CHICAGO— United Airlines (UA) will expand its Colombia network with two new nonstop routes to Cartagena, adding year-round flights from Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
The new services to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) are scheduled to begin on December 17, subject to government approval.
The expansion will make Cartagena the airline’s third destination in Colombia after Bogotá (BOG) and Medellín (MDE).
United said the routes will initially operate four times per week during the winter season using Boeing 737 aircraft, with tickets already available through the airline’s booking channels.
United Plans New Flights to Cartagena
United’s latest network addition strengthens its presence across Latin America, where it already operates one of the largest route networks among U.S. airlines.
The carrier said Cartagena was selected because of growing leisure demand and the city’s increasing popularity among international travelers.
The airline plans to operate the flights year-round from both Houston and Washington, offering departures every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday during the initial phase.
From Houston, flights will depart at 9:35 a.m. and arrive in Cartagena at 2:50 p.m., while the return service will leave Colombia at 2:20 p.m. and reach Texas at 5:45 p.m.
The Washington service will depart Dulles at 8:20 a.m. and arrive in Cartagena at 1:10 p.m. Return flights will leave Cartagena at 4:00 p.m. before arriving in the U.S. capital region at 8:40 p.m.
United will deploy Boeing 737 aircraft on both routes. Passengers can expect seatback entertainment screens, Bluetooth audio connectivity, larger overhead storage bins, and planned access to free Starlink Wi-Fi for MileagePlus members once the service is introduced across the fleet.
The airline noted that Cartagena has become one of South America’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, attracting visitors with its colonial architecture, Caribbean coastline, and well-known culinary scene.
Colombia Network Adds Cartagena Service
United has served Colombia for more than three decades and views the country as an important market within its Latin American network.
The addition of Cartagena complements existing services to Bogotá and Medellín while giving travelers another nonstop option to the Caribbean coast.
According to the airline, the new routes will improve connectivity for passengers traveling from across North America. Through its Houston and Washington hubs, Cartagena will gain access to more than 70 onward destinations across the United States.
Houston remains United’s largest Latin American gateway, with nonstop flights to 57 destinations across the region. Washington Dulles also serves as a major hub, offering nonstop service to 18 Latin American destinations.
United’s Route Strategy Expansion Plans
The launch reflects United’s continued focus on expanding international leisure travel while strengthening connectivity in established markets.
Cartagena joins a growing list of destinations added as the carrier responds to sustained demand for direct international services.
By introducing nonstop flights from two major U.S. hubs, United expects to simplify travel to Colombia for both leisure and connecting passengers. The airline believes the new services will support tourism while providing greater network flexibility for travelers throughout North America.
Cartagena Travel Guide
Once regarded as the only “safe” haven for tourists during Colombia’s narco era, Cartagena has grown into one of the country’s most visited destinations. A steady rise in direct flights from North America and Europe into Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) continues to fuel its popularity.
The colonial port city draws cruise passengers, foreign vacationers, and wealthy Colombians alike. Beneath its crowded, tourist-heavy surface lies a slower, local side that rewards travelers who stay longer than the usual few days.
Discovering the Layers of Colombia’s Colonial Port City
Cartagena ranks among the best-preserved historic cities in Colombia. Narrow colonial streets, ancient defensive walls, grand plazas, and Spanish-style houses define its Old Town. Many homes feature oversized wooden doors and terraces, while restaurants spill their tables into busy public squares.
The city carries a reputation for heat, humidity, and high prices. Crowds arrive in large numbers from cruise ships, organized tours, and bachelor and bachelorette parties. For visitors in a hurry, a couple of museums, a walking tour, and a beach visit can cover the main sights within a few days.
That short-stay impression, however, misses the city’s quieter character. Early mornings, before cruise crowds arrive and the midday heat sets in, reveal empty streets, soft light, and a calm atmosphere across the Old Town. Local cafés, small shops, and lively neighborhood squares appear once travelers step beyond the central tourist zone.
Neighborhoods That Define the City
Cartagena’s appeal extends across several distinct districts, each offering a different experience.
The Old Town remains the historic core, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant building colors, and walkable plazas. Its picturesque city walls offer some of the best strolling routes in the city.
Getsemaní serves as the backpacker hub. The area features colorful homes, squares filled with vendors, affordable eateries, and busy bars. Street food stalls and live performers, including musicians and dancers, keep its nights active and social.
Bocagrande contrasts sharply with the historic center. Often compared to Miami, this upscale neighborhood is home to high-rise living, a long beachfront promenade, and some of the better beaches in the area.
A Standout Food Scene
Cartagena holds a reputation as one of Colombia’s strongest culinary destinations. Visitors can find fresh ceviche, empanadas, brick-oven pizza, and traditional Colombian dishes across the city.
Notable dining options include:
- Carmen – High-end gastronomy and widely praised cooking. Lunch visits typically require no reservation.
- La Mulata – A small, relaxed café suited for lunch.
- Demente – Pizza and cocktails served in a rustic setting.
- El Punto – A hole-in-the-wall spot offering traditional Colombian food at low prices.
- Don Juan – A classy, high-end dinner restaurant known for solid, dependable cooking.
- La Cevichería – Made famous by Anthony Bourdain, this popular ceviche spot fills up quickly after opening.
Why Longer Stays Reward Travelers
Cartagena often surprises visitors who slow down. The crowds disperse at the city’s edges, and a quieter, more local rhythm emerges with time.
Travelers who move past the central tourist areas and stay beyond the standard few days frequently discover a more relaxed and authentic version of the city.
The shift comes not from packing in more activities, but from allowing space to eat well, explore lesser-known corners, and experience daily life as residents do.
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