Affiliate Disclosure: LTR may earn a commission if you buy something through the links on this page.
Barranquilla offers an exciting blend of history, culture, and Caribbean charm. As one of Colombia’s largest port cities, it is a gateway to the Caribbean and a vibrant melting pot of traditions. Some of Barranquilla’s neighborhoods resemble those of Panama City, Panama, and Miami, USA.
This post covers Barranquilla, when to visit, getting around, where to stay, safety, and attractions. We’ll also delve into considerations for those seeking to remain long-term, like cost of living, healthcare, banking, taxes, and real estate sites.
Overview
Barranquilla is a hidden gem with a unique spirit that draws visitors seeking an authentic Colombian experience. From its bustling markets to its colorful streets, this coastal city has something to offer every type of traveler.
One of Barranquilla’s most iconic attractions is its world-famous Carnival, the second largest globally, only behind Rio de Janeiro’s. The annual event in February is a dazzling spectacle of music, parades, and elaborate costumes, reflecting the city’s rich cultural diversity. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s artistic flair outside the carnival season by visiting local museums like the Museo del Caribe, where Colombia’s Caribbean history comes to life through interactive exhibits.
Beyond the festivities, Barranquilla also boasts a thriving culinary scene. The flavors here are as diverse as the city, blending African, Spanish, and indigenous influences. Be sure to try local dishes like “arepa de huevo” (fried arepa with egg) or “sancocho de guandú,” a hearty stew perfect for those long, lazy afternoons spent exploring the city’s laid-back neighborhoods.
Nature lovers will also find much to enjoy in and around Barranquilla. The nearby Magdalena River Delta provides the perfect setting for eco-tours and birdwatching, while beaches like Puerto Colombia offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Just a short drive from the city center, you’ll find golden sands and turquoise waters, ideal for unwinding or soaking in the Caribbean sun.
Barranquilla may not be on every traveler’s radar, but its rich heritage, warm hospitality, and scenic beauty make it well worth exploring. It also has a thriving commerce sector for business-minded individuals.
Barranquilla
- Department: Atlántico
- Population: 1,300,000
- Official language(s): Spanish
- Currency: Colombian peso (COP)
- Climate: Aw (tropical savanna)
- Safe to visit: Yes
- Cost of living: Low
When to Visit
The best time to visit Barranquilla is between May and November, during the rainy season. While there may be more rain during these months, it generally comes in short bursts, with plenty of sunny days in between. Fewer tourists visit during this time, so you can enjoy the city’s attractions without dealing with peak-season crowds or high accommodation prices.
On the other hand, December to February is the dry season, and it coincides with the Barranquilla Carnival in February, which draws large numbers of visitors. If you prefer a quieter experience, avoid this peak period.
Getting Around
Ernesto Cortissoz Barranquilla International Airport (BAQ) is Barranquilla’s main airport and was South America’s first airport built in 1919. Avianca, LATAM Colombia, Wingo, and Clic Air lead Colombia’s airline sector and serve Latin America, North America, the Caribbean, Oceania, Asia, and Europe.
Rental car options include Hertz, National, Alamo, Enterprise, and Localiza. Consider getting an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Colombia. It translates your home license, making it understandable to local authorities. That can be helpful in Colombia, where English is not widely spoken.
Barranquilla’s central bus terminal is at Carrera 14 Esquina Calle 62 in Soledad. To take local buses, you may need a transit pass.
Cabify, InDrive, Uber, and taxis are available in Barranquilla.
Where to Stay
The best neighborhoods in Barranquilla are El Prado and Alto Prado, known for their historic charm, upscale accommodations, and proximity to major attractions. Riomar is another excellent option, offering a modern, tranquil atmosphere with easy access to shopping malls and restaurants.
Barranquilla offers various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to affordable hotels.
Airbnb is available in Barranquilla. For long-term stays, you can book one to three months through the platform and then deal with the host privately. Many homeowners and travelers prefer private arrangements to avoid Airbnb’s high fees. You can also search Vrbo for vacation rentals and private homes.
Things to Do
The top things to do in Barranquilla include:
Barranquilla Carnival: Experience Colombia’s most vibrant festival, typically held in February. It features parades, music, and colorful costumes.
Museo del Caribe: Dive into the region’s history, culture, and biodiversity at this interactive museum.
Bocas de Ceniza: Visit the confluence of the Magdalena River and the Caribbean Sea, where you can take a scenic train ride along the river.
Malecon del Rio: Enjoy a leisurely walk along this waterfront promenade, which features restaurants, parks, and views of the Magdalena River.
El Prado: Explore Barranquilla’s historic neighborhood, known for its beautiful colonial-style architecture.
Zoológico de Barranquilla: A family-friendly attraction housing native and exotic animals in a well-maintained environment.
Catedral Metropolitana María Reina: This striking modern cathedral is an architectural landmark in the heart of the city.
Jardin Botanico: Stroll through this impressive botanical garden and park.
Discover more things to do, attractions, and tours in Barranquilla and surrounding areas.
Shopping and Gyms
The best shopping malls in Barranquilla are Centro Comercial Plaza del Parque, Viva, Centro Comercial Gran Boulevard, C.C. Blue Gardens, and Le Meridiem Golf.
Barranquilla’s best gyms include Sport Gym Atlantic Comfamiliar, Body & Soul Gym, Spinning Center Gym Park Plaza, and Smartfit Portal Del Prado.
The best supermarkets in Barranquilla are Carulla, Olímpica, Éxito, and Ara.
Safety and Crime
Barranquilla is safe to visit. However, it has areas with varying levels of safety. Tourist-friendly neighborhoods like El Prado, Alto Prado, and Riomar are generally safe and well-patrolled, but it’s important to stay vigilant, especially at night. Crimes against tourists are rare.
Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas, so it is advisable to keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone in less busy or unfamiliar areas after dark.
Consult your government’s travel advisories for more details.
Cost of Living
Barranquilla’s living costs are low, with accommodation, food, and transportation well below the prices of other major cities.
Dallas, Texas, is a good representation of the average cost of living in the U.S.; it is neither extremely expensive like New York or San Francisco nor particularly cheap like Mississippi or Arkansas.
Barranquilla’s living costs are about 68% lower than Dallas’s.
- Rent prices in Barranquilla are 84% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Restaurant prices in Barranquilla are 66% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Groceries prices in Barranquilla are 59% lower than in Dallas, TX.
Healthcare
Colombia’s healthcare system includes public and private hospitals. Public hospitals suffer from supply shortages, overcrowding, and long wait times. Private hospitals charge a premium and provide better care, equipment, and services.
Barranquilla’s best hospitals and medical centers include E.S.E. Universitaria del Atlántico Sede de Alta Complejidad, Hospital Nazareth, and Clínica San Martín Barranquilla. Pharmacies are plentiful and include independents and chains, including Farmatodo, Farmacenter, and Cruz Verde.
Health insurance providers are available nationally and locally. They operate in Spanish, so you might consider getting insurance from a company that operates globally, like SafetyWing and WorldTrips. That will make policy and claim management much easier should a medical concern or incident arise.
Explore Barranquilla’s other quality-of-life factors.
Mobile and Internet
Claro, Movistar, and Tigo dominate Colombia’s mobile, T.V., and internet sectors.
If planning a short visit to Colombia, consider buying an eSim to save on roaming fees. Nomad and Jetpac offer the best rates and plans.
Banking and Money
Colombia’s top banks include Bancolombia, Banco de Bogota, Banco Davivienda, and BBVA Colombia. ATMs are widely available in cities.
Many travelers and digital nomads use Wise’s travel money card to save on transfers, currency exchange, and ATM withdrawal fees.
Foreign credit and debit cards are widely accepted. However, some merchants only accept cash.
Some merchants and individuals accept cryptos for transactions. An account with a reputable crypto company like Bybit or Binance may be helpful.
Read: How to Open a Bank Account in Colombia.
Taxes
Colombia has a worldwide tax system: residents pay taxes on their global income, including domestic and foreign sources. Personal income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 0% to 39%. Foreign income is subject to taxation, but Colombia has tax treaties with some countries to avoid double taxation.
Real Estate
Visit Metrocuadrado, Fincaraiz, Remax Colombia, and Century21 Colombia for Colombian real estate and rentals.
Nearby Cities
- Soledad
- Malambo
- Santa Marta
- Cartagena
- Valledupar
Updated: October 17, 2024