Cartagena, Colombia
group trip - Jan 2026

THE EXPERIENCE
Soccer tourism + cultural immersion in Cartagena, Colombia!

Join us for a unique 10-day experience combining the energy of a fútbol tournament with the beauty and rhythm of Colombian culture!

Can’t stay the full 10 days? No problem — come for the dates that work for you! 
OVERVIEW
Dates: January 8–18, 2026.

This is a 10-day cultural immersion and soccer experience based in Cartagena, Colombia. Final trip details - including pricing, full itinerary, and accommodations will be confirmed by the end of August 2025. 

The tournament will feature 4 teams: two traveling teams (USA and international guests) and two local Cartagena teams.

Each team will play a minimum of 4 matches - 3 in the group stage and 1 in either the championship or 3rd place game. There are no semifinals.

Group stage matches: January 12–14 (Mon–Wed) at three different 8v8 fields. La Rosca, La Cantera, and La Favela.

Championship + 3rd place match: January 16 (Friday) - full 11v11 match at a small stadium. Estadio de San Fernando.

Each game day will be held at a different field for a unique local experience. This trip is open to all skill levels, and we’ll do our best to make sure teams are balanced for competitive but fun play.

In addition to the official men’s tournament:  We'll hold co-ed pickup and friendly matches at the tournament fields and on the beach throughout the week. If there's enough interest,  we’ll also organize a women’s tournament with two visiting teams and two local women's teams from Cartagena.

Whether you're coming to compete, kick the ball around casually,  or simply soak in the experience — you’re welcome here.

Accommodations will be located in one of Cartagena’s most iconic neighborhoods: El Centro, Marbella, El Laguito, or Bocagrande.
ITINERARY
The itinerary is flexible. You're free to explore on your own at any time. Cultural travelers are welcome — you don’t have to play to join. Please review the trip timeline at the bottom of this page.
THE GUIDES
Santiago is a Colombian-born naturalized American based in the Washington D.C. metro area. When he's not organizing fútbol games, he's traveling throughout Colombia and exploring his roots. Santiago helps run Total90FC, a men’s amateur team with over 70 active players, and is now expanding his passion for fútbol and culture into international travel experiences.
HOW TO JOIN?
Direct message on Instagram @santi_lopera_ruiz 
or email at Loperasx@gmail.com

A deposit will be required to confirm your spot. 

The deposit will go toward securing:

  • Drivers and security 
  • Tournament fees
  •  Entry fees to selected attractions
  • Some dinners and meals

Exact deposit amount and payment 
schedule will be announced shortly.
VISA INFORMATION
At the time of writing, U.S., Canadian, most European, and many Latin American passport holders do not require a VISA to enter Colombia for stays of up to 90 days. Entry requirements may vary slightly by country, so we recommend checking with your local Colombian consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Regardless of nationality, all travelers should ensure: 1) Your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date. 2) You may be asked to show proof of  return travel upon departure. We will update this section regularly with verified visa information.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who should come on this trip?
Anyone interested in soccer, culture, and community. You don’t need to play to join.

Is it safe to visit Cartagena?
Yes, Cartagena is one of Colombia’s most visited and safest tourist cities. Our group will have security and local support.

Are Colombians friendly to foreigners?
Absolutely. Colombians are known for being warm, welcoming, and enthusiastic about sharing their culture.

What are the hotels and airbnb's like?
We aim for comfortable, modern accommodations with A/C, Wi-Fi, and walkable access to key sites.

What is the food like?
Fresh seafood, Caribbean flavors, arepas, juices, and much more.

What is the best way to get there?
Most travelers will fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG).

Do I need to play soccer to come?
Nope. You're welcome to join for the cultural experience only.

Will I have free time?
Yes! The itinerary is flexible. You’re encouraged to explore, rest, or join as much as you want.

What should I bring?
A packing list will be provided closer to the trip date.

Have more questions? 
Direct message on Instagram @santi_lopera_ruiz or email Loperasx@gmail.com

DAY 1 • Thursday • Arrival

Group arrival in Cartagena, airport pickups arranged - Hotel check-in and time to settle in - Light welcome hangout: rooftop drinks overlooking the city

1/8/2026

DAY 2 • Friday • Beach & Soccer

Day trip to Bora Bora Beach Club (Rosario Islands) - Evening soccer scrimmage with local Total90 team (7:00–9:00 PM) - Optional nightlife experience

1/9/2026

DAY 3 • Saturday • Beach & Soccer

Day trip to Playa Blanca (Baru) - Evening soccer scrimmage with local Total90 team (7:00–9:00 PM) - Optional nightlife experience

1/10/2026

DAY 4 • Sunday • Personal day

Relax, explore, choose your vibe - Beach day at Boca Grande - Explore the Walled City (El Centro) - Optional group dinner in El Centro.

1/11/2026

DAY 5 • Monday • Tournament Game 1

Morning: Warm-up practice and recovery - Afternoon: Relax and hang out - Evening: Tournament Game 1 (8v8, 7:00-8:00pm & 8:00–9:00 PM) - Post-game: Bar hop

1/12/2026

DAY 6 • Tuesday • Tournament Game 2

Morning: Gym workout - Afternoon: Relax and hang out - Evening: Tournament Game 2 (8v8, 7:00-8:00pm & 8:00–9:00 PM) - Post-game: Chiva tour and rooftop vibes

1/13/2026

DAY 7 • Wednesday • Tournament Game 3

Morning: Chill and recharge - Afternoon: Explore a new area or visit a museum - Evening: Tournament Game 3 (8v8, 7:00-8:00pm & 8:00–9:00 PM) - Post-game: Bar hop round 2

1/14/2026

Day 8 (Thursday) • Free Day + Sunset Cocktails

Morning/Afternoon: Choose from the activity list or relax - Evening: Watch the sunset from Hotel Santa Clara’s rooftop with cocktails

1/15/2026

Day 9 • Friday • Championship Friday

Morning/Afternoon: Relax and recharge - Evening: Third Place Match (11v11, 7:00–8:00 PM) & Championship Match (11v11, 8:00–9:00 PM) - Celebration and optional night out

1/16/2026

Day 10 • Saturday • Final Beach Day + Wrap-Up

Day trip to Rosario Islands - Group dinner at Sky 51 Bar

1/17/2026

Day 10 • Sunday • Departure Day

Airport transfers arranged throughout the day

1/18/2026