Cartagena: Getsemani Artistic District Selfie Tour!

Experience the Color and Charm of Cartagena’s Getsemani on a Selfie Tour

A visit to Cartagena isn’t complete without exploring the lively Getsemani neighborhood, a hub of street art, local culture, and energetic music. This self-guided tour runs around 2.5 hours, costs just $19 per person, and features stops at the neighborhood’s most photogenic murals, a Colombian craft beer tasting, and a lively champeta dance class. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this experience offers a blend of cultural insights, fun photos, and authentic fun in one compact package.

Two aspects we really love about this tour: First, the focus on selfies and photo opportunities—the colorful murals, sunrises, and nighttime scenes make for stunning shots, especially with the included selfie stick and decorative frames. Second, the mix of art, music, and local tastes—a genuine taste of Cartagena’s creative spirit, balanced with a little hands-on fun and relaxation.

One possible consideration? The group size caps at 20 and the tour is shared, so if you prefer more intimacy or a private guide, this might not be your first choice. Also, since the tour involves some walking and standing, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable on their feet.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who love street art, want an Instagram-ready experience, and enjoy authentic local culture. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a fun, relaxed pace mixed with some lively social moments.

Key Points

• Vivid Street Art: Explore Cartagena’s most iconic murals in the vibrant Getsemani neighborhood.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy a Colombian craft beer tasting and learn about local brewing traditions.
• Music and Dance: Get a lively champeta dance lesson, a true taste of Afro-Caribbean rhythms.
• Photo-Focused Fun: Use provided selfie sticks and frames to capture colorful memories.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Yuli are praised for curated stops and helpful photography offers.
• Affordable Value: At $19, this tour packs a lot of cultural and visual delight for a reasonable price.

A Deep Dive into the Getsemani Selfie Tour

The Neighborhood: Getsemani as a Living Canvas

The tour kicks off in Arte Getsemani, where the focus is on murals and street art. We loved how bright and diverse the murals are, each telling stories or adding vibrancy to the streets. The stories behind some pieces might not be detailed, but the visual feast alone makes this a highlight. You’re encouraged to take selfies amid the murals, and the guide offers decorative frames and a selfie stick, making it easier to get the perfect shot without fumbling your phone.

One review describes this stop as “a tour of the most representative murals,” and notes that the neighborhood is lively, with colorful sunrises and bustling nights. It’s easy to get caught up in the visual energy, and as one traveler said, “every stop was perfectly curated,” making for memorable photos.

Learning and Socializing: Craft Beer Tasting

Next, the tour moves to Cerveceria Cartagena Bar for a craft beer tasting session. Here, you’ll learn about the steps of brewing, all set to a backdrop of afro-Caribbean music. The included talk and tasting are more than just sipping drinks; it’s an entry point into Colombia’s growing craft beer scene. The bar’s lively atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and chat.

A reviewer praised this part, saying, “the guide was full of rhythm and energy,” which reflects the overall vibe of this segment. You’ll enjoy tasting local beers, possibly discover new favorites, and understand a bit about Colombian brewing traditions.

Dancing to the Rhythm: Champeta Class

The final part of the tour is a champeta dance lesson—a lively, rhythm-heavy Afro-Caribbean style. The energy and rhythms are contagious, and even if you’re not a dancer, it’s a fun, interactive experience. The guide will teach you the basic steps and encourage you to just enjoy the music.

One traveler remarked, “Champeta dancing was new to me but it was funny,” highlighting how this segment adds a playful twist to the tour. It’s a great way to end on a high note, feeling a bit more connected to the local music scene.

Practical Details & Overall Experience

The tour begins at Camellón de los Mártires and concludes in Getsemani, making logistics straightforward, especially for those staying nearby or using public transportation. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) helps keep things intimate, and the group discounts are a nod to those traveling with friends.

The cost of $19 offers excellent value considering the included selfie frames, selfie stick, craft beer, and dance class. While the tour is self-guided, the guides like Yuli are praised for their curated stops and willingness to help with photos—something that adds a lot to the experience, especially for social media lovers.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

What makes this tour stand apart is its focus on genuine local culture—through murals that depict Cartagena’s spirit, a lively beer tasting, and a dance class rooted in Afro-Caribbean traditions. It’s not a dry sightseeing walk but an interactive, lively immersion that reflects the neighborhood’s artistic and musical pulse.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is that it’s a self-guided tour, so you rely on the guide’s suggestions and your own initiative for photos and engagement. If you prefer a more structured or private experience, this may not be ideal. Also, weather can impact outdoor parts of the tour, so check the forecast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for young travelers, social media enthusiasts, and culture seekers who want to explore Cartagena’s colorful street art and local vibe without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you enjoy interactive activities, like dancing and tasting local beverages, and appreciate authentic neighborhood atmospheres. If you’re a solo traveler or a couple looking for a light-hearted, fun experience with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour will suit you well.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or sensitive travelers?
Since the tour includes a craft beer tasting (+18), it’s primarily geared toward adults. The dancing class is suitable for all ages, but children might find the beer part less relevant.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Nothing special is required. Bring comfortable shoes for walking, and prepare to take lots of photos. The tour provides selfie sticks and frames, so just have your phone charged.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Spanish?
The tour is self-guided, so language isn’t a barrier. The guide offers explanations in English, and the photos and visuals speak for themselves.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for walking and dancing. Sunscreen and a hat are useful if visiting during the day, and an umbrella in case of rain.

Is it easy to find the starting point?
Yes, the tour begins at Camellón de los Mártires, a central spot accessible by public transportation.

What if the weather turns bad?
Since the experience is outdoors, poor weather could cause a cancellation or rescheduling. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the tour is canceled due to weather.

Final Thoughts

This Getsemani Selfie Tour offers a lively, colorful way to experience Cartagena’s most artistic neighborhood. With a reasonable price tag, friendly guides, and a mix of street art, local drinks, and dance, it’s perfect for those who want a fun, social, and visually engaging introduction to Cartagena. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to capture stunning photos and enjoy a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture in a relaxed, playful setting.

If you love art, music, and local flavors, and want to learn about Cartagena’s creative spirit without spending a fortune or committing to a long tour, this experience should definitely be on your list. Just remember—be ready to dance, take selfies, and soak in the vibrant street life that makes Getsemani so memorable.

Note: For those seeking more personalized or private tours, or longer experiences, exploring other options might be worthwhile. But for a quick, lively, and authentic slice of Cartagena’s art and culture, this tour hits the mark.