The bustling Bazurto Market showcases the real, unvarnished Cartagena, where locals shop and eat daily. Our favorite tour here is the 3-hour guided experience ($67), which covers all essentials without being overwhelming. For foodies, the 5-hour cooking class and market tour combo ($170) stands out – you’ll learn authentic Colombian cooking while discovering local ingredients. Both Old Town and La Popa Convent round out the shopping scene nicely. Let’s explore Cartagena’s top shopping tours.
Key Points
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Bazurto Market Tour: Enjoy the vibrant local culture and cuisine with a 3-hour guided tour of Cartagena’s largest and busiest market, featuring an authentic culinary experience.
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Cooking Classes and Food Tastings: Explore the flavors of Colombian cuisine through hands-on cooking classes in local families’ kitchens and tastings of exotic fruits and traditional desserts.
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Dance Classes and Sightseeing: Combine shopping and cultural experiences with private salsa and champeta dance classes and a comprehensive tour of Cartagena’s historic Fortress and Old Town.
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Flexible Scheduling and Convenience: Tour operators offer free cancellation, hotel pickup/drop-off, and public transportation to and from the market, ensuring a seamless and personalized shopping experience.
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Authentic and Sustainable Experiences: Many tours include donations to local communities, supporting the local economy and providing an ethical and socially responsible shopping experience.
Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class in Cartagena
Why not experience the vibrant Bazurto Market in Cartagena and learn to cook authentic local dishes?
This 5-star tour offers an immersive culinary experience, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
Begin by exploring the bustling open-air market, interacting with vendors and tasting exotic fruits and juices.
Then, head to a local family’s kitchen to prepare a delicious meal under the guidance of a chef-instructor.
Savor dishes like stuffed fish, fried fish, and posta cartagenera, all served with sides like coconut rice and patacones.
With free cancellation and hotel pickup/drop-off, this tour is a fantastic way to dive into Cartagena’s rich food culture.
Read our full review: Bazurto Market Tour and Cooking Class in Cartagena Review
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Cartagena: Bazurto Market & La Popa Convent Tour With Lunch
Explore Cartagena’s rich history and vibrant culture on this comprehensive tour that combines visits to the iconic La Popa Monastery and the bustling Bazurto Market.
The 4-hour tour includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation and a guided experience at both sites. At La Popa, you’ll learn about the monastery’s history and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Then, dive into the local culture at Bazurto Market, interacting with vendors and sampling fresh fruits and snacks.
The tour also includes a delicious lunch featuring fried fish, yuca, and coconut rice.
With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a mix of sightseeing and culture, this is an excellent way to explore the highlights of Cartagena.
Read our full review: Cartagena: Bazurto Market & La Popa Convent Tour With Lunch Review
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Bazurto Market Adventure Tour in Cartagena
The Bazurto Market Adventure Tour in Cartagena offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the vibrant heart of the city’s local culture.
Situated in the largest and busiest market in Cartagena, the tour guides guests through the colorful stalls, where they can engage with local craftsmen, sample exotic fruits, and enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch.
With 95% of travelers recommending the experience, the tour provides an authentic, immersive adventure, complete with music, art, and unexpected gifts from vendors.
Despite the market’s chaotic nature, the private tour ensures visitors feel safe and connected to the local community, making it a must-do for those seeking to explore Cartagena beyond the typical tourist areas.
Read our full review: Bazurto Market Adventure Tour in Cartagena Review
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Cartagena: 3-Hour Bazurto Market Tour
Although Cartagena is renowned for its colonial architecture and vibrant streets, the Bazurto Market offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the heart of the city’s local culture.
This 3-hour guided tour takes you through the bustling market, where you’ll navigate a labyrinth of food stalls and taste traditional Colombian cuisine. The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and the opportunity to explore sections for vegetables, fish, meat, fruit, clothing, and crafts.
With a maximum group size of 8, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience. While some reviews mention reliability issues, the tour’s overall rating of 4.4/5 suggests it’s a worthwhile way to learn about Cartagena’s vibrant local market scene.
Read our full review: Cartagena: 3-Hour Bazurto Market Tour Review
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Bazuro Public Market
Bazuro Public Market offers visitors a chance to enjoy Cartagena’s vibrant local culture beyond the colonial architecture.
This 5-star rated market tour provides a comprehensive experience, with a bilingual guide, public transportation, and a variety of local delights, including fruit samples, a home-cooked lunch, and traditional desserts.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended, and food restrictions can be accommodated.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour ends near public transportation. With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this market tour is a great way to explore Cartagena’s authentic side.
Read our full review: Bazuro Public Market Review
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Bazurto Market Adventure: Tour in Cartagena
This 3.5-hour Bazurto Market Adventure tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Cartagena’s vibrant Bazurto Market. Priced at $80 per person, the tour includes transportation, a guided exploration of the market, a food tasting, and a traditional lunch.
Highlights include interactions with local vendors, experiencing the market’s unique atmosphere, and learning about Cartagena’s rich cultural diversity.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, those with mobility issues, or people with food allergies. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as the market can be hot, crowded, and have uneven surfaces.
A donation to FEM Colombia is included, supporting local communities.
Read our full review: Bazurto Market Adventure Tour in Cartagena Review
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Cartagena Local Market Tour and Cooking Class
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Cartagena can embark on a Cartagena Local Market Tour and Cooking Class.
This tour includes a visit to the renowned Bazurto market, where participants can engage with local vendors and learn about Colombian food and culture.
The highlight is preparing a traditional meal in a local family’s home, under the guidance of a chef. Reviews praise the authenticity of the experience and the delicious outcomes.
While some report scheduling issues, the overall feedback emphasizes the culture, the warmth of the local hosts, and the opportunity to gain insights into Colombian cuisine.
Read our full review: Cartagena Local Market Tour and Cooking Class Review
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Cartagena: Bazuro Local Food Market Walking Tour
For those seeking an immersive glimpse into Cartagena’s vibrant local food culture, the Bazuro Local Food Market Walking Tour offers an unparalleled experience.
Priced at €56.76 per person, this 3-hour tour takes participants through the historic Bazurto market, where they’ll interact with local vendors and taste native fruits.
Accompanied by a bilingual guide, travelers will learn about the local rhythm, champeta, and enjoy an authentic lunch at a renowned restaurant.
With a maximum group size of 10, this tour provides a personalized and intimate experience.
Highlights include sampling fresh produce, observing the market’s lively atmosphere, and discovering the culinary legacy that impressed the legendary Anthony Bourdain.
Read our full review: Cartagena: Bazuro Local Food Market Walking Tour Review
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Cartagenas Bazurto Local Market Experience
Enjoy the vibrant energy of Cartagena’s Bazurto Local Market on this engaging experience.
Led by a Spanish or English-speaking guide, you’ll explore the bustling stalls and find yourself surrounded by the sights, sounds, and aromas of this authentic marketplace.
The tour includes public transportation to and from the market, a guided tour, and a tasty lunch with local fruits and beverages.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience.
While 4-star rated, there are no 5-star reviews, so manage your expectations accordingly.
Wear comfortable clothing, bring sun protection, and have cash on hand for personal expenses within the market.
Read our full review: Cartagenas Bazurto Local Market Experience Review
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Authentic Bazurto: a Cultural Trip to the Most Famous Market
Delving into the heart of Cartagena’s bustling cultural hub, the Authentic Bazurto market tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and lively ambiance of this renowned marketplace.
Over four hours, visitors embark on a guided exploration, discovering stalls overflowing with tropical fruits, exotic spices, and fresh seafood. Interacting with local vendors provides insights into the culinary heritage and stories of the community.
The tour includes transportation, a fruit tasting, lunch, and local beverages, allowing visitors to fully enjoy Cartagena’s authentic culture.
With flexible scheduling and a cancellation policy, this experience caters to travelers seeking an unforgettable cultural adventure.
Read our full review: Authentic Bazurto: a Cultural Trip to the Most Famous Market Review
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Local Immersion in the Bazurto Market
Visiting the bustling Bazurto Market in Cartagena offers travelers an authentic culture. This third-country wet market experience showcases the working-class shopping and local cuisine of the area, providing a unique atmosphere with crowds, sights, and smells.
The notable absence of travelers allows for a truly immersive local experience. At $67 per person, the 3-hour tour includes soda and gratuities, with free cancellation and rescheduling available up to 24 hours beforehand.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with back problems. The early 10 AM meeting time ensures visitors can explore the market before the crowds build.
Read our full review: Local Immersion in the Bazurto Market Review
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Salsa and Champeta Clases,Sightseeing and Shopping
Guests can expect a private tour that includes salsa and champeta dance classes with a professional guide.
The experience starts at the Cartagena de Indias Cruise Ship Terminal, with a 700-foot walk or shuttle bus available. Bottled water is provided, but food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and open for booking from December 19, 2023, to September 1, 2024, and December 19, 2024, to September 1, 2025.
A minimum of two people per booking is required, and a child rate applies when sharing with two paying adults.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
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Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers )
This comprehensive tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of Cartagena’s historic Fortress, the charming Old Town, and an unrivaled shopping experience.
Priced at $65 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and includes air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, professional guidance, and snacks.
Guests will be picked up at the Sociedad Portuaria de Cartagena, with staff holding a Peace Travel sign to guide them.
The tour concludes at the Port of Cartagena, with a complimentary shuttle bus available.
Guests can book with confidence, as the tour offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours prior to the experience.
Read our full review: Fortress, Old Town and Shopping in Cartagena (Only for Cruisers ) Review
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5-Hour Cooking and Tasting Class With Market Small Group Tour
Cartagena’s vibrant food scene beckons visitors to enjoy the city’s culinary heritage. One of the best ways to do so is through the 5-Hour Cooking and Tasting Class with Market Small Group Tour.
This highly-rated experience takes travelers on a guided tour of the local market, followed by a hands-on cooking class where they’ll prepare traditional Colombian dishes like arepitas rellenas and fish in bijao.
With a maximum of 12 participants, the class offers a personalized and intimate setting. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to savor the flavors of Cartagena.
At $170 per person, it’s a worthwhile investment for foodies seeking an authentic culinary adventure.
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Bazurto Market and La Popa Convent Half Day City Tour
A private half-day tour offers travelers an immersive experience in Cartagena’s authentic culture. Guests can explore Bazurto Market, interacting with locals and tasting fresh foods.
The tour also includes a visit to La Popa Convent, which provides panoramic views of the city. Suitable for families and curious travelers, the tour includes a tour guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and lunch at a typical Colombian restaurant.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and most travelers can participate.
With an overall rating of 4.0/5 from 5 reviews, the tour receives positive feedback for the guide’s knowledge and the unique market experience, though some criticism exists regarding the tour duration.
Read our full review: Bazurto Market and La Popa Convent Half Day City Tour Review
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Cartagena: Traditional Market Tour and Tasting
Immersing visitors in Cartagena’s vibrant traditional market scene, the 2-hour Cartagena: Traditional Market Tour and Tasting offers an intimate exploration of the bustling Santa Florentina marketplace.
Priced from $42.28 per person, this private tour allows guests to discover the flavors of the region through guided tastings of fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and seafood.
Along the way, participants can stroll through the historic city center, admiring the colonial architecture.
Completely flexible, the tour can be tailored to individual preferences, with the option to purchase local goods.
Based on a 5-star review, the tour provides an immersive cultural experience led by a knowledgeable and personable guide.
Read our full review: Cartagena: Traditional Market Tour and Tasting Review
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Experience Bazurto Market With Painting Lessons
Step into the vibrant heart of Cartagena’s local culture at Bazurto Market, where you’ll embark on a captivating painting experience.
This 5-star rated activity offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of painting while enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors of the bustling marketplace.
Enjoy included bottled water, food tastings, and snacks as a knowledgeable guide leads you through the market and provides painting lessons.
With pickup from your accommodation, airport, or cruise port, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private tour is a flexible and accessible way to discover Cartagena’s local artistry and cuisine.
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Bazurto Local Market With Maripe
Explore Cartagena’s vibrant Bazurto Market on this private culinary tour led by a knowledgeable local guide and chef, Maripe.
For $100.30 per person, you’ll enjoy hotel pickup, transportation, and a delicious lunch with wine and water.
Wander through the bustling market, learning about its ingredients and selecting items for your meal.
Not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, this tour is perfect for most visitors seeking an authentic market experience.
Availability is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this flexible tour allows you to plan your Cartagena adventure.
Read our full review: Bazurto Local Market With Maripe Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Ethical Concerns With Shopping at Bazurto Market?
There may be ethical concerns with shopping at Bazurto Market, as the working conditions and labor practices of some vendors are not always transparent. Visitors should research ethical options and support vendors who prioritize fair treatment of workers.
How Can I Avoid Getting Lost in the Large Bazurto Market?
To avoid getting lost in the large Bazurto Market, visitors should ask the locals for directions and use a map. It’s also helpful to stick with a group or tour guide who knows the layout of the market well.
What Are the Best Times to Visit Bazurto Market to Avoid Crowds?
The best times to visit Bazurto Market are early morning or late afternoon when crowds are smaller. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Arriving prepared with a map and local guide can also help you navigate the large market more easily.
Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Take When Exploring Bazurto Market?
When visiting Bazurto Market, it’s best to stay alert, keep valuables secure, and avoid flaunting wealth. Travelers should also stick to main walkways and avoid dimly lit areas. With some basic precautions, visitors can safely explore the vibrant market.
Are There Any Specific Items I Should Look for to Support Local Artisans?
When exploring Bazurto Market, look for handmade crafts, textiles, and artisanal goods to support local artisans. Items like woven bags, vibrant tapestries, and intricate woodcarvings make great souvenirs that directly benefit the community.
Recap
Cartagena offers a variety of shopping tours to explore its vibrant markets. Whether you’re interested in a guided tour of the bustling Bazurto Market, a cooking class, or even an art lesson, there’s something for all. These tours provide an authentic glimpse into the local culture and cuisine, making them a must-do activity for visitors to Cartagena.