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Barranquilla

Colombia · Coast · COP · 10.968540, -74.781320
Family friendly 6.8/10 · Rank 955 of 2 709
Best season: December-April

Best for

City break, nightlife, beach holiday and Caribbean culture lovers

Best season

December-April

Daily budget
$98.00 (≈ 8 820 ₽ · ≈ 392 000 COP)
For 7 days
$686.00 (≈ 61 740 ₽ · ≈ 2 744 000 COP)
Barranquilla is a bustling industrial and cultural center on the Caribbean coast, known as the birthplace of the famous Barranquilla Carnival, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site. The city charms with its vibrant culture, music, and dance, and also serves as an important transport hub on the coast. Barranquilla is the perfect place to experience authentic Caribbean culture in Colombia.
Summer
33.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
29.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Friendly, open, value music and traditions

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Scenic waterfront
  • Rich culture
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Affordable prices
  • Beaches nearby

Cons

  • High humidity
  • Noisy in the centre
  • Traffic jams
  • Rainy season
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
33.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
28.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
32.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
28.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
29.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-November
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
gray
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
turbid
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Playa Puerto Colombia
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
Present
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Jellyfish, sea urchins and sharks possible, caution recommended and swim on guarded beaches

Sea urchins — details

  • Black sea urchin (Diadema antillarum) — found on coral reefs and in coastal waters, stings are painful, special swimming shoes recommended
  • Sea urchin Echinometra viridis — inhabits shallow lagoons and reefs, most active at night

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs off Barranquilla are represented by species such as Acropora, Porites and others, home to diverse marine life
  • Reefs are susceptible to bleaching and disease, do not touch corals while snorkelling and diving

Jellyfish — details

  • Cassiopea xamachana (upside-down jellyfish) — found in mangrove lagoons and shallows, stings are mild but can cause skin irritation
  • Tripedalia cystophora (Caribbean box jellyfish) — small box jellyfish, inhabits mangrove thickets, stings are painful but not fatal

Sharks — details

  • Tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) — large predator, found in coastal waters, poses a potential danger
  • Bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas) — inhabits coastal waters and river mouths, aggressive, poses a danger to swimmers
  • Caribbean reef shark (Carcharhinus perezi) — common inhabitant of coral reefs, not aggressive, but requires caution
  • Nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) — widespread in coastal waters, not dangerous to humans
Attractions

Gran Malecón

Scenic waterfront along the Magdalena River with restaurants and parks

Museo del Caribe

Museum telling the culture and history of the Caribbean region

Metropolitan Cathedral

Majestic Catholic cathedral

Puerto Colombia Beach

Popular beach with seafood restaurants

Best areas

El Prado

Historic district with colonial architecture

Gran Malecón

Modern waterfront with restaurants and bars

Must-try food

Arepa de Huevo

Corn cake with egg, popular street food

Butifarra

Traditional sausage with rice and spices

Carimañola

Fried pastries with meat and potato

Sancocho

Hearty chicken and vegetable soup

Where to go next

Cartagena

Historic city 100 km away

Santa Marta

Coastal city 200 km away

Puerto Colombia

Coastal town 20 km away

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-April
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 60 000 COP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$75.00
≈ 6 750 ₽ · ≈ 300 000 COP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 800 ₽ · ≈ 480 000 COP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$200.00
≈ 18 000 ₽ · ≈ 800 000 COP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 13 500 ₽ · ≈ 600 000 COP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$50.00
≈ 4 500 ₽ · ≈ 200 000 COP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$5.00
≈ 450 ₽ · ≈ 20 000 COP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 60 000 COP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.00
≈ 180 ₽ · ≈ 8 000 COP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 180 ₽ · ≈ 8 000 COP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 90 ₽ · ≈ 4 000 COP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 32 000 COP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$6.00
≈ 540 ₽ · ≈ 24 000 COP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 360 ₽ · ≈ 16 000 COP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 540 ₽ · ≈ 24 000 COP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 60 000 COP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 90 ₽ · ≈ 4 000 COP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$4.00
≈ 360 ₽ · ≈ 16 000 COP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 4 050 ₽ · ≈ 180 000 COP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 40 000 COP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 100 000 COP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 700 ₽ · ≈ 120 000 COP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$80.00
≈ 7 200 ₽ · ≈ 320 000 COP
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 500 ₽ · ≈ 200 000 COP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 60 000 COP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 40 000 COP
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Frequently asked questions
Barranquilla: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Barranquilla: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.0°C, during the day — up to +33.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Barranquilla: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Barranquilla: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Barranquilla: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-November. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Barranquilla: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, gray sand, turbid water. The most popular beaches: Playa Puerto Colombia. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Barranquilla: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Barranquilla: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish, sharks. Jellyfish, sea urchins and sharks possible, caution recommended and swim on guarded beaches. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Barranquilla: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $98.00 (≈ 8 820 ₽ · ≈ 392 000 COP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Barranquilla: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $15.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $75.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $120.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $200.00 per night, an apartment — $50.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Barranquilla: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $5.00, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Barranquilla: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $15.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $4.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Barranquilla: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Gran Malecón — Scenic waterfront along the Magdalena River with restaurants and parks; Museo del Caribe — Museum telling the culture and history of the Caribbean region; Metropolitan Cathedral — Majestic Catholic cathedral; Puerto Colombia Beach — Popular beach with seafood restaurants. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Barranquilla: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Arepa de Huevo — Corn cake with egg, popular street food; Butifarra — Traditional sausage with rice and spices; Carimañola — Fried pastries with meat and potato; Sancocho — Hearty chicken and vegetable soup. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Barranquilla: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: El Prado — Historic district with colonial architecture; Gran Malecón — Modern waterfront with restaurants and bars. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Barranquilla: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Barranquilla: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (code BAQ). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $15.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Barranquilla: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — COP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $98.00 (≈ 8 820 ₽ · ≈ 392 000 COP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Barranquilla: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Barranquilla: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Barranquilla: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Cartagena — Historic city 100 km away; Santa Marta — Coastal city 200 km away; Puerto Colombia — Coastal town 20 km away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.8/10
Overall rank: 955 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 639

Best season

December-April

Useful information

Currency: COP
Coordinates: 10.968540, -74.781320