According to forum posts, some travelers recommend renting a car for the journey from Cartagena to Santa Marta if planning to explore beyond these cities, like visiting Minca or Tayrona. The drive is described as straightforward, resembling routes in California, and takes around 4 to 5 hours.

For many users, taking a bus is a preferred option. Berlinas del Fonce and Marsol are frequently mentioned shuttle services with positive reviews. These shuttles run regularly and are noted for their comfort and convenience. The trip duration is about 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

Some travelers said that Berlinas del Fonce has terminals conveniently located near tourist areas in Cartagena and Barranquilla, which reduces travel time to Santa Marta. This service is particularly highlighted for its modern fleet and reliable schedule.

According to forum posts, exploring the Walled City is a must-do activity in Cartagena. Travelers recommend walking around the historic streets and on the city walls to soak up the area's rich history and ambiance.

Some travelers suggest visiting Café del Mar for a sunset drink. Located on top of the city walls, it offers a spectacular view of the sunset over the sea, providing a romantic and relaxing experience.

For a taste of local life, forum users recommend visiting the Getsemani neighborhood. Known for its vibrant street art and local flavor, it provides a contrast to the more tourist-heavy areas of the city.

Travelers have called out the Rosario Islands as a great spot for a boat tour from Cartagena. These islands offer opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying quieter beach environments compared to the city's main beaches.

Some travelers recommended the San Diego area in the Old City for its proximity to key attractions, mentioning specific hotels like Sofitel, Tres Banderas, and Casa la Fe. Additionally, the Hyatt Regency in Bocagrande was praised for its fantastic views, adults-only pools, and less chaotic beachfront compared to other areas.

For those seeking alternatives to traditional hotels, suggestions included looking at apartments, especially in areas like Getsemani, known for its artsy vibe. Airbnb was also mentioned as a viable option, with some listings offering excellent security near the Walled City, making it a cost-effective choice while being close to major attractions.

For luxury and beachfront accommodations, travelers have pointed out the Hyatt if traveling with family and other upscale resorts like Meliá Cartagena Karmairi and Dreams Karibana Cartagena Golf & Spa Resort. These venues are noted for their excellent service, amenities, and relaxation opportunities suitable for couples in their 40s and beyond.

Some travelers have discussed various tour options for visiting the Rosario Islands. Options include day trips, private boat tours, and group tours. There are also specific mentions of family-friendly tours that include activities like snorkeling and visits to an aquarium.

According to forum posts, it is often recommended to book tours upon arrival in Cartagena rather than online to avoid overcharges. Travelers have shared that booking at the port directly can provide more negotiation room on prices and better deals. However, some travelers prefer the convenience of online booking despite potentially higher prices.

Travelers looking for more subdued and scenic experiences mentioned resorts like Islabela and Gente Del Mar for day trips. These locations are praised for their sandy beaches and adequate amenities. Additionally, there is mention of a large slow boat for a more relaxed and family-oriented experience.

According to forum posts, Cartagena has a tropical climate characterized by distinct dry and rainy seasons. The dry season runs from December to April, offering sunny weather ideal for tourism, while the rainy season spans from May to November, featuring warm, humid conditions with frequent rainfall.

Travelers have indicated that the best months to visit Cartagena are from December to April, when the weather is typically hot and dry with minimal rainfall. This period allows for comfortable exploration of the city and its attractions.

Some travelers noted that even during the dry season, occasional overcast skies and hazy days can occur, particularly in January. However, these conditions usually clear up, leading to sunny afternoons. Despite this variability, the general consensus is that Cartagena remains pleasantly warm throughout the year.

Travelers seeking advice for specific months, like July and August, should be prepared for possible rainy days as these months can still experience significant rainfall. Nonetheless, rain showers are often short-lived, quickly giving way to clearer skies.

According to forum posts, taxis in Cartagena are abundant and considered economical by many travelers. Users have recommended negotiating the fare in advance to avoid unexpected charges, as taxis do not always use meters. It's suggested to compare prices between several taxis to secure the best rate.

Some travelers have expressed concerns about taxi scams, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area. For those preferring ride apps, Indriver is mentioned as an alternative, where fares can be negotiated. However, the availability of Uber seems inconsistent, with some users unable to secure rides through the app.

For navigating tourist spots like the city center or specific attractions, travelers recommend using taxis, particularly for direct routes without detours. A pre-negotiated fare ensures clarity on pricing. For visits to places like the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, taxis come highly recommended by experienced travelers familiar with the area.

According to forum posts, travelers can arrange private transportation for groups, with a price example given as 300,000 COP for a group of 9-14 people. A private transport service can be booked through specific websites targeting transportation from Cartagena to Barú.

Some travelers suggest contacting the hotel in Barú for preferred or recommended transportation options, which might include both car and, potentially, boat transfers depending on the hotel's location and services.

From the posts, it's evident that there are other options like buses, which might be a cheaper alternative for solo travelers or smaller groups. Additionally, hiring a car through local services or arranging transport via operators like Alondra Express was also mentioned as a viable option.

For those needing a transfer from the airport, it's suggested to negotiate directly with taxi drivers at the airport. However, travelers should be cautious of the cost as some might find it expensive, with quotes starting at around $100 for what appears to be a shared ride.