Cooking Classes in Cartagena de Indias

Travelling is not only about seeing landscapes and walking streets full of history; it is also about savouring the destination with all your senses. Cartagena de Indias, with its explosion of colours, aromas and flavours, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the culinary richness of the Colombian Caribbean. What better way to connect with its culture than by learning to cook its most emblematic dishes? Cooking classes in this city not only teach you how to prepare delicious recipes, but also allow you to experience the essence and local traditions up close. Here are the best gastronomic experiences you can enjoy in Cartagena.

The historic centre of Cartagena, with its cobbled streets and colonial houses, is the ideal setting for an introduction to Caribbean cuisine. In this class, you will learn how to prepare dishes such as coconut rice, carimañolas and the famous fried fish. It all starts with an introduction to the basic ingredients of the local cuisine, such as plantains, cassava and corozo. In addition, many of these workshops include a tasting accompanied by live music, making the learning experience an unforgettable one.

If you're looking for a more immersive experience, you can't miss a cooking class that includes a visit to the Bazurto market, the commercial heart and soul of Cartagena. This market is a true feast for the senses: vibrant colours, intense aromas and an energy that you'll only find here. Led by a local chef, you'll browse the stalls to choose the freshest ingredients and learn about their history and uses in the kitchen. Once in the kitchen, you'll be taught how to prepare recipes such as mote de queso or shrimp ceviche, while discovering the secrets behind the most authentic flavours of the Colombian Caribbean.

For those looking for something more intimate, there are options that invite you to cook in local homes, where Cartagena hosts welcome you with open arms. Here you will not only learn how to prepare homemade dishes such as posta cartagenera or patacones, but also share anecdotes, tips and even a freshly brewed coffee while cooking. These types of classes tend to have small groups, which guarantees more personalised attention and a welcoming atmosphere.

If you are a lover of flavours and drinks, why not combine both passions? In Cartagena you can find classes that combine the preparation of typical dishes with the making of Caribbean cocktails. You'll learn how to cook recipes such as seafood rice and, at the same time, you'll be taught how to prepare a refreshing corozo mojito or a cocktail made with Colombian rum. Ideal for those who want to take a bit of the Cartagena fiesta home with them.

For vegan travellers, Cartagena also has some interesting options. Some cooking classes focus on recreating Caribbean flavours using exclusively plant-based products. Learn how to prepare dishes such as vegan coconut rice, tropical salads with mango and avocado, and coastal-style lentil stews. A delicious and healthy way to explore the culinary richness of the region.

If you prefer a more relaxed environment, some cooking classes in Cartagena are held outdoors, on terraces or patios surrounded by tropical vegetation. Here you can cook while enjoying the Caribbean breeze and spectacular views of the city. Menus often include a mix of local and international flavours, such as grilled fresh fish and tropical salads. An experience that combines great food, incredible views and an unrivalled ambience.

Taking a cooking class in Cartagena is much more than learning recipes. It is an opportunity to connect with the people who keep the city's gastronomic traditions alive, discover exotic ingredients and take home not only memories, but also a little piece of the Caribbean in every dish. If you want your visit to Cartagena to be unforgettable, come and taste it in a different way!