You’ve probably heard of the department of Bolívar’s capital city of Cartagena. After all, this beach destination draws millions of visitors every year for it’s white sand and clear blue water, but there is a lot more to be found here than beach resorts. As the first Spanish city in the Americas, Cartagena is rich with history — and that’s just the beginning!
I visited Bolívar as part of my 32 Departments of Colombia series and was thrilled to have the opportunity to explore outside the city limits. Cartagena is certainly spectacular, and despite my less-than-ideal-sunburn I enjoyed getting to know the stories of the city. However, the department of Bolívar itself is home to much more than Cartagena — we’re talking mouth-watering sweets, meandering swamps, and the first freed town in the Americas. It’s a place where Caribbean stories meet Afro Colombian stories meet Indigenous stories and everything in between.
But listen y’all, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy a little beach time while I was in the department. I mean, I was in Cartagena after all! So whether you yourself are lounging in the tropics or facing the winter outside, grab something coconut-flavored and get ready to explore Colombia’s most visited department!
More About BolÍVAR
If I’ve written any articles about Bolívar, you’ll see them listed here!
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In my journey to visit all 32 departments of Colombia I’ve written extensively about the different places I’ve traveled and people I’ve met. Click below to view all of my guides, stories, and tips from my travels around Colombia.
Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.
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