Cartagena, Colombia, Breaks Tourist Records and Experiences a Historic December

Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, is going through one of the largest tourist seasons in its history. The figures recorded in December confirm that the walled city has once again broken visitor records and is consolidating itself as one of the most visited destinations in Colombia during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

According to official data, as of Dec. 21, a massive flow of travelers had already been recorded, while authorities estimate that 1.6 million visitors will arrive in the city throughout the entire year-end holiday season.

The high volume of tourists has made this period one of the most demanding for the district administration, due to pressure on mobility and security, as well as the need to guarantee a positive experience for both national and international visitors.

Record tourism figures in Cartagena and historic projections

Between Dec. 19, 2025, and Jan. 19, 2026, Cartagena is expected to move more than 1.6 million people through air and land transportation, an unprecedented figure for the city. In December alone, Rafael Nuñez International Airport surpassed its historical record by registering more than 700,000 passengers, while the Cartagena Transport Terminal handled nearly 650,000 travelers.

These figures represent an approximate 5% growth compared to the previous season and confirm an upward trend in local tourism. By comparison, during the December 2024 — January 2025 period, the city received around 930,000 visitors, which already marked a significant increase over previous years.

Cartagena’s mayor, Dumek Turbay Paz, said in an interview with Semana magazine that the high season, which runs from Dec. 15 to Jan. 15, could become the largest in the city’s history. “We believe this will be the biggest season ever, with 1.6 million visitors, including returning Cartagenians, Colombians visiting from other regions, and international tourists,” he said.

Inauguration of electric carriages and new measures in the Historic Center

@cartagena.alterna0 #Locales Coche eléctrico, el cuál reemplazará a los caballos cocheros en Cartagena, desfiló en el bando 2025. El prototipo de coche eléctrico, que reemplazará al caballo cochero, desfiló en el bando, para que todos los Cartageneros y turistas lo vieran. #CartagenaAlternativa #Noticias #DelLadoDeLaGente ♬ La Fantástica – Carlos Vives

In light of the high influx of visitors, the district administration announced a series of measures to address the challenges of the season. According to the mayor, the main concerns are focused on ensuring mobility and safety, two key aspects amid the massive arrival of tourists.

One of the most significant announcements is related to animal protection and mobility in the Historic Center. Turbay confirmed that starting on Dec. 26, 60 electric carriages will begin operating, marking the definitive elimination of animal-drawn transportation in this tourist area. “We will no longer allow a single horse in the Historic Center,” the mayor stated, adding that 120 horses will enter an adoption process after being purchased by the District.

Economic impact and future challenges

The tourism record has had a positive impact on the local economy, with hotel occupancy rates close to 100% on key dates, increased cruise tourism, and a steady inflow of foreign currency. Sectors such as hospitality, gastronomy, transportation, and local commerce have directly benefited.

However, the challenge for Cartagena will be to sustain this growth without affecting residents’ quality of life or the city’s historical and environmental heritage. December’s figures confirm that the city is experiencing one of the best moments in its tourism history.