Cartagena de los Gatos: The Secret Feline Guide to the Walled City

Introduction: The Untold Story of Cats in Cartagena

If you walk through the cobblestone streets of the Centro Histórico of Cartagena, sooner or later you will run into one. Or ten. Cats have been part of the landscape here for centuries, long before the first tourists arrived in search of sun and sand. The story goes that during the colonial era, merchant and pirate ships docking at the port brought rats hidden in the holds. To control these plagues, sailors introduced cats, which stayed, reproduced, and formed entire colonies within the walls. Today, in June 2026, those descendants still rule the alleys, squares, and rooftops of the walled city.

What few people know is that Cartagena has a network of informal caretakers, neighbors, and associations that keep these feline colonies alive. It is not a zoo or an official sanctuary: it is an urban ecosystem that works thanks to people's goodwill. For the animal-loving traveler, this is an opportunity to see an authentic side of the city, far from the chiva tours and photos at Castillo de San Felipe. Here I will tell you how to explore Cartagena from the perspective of its cats, without stressing them and supporting those who care for them.

Cat Route Through the Historic Center: Squares and Alleys Where Feline Colonies Live

There is no official map of the cats in Cartagena, but after years of observing and asking, I have put together a route that takes you through the key spots. Most of these colonies are in the Centro Histórico and the San Diego neighborhood, where narrow streets and inner courtyards provide shelter. Bring water, patience, and a zoom camera: they do not always let themselves be petted.

Plaza de la Aduana

This is one of the oldest squares in the city, right next to the Torre del Reloj. Here there is usually a colony of about 10 to 15 cats that gather at sunset, when the heat subsides and tourists leave. Locals leave them food in the corners, but there is no official feeding station. If you arrive between 4 and 6 in the afternoon, you will likely see them sunbathing on the stone benches. Do not try to feed them just anything: they already have a diet controlled by the neighbors. Ask at the corner store, where they sometimes sell dry food for donation.

Calle del Sargento Mayor

This cobblestone street, famous for its colorful colonial houses, is a hotspot of feline activity. The cats hide under wooden doors and in the gardens of boutique hotels. There is a colony of about 8 cats known as "the ones from the block." A curious fact: here lives a lame black cat nicknamed "El Pirata," whom neighbors have been feeding for five years. He is shy, but if you sit quietly on the sidewalk, he might approach. Avoid making noise or running, as they scare easily.

Plaza de San Diego

In the heart of the San Diego neighborhood, this square has a central fountain and wrought iron benches. Around 7 in the morning, before the crowds arrive, the cats come out to stroll. There is a colony of about 12 cats cared for by an elderly lady who lives on Calle 38. She brings them food twice a day, but has no official support. If you want to help, you can leave a donation at the corner store, "La Esquina del Gato," a minimarket that sells food for them. Reference prices in June 2026 are around $15,000 COP for a small bag of kibble.

Plaza de los Coches

This square, right next to the Torre del Reloj, is a meeting point for tourists and sellers of vueltiao hats. But if you look carefully, you will see cats hidden behind fruit stalls and in floor ventilation grates. They are more elusive than those in San Diego, because they are used to the noise. The best time to see them is very early, between 5:30 and 6:30 in the morning, when vendors are just setting up their stalls. Bring a flashlight or use your phone's light to illuminate dark corners.

Improvised Sanctuaries: Local Associations and Neighbors Who Care for the Cats

Cartagena does not have an official cat sanctuary like those in other cities around the world. But the community has created informal networks that function as improvised shelters. Getting to know them gives you a more human perspective of the city and allows you to support real causes.

Asociación Felina de Cartagena (AFECAR)

AFECAR is a group of volunteers operating from private homes in the Manga neighborhood and the Historic Center. They do not have a fixed location, but organize sterilization and vaccination drives every two months. If you want to contact them, ask at pet stores in the Center, like "Mundo Animal" on Calle 35. They accept in-kind donations (food, blankets, medicine) and also receive bank transfers, although I do not have the exact number handy. The best thing is to talk to them in person during their drives, which are usually announced on posters stuck to poles on Calle del Curato.

La Casa de los Gatos in San Diego

At Calle 38, # 4-12, there is a colonial house that functions as an unofficial shelter. The owner, Doña Marta, has taken in over 30 stray cats over the last ten years. Her house is small, but the cats have access to the patio and terrace. It is not a tourist spot: Doña Marta does not charge admission or give tours, but if you knock on the door and explain you are a traveler interested in cats, she will let you in to see the place. However, respect her time: she attends from 9 to 11 in the morning, because afterwards she has to go to work. Bring a donation of food or cash (she does not have a card machine).

The Caretakers of Plaza de la Trinidad

In Plaza de la Trinidad, in the Getsemaní neighborhood, there is a group of neighbors who take turns feeding a colony of about 20 cats. They meet every night at 7 pm in front of the church. It is not an organized event, but if you arrive at that time, you will see several people with bags of kibble and water. You can join and help, but do not expect a touristy welcome: they are locals doing this out of love for animals, not for attention. Ask for Don Carlos, an elderly man who always wears a straw hat. He will explain how the feeding rotation works.

Where to See Cats Without Being a Tourist: Schedules and Codes of Conduct to Avoid Stressing Them

The stray cats of Cartagena are not an attraction. They are animals living in a hostile urban environment, with extreme heat, constant noise, and little access to clean water. If you want to see them without causing harm, follow these basic rules.

Recommended Times

• Early Morning (5:30 am - 7:00 am): This is the best time to see them active, before tourists arrive and the sun gets intense. The colonies at Plaza de los Coches and Calle del Sargento Mayor are more visible at this hour.
• Sunset (4:00 pm - 6:00 pm): When the heat subsides, cats come out of their hiding spots. Plaza de la Aduana and Baluarte de San Ignacio are good points.
• Night (7:00 pm - 9:00 pm): In Getsemaní, Plaza de la Trinidad fills with cats waiting for the neighbors' food. It is a quiet spectacle, but bring mosquito repellent.

Code of Conduct

• Do not touch them without permission: Many stray cats are not used to human contact. If a cat approaches, extend your hand slowly and let it decide if it wants to be petted.
• Do not feed them human food: Bread, cheese, or restaurant leftovers can make them sick. If you want to feed them, buy dry kibble at any pet store or supermarket in the Center.
• Do not use flash in photos: Flash scares them and can hurt their sensitive eyes. Use natural light or your phone's night mode.
• Do not chase them: If a cat runs or hides, leave it alone. Forcing interaction only causes stress.
• Do not leave trash: Empty food plates or torn bags attract rats and dirty the streets. If you see a dirty plate, you can clean it with water if you have a bottle handy.

Pet-Friendly Shops and Cafés That Support the Feline Cause in Cartagena

Several establishments in the Historic Center and Getsemaní have adopted pet-friendly policies that benefit stray cats. Some donate part of their profits to associations, others allow cats to enter the premises. Here are the most recommended ones.

Café del Mar (Baluarte de Santo Domingo)

This café is famous for its sunsets over the sea, but few know they have an agreement with AFECAR to donate 5% of coffee sales to cat sterilization. It is located at Baluarte de Santo Domingo, right next to the walls. Reference prices in June 2026 are $12,000 COP for an American coffee and $18,000 COP for a natural juice. Do not expect to see cats inside, but you will see them in the surroundings of the bastion. Ask for the "Gato Feliz" menu, which includes an automatic donation.

La Tienda del Gato (Calle 35, # 3-45)

It is a handicraft and clothing store that has a section dedicated to pet products. They sell collars, beds, and food, and donate 10% of sales to La Casa de los Gatos in San Diego. The owner, Juan Carlos, is a well-known feline activist in the city. If you buy something, ask for the receipt with the AFECAR logo to ensure the donation is made. They are open Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 7 pm.

Demente Café (Getsemaní, Calle 29, # 10-50)

This café is a meeting point for local youth and travelers. They have a "cats welcome" policy, meaning stray cats can enter the premises if the door is open. I have seen up to three cats sleeping on the terrace chairs. They sell Colombian origin coffee and homemade desserts. Prices range from $8,000 COP for a tinto (black coffee) to $15,000 COP for a slice of carrot cake. Ask for the "Gato Latte," a latte with a cat drawing in the foam. There is no direct donation, but the atmosphere is relaxed and you can leave a voluntary tip for local caretakers.

Mundo Animal (Centro, Calle 35, # 4-20)

It is a pet store selling food, toys, and accessories. They have a "sponsor a cat" program where you can sponsor the sterilization of a stray cat for $50,000 COP. They also accept donations of blankets and medicine. The staff is friendly and can give you exact directions to the nearest feline colonies. They are open every day from 9 am to 8 pm.

Local Tips for the Feline Traveler

• Bring cash: Many caretakers and small shops do not accept cards. Cash donations are more effective than bank transfers.
• Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes: You will walk a lot on cobblestone streets. The heat in Cartagena can be overwhelming, so bring water and sunscreen.
• Respect silence: Cats are scared by shouting and loud music. Speak softly and avoid large groups.
• Do not buy cat souvenirs made with dubious materials: Some vendors sell cat figures made from shells or plastic that do not support animals. Ask if the money goes to a feline cause before buying.
• Connect with locals on social media: Look for Facebook groups like "Gatos de Cartagena" or "Amigos de los Felinos Cartagena" to find out about sterilization drives or events. In June 2026, there is an active campaign called "Gatunos por la Vida" that organizes walks on Saturdays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to pet stray cats in Cartagena?

It depends on the cat. Many are used to humans and let themselves be touched, but others are feral and may scratch or bite. Always extend your hand slowly and let the cat approach first. If you see it has wounds, mange, or seems sick, do not touch it and notify a local caretaker. Bring hand sanitizer to clean your hands after any contact.

Can I bring my dog on the cat route?

It is not recommended. Dogs can stress cats, especially if they are territorial. If you travel with a dog, it is better to leave it at the hotel or look for separate pet-friendly routes. Some cafés like Demente Café accept dogs, but not in the areas where cats gather.

Is there an official cat sanctuary I can visit in Cartagena?

There is no official sanctuary with visiting hours and admission. The places I mentioned, like La Casa de los Gatos in San Diego, are informal shelters operating in private homes. If you want to visit them, contact AFECAR first or ask at pet-friendly stores. Do not arrive without notice, as caretakers have their routines and may not be available.

Explore Cartagena through the eyes of its feline guardians and discover a side that few travelers know. Bring patience, respect, and a willingness to help. The cats will thank you with a calm gaze from a sunny corner of the walled city.

What to Do

Visit Parque de la Marina

This place is ideal for cat and nature lovers. Here, you can observe many felines approaching the benches and trees, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Insider Tip: Bring some cat food; here the felines are friendly and many will approach you. It is a good time to rest and enjoy a good book in the shade.

Explore Convento de la Popa

From here you have a panoramic view of Cartagena and its surroundings. Additionally, you will often find cats exploring the convent and its gardens. Insider Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a coffee at the small kiosk at the entrance, where you can sometimes share your snack with the cats roaming the place.

Stroll Through the Streets of the Historic Center

Walking through the cobblestone streets is a unique experience. Cats are part of the landscape on every corner, and many locals care for them. Insider Tip: Bring your camera; besides the cats, you will find colorful murals and colonial architecture that will make your walk even more memorable. Take the opportunity to talk to locals about their cats; they have heartwarming stories to tell.

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How to Get There and Transportation

To explore Cartagena de los Gatos, it is essential to understand the transportation options available in the city. Here are some tips to get around easily and enjoy feline company on every corner.

Public Transportation

Buses and colectivos are an economical option for getting around Cartagena. The routes are well marked, but can be a bit confusing for visitors. Insider Tip: Ask locals about the most convenient routes. Do not hesitate to ask for help; Cartagenans are friendly and will be happy to guide you.

Taxi and Private Transportation

Taxis are a quick and more comfortable option. Make sure to use apps like Uber or Beat, which are popular and will help you avoid fare issues. Insider Tip: Always check that the taxi has a meter or agree on the price before getting in. This is especially important during peak hours or at night.

Bicycles and Scooters

Renting a bicycle or scooter is an excellent way to explore the city at your own pace. There are several companies offering these services. Insider Tip: Use the bike lanes and explore less touristy areas where cats often rest in the sun. It is a great plan and will allow you to enjoy the Caribbean breeze.

Walking

The streets of the Historic Center are perfect for exploring on foot. Besides finding cats on every corner, you will discover hidden squares and charming cafés. Insider Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and do not forget your camera; cats are more active and photogenic during the early morning hours and at sunset.

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