Not only do we take you to the most popular destinations, but we also offer you access to the city’s hidden treasures. Our local tips will allow you to discover Cartagena like a true local.
One essential Cartagena nighttime activity is salsa dancing in the old city.
Cafe Havana is a crowded bar with live Cuban salsa music and the place Hillary Clinton famously danced when she visited the city.
Donde Fidel has a fabulous sound system and it’s set right in the front of the picturesque clock tower of the walled city – it’s great for people-watching . Check out Quiebracanto for incredible music and views of the plaza below, or if you need lessons, head to Crazy Salsa.
Really, just stroll into any joint that looks hoppin’ around town and you’ll likely find a local who’ll show you the ropes.
In Colombia, you’ll find lots of interesting fruits that you won’t find at home, including lulo, maracuya, and granadilla.
Pick some up from streetside vendors or even better, grab a few cups of fruit from the colorfully dressed ladies selling them in the streets of the old city.
Known as palenqueras, these iconic women will accept a tip for a photograph or you can just buy some of their delicious mangos or pineapples, and they’ll let you snap a pic.
Originally from the village of San Basilio de Palenque, they’re known for their traditional Caribbean dresses as well as their ability to balance heavy bowls of fruit on their heads.
Colombia is known for its emeralds, and in Cartagena you’ll find a museum dedicated to the precious gemstone and the jewelry that’s made with it.
Learn all about how the stone is discovered and mined, and see one of the largest emeralds ever discovered in the country.
There are also exhibits detailing the goldsmithing techniques of indigenous cultures as well as the ancient myths and legends surrounding gold and emeralds.
There’s a chamber of beryl’s and gold too, and you can take a peek into a portion of the Caribe jewelry factory.
The museum is free, but of course it ends in a jewelry store specializing in all sorts of emeralds.
As a popular tourist town, Cartagena is filled with tons of shopping so you can take home whatever it is you’re looking for.
If you can’t find it on the streets, check out Las Bovedas, the little shops built into the walls of the city with alcoves and columns all around.
They house everything touristy, from cheap trinkets to clothing, original artwork, and hammocks.
You can find higher end boutiques and shops by local fashion designers like Silvia Tcherassi selling strappy sandals, bags, and dresses, as well as home decor shops like Casa Chiqui.
You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to jewelry stores specializing in emeralds and gold pieces featuring indigenous designs and wild animals.
