Risk-Free Cartagena: A Complete Guide for Travelers with Food Allergies

Historical and contextual introduction

Cartagena de Indias, founded in 1533, is a city where African, indigenous, and Spanish culinary traditions converge. This mix creates a vibrant gastronomy that can, however, present challenges for those with food allergies. According to data from the Ministry of Health in 2025, approximately 12% of tourists visiting Colombia report some type of food allergy, with seafood, nuts, and lactose being the main triggers.

What to do

Cartagena offers multiple safe options for travelers with allergies:

• Specialized Gastronomic Tour: Companies like "Sabores Sin Riesgo" (Flavors Without Risk) offer tours through Getsemaní with stops at establishments certified in allergy management.
• Home Cooking: Renting an apartment with a kitchen in areas like Bocagrande allows for complete control over ingredients.
• Adapted Cooking Classes: The "Cocina Segura" (Safe Kitchen) school in the Centro Histórico (Historic Center) teaches typical dishes without common allergens.

Restaurants with verified options

These establishments stand out for their allergy protocols:

• Restaurante Celele (Getsemaní): Caribbean cuisine menu with gluten-free and seafood-free options. Dishes start from $35,000 COP.
• Epoca Espresso Bar (Centro): Coffee shop with plant-based milks and nut-free breakfasts. Open 7 am-7 pm.
• La Cocina de Pepina (San Diego): Specializes in adapting traditional recipes. Ask to speak directly with the chef.

Where to eat or drink

For specific allergies

• Seafood Allergy: Avoid street food stalls in Plaza de la Aduana where various dishes are prepared in the same oil.
• Celiacs: "Pan de Ángel" in Bocagrande is the only certified 100% gluten-free bakery (Carrera 2 #6-105).
• Vegans/Soy Allergy: "Girasoles" in Manga offers options without dairy or soy derivatives (upon prior request).

Specialty supermarkets

• Organic Food Market (Bocagrande): Wide selection of allergen-free products, including alternative flours and snacks.
• Éxito de la Castellana: Has an aisle dedicated to gluten-free and lactose-free foods.

How to get there and transportation

Taxis are the safest option for getting around with medications that require refrigeration. Make sure to:

• Always carry your epinephrine in your carry-on luggage (Colombian airlines allow an additional medical kit at no extra cost).
• Translate your allergy into Spanish ("Tengo alergia a..." + food name) and carry it in print.
• Use apps like "DiDi" or "Cabify" where you can write notes to the driver.

Local tips

• The phrase "sin aceite compartido" (without shared oil) is key to avoiding cross-contamination in fried foods.
• In April 2026, several restaurants are participating in "Food Awareness Month" with special menus.
• The safest typical dish is usually coconut rice with fresh fish (confirm preparation).
• Carry allergy cards in Spanish (available for printing at alergiascartagena.com).

Frequently asked questions

How to say "severe allergy" in Colombian Spanish?

The most effective phrase is: "Tengo alergia grave a [food]. Si lo como, puedo morir" (I have a severe allergy to [food]. If I eat it, I could die). Cartageneros respond better to direct explanations.

Are hotel restaurants safer?

5-star hotels like Sofitel Legend Santa Clara have strict protocols, but small hostels in Getsemaní may not have the training. Always ask.

Where to find emergency medication?

The "Médicos Asociados" pharmacies in Bocagrande and Centro sell self-injectable adrenaline (reference price April 2026: $180,000 COP). Bring a medical prescription.

Is street food safe?

Generally no, due to the risk of cross-contamination. Exception: fresh fruit stands where you can peel them yourself.