Cartagena: Rooftop Dance Class & Drinks in Getsemani

Summary

Cartagena rooftop dance class barefoot salsa merengue rum

You’ll dance barefoot on a hidden rooftop in Cartagena’s Getsemani neighborhood, learning salsa, merengue, bachata, and champeta with a local guide. Enjoy beers, wine, and Colombian rum as you move through each rhythm together. Expect laughter, sunset views over San Felipe fort, and new friends—plus a video tutorial to keep practicing back home.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to be barefoot on grass three stories up in Cartagena, but there I was, shoes off and toes wiggling in the cool green under the sky. The view from this private rooftop in Getsemani was all tangled wires, painted walls, and that old fort—San Felipe—just sitting there like it’s always watching. Our host, Camila, handed out cold beers before we even started dancing. She laughed when my friend tried to say “champeta” (honestly, none of us got it right the first time).

The music started low—salsa first—and Camila walked us through each step with so much patience I almost forgot how clumsy I am. There’s something about learning merengue while the sun drops behind those rooftops; you can smell someone grilling down the street and hear a kid shouting somewhere below. We took breaks for sips of local rum (stronger than I thought) and tried out Cartagena slang between turns. At one point I just stopped moving to watch everyone else spin around, all grins and sweaty hair.

By the time we got to bachata and champeta, my feet were tingling but I didn’t care—I was too busy laughing at myself. Camila kept saying “más suave” (softer), which made us all crack up because none of us could do anything softly by then. The light changed so fast up there; everything went gold for a few minutes and then suddenly it was just city lights flickering on below us. When it ended they sent us a video tutorial so we could remember the steps later, though honestly I think what stuck most was that feeling—bare feet, music everywhere, good people around you. Still kind of feels like a dream.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Learn Latin dances on rooftop

• Arrive at private rooftop in Getsemani
• Learn Salsa basic steps and turns
• Practice Merengue steps and choreography
• Learn Bachata steps and twists
• Practice Champeta, Cartagena's native dance
• Enjoy wine, beers, and typical rum
• Learn common Cartagena slang
• Receive video tutorial after class

Top questions

How long does the Cartagena rooftop dance class last?

The dance class lasts 3 hours on a private rooftop in Getsemani.

Which dances will I learn during the class?

You’ll learn salsa, merengue, bachata, and champeta—the native dance of Cartagena.

Are drinks included in this Cartagena dance class?

Yes—each person gets 2 beers, 2 glasses of wine, 2 shots of Colombian rum, and bottled water.

Is this rooftop dance class suitable for beginners?

Yes—it’s suitable for all fitness levels and beginners are welcome.

Where is the rooftop located?

The private rooftop is on the third floor of a house in Getsemani neighborhood.

Do I need special shoes or clothes?

No—you’ll dance barefoot on grass; comfortable clothes are best.

Will I get any materials after the class?

You’ll receive a video tutorial with all the steps learned during your session.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes—public transportation options are available near Getsemani.

What’s included

Your evening includes access to a private rooftop in Getsemani with grass flooring for barefoot dancing; expert instruction from local hosts; two beers, two glasses of wine, two shots of Colombian rum per person; bottled water; plus a follow-up video tutorial with all steps covered during your Cartagena dance class experience.