A Night to Remember in Cartagena: The Pub Crawl Experience

When you think of Cartagena, vibrant streets, historic charm, and lively nightlife usually come to mind. For those eager to dive into the city’s energetic after-hours scene, the Group Night Experience: Cartagena’s Best Pub Crawl offers a budget-friendly way to hit multiple hotspots in one evening. Starting at Viajero Cartagena Hostel and winding through various bars and clubs, this tour costs only $23 and lasts about 7 hours. It’s designed for travelers wanting a taste of local nightlife, with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow visitors, learn some salsa moves, and dance into the early morning.
Two aspects that stand out are the inclusion of free drinks and guided group activities, which help create a relaxed and social atmosphere, and the visits to diverse venues—from lively bars to ocean-view clubs—giving you a well-rounded taste of Cartagena’s night scene. However, a possible drawback is the inconsistency reported by some guests regarding the experience at certain venues and the management of the group, which might affect the overall enjoyment.
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy socializing, dancing, and exploring nightlife with guidance. It’s especially suited for those who want an affordable, all-in-one evening that balances fun, local culture, and scenic views. Keep in mind, the tour is best for easy-going party-goers who don’t mind the occasional rough patch in organization.
Key Points
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- Affordable Experience: At just $23, it offers a comprehensive night out including drinks, guided visits, and entrance fees.
- Cultural Flavors: Learn some salsa moves and enjoy local cocktails, giving you a taste of Cartagena’s lively spirit.
- Variety of Venues: From hostel warm-ups to dance clubs with ocean views, the tour covers many styles of nightlife.
- Group Size & Atmosphere: Expect a maximum of 30 travelers, fostering a lively but manageable social scene.
- Potential Drawbacks: Mixed reviews suggest some inconsistency in venue quality and organization.
- Ideal For: Solo travelers, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a guided, social night with good value.
For more beverage-focused experiences, here's what we've covered in Cartagena
Starting Point: Viajero Cartagena Hostel
We loved the way this tour kicks off at the Viajero Hostel, a lively and well-known spot for travelers. It’s the perfect place to meet fellow adventurers and warm up for the night ahead. The tour includes a welcome cocktail and some bar games, which serve as great icebreakers. The lively atmosphere here gets everyone excited and ready to explore.
Several reviews echo this sentiment, with Christian noting, “Some fun and games at the hostel meeting point then off to multiple venues with about 40 other party goers, so much fun.” It’s a casual, friendly start that helps you blend into the group, making the transition to the nightlife seamless.
Salsa and Spirit at Corriente Latina
The second stop, Corriente Latina, focuses on dancing—a highlight for many. Here, the guides teach basic salsa steps and champagne drinking etiquette, making it a playful and interactive experience. Expect an energetic vibe, with expert instructors guiding even complete beginners. This is where you genuinely get a feel for Cartagena’s swinging, sensual dance culture.
However, some reviews mention concerns about the cleanliness or professionalism, such as patrons being poured drinks into mouths in a somewhat unsanitary fashion. Still, the overall tone is fun, and most guests leave with a few new dance moves and good memories.
Live Music and Bohemian Vibes at Club Carpinteros
The third stop, Club Carpinteros, is a highlight for music lovers. Located in Gethsemane, it’s known for live local musicians and a bohemian atmosphere. The drinks flow freely, and the ambiance is relaxed yet vibrant. Expect to enjoy some local tunes and a chance to soak in a more authentic part of Cartagena’s music scene.
A common thread in reviews is the appreciation for the local music, which adds a genuine flavor to the night. Yet, a few mention that the venue might feel a little rough around the edges, or that it can get crowded.
Continued Fun in Calle Adentro
Next, the tour moves to Calle Adentro, a colorful, laid-back bar where dancing continues. The decor is lively, and the relaxed vibe encourages mingling with fellow travelers from around the world. Guests can sample different cocktails, a great way to try local flavors, and enjoy the friendly, social environment.
Some reviews note that there’s room for more group integration, but the overall consensus remains positive about the atmosphere and diversity of venues.
Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Cartagena
- Astronomy Night in Finca Astronomica
- Cartagena: Private Sunset and Night Boat Tour
- Cartagena: Sunset in boat in the bay with music and liquor
- White Night Boat Party: Dinner Buffet, Dancing and Open Bar
- Cartagena: Pirate ship ride at sunset in Cartagena+open bar
- Sunset over Cartagena Bay on the Phantom Boat
The Night’s Grand Finale at Seven 7 Times
The last stop is the ocean-view club, Seven 7 Times, where electronic music and dancing until dawn await. This venue is often praised for its stunning views and lively music scene. Expect a club atmosphere with plenty of space to dance, and a memorable end to the night.
Guests can expect to be at the venue for about 3.5 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the vibe, take in the views, and dance away worries. Reviews are mixed; while some love the scene, others feel the organization could be better, especially regarding dress code enforcement and venue quality.
What’s Included and What’s Not
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The main value of this tour lies in its all-inclusive nature. For $23, you get admission to five venues, welcome drinks, free shots throughout the night, and a guide to keep things moving smoothly. This makes it a cost-effective way to experience Cartagena’s nightlife without worrying about covering each cover charge or drink.
On the flip side, private transportation isn’t included**, so you’ll need to navigate between venues on your own if you prefer not to walk or use local taxis. The tour is designed to maximize social interaction, so expect to be in a group of up to 30 travelers, which keeps things lively but manageable.
Timing and Meeting Point
The tour starts promptly at 8:30 pm at the Viajero hostel, with the last stop wrapping up around 3:30 am. It’s near public transportation, making it convenient to get to and from. Keep in mind the dress code at Seven 7 Times—avoid sandals, swim shorts, and sleeveless shirts to ensure smooth entry.
Considering the Reviews
While many travelers rave about the fun atmosphere and local guides, some express frustration about venue accuracy and organizational issues. For example, one reviewer, Gustavo, mentions that some venues listed on the itinerary no longer exist or were substituted without prior notice. Others felt the group management could be tighter, with some guests leaving early or feeling disconnected.
The Authenticity Factor
Despite some hiccups, the tour offers a good mix of culture (learning salsa), scenic views (oceanfront club), and social bonding. The inclusion of local music and regional cocktails make it more than just a typical pub crawl; it’s an experience that captures some of Cartagena’s lively spirit.
Who Will Love This Tour?
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This pub crawl suits adventurous, social travelers eager to experience the nightlife scene in a guided setting. It’s perfect if you want to meet people from around the world, enjoy some local music and dance, and explore multiple venues without fussing over entry fees or organizing transportation. If you enjoy dancing, drinking, and lively atmospheres with a group, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile way to spend an evening.
However, if you prefer more curated, upscale experiences or are sensitive to organizational inconsistencies, you might want to consider other options. This tour is more about fun, mingling, and authentic local vibes than luxury or perfect logistics.
The Sum Up: Is This Cartagena Pub Crawl Worth It?
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All in all, this tour offers a fun, affordable way to experience Cartagena’s nightlife with a lively group and guided visits to popular venues. For $23, the value is quite reasonable, especially given the free drinks and inclusive entry to multiple spots, including an ocean-view club. You’ll love the chance to learn some salsa, enjoy local cocktails, and dance until dawn in a scenic setting.
That said, it’s not without its flaws. Some travelers have noted venue inconsistencies and organizational hiccups, which means your experience might vary. It’s best suited for easygoing party enthusiasts who are flexible and ready for spontaneous fun. If you’re looking for a social night out with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers and enjoy Cartagena’s vibrant scene, this pub crawl will likely deliver.
This tour provides a valuable snapshot of Cartagena’s nightlife, blending cultural elements with lively entertainment. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to maximize their evening without breaking the bank or stressing over planning every detail.
FAQ: Your Cartagena Pub Crawl Questions Answered
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Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The lively group atmosphere and guided structure make it easy for solo travelers to meet new friends.
What is included in the price?
You get admission to all five venues, welcome drinks, free shots, and a group guide to keep everything moving smoothly.
Are drinks really free all night?
Yes, you’ll receive a welcome beer, free shots throughout the night, and a welcome drink at each venue.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:30 pm and ending around 3:30 am.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 11 days ahead. The tour can sell out, especially during peak seasons.
Is private transportation provided?
No, transportation between venues is not included. Guests walk or take local taxis between stops.
What about dress code?
At the final venue, Seven 7 Times, avoid sandals, swim shorts, and sleeveless shirts to ensure entry.
Can I expect a party crowd?
Yes, the tour tends to attract up to 30 lively travelers, creating a fun, energetic environment.
What if I don’t drink alcohol?
While drinks are included, you can opt out or limit your alcohol intake—just inform the guide if needed.
This Cartagena pub crawl offers a lively, budget-friendly way to dive into the city’s nightlife, blending fun, culture, and scenic views. Whether you’re a solo traveler eager to meet people or a group looking for an authentic night out, it’s a lively and memorable choice—just keep your expectations flexible and your dancing shoes ready.
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