Manga to the gates: two miles you should not walk
The cruise berth belongs to the Sociedad Portuaria de Cartagena on the Manga peninsula. A free air-conditioned shuttle or trolley runs from the ship to the terminal building, about a two-minute ride, and the terminal exit is roughly 3.2km from the walled city. The walk in follows industrial roads with heavy traffic and no shade, which is why almost everyone takes the official taxi.
The official taxi fare in 2026 was around US$8-10 (32,000-40,000 pesos) per car, one way, to the old town or Getsemani. Agree the total with the driver before you get in, not on arrival.
Small bills and the photo tip
US dollars are taken widely, but change is the problem - carry $1, $5 and $10 bills. The palenqueras, the traditional fruit sellers of the old town, expect a tip for a photo, and the 2026 going rate is about 5,000-10,000 pesos ($1-2). Settle it before you lift the camera.
Rosario Islands only on a long call
The Rosario Islands boat trip is only worth trying on a long call. Speedboats generally leave between 8 and 9am and come back between 3 and 4pm, so a ship needs to be in port for eight or nine full hours to make it without stress.
Sources: bucketlistguides.com