The full gamut of lodging types exists on Colombian’s Caribbean coast, from mala muerte inns which double as brothels to five-star hotels. In villages, expect only basic accommodations. Backpacker hostels are opening up in more towns, allowing safe and inexpensive options to budget travelers. Most hotels will have only showers with agua al clima, or room temperature water—which, in these latitudes is quite warm. Luxury resorts will be the only places to have heated water. Lower cost hostels will only have fan; mid-range accommodations will give you the choice between a room with a fan or with more expensive air conditioning.

In tourist destinations (Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta) hotels have one price for the low season and a much higher price in the high. At these times, reservations are advisable. During Carnaval, room rates up to quadruple in Barranquilla. Any place along the coast it is worth asking for a discount in the temporada baja, especially if you will be staying for more that a few days.