The distance to the Old City is around 3–4 miles, with no pedestrian-friendly paths.
Consider walking only within the cruise port’s eco-park and shops—and use transportation for anything beyond the gates.
Where You’ll Likely Go First (and How Far Each Place Is)
Here’s a simple list with average ride times:
- Old City (Walled City): 10–15 minutes
- Getsemaní neighborhood: 12–15 minutes
- Castillo San Felipe Fortress: 10–12 minutes
- Bocagrande beach area: 15–20 minutes
- Airport (CTG): 20–25 minutes
- La Boquilla beach: 25–30 minutes
Travel time varies based on cruise ship arrival days, since traffic near the port picks up quickly.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival from Cartagena’s Cruise Port
These small details make a big difference when you’re trying to maximize limited port time.
Have small bills
Taxis do not always have change for large denominations.
Screenshot your destination
Cell signal can be spotty near the cruise port, so having the name and address ready is helpful.
Return to the ship early
Cartagena’s traffic can get unexpectedly congested—leave buffer time before all-aboard.
Consider heat & hydration
The humidity can hit hard, especially for cruisers coming from winter climates. Carry water even on short taxi rides.
Plan around crowds
If multiple ships are in port, expect longer waits for taxis and ride-hailing.
Is There Anything You Should Avoid?
A few simple things:
- Don’t walk outside the industrial port area.
- Don’t accept unofficial taxi offers from inside the Welcome Center. Stick to the authorized stand.
- Avoid last-minute Uber pickups at peak arrival times. Drivers frequently cancel.
These are basic precautions that keep your cruise vacation relaxed and problem-free.
Which Transportation Option Is Best for You?
Here’s a quick breakdown based on traveler type:
First-time cruisers:
Choose the official taxi stand or a cruise line shore excursion. Lowest stress, easiest navigation.
Seasoned cruisers who like flexibility:
Taxi to the Old City, then Uber back.
Families or groups:
Pre-book a private car or van—you’ll save money compared to multiple taxis.
Adventurous cruisers who love culture:
Book an independent guide with port pickup. You’ll maximize your time and get richer context.
Short port stops (4–5 hours):
Taxi is the fastest mode with the least waiting.
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Day in Cartagena
Getting from Cartagena’s cruise port to the city is easy once you know which transportation option fits your style. Whether you love the convenience of a taxi, the structure of a shore excursion, or the flexibility of Uber, each choice helps you step into a city filled with history, music, color, and warmth.
The goal is simple: spend more time exploring Cartagena’s magic and less time figuring out logistics. With this guide, you’re already ahead.