Cartagena resonates with salsa—there’s no other way to describe it, as it’s one of the world’s capitals for dancing and enjoying this Caribbean-rooted musical genre. That’s why one of the must-have experiences in the city is spending a night swaying, moving your feet and hips to some of the classic salsa songs, and listening to live music from some of the city’s best artists.
For this, you need to let go, have no fear, and just enjoy. If you already know how to dance, you’ll find the best partners who will keep up with your moves, and if you don’t, it’s the perfect time to learn.
The sound of salsa can be heard on every corner of the city, in every store, in every bar, in every house. That’s why it’s in the people’s veins, in their very essence.
Now it’s your turn. Here are some of the essential spots where you can fully enjoy this magnificent experience.
When talking about salsa and Cartagena, Donde Fidel is a must-mention. This iconic salsa spot has been around for decades and has been visited by international figures, as seen in the photos adorning its walls. At Donde Fidel, you can relax on the terrace while listening to the loud salsa music playing inside, or you can join the dance and enjoy the best classic salsa tunes of the region within its walls. You’ll find it quickly, and the sound will guide you as you enter Plaza de los Coches on your way to the corner near Plaza de la Aduana.
After leaving through the Torre del Reloj and crossing the Camellón de los Mártires to the right, you’ll find Quiebracanto under some arches. This legendary spot is perfect for watching live music of the highest quality, accompanied by the best drinks. Quiebracanto became a favorite place for locals to enjoy good salsa and dancing years ago. It evolved from a local staple to a place where both locals and tourists mingle. It’s classic, it’s beautiful, it’s pure salsa.
Heading right, you’ll arrive at Calle de la Media Luna, one of the main nightlife streets in Cartagena. Here, you’ll first encounter the popular Vueltabajero, an ideal place to watch live music in the authentic Cartagenero style. It’s likely the place in the Centro where you’ll find the most locals dancing to live salsa. While its main location is far from the historic center, a few years ago they decided to bring their delights and spirit to the Centro. It’s a perfect spot to learn how to dance salsa in Cartagena.
A little further down the same street, you’ll enter a place with a special atmosphere, and its name will give you a hint. La Tertulia is the most elegant salsa spot in the Centro. It’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another era. Though it’s not very large, the quality of the music, service, and ambiance will leave a mark on you. Its elegance comes at a price—there’s a cover charge to enter—but the fullness of the salsa experience is guaranteed.
Lastly, your journey will take you across the street to the corner. What you see will make you wonder if you’re in Colombia or Cuba. These cities are united by a shared salsa history, and we’re talking about Café Havana. This is the ultimate salsa experience. Vibrant live music, the best Cartagenero singers who won’t let you catch your breath from the wild rhythm. The magic of Havana blended with the magic of Cartagena in one unique spot. Spectacular mojitos will delight the moment. Like the previous spot, there’s a cover charge to enter—it’s not cheap, but we’re sure it will be worth it.
The Cartagena experience involves dancing to the salsa of Joe Arroyo, the most important artist the city has produced. His music will be part of your soundtrack during those days. Let us know how it goes!
Autor. Pablo Muñoz
