Sustainable Accommodation in Getsemaní: How the Most Authentic Neighborhood Reinvents Lodging

Getsemaní: from oblivion to sustainable epicenter

If you walk through the streets of Getsemaní on a Friday night, you'll be hit by the smell of arepa de huevo, the sound of champeta coming from an open door, and the glow of colorful facades that look freshly painted. But twenty years ago, this neighborhood was a different story: dark streets, abandoned houses, and a dangerous reputation that scared off any tourist. Today, Getsemaní is the authentic heart of Cartagena, and its transformation was no accident. It was a process where the community, artists, and small entrepreneurs decided that development didn't have to mean losing identity.

What makes Getsemaní unique isn't just its murals or the Plaza de la Trinidad. It's that here, sustainable tourism isn't an Instagram trend, but a necessity born from the neighborhood itself. While the Centro Histórico filled up with luxury hotels that seem like bubbles isolated from reality, Getsemaní bet on a different model: accommodations that integrate the community, use solar energy, recycle, and above all, don't displace locals. In June 2026, this trend is more alive than ever, and I'm going to tell you how you can be part of it without falling into mass tourism.

Fun fact: Getsemaní was the first neighborhood in Cartagena to have a community organic waste collection system, driven by an alliance between hostels and the community action board. You won't find that in any travel agency brochure.

What does "sustainable accommodation" really mean in Getsemaní?

I'm not going to sell you greenwashing. A sustainable accommodation in Getsemaní isn't just having a "we recycle" sign or putting plants at the entrance. Here we're talking about places that demonstrate their commitment with concrete actions: solar panels that reduce energy consumption, rainwater harvesting systems, composting programs, and most importantly, fair labor policies for local employees. Additionally, many of these hostels and small hotels work directly with artisans, cooks, and guides from the neighborhood, ensuring that tourism money stays in the community.

If you come thinking sustainable means expensive or uncomfortable, you're in for a surprise. Here you'll find everything from hostels with bunk beds for 40,000 COP per night to small boutique hotels with international certifications. The key is to choose knowing what you're supporting.

Green hostels and hotels: certifications, recycling and solar energy

The pioneers: hostels making a difference

One of the first to take the step was Hostal Casa en el Agua, although technically it's in the Islas del Rosario, its logistics operation from Getsemaní includes sustainable practices. But within the neighborhood, Hostal Getsemaní Green is a benchmark: they installed solar panels in 2023 and reduced their electricity consumption by 40%. They have a recycling system that separates glass, plastic, and organics, and offer discounts to guests who arrive by bicycle or public transportation.

Another case is El Viajero Hostel Cartagena, which although part of a chain, its Getsemaní location implemented a "zero single-use plastics" program since 2022. They use returnable glass bottles, bulk soap dispensers, and organize beach clean-up walks every month. Guests who participate get a free drink at the hostel bar.

Boutique hotels with certifications

If you're looking for something more private, Hotel Casa San Agustín (on the border with the Centro Histórico) has LEED certification and uses solar energy to heat water in all its rooms. They also have a vertical garden that helps regulate the building's temperature. It's not cheap (from 350,000 COP per night), but it's an option for those who want luxury with a conscience.

On Calle Larga, Hotel Boutique La Merced works with a cooperative of local women who produce the room amenities: handmade soaps, aloe vera shampoo, and coconut creams. All without harsh chemicals and in biodegradable packaging.

How to know if an accommodation is truly sustainable

Don't be fooled by "greenwashing." Ask directly:

• Do they have solar panels or water-saving systems?
• Do they separate waste and have composting?
• Do they hire local staff and pay fair wages?
• Do they work with neighborhood suppliers?
• Do they have any certification (like Rainforest Alliance, Green Key, or from the Colombian Ministry of Commerce)?

If the receptionist can't answer, it's probably not as sustainable as they claim.

Where to stay to support the local community

Social projects transforming the neighborhood

One of the most powerful examples is La Heroica Hostel, a hostel that functions as a cooking school for local youth. Guests can take traditional Cartagena cooking classes (rice with coconut, fried fish, patacones) and 100% of the proceeds go to scholarships for kids to finish their studies. Additionally, the hostel has a community library open to all neighbors.

Another project is Casa Kolacho, a cultural space that also offers basic accommodation. It's not a hotel, but a family home that rents rooms to travelers. The owner, a local artist, gives graffiti and mural painting workshops. By staying there, you're directly financing Getsemaní's art scene.

The Fundación Casa de la Memoria has a "solidarity lodging" program where neighborhood families host tourists in their homes. It's the most authentic and most economical option (from 25,000 COP per night). Plus, it guarantees your money goes directly to the local economy, without intermediaries.

Accommodations that buy from local artisans

Many hostels have shops selling crafts made by neighbors. Hostal Casa de la Trinidad (facing Plaza de la Trinidad) has an agreement with weavers from the La Boquilla community. Every hammock you buy there is handmade and certified. The hostel also organizes visits to the artisans' workshop so you can see the process.

Local tip: If you stay at a place that sells crafts, ask if the artisan receives a fair percentage. Some hostels just put a 300% markup and pay the creator a pittance. Look for those with fixed prices and tags with the artisan's name.

How to minimize your footprint: transportation, consumption and responsible activities

Getting around without polluting

Getsemaní is walkable. Most attractions (Plaza de la Trinidad, the Centro Histórico, Castillo de San Felipe) are less than a 20-minute walk away. If you need to go further, use public transportation: city buses cost 2,300 COP and take you to Bocagrande, Marbella, or the Mercado de Bazurto. Avoid yellow taxis if you can; they not only pollute more but also tend to overcharge tourists. Apps like Uber or Didi work well and are more transparent.

For short distances, rent a bicycle. Several hostels offer free bikes or for 10,000 COP per day. There's also a public bike system called BiciCartagena, with stations at Plaza de la Trinidad and Parque Centenario.

Responsible consumption: where to eat and drink

Eat at places that use local and seasonal products. Restaurante La Mulata (Calle 25 # 10-22) works with fishermen from the Ciénaga de la Virgen and uses vegetables from the Getsemaní community garden. Dishes range from 15,000 COP (rice with coconut and fish) to 35,000 COP (a seafood platter). They don't use single-use plastics and donate used oil to make soap.

For a drink, avoid international chains. At Plaza de la Trinidad, there are street vendors selling natural juices (mango, corozo, tamarind) in recyclable cardboard cups. They cost 3,000 COP and are much tastier than any bottled drink.

• Take a mural tour with local guides. The Free Walking Tour Getsemaní (departs daily at 10am from Plaza de la Trinidad) is pay-what-you-want, and the guides are neighborhood artists.
• Visit the Mercado de Bazurto with a local guide. Don't go alone because it's easy to get lost and there are pickpockets. An organized tour costs about 40,000 COP and includes exotic fruit tasting.
• Participate in a beach clean-up day. Many hostels organize one a month. Ask at reception when the next one is.

Quick guide: best options by budget and values

For backpackers on a tight budget

• La Heroica Hostel: bunks from 30,000 COP. Includes basic breakfast and cooking classes.
• Hostal Getsemaní Green: bunks from 35,000 COP. They offer a discount if you arrive by bike.
• Fundación Casa de la Memoria (solidarity lodging): from 25,000 COP in a family home. Includes homemade breakfast.

For mid-range travelers

• El Viajero Hostel Cartagena: private room from 120,000 COP. Has a pool and bar, but with green policies.
• Casa Kolacho: private room from 80,000 COP. Ideal for art lovers.
• Hostal Casa de la Trinidad: private room from 100,000 COP. Near the main square.

For those seeking sustainable luxury

• Hotel Casa San Agustín: from 350,000 COP. LEED certification and vertical garden.
• Hotel Boutique La Merced: from 280,000 COP. Artisan amenities and support for local women.

Reference prices as of June 2026: These values may vary during high season (December-January, Easter Week) or events like the Hay Festival. Always check availability and updated rates on each accommodation's official pages.

Local tips for an authentic and responsible stay

• Bring your own reusable water bottle. Cartagena is scorching hot and you'll need to hydrate constantly. Many hostels have free filtered water stations. Buying plastic bottles every day is a huge waste.
• Don't buy from street vendors who use plastics. Especially on the beach, they offer water in bags or disposable cups. Better to bring your bottle and buy fruit at the market.
• Learn to say "no, thank you" firmly. In Getsemaní, you'll be offered tours, crafts, massages. If you're not interested, be polite but clear. Saying "no, thank you" and walking on is normal.
• Support women-led businesses. Look for restaurants and shops run by female heads of household. The Asociación de Mujeres de Getsemaní has a stall at Plaza de la Trinidad selling typical desserts (cocadas, enyucados, alegrías) from 2,000 COP.
• Don't use sunscreen that damages coral. If you go to the beach or snorkeling, buy biodegradable sunscreen. Pharmacies in the neighborhood sell brands like EcoSun or Alba Botanica.
• Respect siesta time. Between 1pm and 3pm, many local businesses close. It's not laziness, it's tradition. Take the opportunity to rest too.

Frequently asked questions

Is Getsemaní safe for a solo traveler?

Yes, Getsemaní is safe during the day and until 10pm in tourist areas (Plaza de la Trinidad, Calle Larga, Calle de la Media Luna). After that time, avoid dark and lonely streets. Use the same precautions as in any big city: don't flash valuables, don't walk with your phone in hand, and take an Uber if you return late. Hostels usually have security guards at the entrance.

Are sustainable accommodations more expensive than traditional ones?

Not necessarily. There are options for all budgets, from 25,000 COP in family homes to 350,000 COP in boutique hotels. What is true is that many sustainable accommodations invest in infrastructure (solar panels, recycling systems) that reduces costs in the long run, but the price to the guest is usually competitive. Always compare: a green hostel can cost the same as a conventional one, but with better practices.

How can I make sure a hostel really supports the local community?

Ask directly at reception if they work with neighborhood suppliers, if they hire local staff, and if they have any social project. You can also look for reviews on Google or TripAdvisor where other travelers mention these practices. Another sign: if the hostel has a craft shop, ask if the artisans receive a fair percentage or if the hostel keeps everything. Transparent places will always show you certificates or written agreements.

Find sustainable accommodation in Getsemaní that supports local artisans. It's not just a place to sleep, it's a way of traveling that respects the neighborhood, its people, and its history. Choose well, and your stay will be much more than a vacation: it will be a real exchange.

Historical or contextual introduction

Getsemaní, a neighborhood that witnessed the history and transformation of Cartagena, has become an epicenter of local culture and creativity. Originally, this area was inhabited by lower-class people and was associated with the city's port life. In colonial times, it was a passageway for merchants and sailors, which left a deep mark on its architecture and culture. Over time, Getsemaní has evolved, but it still retains an authentic air that attracts both tourists and locals.

Today, the neighborhood is in the midst of a renaissance. Old colonial houses have been restored and transformed into hostels and boutiques, but without losing their essence. The local community has played a crucial role in this transformation, promoting more sustainable tourism that respects the culture and traditions of the place.

To truly appreciate the spirit of Getsemaní, it's helpful to know some historical and cultural aspects that enrich the experience of any visitor:

• Colonial Architecture: The colorful facades and cobblestone streets reflect Cartagena's rich historical heritage. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of places like Plaza de la Trinidad, a vibrant meeting point.
• Musical Culture: Champeta, a musical genre that emerged in Afro-Colombian communities, is a fundamental part of Getsemaní's identity. Hearing it live in the squares is an experience you can't miss.
• Local Gastronomy: Trying arepa de huevo, a typical dish of the region, is a must. Look for street vendors and don't hesitate to ask for the day's recommendations!

Exploring Getsemaní with this understanding of the historical context not only enriches your visit but also connects you with the local community and its vibrant history.

Where to eat or drink

La Cocina de Pepina

This restaurant is a classic in Getsemaní, known for its focus on Caribbean cuisine with a local twist. Its dishes, like fried fish and rice with coconut, are unmissable. Insider Tip: Try the "camarón al ajillo" (garlic shrimp), which isn't always on the menu but is a delight that only true connoisseurs order.

El Barón

A place that combines contemporary ambiance with tradition. It offers a variety of cocktails that highlight local flavors. Insider Tip: Don't leave without trying their "mojito de maracuyá" (passion fruit mojito), a refreshing version that captures the tropical essence of the place.

Malagana Café

Perfect for a coffee or a relaxed brunch. This café stands out for its single-origin coffee and vegetarian options. Insider Tip: Be sure to order the "arequipe de la casa" (house-style dulce de leche) as a side; it's a delight that perfectly complements the coffee.

La Mulata

A restaurant offering a fusion of Caribbean and Colombian flavors. Its dishes are made with fresh, local ingredients. Insider Tip: The "ensalada de mariscos" (seafood salad) is a light and delicious option, ideal for sharing while enjoying the warmth of the atmosphere.