Cartagena: Rum & Chocolate Tasting at Lunático Studio

Summary

Colombian rum tasting paired with craft chocolate in Cartagena

You’ll join a small group at Lunático Studio in Cartagena for a guided rum & chocolate tasting led by a local host. Sample eight unique Colombian rums paired with craft chocolate, learn stories behind each spirit, and make your own cocktail while enjoying city views from the terrace. It’s relaxed, hands-on, and surprisingly fun—you might even leave with new friends.

What’s the experience like?

I never thought I’d care about the difference between rums from Barranquilla or Medellín, but here I was at Lunático Studio in Cartagena, sniffing a glass and trying not to look clueless. Our host, Camila, started us off easy—she told us how sugar cane first came to Colombia and then handed out these tiny squares of dark chocolate that smelled almost floral. The room was bright, but there was this faint molasses scent everywhere, kind of sticky-sweet. Honestly, I didn’t expect to laugh so much—especially after my attempt at describing one of the rums as “banana bread but spicy.” Camila just grinned and said that’s actually pretty close.

We tasted eight different rums—some sharp and peppery, others mellow like caramel—and each had its own little story. I liked how Camila would pause to let us guess the flavors before she explained them. She mentioned Renato Molo (the guy who designed the tasting), but it never felt formal or stiff. At one point, someone asked if Colombians really drink rum with chocolate; she just shrugged and said not always, but “it’s more fun this way.” The chocolate pairings were spot on—one bite made the next sip taste completely different. There was a breeze coming through the terrace doors and you could see Castillo San Felipe glowing in the late afternoon light.

After the tasting we got to mix our own rum cocktail (mine was way too sweet—I still drank it). People wandered out onto the terrace with their glasses; someone pointed out La Popa hill in the distance. For a second it went quiet except for some laughter from inside. I’m still thinking about that view and how warm everything felt—even though I barely knew anyone there when we started.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boutique rum and chocolate tasting

• Learn rum, sugar cane, cacao history
• Taste 8 unique rums and chocolates
• Create your own rum cocktail
• Enjoy cocktail at studio or terrace
• View Castillo San Felipe and la Popa

Top questions

How many rums do you taste during the Cartagena rum & chocolate experience?

You’ll taste eight different Colombian rums paired with local craft chocolates.

Is there a guide or host during the rum tasting?

Yes, a trained local host guides you through each tasting and pairing.

Where does the Cartagena rum tasting take place?

The experience is held at Lunático Studio in Cartagena, which has a terrace overlooking Castillo San Felipe.

Do you get to make your own cocktail on this tour?

Yes, after the tastings you can create your own rum-based cocktail using what you’ve learned.

Are food or snacks included besides chocolate?

The main food pairing is Colombian craft chocolate served with each rum; water is also provided.

Is this activity suitable for children or pregnant travelers?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers; infants or small children can attend if needed but it’s focused on spirits.

Are service animals allowed at Lunático Studio?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the experience.

How big are groups for this Cartagena rum & chocolate tour?

The venue can host up to 50 guests for private events but regular tastings are usually smaller groups.

What’s included

Your day includes guided tastings of eight Colombian rums paired with local craft chocolates at Lunático Studio in Cartagena, all fees and taxes covered, plus water throughout. You’ll also get to mix your own cocktail before relaxing on their terrace overlooking Castillo San Felipe—no hidden extras along the way.