From Strategy to Salsa: Elevate Your Corporate Event in Cartagena

If you're looking to elevate your next corporate event with a touch of tropical charm, historic elegance, and world-class hospitality, Cartagena, Colombia deserves a top spot on your shortlist.

A perfect blend of business and leisure. Cartagena offers a rare combination of colonial beauty and modern infrastructure. With its UNESCO-listed Old Town, vibrant Caribbean culture, and state-of-the-art conference venues, the city is an ideal setting for corporate retreats, incentive trips, product launches, and executive summits.

"A real change in pace and vibe from Bogota. Cartagena is buzzing, lively, colourful and passionate about dance. Not only that, it offers endless amazing options for your events, be that conferences or a straight out incentive." - James Bacon (CEO - We Are MEaT)

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Why Choose Cartagena, Colombia Over The Likes Of Mexico for Your Corporate Event?

When it comes to hosting corporate events in Latin America, Mexico often comes to mind first — but Cartagena, Colombia is the hidden gem you’ve been looking for. Here’s why we think Cartagena may just outshine its northern neighbour for your next company gathering, incentive trip, or executive retreat.

Seamless Accessibility - Especially for our US based clients. Just a short flight from major U.S. hubs like Miami, Atlanta, and New York, Cartagena is both accessible and exotic. The Rafael Núñez International Airport is only 15 minutes from the city centre, ensuring a smooth arrival experience for your guests.

From London to Cartagena: ~13–15 hours total travel time with one stop (commonly via Madrid or Bogotá) From major European cities (Paris, Frankfurt, Rome, etc.): 14–17 hours, depending on the route and layover time. One-stop connections are easily available via major international hubs such as:

• Madrid (MAD) – via Iberia or Avianca

• Amsterdam (AMS) – via KLM and codeshare partners

• Bogotá (BOG) – multiple daily flights connect Bogotá to Cartagena (1-hour domestic flight)

• Panama City (PTY) – Copa Airlines offers easy connections from European cities to Cartagena via Panama

• Miami, New York, or Atlanta – direct flights from Europe to the U.S. then connect to Cartagena

Competitive Pricing - Compared to Mexico’s more saturated and sometimes overpriced corporate event destinations, Cartagena often offers better value for luxury. You can stretch your event budget further without sacrificing quality. Especially when booking venues, accommodations, or group experiences.

Safety and Hospitality - Cartagena is one of Colombia’s safest cities, especially in tourist and business-friendly zones. The local hospitality industry is highly experienced in international tourism and corporate event management. You’ll feel welcome and well taken care of.

Less Crowded, More Exclusive - Mexico’s top destinations (Cancún, Cabo, Mexico City) are popular — and often crowded. Cartagena, while growing in international acclaim, still retains a sense of exclusivity and discovery. Your team won’t be lost among throngs of tourists, and your brand experience will feel more curated, more memorable.

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Hotels:

From international hotel brands like Hyatt and Sofitel to boutique properties nestled in the Old City, Cartagena offers lodging for every corporate budget. Many hotels provide integrated business services, on-site event staff, and stunning rooftop views for private functions.

We stayed at the Hyatt Regency just outside of the Old Town. Located in the ocean‑front Plaza Bocagrande complex, the Hyatt Regency Cartagena is just minutes from Plaza Bocagrande shopping, dining venues, and business offices, and approximately 15 minutes from Rafael Núñez International Airport, making logistics seamless for corporate groups.

Key features: 261 spacious guestrooms including 28 luxurious Regency Club suites, all offering sea or port views, high-speed complimentary Wi‑Fi, and on-site Regency Club lounge access. 

Over 1,200 m² of flexible meeting and event space, including a grand ballroom that accommodates up to approximately 600 attendees, plus six versatile breakout rooms and exhibition/foyer spaces. Equipped with high‑tech AV, video conferencing, staging, portable walls, and event lighting to support diverse setups and seamless execution. 

Exceptional food and beverage options include Kokaú, an interactive restaurant fusing local Colombian flavours with global culinary styles; Kokaú Bar for sunset mixology; and Amacagua Bar & Grill/Lounge poolside social dining experiences.

Wellness and recreation include Aqoral Spa (6 treatment rooms, hydrotherapy suites), a 24‑hour fitness centre, and three tiered pools overlooking the Caribbean—ideal for relaxation after meetings.

"Even though you are based outside of the old city walls. It's a great MICE / Conference venue that works perfectly for your business objectives, but is just a short transfer from the hustle and bustle of the town itself."

For those wanting real luxury and a great spot within the old town. We had a wonderful site visit and stunning lunch at the Sofitel Santa Clara. Set within a restored 17th‑century convent at the heart of Cartagena’s Old Town, Santa Clara offers an elegant blend of colonial architecture and French-inspired luxury — a venue that brings instant visual and cultural impact to any corporate gathering. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site enhances prestige and guest experience.

"Simply beautiful venue. If your budget allows, then seriously consider your stay here. Not only that, but you are right in the thick of the action when it comes to what the Old Town has to offer. At the very least, consider a team/group lunch or dinner here. Perfect for high end incentive groups and leadership teams retreats."

Just 40 minutes by boat and situated on Isla Barú, just off the coast of Cartagena. The Sofitel Barú this luxurious beachfront resort is nestled in pristine Caribbean surroundings. With turquoise waters, lush greenery, and exclusive serenity, the resort delivers a striking and memorable setting for corporate retreats or company gatherings. 

"We had a day excursion exploring the islands and spent a morning here. It's a fabulous resort. Although with the transfer, it's probably one where you base the majority of your time here and enjoy the facilities and vista. Then dip in and out of Cartagena as an option, not really one if you want the full city experience."

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Group Activities and Experiences:

Enjoy a private catamaran cruise to the Islas del Rosario or Barú—swim, snorkel along coral reefs, soak up the sun, and enjoy seaside team moments. Ideal for incentive rewards and relaxed off-site days.

As well as visiting the Baru hotel. We also stopped for lunch and a site visit of Atolon Beach Club. Nestled just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Cartagena’s La Bodeguita Pier, Atolón Beach Club sits on picturesque Isla Tierra Bomba. This tranquil beachfront venue offers private sands, a pool, spa options, and elevated service inspired by Mediterranean-style beach clubs.

"What a place..! Perfect for a group day off to relax and enjoy between conference days. Or why not have the perfect sunset reception event. It will certainly bring the wow factor and provide a real highlight to your event."

Lunatico Cooking School - this intimate cooking studio is run by Chef María (and associates such as Chef Daniel), who introduce guests to Colombian coastal cuisine in a clean, well-organised creative kitchen. A relaxed, multi-dish session where small groups (up to 12 participants) prepare regional specialties—such as ceviches, fish dishes, and coconut rice—and then eat together. Recipes are emailed afterward.

"As the name suggests, this is not your usual type of cooking experience. A gourmet cooking class with a view and so much fun!"

Art, Dance and Culture - like most areas of Colombia. Art, dance, colour play a huge role in local culture. From Salsa to performance dance, you can certainly see and feel this expression of energy around the city and beyond.

"Why not incorporate one of the many dance acts into you event? It will certainly add flair to your reception, gala dinner or go all in with a performance and dance class?"

History and significance of Cartagena - founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia, is one of the most historically rich and strategically important cities in Latin America. Located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena served as a vital port in the Spanish Empire for trade, military operations, and the transport of gold, silver, and enslaved Africans.

Cartagena was the first Colombian city to declare independence from Spain in 1811. However, it faced brutal retaliation before becoming officially free in the 1820s during the wars of independence.

Today, Cartagena is celebrated for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, and role as a cultural and tourism hub. Its history adds a deep layer of meaning to any corporate event, offering context, storytelling, and unique experiences grounded in resilience, trade, and transformation.

"There are many ways you can see and learn about the history behind Cartagena as a destination. Whether that be in a traditional event type street tour, or simply take some free time to walk around the city. It's certainly one of those places that has plenty of stories!"

Rum Tasting - El Arsenal: The Rum Box offers an immersive, upscale rum & chocolate tasting with strong cultural storytelling and warm hospitality—making it a standout activity for corporate groups in Cartagena. With exclusive group capacity, expert hosts, and a compelling sensory journey, it's ideal for elevating team bonding or VIP engagement experiences.

"Outstanding activity, but then as a rum lover I could be a little biased! Sample 8 (wow) premium Colombian rums—including sipping, shooting, and gradually mixed options. Each rum is paired with artisan Colombian chocolates and light savoury bites. Clearly this activity will not be suitable for some. But if you like a real tasting experience and rum, it's up there with the best you will experience!"

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Summary

Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is rapidly emerging as one of the most dynamic and culturally rich destinations for corporate meetings, incentives, and retreats. With its blend of colonial charm, modern infrastructure, and unique local experiences, Cartagena offers a compelling alternative to more saturated destinations like Mexico or the Caribbean islands.

It is a destination that blends authentic culture, modern convenience, and bespoke group experiences. It’s perfect for organisations looking to inspire teams, reward performance, or host high-impact events in a setting that’s as vibrant as it is unforgettable.

Let Cartagena’s charm work its magic on your team. Let's start planning!

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