Plan the Perfect Group Trip to Cartagena with Ease

Whether you’re organizing an unforgettable bachelor or bachelorette weekend, a sun-soaked family vacation, or an indulgent escape with friends, planning a group trip should feel exciting—not overwhelming. That’s where Cartagena de Indias shines. With its unbeatable combination of historic charm, island vibes, and VIP experiences, it’s no wonder Cartagena has become a favorite destination for American travelers looking for a group getaway with a luxurious twist.

But how do you plan a smooth, seamless group trip to a city buzzing with culture, nightlife, and adventure? The answer: with the right guidance, and ideally, the right partner—like Cartagena Crew.

This blog is your complete guide to planning a group trip to Cartagena, covering everything from where to stay and what to do, to how to organize the details (without losing your mind). Whether you’re the group’s designated planner or just along for the ride, we’re here to help you make it legendary.

Why Cartagena is the Ultimate Group Destination

Before we get into the logistics, let’s talk about why Cartagena is such a perfect fit for group travel.

✨ Something for Everyone

In Cartagena, history lovers, foodies, beachgoers, nightlife enthusiasts, and luxury seekers all find their happy place. Want a cultural walking tour in the morning and a yacht party by afternoon? Done. Prefer a lazy beach day followed by rooftop cocktails? You got it. Cartagena has range.

✈️ Easy Access from the U.S.

With direct flights from cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, New York, and Atlanta, Cartagena is more accessible than many Caribbean destinations. Most U.S. visitors can stay up to 90 days without a visa (just be sure to check the U.S. State Department Travel Advisory before your trip).

💃 Culture + Nightlife + Relaxation

The blend of Afro-Caribbean culture, colonial Spanish architecture, and beach-town energy makes Cartagena incredibly dynamic. You can spend your days diving into the city’s rich history and your nights dancing under the stars—without ever repeating the same experience twice.

Step 1: Choose the Right Place to Stay

When it comes to group travel, accommodation can make or break your experience. Cramped hotel rooms? Not ideal. Disconnected rentals? Even worse. What you need is a place that brings everyone together while giving everyone their space.

That’s why we recommend booking one of the stunning Cartagena luxury rentals.

Why Private Villas Are Ideal for Groups:

• Spacious layouts with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms

• Private rooftops, pools, and common areas

• Full kitchens and dining areas for meals together

• On-site staff including chefs, bartenders, and housekeepers

• Located in walkable areas like Centro Histórico, Getsemaní, and Bocagrande

Whether your vibe is tropical elegance or full-blown fiesta, we have the perfect villa to match. And yes—our concierge team will handle everything, from airport transfers to birthday balloons.

Step 2: Build a Flexible, Fun-Filled Itinerary

The best group trips include a mix of scheduled activities and downtime. Not everyone has the same energy level every day, so building in variety is key. Here are the top activities to consider when planning your Cartagena getaway, all of which can be arranged through Cartagena Crew.

🚤 Island Day: The Island Hopping Experience

This is the highlight of nearly every group trip. Rent a private yacht or boat and cruise to Islas del Rosario, Cholón, and Barú. Whether you’re swimming in crystal-clear waters or turning up at Cartagena’s iconic party island, this is where unforgettable memories are made.

Boat rentals in Cartagena include:

• A captain and bilingual crew

• Coolers, ice, and Bluetooth sound systems

• Snorkel gear, drinks, and chef-prepared meals (optional)

• Add-ons like DJs, photographers, and floating toys

They’ll help you pick the right vessel based on your group size and style—whether it’s a relaxing day or a floating fiesta.

🏛️ Cultural Tours & Historical Adventures

Looking for something meaningful and enriching? Cartagena’s rich history makes it ideal for private cultural tours. Explore the Walled City, walk through Getsemaní’s street art, and visit local museums like the Museo del Oro Zenú.

With Cartagena’s activities, you can book:

• Guided walking tours of Centro Histórico

• Street art tours and photography walks

• Cooking classes with local chefs

• Afro-Caribbean music and dance workshops

To learn more about local heritage, check out the Ministry of Culture of Colombia.

🧖 Spa Days & Wellness

Yes, you can pamper yourself in Cartagena. They offer in-villa massages, sunset yoga sessions, and even full spa days on a private island. Ideal for the day after a big night out or for guests who prefer wellness over wild.

🍹 Nightlife & Celebrations: Cartagena After Dark

When the sun sets over the terracotta rooftops of Cartagena de Indias, the city transforms into something even more magical. The warm night air carries the rhythm of salsa, the sparkle of rooftop lounges comes to life, and the streets of Getsemaní and the Walled City fill with laughter, music, and celebration.

Whether you’re here to toast a milestone, let loose with friends, or experience the city’s iconic nightlife scene in style, Cartagena Crew brings you right to the heart of it—with VIP access, curated experiences, and zero stress.

Here’s how to make your nights in Cartagena unforgettable:

🥂 VIP Access to Rooftops & Clubs

Skip the long lines and avoid the hassle. They arrange priority entry and table reservations at Cartagena’s most sought-after nightlife spots, from trendy rooftop bars with panoramic views to hidden speakeasies and late-night clubs pulsing with Caribbean beats.

• Want a sunset cocktail at Alquímico or Movich Hotel’s rooftop? Done.

• Craving a bottle-service night at La Movida or 51 Sky Bar? They’ll reserve your VIP table and have it stocked before you arrive.

• Looking for something more intimate? They know the best lounges and hidden gems, too.

🍸 Private Bartenders at Your Villa

Prefer to party at your place? They’ll bring the bar to you. Our private bartenders and mixologists will craft personalized cocktails, host tasting sessions, and even teach your group how to make signature Colombian drinks like aguardiente sours or tropical mojitos.

It’s perfect for:

• Pre-gaming before a night out

• Hosting a welcome mixer

• Creating a laid-back, elegant vibe right in your Cartagena luxury rental

💃 Salsa Lessons Before You Hit the Town

Nothing gets the party started like dancing—and in Cartagena, that means salsa. Our friendly local instructors will come to your villa or meet you at a rooftop to lead a fun, all-levels class that gets everyone moving.

No rhythm? No worries. It’s more about fun and connection than perfect footwork.

🎶 Live Music & Performers at Your Rental

Want a private concert, drum circle, or DJ set under the stars? They coordinate live musicians, dancers, and entertainers for unforgettable moments right at your villa. Picture a cumbia band playing by the pool, or a DJ spinning tracks on your rooftop with custom lighting and décor. Whatever your celebration calls for, they bring the vibe.

🎉 Celebrating Something Special? We’ve Got You.

Whether it’s a birthday, proposal, honeymoon, girls’ trip, or engagement celebration, they go beyond expectations:

• Custom décor and floral arrangements

• Themed party setups (from elegant to wild)

• Luxury cakes, personalized gifts, and surprises

• Professional photographers and videographers

• And yes—fireworks shows on request

Just tell them the occasion, and they’ll create a night that lives forever in your group chat and your memory.

Cartagena’s nights are unforgettable—but with Cartagena Crew, they’re next level.
Ready to celebrate? 👉 Start planning your nightlife experience here and let’s raise a glass to the good life in Cartagena.

Step 3: Organize Group Logistics Like a Pro

Let’s face it—planning for a group is a lot. But don’t worry—they  make it easier with concierge-level services that keep your trip running smoothly from the moment you land.

What Cartagena Crew Can Coordinate:

• Airport transportation (vans, SUVs, luxury cars)

• Private chefs and grocery stocking

• Restaurant reservations and table service

• Daily housekeeping

• Security and bilingual local hosts

Need to accommodate dietary preferences, mobility concerns, or special requests? Just tell us. They customize everything.

Step 4: Know the Best Time to Go

Cartagena is beautiful all year, but some seasons are better depending on your group’s vibe and availability.

💡 Weekends are best for nightlife, while weekdays offer more peaceful cultural tours and less crowded museums.

Check the CDC’s Colombia Travel Guide for health and travel tips before you go.

Step 5: Let Cartagena Crew Handle the Details

You’ve got a group to coordinate, and maybe not a lot of time to spare. That’s why working with Cartagena Crew makes all the difference.

With us, you get:

• A dedicated planner for your entire group

• A fully custom itinerary that fits everyone’s vibe

• VIP access to Cartagena’s best rentals, boats, restaurants, and events

• Seamless communication with bilingual hosts

• The peace of mind that every detail is covered

They’re not just booking tours—they’re creating an unforgettable journey tailored to your crew.

FAQs: Group Travel to Cartagena

1. How many people can a group rental accommodate?
   Our luxury rentals in Cartagena range from charming villas for 6–8 guests to expansive colonial mansions that comfortably sleep 20+ people. Some even offer multiple common areas, rooftop pools, and event spaces perfect for group dinners or private celebrations. Just let us know your group size and preferences—they’ll match you with the ideal space that checks all the boxes.
2. Can Cartagena Crew help with split payments?
   Yes! We know that group trips often mean one person ends up coordinating payments—which can be stressful. That’s why we offer flexible, group-friendly payment options, including shared invoices and deposits per guest. They’ll work with you to simplify the process, so no one gets stuck covering the entire bill upfront.
3. Is Cartagena safe for groups?
   Definitely. The areas we operate in—Centro Histórico, Getsemaní, and the island zones—are well-traveled, secure, and patrolled, with a strong tourism infrastructure. We also only partner with vetted service providers, from drivers and chefs to guides and security teams, so your group can focus on fun—not logistics or safety concerns.
4. Can you help with special celebrations?
   Absolutely! Planning a birthday, bachelorette, anniversary, proposal, or friend reunion? We handle all the magic: decor, catering, DJs, private chefs, photographers, custom cakes—even fireworks. Whatever you’re celebrating, they’ll help you make it unforgettable.
5. Are activities suitable for all ages?
   Yes. We offer a diverse mix of experiences that cater to all age groups. Whether it’s a family-friendly cooking class, a relaxing island day with shaded lounging, or an energetic ATV ride for teens and adults, we tailor each itinerary to your group’s needs, mobility, and interests.
6. How far in advance should we book?
   For peak season (December–April) and popular holidays, we recommend booking 3–6 months in advance to lock in your preferred villa and activities. For smaller or off-season groups, 4–6 weeks is usually enough. That said, last-minute options are often available—they’ll always do our best!
7. What happens if the weather changes plans?
   We closely monitor the forecast and always have backup plans. Whether that means rescheduling a boat day or shifting a rooftop dinner to an indoor courtyard, we’re flexible and proactive so your experience isn’t impacted.
8. Can we mix luxury and adventure in one trip?
   Absolutely. That’s actually our specialty. Many of our groups combine spa mornings, cultural afternoons, and evening yacht parties into one balanced itinerary. We make it seamless and customizable, so everyone gets their version of the perfect trip.
9. Do we need to speak Spanish?
   Nope. Our team, guides, and concierge staff are bilingual, and we ensure that every part of your trip—from airport pickup to your last night out—is smooth, inclusive, and easy to navigate in English.
10. What’s the best way to get started?
    It’s simple: Contact us here, tell us a few trip details (dates, group size, vibe), and our expert planners will take care of the rest—from villa selection to activity planning and everything in between.

Ready to Plan the Perfect Cartagena Group Trip?

You bring the group—they’ll bring the magic.

From private boat rentals and rooftop dinners to cultural tours and wild nights out, Cartagena Crew turns any group trip into something unforgettable. Whether you’re here to celebrate, explore, relax, or connect, they’ll help you plan it all—your way, stress-free, and with style.

🎉 Start planning your group experience now and let us help you create the Cartagena trip of a lifetime.