Location: Cartagena, Colombia
Event: Independence Day
During Cartagena’s Independence Day celebration, the Embassy reminds all U.S. citizens to maintain a high level of security awareness while transiting the city. A dramatic increase in petty theft is expected, along with the potential for unsanctioned checkpoints and confrontations for money and/or valuables. Expect severe traffic delays due to numerous road closures and traffic diversions.
The Embassy recommends U.S. citizens avoid areas east of Centro Commercial Caribe Plaza. If transiting these neighborhoods is necessary, use extra caution as residents often establish illegal roadblocks for the purpose of soliciting money from pedestrians and motorists. When possible, use main roads only, avoid large crowds, and avoid confrontations with festival participants.
Additionally, the route between Cartagena and Barranquilla may also be affected by illegal roadblocks. If traveling to/from Barranquilla, use only the main routes (Routes 90 and 90A).
Criminals also use scopolamine and other incapacitating drugs to assault, rob, and occasionally murder unsuspecting victims. The potential for interactions with criminals who secretly add drugs to food, drinks, and sometimes to skin directly, may increase during the week of festivities.
Pay close attention to your surroundings and your personal belongings. Leave jewelry and unnecessary valuables at home and only carry as much cash as you need.
Please reference the following celebration schedule and plan your activities accordingly:
Thursday, November 13
The Independence Parade is scheduled to begin at the Tunnel of Crespo at 2:00 p.m. continuing along Avenida Santander to Parque de la Marina. The celebration is scheduled to end at Plaza de la Aduana and Plaza de los Coches.
Thursday, November 13 and Friday, November 14
Concerts at Plaza de la Aduana in front of the mayor’s office at 6:00 pm
Friday, November 14 and Saturday, November 15
Independence Day Nautical Festival and Bololó del Arsenal
Cartagena Bay-Convention Center Parking Lot 2
Total closure of Arsenal Street
Sunday, November 16
Salsa party starting TBD in La Plaza de la Aduana
Actions to take:
- Remain on main roads only.
- Avoid crowds
- Avoid confrontations with festival participants.
- Avoid hailing taxis; use a dispatch service or cell phone app.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are with small children.
- Wear little to no jewelry and carry few valuables. Keep a low profile.
- Avoid using your cell phone in public.
- Never leave food or drinks unattended in public.
- Never accept food or drinks from strangers.
- Do not invite strangers to your lodging or residence.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Keep car doors locked and windows rolled up.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia
Tel. +57-1-275-2000 or 601-275-2000
https://co.usembassy.gov/services/contact-acs-form/
https://co.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Consular Agency, Barranquilla
conagencybarranquilla@state.gov
U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444
Colombia Country Information
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security updates
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
