Santa Marta, located on the northern coast of Colombia, is a city that combines history, culture, paradisiacal beaches and exuberant nature. Over the course of a week, you can explore the diversity of its landscapes and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage. Below, we present a seven-day itinerary to make the most of your visit to this jewel of the Colombian Caribbean.
Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration
Tomorrow
Start your adventure in Santa Marta with a morning walk through the historic center. Here, you can appreciate the colonial architecture and visit the Cathedral of Santa Marta, one of the oldest in South America. Don't miss the Plaza de Bolívar, where the statue of the Liberator Simón Bolívar is located.
Late
After lunch, head to the Tairona Gold Museum. This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the indigenous Tairona culture, offering an in-depth look at the pre-Columbian history of the region. End the afternoon with a visit to the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the hacienda where Simón Bolívar spent his last days.
Evening
For dinner, enjoy local cuisine at one of the many downtown restaurants. Try typical dishes such as ceviche, egg arepa or fried fish with patacones.
Day 2: Taganga Beach and Diving
Tomorrow
Taganga, a picturesque fishing village just a 15-minute drive from Santa Marta, is your destination for day two. Start with breakfast overlooking the sea and get ready for an exciting diving session. The crystal clear waters and abundant marine life make Taganga a great place for diving.
Late
After diving, relax on Taganga Beach. If you prefer something more active, you can snorkel or rent a kayak to explore the coast.
Evening
Return to Santa Marta for dinner and nightlife. Taganga also offers a lively night scene if you prefer to stay in town.
Day 3: Tayrona National Natural Park
Tomorrow
Dedicate the third day to the Tayrona National Natural Park, one of the most important natural parks in Colombia. Leave early to make the most of your visit. From the entrance of El Zaino, walk to the beaches of Cañaveral and Arrecifes.
Late
The walk continues towards the famous Cabo San Juan beach, one of the most emblematic of the park. Here you can swim in the crystal clear waters and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by stunning nature.
Evening
You can choose to return to Santa Marta or, for a more immersive experience, spend the night in one of the park's eco-cabins or campsites, allowing you to wake up to the sound of the jungle and the sea.
Day 4: Pueblito and Playa Cristal
Tomorrow
From Cabo San Juan, take a hike to Pueblito, an archaeological site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Tairona culture. The hike is challenging but worth it for the views and the rich history of the place.
Late
Return to the coast and head to Playa Cristal. This beach is famous for its clear, calm waters, ideal for snorkeling and observing the rich marine life.
Evening
Return to Santa Marta for dinner and rest after a day full of adventures.
Day 5: Minca and the Sierra Nevada
Tomorrow
Today, explore Minca, a small town in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. About 45 minutes by car from Santa Marta, Minca is known for its lush nature and cool climate. It begins with a visit to a coffee plantation to learn about the growing and production process of Colombian coffee.
Late
Enjoy lunch at one of Minca's cozy cafes and then head to the Pozo Azul and Marinka waterfalls. Both offer refreshing pools where you can swim and relax surrounded by the rainforest.
Evening
Return to Santa Marta for a quiet dinner. If you want an experience closer to nature, you can spend the night in one of Minca's eco-lodges.
Day 6: Rodadero and Aquarium
Tomorrow
Visit El Rodadero, one of the most popular beaches in Santa Marta. Here you can enjoy various water activities, such as jet ski, paddleboard and more. The beach is well equipped with restaurants and shops, ideal for a day of relaxation.
Late
Take a short boat trip from El Rodadero to the Aquarium and Museum of the Sea. This aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine species and offers educational exhibits about marine life and conservation.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants in El Rodadero, offering a variety of fresh seafood and a spectacular view of the sunset.
Day 7: Relaxation and Shopping
Tomorrow
Dedicate your last day in Santa Marta to relax and do some souvenir shopping. Stroll through the Public Market and 22nd Street, where you'll find local crafts, jewelry, and other souvenirs.
Late
Visit one last beach, like Playa Blanca, for a quiet day of sun and sea. This beach is perfect to rest before your departure.
Evening
Close your week with dinner at a luxury restaurant in Santa Marta. Enjoy one last night with good food, live music and the cozy atmosphere of this Caribbean city.
Santa Marta offers a unique experience that combines history, culture, nature and relaxation. This seven-day itinerary will allow you to explore the best of the region, from its paradisiacal beaches to the lush Sierra Nevada, passing through its vibrant urban life. Prepare your camera, your beach clothes and your hiking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable week in Santa Marta.