Carnival nights run late — plan your ride home before you go out. For most visitors, the safest and simplest default is ride apps at night, plus always having a clear “get-back-to-hotel” plan.
Related planning pages: Safety • Hotels
Getting from BAQ airport to your hotel
Barranquilla’s airport is Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ).
Best arrival options:
- Ride apps (recommended for most travelers): best if you have data + battery and can follow in-app pickup directions. Pickup points can shift — follow the app’s airport instructions.
- Official airport taxi (safe + straightforward): use the official taxi booth/queue inside the airport. You’ll typically receive a dispatch slip or ticket.
- Prebooked private transfer (lowest friction): ideal for late arrivals, families, or anyone who wants a simple meet-and-greet pickup.
Practical arrival tips: set up a SIM/eSIM before landing (or immediately after), keep your phone charged (a small power bank helps), and walk to the exact pickup zone shown in your app.
Timing note: expect roughly 20–40 minutes depending on traffic and where you’re staying. During peak Carnival movement, it can take longer — build in buffer time.
Ride apps to install (download before your trip)
Availability and wait times can vary by time of day and demand — it’s smart to have 2–3 apps installed.
- Uber — familiar interface; clear in-app pickup guidance; demand can spike late-night.
- DiDi — often competitive pricing; a strong backup when other apps surge.
- inDrive — offer-based style (you propose/accept a fare); useful in high-demand moments.
- Cabify — professional feel in some cities; good as another backup option.
Non-negotiable safety habit: before you enter, match the plate + driver + car model to the app. If anything feels off, cancel and rebook.
Taxis: how to do it safely
Taxis can be fine — the key is how you get them.
Do:
- Use the official airport taxi booth/queue when you arrive.
- For late-night returns, ask your hotel/front desk to call a taxi.
- If you prefer extra personal space, sit in the back seat.
Avoid:
- Unmarked solicitations (“Taxi, taxi!” from random individuals), especially at the airport or outside crowded events.
- Getting into a taxi you didn’t request when you’re tired, distracted, or alone.
Public transit (optional)
Barranquilla has Transmetro (BRT-style transit) and local buses, but most short-term visitors won’t use buses at night during Carnival.
If you want a transit backup: Moovit is usually the easiest for bus route planning, and Google Maps is great for walking directions and estimating ride times.
Parade-day movement
On major parade days, expect road closures, slower traffic, and longer wait times for pickups near routes.
- Leave early for big events.
- Choose one base area per day instead of bouncing across the city.
- If you’re with friends, pick a simple meeting point in case you get separated.
Plan your day with: Schedule • Parades • Calendar
Holiday and closure note (2026)
On Colombia’s national holidays, banks and many offices close — but tourist services often remain open (hotels, many restaurants, rides, and events).
- Thu, Jan 1, 2026 — New Year’s Day
- Mon, Jan 12, 2026 — Epiphany holiday (observed)
- Mon, Mar 23, 2026 — Saint Joseph’s Day (observed)
If you like double-checking dates while traveling, Timeanddate is a helpful reference.
Tipping etiquette (quick and normal)
Restaurants: 10% is common (and sometimes already included). If it’s included and service was fine, you’re good.
Taxis / ride apps: tipping is optional — rounding up is a simple, normal move.
Hotels: optional small tips for helpful service (bags, housekeeping) are appreciated.
Practical tip: keep a little cash in small COP bills so you’re not trying to break a large note at 3 a.m.
One last thing: plan your return
Before you go out, decide your return plan: which app you’ll use (and a backup), whether your hotel can call a taxi, or whether you’re staying close enough to walk on well-lit main streets. Then enjoy the night.