Cartagena: Pub Crawl with Dancing Lessons and Free Shots offers a lively taste of Colombia’s renowned nightlife, all for just $18 per person. This 6-hour tour takes you through the Getsemaní District and the Old City, two areas pulsating with energy, music, and colorful street life. Led by friendly local guides like Marbeluz or Camila, the experience combines drinking, dancing, and socializing in a way that’s both fun and culturally immersive.

What we love most about this crawl is the introduction to salsa and champeta dancing—a highlight that turns a typical bar hop into a lively cultural lesson. Plus, the promise of free shots at each bar keeps the energy high and the spirits even higher. On the downside, the tour is quite social and energetic, so if your idea of a good night is a quiet drink, this might not be your scene. This experience suits solo travelers, groups of friends, or anyone eager to meet people from around the world while dancing the night away.

If you’re someone who enjoys music, dancing, and a dynamic social scene, this pub crawl will be a perfect fit. It’s also a great way to get a feel for Cartagena’s best bars—each with its own vibe—without the hassle of planning your own route. However, be prepared for a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere and remember to wear comfortable shoes for dancing and walking.

Key Points

Vibrant Experience: Combines pub hopping with dancing lessons and live music, offering an authentic Caribbean nightlife experience.
Cultural Touch: Learn salsa and champeta from local guides, adding a fun and educational element.
All-Inclusive: Free shots, drinks, and karaoke prizes maximize your fun without extra costs.
Group Vibe: Small-group energy keeps everyone engaged and makes it easy to meet other travelers.
Value for Money: At $18, it offers a full night of entertainment with cover fees, drinks, and activities included.
Best for Social Travelers: Ideal for solo travelers or groups looking for an energetic night out with new friends.

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A Deep Dive into the Cartagena Pub Crawl Experience

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The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

This tour kicks off at the Viajero Hostel, a lively hostel known for its welcoming atmosphere. Here, you check-in with Marbeluz or Camila, receive your wristband, and get ready for an evening packed with fun. The first part involves group activities—think drinking games and social icebreakers—that set a relaxed, festive tone.

Next, you’ll move to a second venue, often a rooftop bar, where a dancing lesson (either salsa or champeta) gets everyone on their feet. As someone who loves to dance, we appreciated how the guides make these lessons approachable, even for beginners. They focus on teaching basic moves, so you’re not worried about your rhythm or coordination—just about having fun.

From there, the tour takes you through five bars or clubs, including popular spots like Morena, 7 Times, Eivissa, Livelula, and Mirador. Each bar offers a different vibe—some more laid-back, others energetic with live DJs or bands. The focus is on experiencing local Caribbean music genres like reggaeton, salsa, merengue, dancehall, and electronic beats, which truly showcase Cartagena’s lively culture.

What to Expect at Each Stop

At each venue, you’re greeted with free shots—often a Colombian cocktail or local spirit—which immediately boost the party mood. The guides organize drinking games and karaoke competitions, so whether you’re a seasoned drinker or just here for the fun, there’s something for all.

The live music show at one of the venues is a highlight, giving you a taste of authentic Colombian rhythms. The rooftop dance lesson at the second venue is equally memorable, providing an opportunity to learn some basic moves in a relaxed setting with panoramic views.

Authenticity and Local Vibe

Many reviews emphasize how the guides, like Camila and Marbeluz, go the extra mile to keep everyone safe and engaged. Eunice mentions how the guides made sure everyone was comfortable and inebriated enough, highlighting both their professionalism and their friendly approach. This attentive attitude contributes to a safe, inclusive environment.

The tour’s focus on local music and dance styles makes it more than just a bar crawl; it’s an introduction to Cartagena’s lively nocturnal culture. The live music and dancing lessons give you a taste of what locals enjoy, making it a more immersive experience.

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The Social Aspect and Group Dynamics

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and energy, which helps solo travelers and groups alike feel included. Many mention how easy it was to meet people from different countries and how the guides keep everyone engaged. One reviewer noted, “The guides kept everyone engaged. I would definitely do this again,” reflecting how the tour fosters camaraderie among diverse travelers.

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The Value Proposition

At $18, this pub crawl offers remarkable value. Cover charges are included, and the free shots, drinks, karaoke prizes, and dancing lessons add up to a full night of entertainment. The skip-the-line access and exclusive discounts at bars further enhance the experience, saving you both time and money.

For the price, you’re not just paying for drinks—you’re getting a comprehensive cultural night out with a local guide, which is often hard to find in more expensive nightlife tours elsewhere. The duration of six hours ensures a slow enough pace to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed, yet lively enough to keep the energy high.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is packed with fun, it’s also loud, energetic, and social. If you prefer quiet evenings or are not fond of dancing or drinking, this might not be the best choice. Also, comfortable shoes are a must, given the walking and dancing involved. Some reviews mention that the first few hours can be lively in the hostel, which might be overwhelming if you’re not used to party scenes.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or children under 18, which is standard for nightlife activities. It’s primarily aimed at adults looking for a lively night out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This pub crawl is ideal if you’re solo and eager to meet other travelers, or if you’re traveling with friends who enjoy music, dancing, and socializing. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Cartagena’s nightlife with a local guide’s help, making the night more manageable and fun. If you’re someone who appreciates live music and dance, this tour offers plenty of both.

However, if your idea of a perfect night involves quieter venues or less focus on drinking and dancing, you might prefer a different type of tour or a more relaxed evening out.

The Sum Up

The Cartagena Pub Crawl with Dancing Lessons and Free Shots delivers an energetic and culturally rich glimpse into the city’s bustling nightlife. It combines music, dance, social games, and local drinks, all guided by friendly locals who know how to keep the party flowing. The value for money is excellent, especially considering the inclusive drinks, live music, and fun atmosphere.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a night of fun, dancing, and meeting new people. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking to feel the pulse of Cartagena after dark, with the safety and guidance of experienced hosts.

If you’re after authentic music, lively dance lessons, and a friendly, social environment, this pub crawl is a fantastic way to spend an evening—and to make some unforgettable memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting new friends and feeling welcomed, making it a great choice for solo travelers looking to socialize.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included. The meeting point is at Viajero Hostel, and you’ll check in with the staff there.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for dancing and walking between venues. Avoid sandals or flip-flops, and dress casually but appropriately for nightlife.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get free shots at each bar, along with drinks and cocktails available for purchase. The tour also includes karaoke prizes and discounts.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexible booking options.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. It’s aimed at adults who want to enjoy Cartagena’s nightlife.

This carefully curated pub crawl offers a genuine taste of Cartagena’s lively night scene—perfect for those who want to dance, drink, and socialize in a friendly, safe environment.