Barranquilla Hotels

But Carnaval de Barranquilla is only one of the ways Barranquilla entangles visitors in a colourful web of excitement and culture. The city also has a strong sense of history, which you’ll glimpse in monuments such as Monumento a la Bandera and Casona Republicana. The continued popularity of the Bocas de Ceniza, where the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea, shows the great reverence the locals have for nature, as does the Botanical Zoo – where you can even see a live version of Napoleon Dynamite’s famed Liger!

Barranquilla’s Top 10

Barranquilla History

• Puerto Colombia - This was once one of the longest ports in the world and the place of entrance for many thousands of immigrants in the late 1800s and 1900s.
• Usiacuri - Visit the home to Julio Florez, the well-known poet.
• Puente Pumarejo - Enjoy an amazing view of the city of Barranquilla from the longest bridge in the country.
• Caribbean Cultural Park - Offers a wide variety of information on the cultural, natural and historical heritage of Colombia.
• Catedral Metropolitana - An imposing building and local cathedral that offers a large sculpture by Arenas Betancourt.

Barranquilla Art & Culture

• Carnival of Barranquilla - One of the most important carnivals in Barranquilla takes place during the second week of February.
• Teatro Amira de la Rosa – This theatre houses gatherings, presentations, exhibits, concerts and more.
• Museo Romantico - The “Romantic Museum” is housed in a mansion in the district of El Prado.
• Museo del Caribe - Home to a vast collection of artefacts from the indigenous cultures and those who lived in the area.
• Museum of Modern Art - Brings together a collection of artwork by some of the country’s most important artists.

Barranquilla Shopping

• Buenavista and Country Plaza - Lovely shops and exclusive clothing boutiques.
• Villa Country - A popular shopping area in the centre of Barranquilla.
• Buena Vista - One of the newest and biggest malls around filled with shops, eateries and entertainment.
• Las Americas - A shopping complex found in the downtown area with modern shops.
• Centro Comercial Calle Real - A shopping area where you can find a bit of everything.

Gay & Lesbian Barranquilla

• El Cielo Video - An entertaining video bar in Barranquilla.
• Studio 54 - A bar with rocking music and great drinks.
• Gay Pride Carnival - Held the week before the yearly Carnival and brings many participants who dress up in costumes and ride floats.
• Sky Bar - Hosts regular events and programs.
• Aqua Club - Bathhouse with saunas.

Barranquilla Events

The spirit of the city is kicked into gear with Carnaval de Barranquilla in March, bringing parades, dances and concerts that literally engulf the city.

The annual fashion week, Plataforma K. Evento, is held in March. Local fashionistas and international models make the city a little more glamorous.

August’s storytelling festival, Festival Internacional de Cuenteros, proves this kind of thing is not just for campfires.

With major international jazz acts known to make their way over to have a jam, the mix of heat and horns at Barranquijazz in September is irresistible.

The international writing, filmmaking and music festival, Carnaval de las Artes, attracts notables from around the world, as well as showcasing the best local talent.

When To Go

Colombia’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. A pleasant day can turn sharply.

The beginning of December is incredibly wet and, unless you’re in the business of picking coffee, is best to avoid.

January to February is the best time of year weather-wise, with average daytime temperatures around 32ºC (90ºC). However, they are also the busiest.

Getting Around

If you’re travelling in a group, renting a car or truck is a good option. Gas prices are low, but beware of travelling outside the city.

Taxis are great, but be sure to know the name of your destination in Spanish.

Barranquilla’s buses are a bit hit and miss. Unless you know the inner workings of the bus system, public transport can be more hindrance than help.