Current time in Barranquilla, Colombia

Barranquilla is located in northern Colombia, at GPS coordinates 10.96854, -74.78132. It is situated near the Caribbean Sea and serves as an important port city in the region. The city operates on the America/Bogota timezone, which is UTC-5.

Barranquilla is renowned for its vibrant Carnival, one of the largest and most celebrated in Colombia, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The city’s cultural scene is rich, featuring music, dance, and various artistic expressions. Additionally, Barranquilla plays a crucial economic role in the region, serving as a commercial hub that connects the interior of Colombia to international markets through its port.

Timezone in Barranquilla

Barranquilla operates under the America/Bogota timezone, which has a UTC offset of -5 hours. This means that Barranquilla does not observe daylight saving time and remains on standard time throughout the year. As a result, the time does not change, providing consistency for scheduling and planning.

When comparing Barranquilla to various locations in the United States, the time difference can be significant. For instance, when it is noon in Barranquilla, it is 1 PM in New York during Eastern Standard Time, but 10 AM in Los Angeles during Pacific Standard Time. This can impact communication times, making it practical to contact someone in Barranquilla during late morning hours in the United States, ideally between 10 AM and 12 PM Eastern Time.

In comparison to other major cities in the region, Barranquilla shares the same timezone as Bogotá and Medellín, which simplifies coordination within Colombia. However, it is one hour behind cities like Caracas in Venezuela, which could be relevant when planning cross-border interactions. Understanding these time differences can help facilitate effective communication and scheduling across borders.

Attractions and Activities in Barranquilla

Barranquilla is a vibrant city in Colombia, known for its rich cultural heritage and lively festivals. It is particularly famous for the Barranquilla Carnival, one of the largest and most colorful carnivals in the country, which showcases a blend of African, indigenous, and Spanish influences through music, dance, and elaborate costumes. The carnival is recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

The city is also home to several cultural institutions, such as the Museo del Caribe, which focuses on the Caribbean region’s history and culture, and the Teatro Amira de la Rosa, a prominent venue for performing arts. Barranquilla’s strategic location along the Magdalena River has historically made it an important port city, contributing to its dynamic economy and diverse population. The city’s architecture reflects its growth and transformation, featuring a mix of colonial and modern styles.

Overall, Barranquilla embodies a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it a significant cultural hub in Colombia.

Practical Information for Visitors

Barranquilla is served by Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, which is located about 15 kilometers from the city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available for transportation from the airport. The city also has a well-connected bus system, and for longer journeys, the bus terminal offers services to other Colombian cities.

While Barranquilla does not have a train service, nearby cities like Santa Marta and Cartagena can be accessed via bus. The climate in Barranquilla is tropical, characterized by high humidity and temperatures that typically range from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December to April, coinciding with the famous Barranquilla Carnival in February, a vibrant and colorful event showcasing local culture and traditions.

Visitors should stay hydrated and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to cope with the heat. It’s also advisable to be cautious with street food and ensure that it is prepared hygienically. Engaging with local customs and learning a few phrases in Spanish can enhance your experience while exploring this lively city.