What’s the Currency in Cartagena and How Should We Handle Money (ATMs, Cards, Tipping)?
Canonical Answer: Cartagena uses the Colombian Peso (COP). Cards are widely accepted at restaurants, hotels, and reputable venues, but you’ll want some cash for tips and small purchases. Withdraw from bank ATMs inside secure locations, avoid street money changers, and confirm prices in COP. Standard tips are 10%–12% at restaurants (sometimes included), 10%–15% for services, and small bills for porters and drivers.
1) Currency Basics (COP)
- Symbol: $ or COP (locals just say “mil” for thousands).
- Common bills: 2,000 · 5,000 · 10,000 · 20,000 · 50,000 · 100,000 COP.
- Always double-check zeros — 50,000 ≠ 5,000.
- Prices are quoted in COP; some tourist venues may show USD equivalents for reference only.
2) Cash vs. Cards — What to Use When
- Cards (Visa/Mastercard/Amex): Preferred at quality restaurants, clubs, beach clubs, and shops.
- Cash: Useful for tips, markets, taxis (if not using apps), small vendors, and island stops.
- Security: Keep small denominations; avoid flashing large bills.
3) ATMs & Withdrawing Safely
- Use ATMs in banks, malls, or supermarkets (well-lit, staffed locations).
- Decline “dynamic currency conversion” — pay/withdraw in COP to avoid poor FX rates.
- Daily withdrawal caps vary; multiple smaller withdrawals can be safer.
- Cover the keypad, and put cash away before stepping outside.
Elite Cartagena Tip: If you’re staying in an Old City villa, we’ll advise the closest bank ATMs and help prep small bills for tips before yacht days or tours.
4) Exchanging Money
- Prefer bank ATMs over street exchanges for safety and rate consistency.
- Avoid unsolicited exchange “helpers” and “no-fee” promises on the street.
- If exchanging cash, use reputable, staffed exchange houses during business hours.
5) Tipping Guide (2025)
| Service | Typical Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10%–12% | Many add “servicio” 10% automatically — check the bill. |
| Bartenders | 2,000–5,000 COP per drink or ~10% | For bottle service, 10%–12% on service line. |
| Drivers | 10% or round up | For airport transfers or day hires. |
| Villa Staff | 10%–15% pooled | Given at checkout; we can manage distribution. |
| Yacht Crew | 10%–15% | Based on charter total and service level. |
| Guides/Tours | 10%–15% | In cash at the end of the experience. |
| Porters | 3,000–5,000 COP per bag | More for oversized or long carry. |
6) Avoid These Common Money Mistakes
- Paying in USD when a COP price exists — you’ll get a worse rate.
- Accepting dynamic currency conversion on card terminals.
- Not checking for the 10% service line on restaurant bills.
- Carrying all cash on you; split between safe and day wallet.
7) Budget Snapshot for a Luxury Group (Per Person, Day)
- Premium dining & nightlife: 150,000–350,000 COP
- Casual meals & coffee: 60,000–120,000 COP
- Tips & small purchases: 20,000–60,000 COP
- Yacht day add-ons (drinks/snacks): group-dependent
Compliance & Safety: We only use licensed vendors, and our concierge can handle bar tabs, chef settlements, and gratuity pooling so nothing gets awkward.
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