Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class in Cartagena

Exploring the vibrant Bazurto Market and learning to whip up traditional Colombian dishes is a must-do experience for foodies visiting Cartagena. This half-day tour takes participants on a cultural journey, where they’ll shop for fresh ingredients alongside a local chef before diving into a hands-on cooking class. From stuffed fish and coconut rice to delectable empanadas, the menu promises a delightful fusion of flavors that’ll tantalize the taste buds. But the true highlight might just be the warm welcome and cozy setting provided by the host family, creating an intimate atmosphere that allows visitors to genuinely connect with the local culinary traditions.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Cooking Classes In Cartagena.

Key Points

• Immersive half-day experience exploring Bazurto Market and learning traditional Colombian cooking from a local chef.
• Hands-on culinary class featuring the preparation of empanadas, coconut rice, stuffed fish, and other regional dishes.
• Guided market visit to shop for ingredients, taste exotic fruits, and engage with friendly vendors.
• Warm, cozy atmosphere fostered by a local host family, with opportunities to learn about their culture and lifestyle.
• Comprehensive package including round-trip transportation, a 5.0-rated tour, and a great value for the cultural experience.

Tour Overview and Details

This tour typically offers visitors a half-day experience exploring Bazurto Market and learning traditional Colombian cooking techniques in a family kitchen in Cartagena.

Travelers can expect to be picked up from their hotels or a central meeting point for the round-trip transportation.

The tour has received excellent reviews, with a 5.0 rating from 102 previous participants. At a price starting from $115.39, the tour provides a great value for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.

Visitors should plan to dress in smart casual attire and wear closed-toe shoes. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does accommodate infants, who can sit on laps during the activities.

Culinary Experience

Travelers typically begin their culinary experience by accompanying the chef/instructor to the local open-air Bazurto Market, where they can shop for diverse ingredients used in traditional Colombian dishes.

Once back at the family kitchen, you will learn to prepare a variety of specialties, including empanadas, coconut rice, stuffed fish, garlic shrimp, beef posta Cartagenera, and cheese soup. The menu may also include vegetarian options.

Throughout the cooking process, the host family creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere, encouraging guests to share stories and enjoy music and dance.

Dishes and Menu

The menu for the Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class features an array of traditional Colombian dishes, allowing participants to savor the rich flavors of the region. The menu includes:

• Stuffed fish with coconut rice, patacones (fried green plantains), and salad

• Fried fish with coconut rice, patacones, and salad

• Fish soup with plantain, corn, vegetables, and coconut rice

• Garlic shrimp with coconut rice, patacones, and salad

• Vegetarian options are also available, providing a diverse culinary experience.

Throughout the class, travelers will have the opportunity to learn how to prepare these authentic Colombian specialties under the guidance of the local chef and host family.

Market Visit

During the Bazurto Market Tour, participants explore a bustling local market, seeing the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas that characterize this authentic Colombian shopping experience.

Under the guidance of their local chef and host, travelers learn about the market’s shopping customs as they navigate through the diverse stalls.

They’ve the opportunity to taste exotic fruit juices and fried snacks, engaging directly with the friendly vendors.

This hands-on exploration offers a unique glimpse into the daily life and culinary traditions of Cartagena, allowing participants to connect with the local community and deepen their understanding of the city’s vibrant culture.

Host Family and Atmosphere

After exploring the vibrant Bazurto Market, participants are welcomed into the warm, family-like atmosphere of a local host family’s home. The hosts, including chef Maria and guide Angel, create an inviting environment where travelers can share stories and enjoy traditional Colombian music and dance while cooking.

This intimate experience allows visitors to truly enjoy the local culture:

• Warm, welcoming environment fostered by the host family

• Opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life

• Cooking alongside the family in a family-style kitchen setting

• Sharing stories and enjoying music and dance during the experience

• Small group size (maximum 15 travelers) facilitates personal connections

Transportation and Meeting Point

Round-trip transportation from hotels or a central meeting point in Cartagena is included with the Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class experience.

The tour operator will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or a convenient downtown location, ensuring a seamless start and end to your culinary adventure.

This door-to-door service makes it easy for you to focus on the highlights of the tour – exploring the vibrant Bazurto Market and learning to cook traditional Colombian dishes in a family kitchen.

Whether you’re staying in the historic old town or a beachside resort, the tour’s included transportation takes the hassle out of getting to and from the experience.

Dress Code and Accessibility

A smart casual dress code is required for the Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class, and closed-toe shoes are necessary to navigate the bustling market safely.

Unfortunately, the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the market and kitchen facilities. However, the tour does accommodate infants, providing seats for them to sit on laps during the activities.

• Smart casual attire is recommended.

• Closed-toe shoes are required for the market visit.

• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

• Infant seats are available, with infants sitting on laps.

• The dress code and accessibility details help ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all participants.

Recommendations and Ratings

The Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class comes highly recommended by previous participants, who have given it an impressive 5.0 rating out of 102 reviews. This authentic cultural experience is ideal for those seeking to enjoy the local culinary traditions of Cartagena. The class offers a well-rounded blend of activities, including a visit to the vibrant Bazurto Market, hands-on cooking instruction, and the opportunity to engage with a warm, welcoming local family. Whether you’re a foodie, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable experience, this tour is sure to exceed your expectations.

Recommendations	Ratings	Ideal For
Highly rated	5.0/5.0	Foodies, cultural enthusiasts, memorable experiences
Authentic cultural experience	102 reviews	Immersive local culinary traditions
Well-rounded blend of activities	Impressive rating	Cartagena exploration

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Menu to My Dietary Needs?

Yes, the tour can accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions. Participants can notify the host family of any special needs, and the chef will customize the menu accordingly to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive culinary experience.

What Is the Ratio of Cooking to Market Visit Time?

The ratio of cooking to market visit time is typically about 50/50. Participants spend half the experience shopping at the local market and the other half cooking traditional Colombian dishes with the chef in the family’s kitchen.

Is There an Option to Extend the Class Duration?

The tour description does not explicitly mention an option to extend the class duration. However, travelers may be able to inquire about this with the tour provider if they wish to spend more time in the market or cooking.

Can I Take Home Any of the Dishes I’ve Cooked?

Yes, participants can typically take home the dishes they’ve cooked during the class. The hosts often package the food so guests can enjoy their culinary creations even after the class is over.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

While there are generally no restrictions on photography during the tour, it’s polite to ask vendors for permission before taking their photos. The host family also welcomes photos but may have some privacy preferences to respect.

Recap

The Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class in Cartagena offers an immersive and delightful experience.

Participants can expect to explore a vibrant local market, learn traditional Colombian cooking techniques, and savor delicious homemade dishes in a warm, family-friendly setting.

It’s a perfect opportunity for foodies to connect with the city’s culinary heritage and enjoy a memorable taste of Cartagena’s rich culture.