8 of the Best Things to Do in Barranquilla, Colombia

On Colombia´s Caribbean coast near better known Cartagena, Barranquilla is famous for its gorgeous inhabitants, Caribbean culture, and vibrant Carnaval celebrations. Even if you're here to celebrate the festivities the nightlife in Barranquilla is well-known for its traditional salsa dancing and late-night events.

The beach is open all year long for a day of surfing or just relaxing in the numerous bars as well as beach bars. The fourth-largest city in Colombia is a thriving port along the Caribbean Sea and Magdalena River although it's somewhat industrial but it has charming neighborhoods, a wide range of shops and huge areas of parks and plazas. Experience the local cuisine of costeno, including coconut rice, fried fish and arepas. Also, take a look at the city's Spanish culture by taking a trip to the church and castle.

You can easily book your cheap flights to Barranquilla with the Lowest Flight Fares and enjoy a trip.

El Museo del Caribe

Explore interactively the indigenous culture, natural beauty and culture from Colombia's Caribbean coastline at this most renowned museum in town.

El Museo del Caribe gives visitors an insight into this fascinating region of the country with fun exhibits and experiences that are spread across many floors and rooms.

There are many images, artifacts and photographs to clarify the richness of the Caribbean and its people from history and culture to literature and music.

There are guided tours available as well as the museum has a library space specifically dedicated to the works of the author of magical realism Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Carnaval de Barranquilla

Barranquilla's vibrant Carnaval celebrations rank second after Rio's celebrations in Brazil.

The four-day celebration is the thing that the city is known for, and the preparations begin months in advance which is why you must make plans in advance if you're hoping to go! The roots of the festival are of Spanish Catholic traditions blended with African and indigenous traditions This is a wild and lively festival that is filled with loud dancers, music in street parties, as well as the millions of partygoers who come to the city for this crazy celebration.

Carnaval kicks off 40 days before Easter, and is filled with delicious local food, extravagant costumes, and numerous groups of performers, dancers and bands.

As a guest Don't be afraid to join in the excitement, and don't count on to be able to stay in the game for long.

Zoologico Barranquilla

It's a tiny zoo, however it's home to more than 500 animals from 140 species spread across various continents.

An excellent activity for all the family, you will learn about endangered species while you walk through enclosures with monkeys, snakes Zebras as well as an elephant and a tiger.

Learn about conservation efforts that are being undertaken for native animals such as manatees, spectacled bears and the otter.

You can get really intimate with the creatures and even touch some of them. But be cautious! There's also a café in the back, which you can get an empanada if you're hungry.

Experience Barranquilla's Nightlife

Alongside its gorgeous people, Barranquilla is known for amazing dance clubs and nightlife. For more than 50 years, La Troja has been open, La Troja is an iconic town landmark and a perfect spot for the authentic experience of local salsa dancing, with crowds that often spill onto the streets. Frogg Leggs, the trendy Agua Helada along with Coco Beach are also popular. Aguila as well as Club Colombia are the favorite (and cheap!) beers, however Rum is also a popular drink (you have arrived living in the Caribbean after all).

Bocas de Cenizas

If you're interested in walking and a trip off the beaten path travel by train to the point where it is that the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea. Wear sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes, and bring your camera, along with some water (it's going to be a hot day) and a few dollars to buy some snacks on the way. Starting at starting in the Los Flores neighborhood, you'll ride your open-air "train" to the coast and then you'll get off and begin the strenuous walk to the apex of the peninsula. You'll not only get great panoramas, but also also get an actual glimpse of of the city's less developed neighborhoods that don't get much attention.

Castillo de Salgar

Just 20 minutes from the city It is located 20 minutes from the city. Castillo de Salgar is a beautifully renovated Spanish fort built in 1848. It is now a venue for events which is available for rent to host parties, and it is home to a wonderful restaurant. The cliff is situated on top of the ocean, it's a perfect spot to get away from the bustle of the city to enjoy a drink or dinner with the sunset. The cool breeze is refreshing, and the scenery is romantic. Sometimes, there are performances by musicians. If you're not planning to eat at a restaurant take a stroll in the direction of the beach to take a look at the past as well as some amazing photographs and scenic views.

Fantastic Beaches

It's the Caribbean which is hot all throughout the year, so make sure to head to the beach when you're in the Caribbean. Although Barranquilla might not have the stunning beaches of neighbouring Santa Marta or Cartagena, you'll have plenty of choices.

Taxi or bus or taxi to Puerto Colombia and the Playas de Salgar approximately 15 minutes away from town. Here there are balnearios (bathing resorts) such as Villa Alcatraz.

These clubs will supply the patrons with umbrellas, chairs tables, umbrellas, and the opportunity to enjoy food and drinks.

The more lavish Pradomar has huge cushions, cabanas and fine dining, the on-site nightclub hosts weekends of beach parties that are reminiscent of Ibiza.

Museo Romantico

The rich history of Barranquilla is documented at the Museo Romantico and it's surely worth a stroll to find out more about the city.

In a mansion built in the 18th century located on a picturesque street, the museum is filled with objects and belongings of well-known Barranquilleras along with other Colombians.

Letters were composed by Simon Bolivar, the nation's most heroic liberator, as well as an instrument used by the writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

There are costumes and dresses that were worn at previous Carnavals, as well as furniture, musical instruments photos, and art all connected to Baranquilla's past.

 

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