Santa Marta

Colombia's oldest city and gateway to the Lost City trek and Tayrona National Park adventures. It serves as both a cultural hub and the primary jumping-off point for the region's most famous natural attractions.

Things to do

• Lost City Trek — Multi-day guided hike through jungle to Ciudad Perdida, an ancient pre-Columbian settlement older than Machu Picchu with terraced ruins and stone structures.
• Tayrona National Park — Visit pristine beaches backed by jungle-covered mountains where you can hike, swim, and spot wildlife including howler monkeys and jaguars.
• Magdalena River Boat Tour — Scenic boat excursion along Colombia's largest river to spot dolphins, manatees, and experience the region's waterways and local fishing communities.
• Bello Horizonte Viewpoint — Hillside vantage point overlooking Santa Marta and the Caribbean coast with excellent sunset views and local vegetation.
• Indigenous Kogi Village Visit — Guided cultural tour to meet the Kogi people, descendants of the Lost City builders, learning about their traditions and relationship with the land.
• Minca Coffee Tour — Day trip to the mountain village of Minca to visit working coffee plantations, learn about cultivation, and taste freshly brewed local varieties.

Food to try

• Arepa con Queso — Fried cornmeal patty stuffed with local white cheese, a staple Caribbean breakfast and snack sold throughout the city.
• Ceviche de Camarones — Fresh shrimp cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and local peppers, reflecting Santa Marta's coastal culinary tradition.
• Patacones — Twice-fried green plantain slices served as a side dish with fresh lime and salt, ubiquitous in Caribbean Colombian cuisine.
• Cazuela de Mariscos — Seafood stew combining local catches like fish, shrimp, and octopus in a coconut broth seasoned with regional spices.
• Fresh Tropical Juice Stand — Street vendors blend local fruits like mango, passion fruit, and guanabana into refreshing juices, often with fresh water or milk.

Local customs & good to know

• Greet with Respect — Use formal greetings and titles (Don/Doña) with older locals; handshakes and polite conversation are important parts of Caribbean Colombian social etiquette.
• Dress for the Climate — Lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking boots are essential; the heat and humidity are intense, and many activities involve jungle terrain.
• Book Tours Through Established Operators — Use registered, reputable tour companies for Lost City and jungle trips rather than street solicitors to ensure safety and authentic experiences.
• Learn Basic Spanish — While some guides speak English, learning basic Spanish phrases is appreciated and helpful for deeper cultural interaction with locals.