Great Runs in Cartagena, Columbia
Note: For the Full Guide to Running in Cartagena, see the GR Website
Cartagena de India, a historic port on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is sometimes known as the “City of Walls” for its defensive structures surrounding the Old Town. The residential area of the city sprawls significantly inland, but most tourism is centered around Old Town, the beachfront of Playa Bocagrande, and the cheery marina neighborhoods with their colorful facades and distinguished eateries. Not only is Cartagena a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a vibrant, cultured city, with an edge reminiscent of Miami Beach. This unique combination of beaches, history, and thriving neighborhoods makes the running in Cartagena some of the best in Latin America.
Grand Tour of Cartagena: This long tour (up to 18 km) combines all our Cartagena main routes into one run for optimum sightseeing. Be sure to see our other Cartagena routes for details of each leg.
Getsemani/Manga Waterfront: Some of the most lovely paths in Cartegena are the promenades lining the marina neighborhoods of Getsemani and Manga. Great manicured parks, bridges, and waterfront views!
Bocagrande Waterfront: Starting from the lively beaches of Bocagrande, this sidewalk reaches north along the Old Town seawall to Playa Marbella. At several points, runners can spice up the terrain by dropping down to the sandy beaches.
Castillogrande and Bay Side Boardwalk: A run through the ritzy high rises of Castillogrande culminates with a stretch on a well kempt waterfront path. Peninsula loop is 3 km, but can be combined with the Bocagrande route for a 7.25 km loop.
Walls of Cartagena (Old Town Tour): Run along the “murallas” of the “City of Walls” and enjoy the historic sites of Old Town on this roughly 5 km tour.
Cartagena Beach Running: Cartagena is a haven for beach running, with long stretches of flat, hard packed sand. Our top picks include Playa Bocagrande, Playa Marbella, and Playa La Boquilla.
Original Post By: Kelsey Perrett. For the full running guide to Cartagena, see greatruns.com.
