Barranquilla/Santa Marta to Mompos

crystaltim says on Nov 15, 2005, 19:06:

I was in Barranquilla in Oct. of 2004. My wife's family took me on a road trip to Mompos via a rental car. It is best if you use a smaller car that will not attract attention. There was armed military nearly the entire way to keep the highway safe. The trip by boat is possible but I would not recommend it. My wife tells me it could be dangerous being the military can not control the Rio as well as the highway. They close the highway after PM in areas and you might have to spend the night in the nearest town. There is a ferry you have to take to Mompos. This is safe with a military base located near where you board the ferry. We were in line for the ferry by 5 am. The ride takes about 45 minutes. After you get to the other side it is about 30 minutes to Mompos. It was a long trip but well worth it. They have 6 churches that love to be viewed. I wish we were able to stay a couple of days so I could see everything. There is a school of jewelry there teaching the craft of goldsmith and silversmith. This is by far some of the best hand made jewelry I have ever seen in my life. And I am a jeweler myself of over 35 years. Find someone to give you a tour of the town and the many attractions there is to see. Mompos has a rich history from many different cultures. I hope to return again soon myself. I hope I have been of some help. There is also an airport that you can fly into from the airport in Barranquilla or Santa Marta. This is the safest means to get there. The area you pass through on the trip there are now much safer than they use to be. Five years ago you wouldn't dare venture along the highway as you can today. But there is still areas to pass through that are not always safe. Epically for a gringo with a new or big car. I would forget about the idea going via boat. Not a good idea at all. But it is possible to make the whole trip that way.
Good luck and I hope you have a good time. Be sure to visit some of the jewelry shops why you are there. A Better deal you will never find. El Kilate located at Calle 13 No. 1-47 was one of the better places I went to. tab

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