Cartagena Travel Guide: Where Black Travelers Eat, Party & Explore

The sun is shining, the wind is blowing, and I’ve got pesos in my pocket… ¡esto es COLOMBIA, bebé! After almost two years without an international trip (I know, tragiccc), I finally packed my bags for Cartagena. My friend Nimiye was celebrating her birthday, and my boyfriend and I were toasting to our four-year anniversary double the reason to go all out.

Now, I’ll admit, I was hesitant about Colombia at first. Europe has me in a chokehold, and my heart was set on Amsterdam. But let me tell you, I was SO wrong. Cartagena blew my expectations out of the water. From the food to the culture, this trip was exactly what I needed to ease back into my traveling era.

Bashel Lewis photographed in Colombia wearing Kai Collective

RESTURANTS

Breakfast Spots to Start Your Day Right

Epoca Café – My absolute favorite spot of the trip. If you love breakfast as much as I do, this is a must. Incredible food, amazing coffee, and they have a solid mimosa deal. Sit outside in the courtyard of Epoca Hotel for peak vacation vibes.

Nia Bakery & Cafe - (photo provided via Nia Bakery)

Nia Bakery & Coffee – If you’re on the hunt for an Instagram-worthy brunch, this is the place. The aesthetic is stunning, and the pastries? Chef’s kiss.

Manna Breakfast – I didn’t get a chance to go, but it’s high on my list for next time. The menu looks fire, and the reviews speak for themselves.

Where to Grab a Great Lunch

El Gordo Taco – A perfect pre-party bus meal. Quick, flavorful, and packed with good vibes. These tacos? 10/10.

San Nicolás – If you want variety, this is the spot. It’s giving Cheesecake Factory energy (in the best way) with an extensive menu that won’t disappoint. Oh, and do not skip dessert—the chocolate cake with ice cream is a dream.

KFC – Hear me out. I know what you’re thinking—why are you eating fast food abroad? But listen, the KFC in Colombia hits differently. I wanted a whole bucket to myself. Try it, thank me later.

Dinner Spots That Deliver

Labo de Mar – Amazing food, even better cocktails. My favorite dinner spot of the trip.

Carmen – If you want a beautiful dining experience, this is it. Reservations can be tough, but it’s worth it. Get the steak. Trust me.

Marea – Top-tier service and stunning views by the lake. The menu is more limited and leans on the heavier side, but everything is delicious.

Excursions

Excursions Worth Every Peso

Cooking Class ($86) – Cooking, Drinking & Vibing

If you know me, you know cooking is not my strong suit. But hey, why not practice even while on vacation? This class had about 10 people, and we made a full three-course meal—but don’t let that intimidate you. It was super laid-back, with plenty of drinking, chatting, and light tasks.

📌 Editor’s Note: This is a great way to dive into Colombian culture without being in the sun. I recommend doing this early in your trip—it gives you insight into local flavors and history, plus you might meet cool people. We ended up linking with some of our cooking classmates later at a bar!

Rum & Chocolate Tasting ($75) – A Sweet & Boozy Night

We saved this for our last night, and honestly, it was perfect. The experience included eight different rums, chocolate pairings, and a final specialty cocktail that you make yourself.

📌 Editor’s Note: Do this toward the end of your trip. It’s chill, fun, and since the rum is high quality, no hangover. Just make sure you eat beforehand because they do not serve food.

Party Boat ($150) – 6 Hours of Pure Chaos (In the Best Way)

If your idea of a good time involves unlimited tequila, island hopping, and dancing to music, this is your excursion. This was my friend’s favorite activity.

📌 Editor’s Note: Bring snacks and water (six hours in the sun is no joke). SUNSCREEN. Reapply. Don’t play yourself. Have a light night the day before, so you’ll be able to fully enjoy the boat.

Chiva Party Bus ($12) – A Rolling Pre-Game

A great way to see the city while pregaming for the club. You can bring your own bottle (highly recommended), and the vibes are good.

📌 Editor’s Note: If you’re with a fun group (like we were—shoutout to the bachelorette party we met), this can be a great time. But BYOB and manage expectations on the music.

Palenque Tour ($110) – A Deep Dive Into Black History

Okay, I didn’t get to do this one, but my friends raved about it. If you want to move beyond the touristy stuff and learn about the rich history of Black culture in Colombia, this is the excursion.

📌 Editor’s Note: They pick you up from your hotel. The drive is 90 minutes each way—prepare for the commute. It’s on the pricier side, but absolutely worth it. If you were about to drop $$$ on Bora Bora Beach Club (more on that below), spend it here instead.

Bora Bora Beach Club – Don’t Recommend…

Overpriced, overcrowded, and underwhelming. The “beach” was just a tiny strip of sand, and if you didn’t pay for a VIP cabana, you were basically roasting in the sun. The one meal they provided was decent, but everything else? You’re paying extra.

📌 Editor’s Note: If you want a real beach experience, explore the city or find a better spot. This one ain’t it.

Nightlife: Where to Party in Cartagena

I did not expect Cartagena’s club scene to be so good, but it delivered. Monkey Bar – The most popular Black club in Cartagena. Hip-hop, R&B, and Afrobeats all night, but tiny space. Be ready to squeeze in. EL Pretexto – My favorite! More space, great music, and people actually dance here

Comment below and let me know if you have questions or your experience with any of these activities/restaurants. Add some recs too becasue I will be back lol