With case counts back on the rise in Cartagena and the rest of Colombia, restrictions have been reimplemented. If you are planning a trip and curious about the current Covid restrictions in Cartagena, read on. *(Last update: April 19, includes restrictions effective until May 2)
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Current Covid Restrictions in Cartagena – Colombia
*Disclaimer: Please note, I am not an official source, only passing along here current published coronavirus restrictions in Cartagena. These restrictions are subject to change, and while I will do my best to update, I suggest checking the Mayor’s Facebook or Instagram Page to confirm if it has been more than a week or so since I last updated.
*Last update: April 19, 2021 (Includes new restrictions to be in effect until May 2)
What are the current restrictions in Cartagena, Colombia?
Is there a curfew in Cartagena?
Yes. The current curfew is from 10 pm to 5 am, every night, including weekends. The only exceptions are those with special work permission.
It may be worth mentioning, that the proposed curfew was actually to begin at 7 pm, but the national Ministry of Health rejected that since ICU occupancy remains below 70%. Should that go up, it is possible the curfew could be made earlier.
Is there Pico y Cedula in Cartagena?
Yes. There are Restrictions on the entry to banks, supermarkets, malls, the Bazurto market and other large stores. These restrictions are based on the last number of your ID.
Those that have ID numbers that end on even numbers can go to those places on even days, and those with IDs that end in odd numbers can go to those places on odd days.
When will current coronavirus restrictions in Cartagena end?
The restrictions announced above are set to expire on Sunday May 2. Given how things have gone, I would not expect an announcement on whether there will be further restrictions or if these will be continued until the afternoon of May 2.
It is also always possible more stringent measures could be implemented if case counts continue to go up, but the impression I have is they will not shut down tourism with full lockdowns in Cartagena barring ICUs getting up to 100% (they are at close to 70% as of April 19). It’s also worth noting that other major cities in Colombia are currently experiencing surges. In fact, April 19 saw the most deaths reported in a day during anytime since the pandemic began.
Other Cartagena Covid Restrictions FAQs
Do I need a Covid test to travel to Cartagena?
Yes. All foreign citizens entering Colombia must show results of a negative PCR test. Colombian citizens may enter without a test and either complete a test in country or complete a 14 day quarantine. Read more about entry requirements here.
Where can I get a Covid test in Cartagena?
See a list of places to get a Covid test in Cartagena here.
Are restaurants in Cartagena open?
Yes. Restaurants are open for indoor and outdoor seating. Restaurants are expected to maintain distance between customers, provide anti-bacterial gel or spray, and have capacity limits.
Do I need to make a reservation for restaurants?
No. However, it is recommended. Restaurants are allowed to take walk ups, but give capacity limits, many more popular restaurants may fill up, especially on weekends.
Can restaurants serve alcohol in Cartagena?
Yes. At this time there are no active dry laws in Cartagena.
Are bars in Cartagena open?
Yes. Bars in Cartagena are allowed to open, but must close by the curfew. They also have to maintain lower capacity, social distancing, and are dancing is not allowed. So, you can drink in a bar bar, but nightclubs in Cartagena remain closed.
Are beaches in Cartagena open?
Yes. Beaches in Cartagena are open, although you are expected to make a reservation. Beaches are currently open from 8 am to 2 pm. Read about the beaches open in town here.
Are the islands in Cartagena open?
Yes. The Rosario Islands, Playa Blanca, Barú, and Tierra Bomba are all open. If you are going for a day trip, the beaches do close at 2 pm. If you reserve at hotels at the beach, you may be able to use the beach until later, it is a bit of a gray area. I’d recommend confirming before making any reservations, just to be on the safe side.
*See a complete guide to the Rosario Islands here and Playa Blanca here.
Do I have to wear a mask in Cartagena?
Yes, you do.
Need some masks? Consider getting some KN95s, FFP2s, or medical grade masks.
Current Cartagena Covid Restrictions – Conclusion
There you have it, a simple and practical guide to the current restrictions in Cartagena, Colombia due to Covid. Please remember that you risk putting yourself at risk of being fined if you do not comply with these restrictions.
Cheers and Safe Exploring!
Are you planning a trip to Cartagena?
Be sure to check out these top resources to help you plan:
Insider’s Guide to the Best Areas to Stay
Top Things to Do
Complete Cartagena Packing List
Where to Get a Covid Test in Cartagena
The post Current Covid Restrictions in Cartagena, Colombia (April 19-May 2 update) – What to Expect for Cartagena Covid Restrictions appeared first on Cartagena Explorer.
