Top Things to Do in Barranquilla

About the City

Barranquilla, the Golden Gate of Colombia, bursts with vibrancy and a carnival spirit that's infectious. The city dazzles with its biggest bash, the Barranquilla Carnival, where music, dance, and colorful costumes create a spectacle to rival Rio's, marking a highlight for anyone's social calendar. But it's not all festivity; day-to-day, the city thrives with a robust local culture, flavorful cuisine that'll have your taste buds in a twist, and warm, welcoming locals known as 'Curramberos.' However, every coin has two sides. The heat here can be relentless, often causing a visitor to desperately seek respite under the nearest shade or air conditioner. Amidst the cheer, the city's infrastructure sometimes struggles to keep up, and visitors may find themselves baffled by traffic congestion and the occasional sense of disorganization. While its beaches may not rival those of Caribbean postcards, they offer their own gritty charm. Despite the quirks, Barranquilla's zest for life is palpable, and its cultural tapestry weaves an enchanting story for those intrepid enough to be part of its tale.

Things to Do in Barranquilla

Sip on Bollo de Yuca

Food & Drink

Oh, you think you've had carbs? Wait until you've had a Bollo de Yuca! This starchy delight is a coastal carb bomb that's steamed to perfection and often enjoyed with a pipping hot cup of chocolate or...

Kayak the Caño Dulce

Outdoors

Get your paddles splashing and your adventure cap on! Glide across the serene waters of Caño Dulce. It's where the river's gentle whispers meet the kayaker's quest for peace. Feeling extra brave? Race...

Brew a Storm with Local Coffee Connoisseurs

The Unexpected

Calling all caffeine fiends! Ever dreamt of crafting the perfect cup of joe? Here’s your chance to learn from the pros. Dive into the world of Colombian coffee with a workshop that's all about beans, ...

Delve into the Realm of Luthiers

The Unexpected

Get strumming on this unique experience where you can immerse yourself in the world of guitar-making. Visit the city's skilled luthiers, and learn all about the craft of creating beautiful instruments...

Go on a Historical Hunt in Museo Romántico

The Unexpected

Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and explore the lives of famous Barranquilleros at Museo Romántico. It's a cozy little spot that's chock-full of photos, costumes, and memorabilia from the city'...

Get in a Splash at Barranquilla's Water Parks

The Unexpected

Looking to beat the heat with a little bit of wild wet fun? Barranquilla's water parks are a splash hit for cooling off. Whizz down the waterslides, float around a lazy river, or get drenched in a wav...

Conquer the Caribbean Coastline

Outdoors

Ready to make some waves? The Caribbean Sea beckons with its vast expanse of turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Take a dip, surf the crests, or just lay back and work on that bronze glow. Whether you...

Urban Park Picnic Perfection

Outdoors

Got a blanket and a basket of goodies? Time for a chill picnic in one of Barranquilla's lush urban parks. Plop down under a shady tree, nosh on local snacks, and people-watch to your heart's content. ...

Hook a Big One Deep Sea Fishing

Outdoors

Arr matey! Set sail for the deep blue and tussle with the titans of the sea. Whether you reel in a marlin or a sassy tuna, bragging rights come standard with this high-seas adventure. Just remember, i...

Nature Photography Safari

Outdoors

Snap-happy adventurers, rejoice! Venture out into the diverse ecosystems of Barranquilla's outskirts. Your mission: capture the raw beauty of nature's creatures, big or small. Perfect your jungle crou...

Indulge in Costeño Cheese

Food & Drink

Say cheese, and not just for a photo! Dig into the creamy, dreamy world of Costeño cheese. It's the unsung hero of dairy in Barranquilla. This bad boy's perfect for nibbling, grating, or melting into ...

Get Crafty at the Artisan Markets

Sights

Time to embrace your crafty side and scout out the artisan markets where local talents fuse colors and materials to create souvenirs with a Barranquillero twist! From woven bags to unique jewelry, eve...

Kick Up Your Heels at a Local Dance Scene

Sights

Put on your dance face and get ready to swing your hips to the energetic rhythms of cumbia and mapalé at a local dance spot. Whether you've got two left feet or you're a seasoned pro, the infectious b...

Witness Artistic Genius at the Street Art Hotspots

Sights

Let the streets be your gallery as you discover Barranquilla's most colorful side. From vibrant murals to thought-provoking graffiti, every corner is a living canvas showcasing local talent. It's a vi...

Journey Through the 'Window to the World'

Sights

Get ready for a 'wow' moment at the Ventana al Mundo, or 'Window to the World', a towering sculpture that's become a symbol of Barranquillero pride. By day, marvel at its kaleidoscopic colors reaching...

Dance with the Locals at a Famed Event Spot

Sights

Wanna feel the heat of Barranquilla's nightlife? Hit up one of the city's iconic event spots and groove to the contagious beats of salsa, merengue, and vallenato. Let local dancers sweep you off your ...

Dig Into Some Arepa de Huevo

Food & Drink

You haven't lived until you've sunk your teeth into an arepa de huevo, a cornmeal cake that's like a crunchy hug for a runny egg. Imagine the joy as you break through the crispy exterior to unleash a ...

Chow Down on Bocachico Frito

Food & Drink

Get ready to dive fin-first into Barranquilla's favorite fish dish, bocachico frito. This river fish is seasoned with a blend of coastal spices, fried to crispy perfection, and usually served with a s...

Munch on Enyucado

Food & Drink

Sweet tooth calling? Answer it with enyucado, a sticky-sweet cake made from yuca, cheese, and coconut. It's like a tropical getaway in every bite – chewy, cheesy, and packed with the kind of flavor th...

Hit the Afro-Colombian Drum Beat

The Unexpected

Feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme, get on up, it's drumming time! Join a local drumming circle and get the lowdown on the powerful beats that fuel Barranquilla's electrifying music scene. Learn from mas...