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Cultural & heritage · Santa Marta

Top 10 cultural & heritage things to do in Santa Marta

Heritage walks, museum days, temple complexes, and the kind of guides who explain why a place matters rather than reciting dates. The cultural side of Santa Marta, paced for actual seeing.

  1. Seviaka Indigenous People and Tubing Tour in Palomino, Santa Marta1

    1. Seviaka Indigenous People and Tubing Tour in Palomino

    5.0· 10 reviews

    If you enjoy exploring the less known treasures of a region: you are in the right place. In this tour you will go to the Seviaka indigenous town. You will have a motorbike ride. And you will also talk to a Kogui indigenous leader who will teach you about their cosmology, customs and beliefs. Besides this cultural approach, you will enjoy a tire ride down the Palomino River and its rapids to enjoy surrounding nature in a different way. - A 3-hour hike among nature - The unique experience of learning and interacting with the indigenous of the Seviaka town - A trip by motorbike - Tubing downstream the river - A lesson about medicinal plants and indigenous beliefs and customs.

  2. Hike for 4 days to the Lost City, Santa Marta, Santa Marta2

    2. Hike for 4 days to the Lost City, Santa Marta

    5.0· 3469 reviews· 4 days

    We have guides from the region instructed by SENA, with years of experience. Trained to provide cultural, historical and anthropological information on indigenous communities and the area. We work hand in hand with indigenous and peasant communities. We are committed to supporting the development of the region through contributions that contribute to a better quality of life for the locals.

  3. Tayrona Park Hike And Beach Day, Santa Marta3

    3. Tayrona Park Hike And Beach Day

    4.9· 93 reviews· 10 hours

    If you're visiting Colombia, Tayrona National Park is an absolute must. This is your chance to explore one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders, with trails that lead you through lush jungle and offer views of the Caribbean unlike anywhere else. You’ll stop at beaches like La Piscina, Arrecifes and Cabo San Juan, where you’ll be immersed in an idyllic haven where soft golden sands meet the turquoise sea. The calm waters beckon for a refreshing swim, while the stunning rocky outcrop provides breathtaking vistas of the ocean and sky. With a local guide by your side, you’ll not only explore these beautiful spots but also uncover the rich history and natural wonders that make this park so special. Skip the lines and let us take care of the details, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime. Tayrona is not just a destination, it’s an experience that will leave you with memories you’ll cherish forever.

  1. Food Tour in Santa Marta Old City Half-Day, Santa Marta4

    4. Food Tour in Santa Marta Old City Half-Day

    4.9· 18 reviews

    Immerse yourself in the real experience of Santa Marta city with our food tour. Visit the public market and go beyond touristic places to give yourself the chance to taste new things. Let our guide walk you through the best food stands and try the Caribbean cuisine and its people: bollo, patacon, carimañola, ceviche, coconut rice. Although those names are hardly relatable to something common or widely known, we are sure that it will be a gastronomic experience to remember. • A walk along Santa Marta’s historical center • A full immersion inside the Public Market of the city • Samples and samples of typical foods and drinks of the region (fruits, desserts, finger foods, refreshments) • A fun and interactive experience with locals and their stories • Memories full of senses about colors, smells and flavors of this Caribbean city

  2. Sunset in the bay of Santa Marta in a sailboat, Santa Marta5

    5. Sunset in the bay of Santa Marta in a sailboat

    4.9· 28 reviews· 3 hours

    Sail back in time aboard a very well preserved 38 foot classic sailboat, our crew is friendly by nature; he's really kind. The bay of Santa Marta is qualified as one of the most beautiful in America, the view of the historic city from the sea, provides a good experience while you meet new people and our crew. We like to sail, we have years of experience so that the sensation is the most pleasant. Our boat is a 38-foot (12-meter) Shannon with details and finishes in wood and bronze, it is a journey through time, from the five senses. The smell of the interior, the touch of the wood, the interior design, the sound of the machine, are exponents of the best designers and industrialists of the 80's. After an hour of navigation (approx) we drop anchor to socialize and drink a national craft beer or a cocktail (screwdriver). We have a bar sale. Sailing is like flying across the sea.

  3. Santa Marta Street Food Tour: 7 Tastings with a Local Guide, Santa Marta6

    6. Santa Marta Street Food Tour: 7 Tastings with a Local Guide

    4.8· 41 reviews

    In this experience you will explore the authentic flavors of the Caribbean coast of Colombia with a local guide. We visit 7 different stops in the Historic Center of Santa Marta, tasting traditional dishes such as fresh zapote fruit, creamy local avocado, handmade arepas from Doña Ketty, the famous cayeye from Doña Yami, coconut sweets, specialty Colombian coffee at GNAM Café, and Caribbean‑style patacones at a local restaurant. Along the way, you’ll meet family‑owned vendors, learn about regional ingredients, and discover how food reflects the history and culture of Santa Marta. This tour is friendly for vegetarian and vegan travelers, and we eat enough for both lunch and dinner—so come hungry and ready to enjoy!

  4. Historic Center Bike Tour, Santa Marta7

    7. Historic Center Bike Tour

    4.8· 118 reviews· 2 hours

    Join us for an unforgettable bike tour through the heart of Santa Marta, where history and culture come alive under the warm Caribbean sun. As we pedal through the city’s charming streets, you'll discover hidden gems and immerse yourself in the vibrant local life. Feel the essence of Santa Marta as we explore its rich gastronomy, connect with locals, and uncover the stories that have shaped this beautiful city. Whether it’s the breathtaking views, the lively atmosphere, or the fascinating history, every moment of this tour is designed to leave you with lasting memories. Don’t miss out on this unique adventure! Book your spot today and experience the true soul of Santa Marta in a way you’ll never forget.

  5. MINCA: Eco-Walk, Coffee Farm, Waterfall & Chocolate Experience!, Santa Marta8

    8. MINCA: Eco-Walk, Coffee Farm, Waterfall & Chocolate Experience!

    4.8· 154 reviews

    - Local Authenticity: This is not a mass-market commercial tour; it´s a meaningful exchange of educational knowledge with local families who protect the land. - Sustainability: From the organic coffee and cacao to the locally sourced lunch, every step supports the region's circular economy. - Environmental Consciousness: We practice "Leave No Trace" principles, ensuring the absolute protection of this natural sanctuary. - Ancestral Well-being: The use of organic foods and contact with refreshing mountain waters offer a vital recharge that goes far beyond simple recreation. - Honoring Local Knowledge: We recognize our guides and families as custodians of living heritage, placing deep value on their ancestral wisdom.

  6. Santa Marta City Tour + Gold Museum, Santa Marta9

    9. Santa Marta City Tour + Gold Museum

    4.7· 16 reviews· 3 hours

    Santa Marta is a magical city known for its diversity and for making all its visitors feel at home. In this walking tour, you will explore its history and traditions among its streets and houses. Visit the Tayrona Gold Museum, Parque de los Novios, the Malecon, the Cathedral, and many other places. This experience includes more fun people to walk with, and a very knowledgeable local guide. • Historical landmarks about Santa Marta City • A walk through Tayrona Gold Museum • Visiting Santa Marta’s bay or Malecon, and the main parks and squares • A brief lesson about Colombian diversity through its history and guide’s recommendations

  7. Palomino Horseback Riding Tour, Santa Marta10

    10. Palomino Horseback Riding Tour

    3.7· 3 reviews· 2.5 hours

    There is no better way to fully appreciate the paradisiac view from Palomino than horseback riding across the beach. Let our beautiful horses take to you on an unparalleled ride and enjoy the sea breeze refreshing your skin. Choose the right hour and you can be amazed by the most marvelous sunsets and sunrises. You can delight yourself for up to 2 hours and dare to experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The sun rising or setting over the horizon of Palomino Beach The unique connection and understanding with your horse Learn historical data about the importance of Palomino for the economy of La Guajira Unique coastal views in the world Get away from worries and city frenzy

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