The good news: Cartagena Airport is small, the city is close, and the transfer is short. The challenge for families is not the airport — it is the Old Town streets on the other side.
Inside the terminal
Rafael Nunez is a compact terminal. After collecting bags, you walk directly to the arrivals area. It is straightforward with no long connections or level changes. Luggage trolleys are available. Restrooms have basic baby-changing facilities.
The terminal can feel warm and crowded when multiple flights arrive, but the exit is quick. Get through immigration, grab your bags, and you are outside within 30 minutes on a normal day.
Getting to your hotel with kids
| Option | Family suitability | Notes | |--------|-------------------|-------| | Official taxi | Good for 1–2 kids | Standard sedan, no car seat, short ride | | Pre-booked sedan | Good | Can request car seat, AC vehicle | | Pre-booked SUV/minivan | Best | Space for luggage, stroller, car seats | | Uber | Fair | Unpredictable pickup logistics, no car seat |
The ride to most Cartagena hotels is only 10–20 minutes, so even a standard taxi is manageable. However, if you have a stroller, multiple bags, and tired children, a pre-booked SUV at COP 60,000–80,000 (EUR 12–16) gives you space and a driver who handles the luggage.
The Old Town access problem
This is the real family challenge. Many hotels inside the Walled City are on narrow, cobblestoned streets that cars cannot enter. Your taxi or transfer drops you at the nearest accessible point, and you walk the last 50–200 meters.
With a stroller and rolling suitcases, cobblestones in tropical heat are difficult. Here is what helps:
- Contact your hotel in advance — ask exactly where the car drops off and whether they send someone to help carry bags
- Use a baby carrier instead of a stroller for the last stretch
- Travel light if possible — fewer bags means less cobblestone struggle
- Some boutique hotels have porters who meet you at the car drop-off point
Car seats
Colombian taxis do not carry car seats. This is universal — do not expect one in any taxi. Your options:
- Bring your own lightweight travel car seat
- Request one when booking a private transfer — availability varies, so confirm in advance
- For the very short ride (10–15 minutes), some parents accept the risk, but it is not recommended
Climate considerations
Cartagena is hot and humid year-round — typically 28–32 degrees Celsius. Have water ready for the kids, and do not linger outside the terminal. Get into your air-conditioned vehicle as quickly as possible. Hydration and shade matter more here than at most airports.