Cartagena Bites & Stories: Local Street Food Tour

Cartagena , Colombia

Cartagena Bites & Stories: Local Street Food Tour

Active

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Cartagena's culinary scene on a vibrant 3-hour street food tour through the lively San Diego neighborhood. This small group experience, guided by a bilingual local, highlights the city's rich culture and flavors. Savor authentic bites like arepa de huevo and artisan chorizo while learning the stories behind each dish from local vendors. As you explore, taste seasonal tropical fruits and local drinks, ensuring a true taste of Cartagena. Enjoy a sweet farewell at the Portal de los Dulces while supporting local families and vendors along the way.

- Immerse yourself in Cartagena's street food culture with 8+ tastings
- Explore the charming San Diego neighborhood with a local guide
- Savor exotic fruits and local drinks during the tour
- Connect with vendors who have served the community for generations

Available options

Private Group

Share Group

What's included

Hydration during the walk

Fresh local drink (Kola Román, Pony Malta, local beer or fruit juice)

Photos and memories taken during the tour

Tasting of 8+ traditional street food items (arepa de huevo, carimañola, chorizo, tropical fruits, local sweets, etc.)

Bilingual local guide (English & Spanish)

Cultural storytelling at each stop

Support for local families and vendors

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 – Welcome & Introduction
Meet your local guide at La Serrezuela Mall. Brief introduction to the experience, the San Diego neighborhood, and street food culture in Cartagena.

Stop 2

Stop 2 – San Diego Streets & First Tastings
Walk through the lively, non-touristy streets of San Diego. Taste your first bites: the legendary arepa de huevo and the crunchy carimañola — learn how locals eat them (with sauce, of course!).

Stop 3

Stop 3 – Artisan Chorizo & Local Drinks
Visit a street corner known for the best homemade chorizo in town. Enjoy local drinks like Kola Román or Pony Malta while listening to music and street stories.

Stop 4

Stop 4 – Exotic Tropical Fruits
Sample seasonal tropical fruits like guama, níspero, zapote, granadilla, and more. Your guide will explain their cultural relevance and fun ways to eat them.

Stop 5

Stop 5 – The Adventurous Stop
Optional tasting of pork (ears, snout, or intestines) from María’s famous stall. Not for everyone — but fun to watch or try if you're curious! Also, We hope to find Marco, who has the most Delicious Cheese Arepa in case you prefer something general.

Stop 6 – Clock Tower & “Palito e’ Caucho”
Arrive at Cartagena’s iconic Clock Tower and stop at the legendary Palito e’ Caucho stall, with 35+ years of tradition. Taste patacón with cheese or quibbes costeños.

Stop 7

Stop 7 – Portal de los Dulces & Sweet Goodbye
End the tour at the famous Portal de los Dulces. Try alegría, a local dessert packed with history — and emotion. Farewell photos and final stories.

What's not included

Hotel pickup or transportation to the meeting point

Meals or food items outside of the planned tastings

Personal expenses or additional purchases

Tips or gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not recommended for travelers with severe food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Some walking surfaces may be uneven or hot — wear comfortable shoes

This tour involves walking in warm weather; bring sun protection and stay hydrated.

Food is prepared in open-air local stalls. Hygiene is observed, but not equivalent to restaurant standards.

Not suitable for travelers with limited mobility.

Meeting point

Barrio San Diego y Centro Histórico
Centro Comercial La Serreuzela - Torre del Reloj

About Cartagena

Cartagena, a vibrant city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is renowned for its colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning beaches. Known as the 'Pearl of the Caribbean,' it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, lively nightlife, and tropical charm.

Top Attractions

Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)

The historic center of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and colorful buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to enter, individual attractions may charge admission

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

A 17th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Playa Blanca

A beautiful white-sand beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Full day Budget to moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche de Camarones

Shrimp ceviche made with fresh shrimp, lime juice, and various spices.

Appetizer Contains seafood

Arepas

Cornmeal patties that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter with rice, beans, meat, plantains, avocado, and more.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset watching Exploring historic sites Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

December to April

The dry season offers sunny skies and lower humidity, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the city.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

UTC-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Stay vigilant and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Rafael Núñez International Airport • 3 km from city center

By bus

Terminal de Transporte Terrestre

Getting around

Public transport

A modern bus rapid transit system with air-conditioned buses and dedicated lanes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada) Getsemani Bocagrande

Day trips

Isla Barú

15 km from Cartagena • Full day

A beautiful island with stunning beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation and water activities.

Mud Volcanoes (Volcanes de Lodo)

45 km from Cartagena • Half day

A unique natural phenomenon where mud volcanoes can be climbed for therapeutic mud baths.

Palmar

20 km from Cartagena • Half day

A beautiful nature reserve with mangrove forests and a variety of wildlife.

Festivals

Hay Festival Cartagena • January Carnaval de Barranquilla • February/March

Pro tips

Visit the Walled City early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the neighborhoods of Getsemani and Bocagrande for a mix of history and modern luxury.
Use the Transcaribe bus system for affordable and convenient transportation.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water for exploring the city.