Available Options
In Cartagena, renting an apartment is the smartest move if you're traveling with family or a large group. Hotels fall short on space and kitchen, and you end up paying for every meal out. Here are the real options, not the ones travel influencers sell you.
Bocagrande: The Classic with Everything Nearby
Bocagrande is the most popular area for apartment rentals in Cartagena. 20-story buildings with sea views, supermarkets around the corner, and beaches within walking distance. Apartments here range from studios to 4-bedroom penthouses. If you're looking for family accommodation in Cartagena, this is your first stop. However, the noise from cars and the crowds during high season can be intense.
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El Laguito: Tranquility and Real Sea
El Laguito is the peninsula south of Bocagrande. Less traffic, more silence, and direct beach access without having to cross an avenue. Apartments here are usually more spacious and many have balconies overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Perfect if you're traveling with young children who want to go in and out of the beach safely.
Manga: The Hidden Gem for Large Groups
Manga is the residential neighborhood of republican houses and low-rise buildings. Here you find huge apartments with gardens or terraces, ideal for groups of 6 to 10 people. There's no beach, but the Historic Center is a 10-minute taxi ride away and the airport is 15 minutes away. Prices are lower than in Bocagrande and the atmosphere is more authentic. A fun fact: in Manga, 19th-century politicians and merchants lived, and many facades still retain their original colors.
Historic Center and Getsemaní: For Those Seeking Charm
If your group prefers restaurants, bars, and colonial architecture, the Historic Center and Getsemaní have apartments in restored buildings. But beware: the streets are cobblestone, party noise goes on late, and prices are high. Recommended only if you don't mind the hustle and bustle and have a generous budget.
Updated Costs
Apartment rental prices in Cartagena vary by season. As of June 2026, here are the ranges you can expect for a 3-bedroom apartment (ideal for 6 people):
- Bocagrande: $250,000 – $600,000 COP per night in low season. In December and Easter week, it can go up to $1,200,000 COP.
- El Laguito: $300,000 – $700,000 COP per night. More consistent because there is less supply.
- Manga: $180,000 – $400,000 COP per night. The best value for money for large groups.
- Historic Center: $400,000 – $1,000,000 COP per night. Apartments with colonial balconies are the most expensive.
Important: these are reference prices. If you rent for a month, you can negotiate discounts of up to 30%. Always verify that the price includes utilities and wifi, as some owners charge them separately.
Estimated Timelines
Planning ahead is key to avoiding scams and getting good prices. Here are the timelines I recommend:
- Book 2-3 months in advance: For high season (December, January, Easter week, July). The most sought-after apartments sell out quickly.
- Book 1 month in advance: For low season. You have more room to negotiate and compare.
- Check-in and check-out: Most apartments have check-in at 3:00 PM and check-out at 11:00 AM. If you arrive early, ask if you can leave your luggage at the building's reception.
- Minimum stay: In high season, many owners require a minimum of 3 nights. In low season, they accept 1 or 2 nights.
Practical Tips
Here are the tips no travel guide will give you, based on real experiences from locals and frequent travelers.
How to Detect a Fraudulent Rental in Cartagena
Scams in apartment rentals in Cartagena are more common than you think. Warning signs:
- Price too good to be true: An apartment in Bocagrande with a sea view for $100,000 COP per night is suspicious. If the price is well below average, run.
- Generic or catalog photos: Use Google Lens to search for the images. If they appear on decoration sites or in other ads from different cities, it's a scam.
- They ask for a deposit or advance via bank transfer: Scammers ask you to deposit 50% to "reserve" the apartment. Always use platforms with buyer protection like Airbnb or Paypal, or pay in cash upon arrival.
- They don't give you the exact address until you pay: A legitimate owner will give you the address and may even do a video call to show you the apartment.
- Pressure to decide quickly: Phrases like "I have other interested parties" or "if you don't pay today, you'll lose it" are common pressure tactics.
Local Platforms vs. Airbnb
Airbnb is safe but expensive. Host and guest fees can add up to an extra 20%. Local alternatives:
- Facebook Groups: Search for "Alquiler de apartamentos Cartagena" or "Arriendos temporales Cartagena". There you find direct owners. However, verify they have reviews from other guests.
- OLX Colombia: Classifieds platform. Filter by "Cartagena" and "temporal". Prices are usually 15-20% lower than on Airbnb.
- Local real estate agencies: Companies like Cartagena Rentals or Colombia Rentals have portfolios of verified apartments. The cost is similar to Airbnb but with personalized service.
Direct Negotiation with Owners
If you find the ideal apartment outside of platforms, negotiate like this:
- Ask for a simple written contract: Include dates, total price, included services, and cancellation policy.
- Offer to pay in cash upon arrival: Many owners prefer cash because it avoids fees. But never pay without having seen the apartment.
- Ask about discounts for long stays: If you stay 7 nights or more, ask for a 10-15% discount. If you stay a month, up to 30%.
- Ask for references from previous guests: A serious owner will give you contacts of people who have already stayed there.
Apartments with Sea View vs. Interior
The sea view is tempting, but it's not always the best option. Apartments with a sea view are usually on high floors and have more noise from traffic and bars. Also, direct sun heats up the apartment and the air conditioner works harder. Interior apartments (facing patios or the city) are quieter and cooler. My recommendation: if your priority is to sleep well and have peace, choose interior. If you want photos for Instagram and breakfast with a sea view, pay the extra for the view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to rent an apartment in Cartagena on my own, without an agency?
Yes, but with caution. Use platforms with verified reviews, ask for updated photos, and never pay without seeing the apartment. If the deal is direct, ask for a simple contract and verify that the building has 24-hour security. Bocagrande, El Laguito, and Manga are the safest neighborhoods for this type of rental.
What documents do I need to rent an apartment in Cartagena?
For short-term rentals (less than 30 days), you only need your passport or foreign ID card. Some owners ask for a security deposit (usually the value of one night) which is returned at the end if there is no damage. For long-term rentals, they ask for personal references and proof of income.
Can I find apartments with a full kitchen for large families?
Yes, most vacation apartments in Cartagena have a kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, and basic utensils. If you need large pots, a blender, or a coffee maker, it's best to confirm with the owner beforehand. Some apartments in Manga and El Laguito have fully equipped kitchens ideal for large families.