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Car Rental in Cartagena, Colombia

Experience the vibrant pulse of Cartagena with Green Motion Car Rental, your gateway to freedom in this captivating Colombian city. Embrace the convenience of exploring at your own pace, whether you're winding through the colorful streets of the historic Old Town or cruising along the scenic coastline. 

Our diverse fleet of well-maintained vehicles ensures that you'll find the perfect match for your adventure, whether it's a sleek sedan for urban exploration or a rugged SUV for venturing off the beaten path. With easy booking options and dedicated customer service, Green Motion Car Rental in Cartagena promises a seamless and unforgettable journey, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories in this enchanting destination.

Tips for renting a car in Cartagena

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Good to know about car rental in Cartagena

 

Driving in Cartagena combines the chaotic rhythm of a tropical city with the calm of open coastal roads once you leave the urban core. Within the city, expect heavy traffic, especially in Bocagrande and near the old walled city. Motorcycles, taxis, and street vendors are everywhere, and parking is limited, especially in tourist areas.

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and seat belts are mandatory. Roads are paved in and around the city but can become less reliable as you head toward rural or less-developed beach areas. Watch out for potholes, aggressive drivers, and frequent lane changes.

Speed limits in Colombia are generally:

30–60 km/h (19–37 mph) in cities

80 km/h (50 mph) on regional highways

100 km/h (62 mph) on some dual carriageways

Coastal routes like the Via al Mar between Cartagena and Barranquilla are scenic and in good shape, with toll stations (peajes) along the way — bring cash in Colombian pesos, as not all booths accept cards.

Parking in Cartagena is challenging near tourist spots. Most drivers opt for private lots, hotel garages, or designated parking zones. Avoid street parking where not permitted — towing and fines are enforced.

Driving at night outside the city is not recommended, especially on isolated roads where lighting is poor and animals may wander onto the road. Be especially cautious during rainy months when roads may flood.

Fuel stations are frequent around Cartagena and major roads, but they may be less common in rural areas. Most accept credit/debit cards, though carrying some cash is always smart for tolls and tips.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in Spanish. Police checkpoints are common — especially along intercity routes — so keep your documents (license, passport, rental contract, insurance) on hand.

If you need help while in Cartagena, don't hesitate to contact our office. In an emergency, dial 123, Colombia's national emergency number.

Enjoy your journey and explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes with confidence! 🚗

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Why Rent a Car in Cartagena?

 

While Cartagena’s old city is easily explored on foot or via taxis, a car becomes extremely useful if you want to travel beyond the tourist hub. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to:

Visit Playa Blanca, Barú Island, and the Rosario Islands launching points

Take scenic drives to Santa Marta, Minca, or Tayrona National Park

Discover lesser-known beaches like La Boquilla, Punta Canoas, and Manzanillo del Mar

Explore colonial towns like San Basilio de Palenque, the first free African settlement in the Americas

Enjoy your trip without depending on tour groups or bus schedules

Useful Information about renting a car in Cartagena

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Average temperatures

24°C (75°F) – 32°C (90°F)

FAQs about car hire in Cartagena

Is it necessary to rent a car in Cartagena?

Not inside the old city. But if you plan to visit beaches, islands, or towns beyond the city, a car is highly recommended.

Can I drive to Santa Marta or Tayrona National Park from Cartagena?

Yes. It's about a 4 to 5-hour drive, mostly on coastal highways, with toll booths along the way. A great road trip.

Are toll roads common around Cartagena?

Yes. You'll encounter several peajes (toll booths) when heading toward Barranquilla or Santa Marta. Keep pesos in cash.

Is parking difficult in Cartagena?

Yes, especially near the old city. Use hotel parking or private lots. Avoid street parking where signs prohibit it.

Is it safe to drive in the city?

Generally yes, but traffic is busy, and motorcycles weave between cars. Outside the city, roads are safer and less congested.

Do I need an international driver’s license in Cartagena?

It is recommended, especially if your home license is not in Spanish or uses a non-Roman alphabet.