Cartagena in Colombia Bans Horse-Drawn Carriages, Paving the Way for Electric Tourism and Sustainable Mobility in the Historic City

Published on December 30, 2025

The iconic image of Cartagena de Indias, with its horse-drawn carriages trotting through the cobblestone streets of the historic centre, has been officially retired. The Colombian city, known for its colonial architecture and thriving tourism industry, has implemented a historic measure to ban the use of horses for commercial purposes. The decision, which will reshape the city’s tourism landscape, reflects the administration’s commitment to sustainability, animal welfare, and modern mobility solutions. The decision is seen as a response to growing concerns about the ethical treatment of animals and the environmental impact of traditional modes of transportation.

A Step Toward Sustainable Tourism

In a groundbreaking shift, Cartagena has permanently banned horse-drawn carriages in its historic centre and the walled city. The local government’s decision reflects a broader global trend where cities around the world are phasing out animal-powered transportation in favour of more sustainable options. The initiative aims to reduce the burden on horses, which were often subjected to long working hours, the challenges of navigating uneven cobblestone streets, and exposure to high temperatures under the intense Caribbean sun.

Mayor Dumek Turbay emphasized that the policy was an essential step for the city, stating the ban would be enforced with no exceptions. In its place, the city has introduced an electric tourist transport system to ensure that tourists can continue to experience the charm of Cartagena without the use of animals. The new system consists of 62 electric carriages, which will replace the horse-drawn vehicles that have been a staple of the city’s tourism sector for decades. This transition is part of a $1.7 million investment by the city to develop a more modern, sustainable form of transport that is both animal-friendly and eco-conscious.

Electric Carriages: A New Chapter in Cartagena’s Tourism

The new electric carriages are designed to offer the same scenic tours of Cartagena’s historic districts as the traditional horse-drawn carriages, with an emphasis on comfort, convenience, and environmental friendliness. Local authorities have placed strict regulations on the operation of the electric carriages to ensure the service remains organized and does not fall into informal, unregulated operations. Drivers of the former horse-drawn carriages will operate the new electric vehicles, providing continuity of employment for individuals who have long been a part of the city’s tourist experience.

These electric vehicles are seen as a significant leap forward for Cartagena’s tourism sector, aligning the city’s historical preservation efforts with modern-day environmental standards. By transitioning to electric transportation, Cartagena hopes to set a precedent for responsible tourism that supports both animal welfare and sustainability. The city’s commitment to an electric-powered future reflects the global shift towards greener tourism practices, and Cartagena is keen to position itself as a leader in this growing movement.

The Reaction from Animal Rights Groups and Tourists

Animal rights groups have celebrated the decision as a major victory for animal welfare. The ban on horse-drawn carriages in the city is seen as a progressive move that prioritizes the well-being of the horses, many of which faced difficult working conditions in the busy streets of Cartagena’s historic heart. For years, animal advocates raised concerns about the long hours the horses were forced to work, often in intense heat and under challenging conditions, leading to wear and tear on the animals’ health.

The move has been welcomed by animal welfare organizations that view this as a significant step in the city’s commitment to ethical treatment of animals. Cartagena is now joining a growing number of cities worldwide that are adopting similar policies, reflecting a broader recognition of the need for more sustainable and humane tourism practices.

Concerns Among Carriage Drivers and Local Businesses

However, the decision has not been without controversy. Carriage drivers, many of whom have been operating in Cartagena for years, have expressed concern over the economic impact of the ban. The drivers argue that the new electric vehicles will not be owned by them, meaning they will not benefit from the same level of financial security they had with the horse-drawn carriages. They have called for better guarantees and clearer plans for job transitions and compensation.

In addition, some local businesses that relied on the horse-drawn carriages for their own revenue have voiced their opposition to the change. The carriages played a central role in the tourism experience in Cartagena, and some fear that the absence of the iconic carriages will affect the city’s appeal to tourists.

In response to these concerns, the city government has emphasized that the new system will provide continued employment opportunities for the drivers, albeit under different circumstances. The drivers of the electric carriages will be subject to new regulations, and the city has promised to support them through this transition. The goal is to ensure that both the welfare of the animals and the livelihoods of the people involved in the tourism sector are taken into account.

Cartagena’s Future as a Sustainable Tourism Hub

As Cartagena moves forward with this ambitious plan, the city faces a crucial opportunity to redefine its tourism experience. The introduction of electric carriages aligns with the city’s broader goals of modernizing its transport infrastructure and improving sustainability in a way that supports its rich historical and cultural heritage. The city’s efforts to reconcile tourism with environmental and ethical responsibility could enhance its international image and attract a new generation of eco-conscious travelers.

The decision to eliminate horse-drawn carriages also complements other sustainability initiatives within the city, including efforts to preserve the environment and reduce the city’s carbon footprint. Cartagena’s government has recognized that tourism plays a major role in the city’s economy but must also evolve to meet the growing demands for responsible and sustainable travel.

Cartagena Joins Global Trend for Animal Welfare in Tourism

Cartagena’s decision is part of a global trend in which many tourist cities are taking steps to eliminate or reduce the use of animals in tourism activities. From elephant rides in Thailand to horse-drawn carriage tours in cities like New York and Vienna, there is a growing recognition that animals should not be exploited for commercial purposes. Cartagena is positioning itself as a forward-thinking city that is committed to aligning its tourism industry with contemporary ethical standards and sustainability practices.

By embracing the electric carriage system, Cartagena not only addresses animal welfare concerns but also presents itself as a progressive destination for tourists who value sustainability. This move could also be a model for other cities to follow, showcasing how historical preservation and modern sustainability can coexist in a thriving tourism economy.

Conclusion

The end of horse-drawn carriages in Cartagena de Indias signals the start of a new era in the city’s tourism industry. The transition to electric carriages marks a significant step towards more sustainable, humane, and environmentally friendly travel options for visitors. While the change has elicited mixed reactions, including concerns about the impact on drivers’ livelihoods, it is clear that Cartagena is committed to developing its tourism industry in a way that balances tradition and modernity. As more cities around the world follow Cartagena’s lead, this shift may become a defining feature of the tourism industry in the twenty-first century.