Barranquilla Travel Guide: Solo Backpackers Edition

Barranquilla’s location north of Colombia and its significance as the republic’s primary maritime port have helped the city become known as the “Golden Gate of Colombia” (La Puerta de Oro de Colombia). It is the 4th most populous city of Colombia and is strategically located in the mouth of the Caribbean sea, next to the waterway of Rio Magdalena.

Hence, it’s the center port of commercial trade, and 52.63% of travelers from the U.S. visit this city to experience its mouthwatering gastronomy, colorful festivities, striking historical structures, and hidden beaches that stretch along the Caribbean’s coastline.

It’s also a cosmopolitan hub for solo backpackers who want to experience a haven like no other. If you’re an avid traveler who enjoys going on solo trips, follow this guide before taking a step further:

Get an Insight on the History, Culture, and Traditions of the Locals

When you’re traveling, getting information about where you’re going is half the fun! A good resource for learning about the region’s history, language, arts, and customs is the country’s tourism website as well as many other travel blogs online.

Another great option is to download apps that provide local news and information, including restaurant guides, maps, and transport schedules. Use the power of the internet. Also, get inspired by blogs and articles written by locals or travelers about their favorite sights or hidden gems to visit and even dating tips while in the city.

Create a Budget plan

The first step when thinking about traveling alone to this growing metropolis is to create a budget. Figure out how much you can afford to spend while getting the most out of your vacation.

Consider things like what type of trip you’re taking (once-in-a-lifetime vs. more frequent trips), where you’ll be staying, and the length of time you intend to stay at each location.

Once you have come up with a rough budget, look at ways to save money by finding free attractions and activities to enjoy along the way. Be sure to take advantage of any discounts offered by hotels and restaurants, and research promo codes before paying full price.

If you don’t think you’ll be able to bring enough cash once you arrive at your destination, consider using credit cards with cashbacks that reward you for spending responsibly. When you arrive in the city, here are the average costs for basic expenses to help you get started:

• Taxi fare: $8–12
• Bus fare: $0.55 or less
• Budget Hotel: $34- or more
• Cheap meal: $3.45

Pack Light with Essentials

Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, packing only essentials means you won’t feel weighed down while you’re away. To get started, use the “packing cubes” method — divide items into four groups based on their size, weight, and frequency of use.

Keep a few of each group in your carry-on bag, and keep a few others at your place of residence. Bring extra medicines, sunscreen, a flashlight, and toiletries in case they aren’t provided at the accommodation.

You might also want to bring additional clothing options to avoid having to buy everything twice. Lastly, fill out and print copies of your passport and visa; take them with you just in case you lose or damage yours.

Plan a Barranquilla Tourist Attractions Checklist

In your journal or phone, write a list of places you want to visit via travel sites or Google Maps. For starters, try checking these travel spots:

• Plaza San Nicolás

This beautiful plaza is located in the city center and is where many locals go for relaxation. It’s a great location for people-watching. There are also many restaurants and bars around the square as well as shopping centers that offer local and imported goods.

• Pumarejo bridge

The bridge crosses over the Magdalena River and connects the historic center with the Ciudad Principal area. It dates back to 1974 and is considered one of the best-preserved bridges of its kind in Latin America.

• La Ventana del mundo

Its name translates to the “window of the world.” Located on the outskirts of the city, it is an open-air museum showcasing colonial architecture and art. The glass monument showcases cultural and artistic heritage without being overly touristy.

You’ll never get bored while traveling alone in Barranquilla. Who knows? You may even stumble upon your el amor de tu vida (the love of your life). Likewise, it’s also an ideal city for solo backpackers worldwide who seek a freeing and thrilling journey. But if you want to have a tour companion, contact a city guide to give you recommendations for eating, shopping, and sightseeing, or join a social club tour to find a travel date.