Is Cartagena Tap Water Safe To Drink?

The tap water in most of Colombia’s major cities, including Cartagena, is perfectly safe to drink. If you are still concerned about the water, yet, bottled and purified water is cheap and accessible everywhere. Safe to brush your teeth, safe to wash fruit and veggies with the tap water. You can also use ice to your cocktails.

We know that many tourists can be a little paranoid about drinking tap water anywhere. If you have a sensitive stomach and trying to avoid ruining your short holiday vacation due to an upset tummy, we then recommend a filtered bottle of water.

Source of Water in Cartagena, Colombia

The source of tap water in Cartagena comes from the Canal del Dique, which has an average flow of 450 m 3 / s. That ensures a sufficient supply for the current requirement, which is approximately 2.5 m 3 / s, and Towards a long term future.

Their collection system incorporates in its structure the passage of water from the Canal del Dique through the muddy complex Juan Gómez – Dolores. They facilitate the first process of previous sedimentation and storage with a capacity of approximately 60 days to supply the city, without that the entry of water from the canal is required.

Water quality of the Canal del Dique is that of typically shallow water, with high solids content, color, and presence of microorganisms. There are no elevated levels of other substances of health interest. It is a relatively calm water to treat.

The Cartagena Water Supply, Sewerage, and Environmental Management Project are to develop the water supply and sanitation coverage in the city and enhance the sector services, especially those of the city’s poor neighborhoods. The project components include the expansion of the water supply system, the construction of the leading wastewater conveyance system, and treatment installation.

Other sources:

• Where You Can Drink Tap Water in Colombia
• Backpacking Cartagena Travel Guide (2019)