Cartagena in 1 Day for Friends - Hands-on cooking with a local chef at Lunático Cooking Studio
In Collaboration with Lunático Experience. Updated on February 14, 2026.
Hands-on Colombian cooking class led by local chefs at Lunático Cooking Studio. Choose a scheduled session (market + class or studio-only formats). Cook traditional Caribbean dishes and share the meal you prepare in a small-group setting.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Lunático Experience, inspired by the tour Colombian Cooking Class in Cartagena. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hands-on cooking with a local chef at Lunático Cooking Studio
- Optional guided visit to Bazurto Market to learn about local ingredients
- Prepare classic Cartagena dishes (Posta Cartagenera or Encocado de Pargo)
- Shared meal and group discussion about flavors and technique
Itinerary
Day 1
Market + studio cooking format (sample schedule for the selected date). Start and end times vary by scheduled session; this sample uses the Market Tour + Class start at 08:00.
Introduction and Welcome
Meet at the cooking studio, greet participants, review the menu and cultural background for the session.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early to check in and store bags; the studio is compact and space is limited.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and lightweight clothing — the kitchen can get warm during hands-on work.
- If you have dietary restrictions, remind the chef on arrival so they can confirm adjustments.
Market Tour (optional)
Guided visit to Bazurto Market to meet vendors and learn about local ingredients used in Caribbean cooking. (This stop is included only on Market Tour + Cooking dates.)
Tips from local experts:
- Bring small bills and coins if you want to buy a snack or a single ingredient from vendors.
- Keep valuables close and use a front-facing bag while moving through busy market aisles.
- Take photos of ingredients you like — the chef will help identify them later back in the studio.
Cooking Demonstration
Chef demonstrates key techniques and explains step-by-step how dishes are prepared, with focus on traditional Caribbean recipes and flavor building.
Tips from local experts:
- Stand where you can see the work surface clearly — the chef will highlight small technique details.
- Take notes or photos during the demo; many flavor tips (seasoning, timing) are not written down later.
- If you missed an ingredient name at the market, ask the chef during the demo for the local name and use.
Hands-On Cooking Session
Participants cook collectively under the chef's guidance. Tasks are shared so everyone contributes to preparing the full menu (soups, mains, sides, dessert).
Tips from local experts:
- Work with teammates: divide prep, cooking and plating tasks to keep pace and enjoy the social aspect.
- Ask the chef for technique tips if you're unsure — personalized help is part of the session.
- Keep your workstation tidy as you go — it speeds up service and helps with safety in a busy kitchen.
Dining and Discussion
Sit down as a group to enjoy the meal prepared during the session. Discuss flavors, textures, and cultural context with the chef and other participants.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a bit of each component and compare notes — the meal is designed for sharing and tasting.
- If you want a recipe or specific proportions, ask the chef during the meal — they often provide practical pointers.
- If you have leftovers, ask staff how they prefer you to pack them safely for travel (studio containers or your own).
Wrap-Up and Farewell
Brief closing remarks, thanks, and opportunity to ask final questions. Session concludes and participants depart.
Tips from local experts:
- Before you leave, confirm any recipe notes you want to take home so you don’t miss key measurements.
- Ask the chef for suggestions of local restaurants or dishes to try next in Cartagena if you want to continue tasting.
- Allow a couple of minutes after the session for photos with the group and to collect personal items from the studio.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Neighborhood, Culture, Meal |
