On the Caribbean coast and the Magdalena River Delta an hour east of much better known Cartagena, Colombia´s fourth-largest city (pop. 1.2 million) is a thriving port famous for its nightlife, its handsome inhabitants, Caribbean culture, and vibrant Carnaval celebrations - oh and these days also for being the hometown of Shakira and Sofía Vergara. Though with a history stretching back to 1629, these days Barranquilla is somewhat industrial but it has charming neighborhoods, a wide range of shops and huge areas of parks and plazas. And don´t forget to experience the local costeño cuisine, including coconut rice, fried fish, and arepas.
Museo del Caribe
Explore interactively the indigenous culture, natural beauty, and culture of Colombia's Caribbean coastline at the city´s premier museum, which 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 magical realism writer (and native barranquillero) Gabriel García Márquez.
Museo Romántico
The city's rich history is well documented at this 18th-century mansion located on a picturesque street. The museum is filled with objects and belongings of well-known barranquilleros along with other Colombians. Artifacts on display include letters composed by Simon Bolívar, musical instruments (including one used by Garcia Márquez), Carnaval costumes, furniture, and artworks connected to Baranquilla's past.
Castillo de Salgar
Just 20 minutes from the city this beautifully restored Spanish fort built in 1848 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.
Barranquilla Zoo
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.
Sizzling Nightlife
For more than 50 years, La Troja has been 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 Awa Helada, and Coco Beach are also popular. Águila as well as Club Colombia are the favorite (and cheap!) beers, however rum is also a popular drink (you´re in the Caribbean, after all).
Bocas de Cenizas
If you're interested in walking and taking a trip off the beaten path travel by train to the point where 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.
Fetching Beaches
Make sure to head to the beach when you're here, as being the Caribbean it´s sunny and warm all year round. An although Barranquilla might not have the stunning sandy stretches of neighbouring Santa Marta or Cartagena, you'll have plenty of fine choices. Take a bus or taxi to Puerto Colombia and the Playas de Salgar, just 15 minutes from town, where you´ll find balnearios (bathing resorts) where you can rent chairs and umbrellas as well as enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment, such as Villa Alcatraz and the more elaborate Hotel Pradomar, with huge cushions, cabanas, fine dining, and and onsite nightclub which hosts weekend beach parties reminiscent of Ibiza.
Carnaval!
Barranquilla's vibrant Carnaval celebration ranks second in the world after Rio de Janeiro's, and is such a phenomenon that it´s on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Intangible Culture. Carnaval is held 40 days before Easter, over four days in January/February (this year, February 14-17), and preparations begin months in advance - and so should yours, because reservations sell out fast! With roots in Spanish Catholic tradition blended with African and indigenous influeces, these days it´s wild and crazy extravaganza filled with parades of dancers in extravagant costumes, bands, and floats as well as parties in the streets and the clubs, with around a million party animals who come in for the celebration. As a visitor, don't be afraid to join in the excitement - but don't necesarily count on being able to stay in the game for long!
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