Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Cartagena, Colombia

A Guided Night Out in Cartagena: The Saturday Night Bar Crawl

If you’re looking to explore Cartagena’s nightlife beyond the typical tourist spots, the Saturday Night Bar Crawl offers a lively, authentic glimpse into local social life. For just $25 per person, you’ll spend about 4 hours and 15 minutes hopping between three local bars and one popular club, all located within the vibrant Centro Historico area. Led by friendly bilingual guides, this tour combines fun, good drinks, and opportunities to practice your Spanish or simply meet fellow travelers and locals alike.

Two things we particularly love about this experience: first, the focus on local venues that aren’t the usual tourist traps, and second, the chance to connect with locals and fellow travelers in an informal, relaxed setting. The tour’s well-paced structure ensures you get enough time at each spot without feeling rushed—perfect for soaking up the atmosphere and making those memorable conversations.

A possible drawback is the strict dress code—no swimwear, sandals, or shorts—which might require some packing planning if you want to stay comfortable while adhering to the rules. Also, the tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure who enjoy socializing and trying local drinks. If you’re after a more curated, upscale experience, this might not be the right fit, but if you want genuine Colombian nightlife, it’s a winner.

This experience is ideal for first-timers eager to get a feel for Cartagena’s social scene, groups of friends wanting a fun night out, or anyone interested in practicing Spanish and meeting locals. The tour’s friendly guides and lively atmosphere make it a memorable way to kick off your Cartagena visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit three local bars and a club in the historic center, emphasizing genuine Cartagena nightlife.
• Affordable Value: At $25, the tour includes free entries to the venues and drink promos, making it a budget-friendly night out.
• Guided Socializing: Bilingual guides help bridge language gaps and introduce you to both locals and fellow travelers.
• Structured Yet Relaxed: The itinerary allows about an hour at each spot, giving ample time to enjoy drinks, chat, and soak up the vibe.
• Dress Code & Rules: Strict dress code ensures a certain standard—pants and closed shoes for guys; no swimwear, shorts, or sandals allowed.
• Weather & Weather Policies: Weather can impact the experience; the tour can be canceled or rescheduled if conditions worsen.

Exploring the Cartagena Nightlife: A Detailed Review

Starting Point: Barra 7 – The First Cheers

Your night begins at Barra 7, nestled in Cartagena’s Centro Historico. This local cocktail bar is known for its lively atmosphere and well-priced drinks. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with two promos—a beer, a shot, and a cocktail—that serve as a friendly welcome. The setting feels intimate yet vibrant, making it an ideal place to meet your fellow crawlers and get into the Cartagena spirit.

From the reviews, we learn that Stephanie, who is bilingual, often guides the tour, making everyone feel comfortable and informed. The bar is praised for its welcoming vibe and good drinks. Expect to spend about an hour here, sharing stories and planning the next stops.

Bazurto Social Club: The Heart of Cartagena’s Nightlife

Next, the group moves to the Bazurto Social Club, a lively spot with some of the best local cocktails. This venue transforms from a bar to a lively club, especially on weekends, when the energy really picks up. The tour includes free entry (normally costing around 25,000 COP), which is a nice perk given the cover charges at many clubs. The review mentions that locals also frequent this spot, providing an authentic taste of Cartagena’s social scene.

We loved the way this stop offers a more energetic atmosphere with opportunities to dance or just enjoy the scene. It’s often described as a lot of fun, especially when the music gets going. Expect about an hour here, where you can mingle, sample local cocktails, and soak in the upbeat vibe.

FUBAR Frozen Cocktails: Chill in Style

The third stop is FUBAR, a standout for its frozen cocktails. This bar specializes in refreshing drinks perfect for the warm Cartagena evenings. The tour offers a 10% discount on all medium-sized drinks, encouraging you to indulge a little more. The reviews highlight this spot’s great drinks and relaxed ambiance, making it a perfect place to pause and cool down before heading to the final bar.

Here, you’ll typically spend about an hour, chatting, enjoying the creative frozen drinks, and perhaps even trying a new flavor or two. It’s a nice change of pace from the earlier venues and offers a relaxed atmosphere.

Seven 7 Times: The Nightcap in a Famous Club

Your final stop is Seven 7 Times, arguably Cartagena’s most famous nightclub, featuring seven different rooms. This spot attracts both locals and foreigners, giving you a genuine taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife. The tour includes free entrance, which normally costs around 40,000 COP, saving you some cash and ensuring you can stay as long as you like.

The club is praised for its diverse rooms and music styles, catering to various tastes. The reviews describe it as really fun and highlight the friendly environment. Expect to spend about an hour here, making new friends and dancing the night away before the tour officially ends and you’re dropped off near Getsemaní.

What to Expect: The Practical Details

The meeting point is at Barra 7 at 8:30 pm, with the tour wrapping up around 12:15 am. This timing allows for a relaxed evening, perfect for those who want to experience Cartagena’s nightlife without feeling overwhelmed. The group size is limited to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively yet manageable atmosphere.

Transport between venues is on foot, meaning you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking. The dress code is strict—no swimwear, sandals, hats, or shorts—so packing accordingly is advised. The guides emphasize that no sex tourism is allowed, underlining the desire for a respectful, authentic experience.

The weather can be a factor—if rain or storms disrupt the night, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, so check the forecast and plan accordingly. Cancelling more than 24 hours in advance grants a full refund, which is a reassuring policy for cautious travelers.

Authentic Encounters and Local Flavor

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with Laura and Stephanie often singled out for their friendly, insightful approach. They help bridge language gaps and introduce you to hidden gems in Cartagena’s nightlife. Many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to practice Spanish and connect with local guides and patrons.

Value and Overall Experience

At $25, the tour offers excellent value—covering free entries, drink promos, and guided insights—all within a lively, safe environment. The experience is ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to get a taste of what’s happening after dark in Cartagena. The emphasis on local venues and authentic interactions makes this more than just a bar crawl; it’s a glimpse into the city’s social heart.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an adventurous traveler eager to experience Cartagena’s nightlife through the eyes of locals, this tour is a perfect choice. It suits those who enjoy socializing, dancing, and trying new drinks, and don’t mind adhering to a dress code. It’s especially recommended if you want to meet other travelers and practice Spanish in a relaxed setting.

While not tailored for those seeking a luxury experience or quiet evening, it’s a fantastic way to kick off your night or simply enjoy an authentic slice of Cartagena’s lively social scene.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for this tour?
Yes. Men are required to wear pants and closed-toed shoes. Swimwear, sandals, shorts, hats, sunglasses, and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. This helps keep the atmosphere respectful and stylish.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, starting at 8:30 pm and ending around 12:15 am, including walking and socializing time.

Are drinks included in the price?
While drinks are not included in the $25 fee, you’ll benefit from drink promos at the first bar and discounts at FUBAR. The second bar offers free entry, typically costing around 25,000 COP.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour start time are not refundable.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting cool people and making new friends, making it a great way for solo travelers to socialize in a lively environment.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Cartagena delivers an engaging mix of local flavor, lively venues, and social opportunities. For a modest price, you gain access to some of the most popular nightlife spots, enjoy special promos, and connect with both locals and fellow travelers. The guides’ friendly, bilingual approach enhances the experience, making it accessible for international visitors.

This tour is best suited for those who want a fun, informal way to initiate their nightlife adventure in Cartagena or simply meet new friends in a relaxed, safe setting. If you appreciate authentic venues and are comfortable following a dress code, this crawl offers a fantastic way to get to know Cartagena’s social scene.

In the end, it’s a great value for travelers looking for an authentic, social, and lively night out—perfect for creating stories to tell back home. Whether you’re a solo explorer or part of a group of friends, this tour promises an energetic and memorable introduction to Cartagena’s vibrant after-hours culture.