La Ruta del Pastel
A gastronomic Experience

When you say "pastel" in Spanish, it is often understood as a cake, the typical dessert for birthdays. However, in Cartagena, the pastel cartagenero is a traditional dish and a symbol of the Caribbean Colombian identity and heritage. Its origins blend Afro-descendant and Indigenous influences, reflecting the region’s rich cultural diversity.

More than just a dish, it is a family tradition, especially during celebrations, where its preparation strengthens the transmission of culinary knowledge. Additionally, it plays an important economic role as a key part of Cartagena’s gastronomic tourism. Wrapped in bijao leaves and steamed, its preparation is a testament to the history and resilience of Afro-Caribbean communities.

Thus, the pastel cartagenero not only delights the palate but also preserves the memory and cultural identity of the region. In this experience, you will have the opportunity to cook with local women

at their own restaurant: Don Gustazo while learning not only about gastronomy but also about the rich history of the Colombian Caribbean.

Our experiences at Cartagena Insider always include a donation to Femcolombia, a non-profit organization that has supported Afro-descendant and Indigenous communities in their fight for land rights for years.