Discover Santa Marta, Columbia’s oldest city, and enjoy an excellent tour of the many cultural and historical sights.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Santa Marta can feel like paradise at times. This picturesque coastal city in northern Columbia sits on the Caribbean Sea and is known for its gorgeous beaches, clear turquoise waters, vibrant culture and rich history. In contrast, if you look the other way from the sea you’ll catch a glimpse of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, one of the highest coastal mountain ranges in the world. The best way to get to know the city of Santa Marta is to prebook a tour, many of which are affordable and quite unique – here are three of the best.
Old Town and Quinta Pedro Alejandrino Santa Marta City Tour
This is a full-day tour so promises to take in all the must-see spots of Santa Marta. The tour takes you past the colonial houses, streets, and natural parks of Columbia’s oldest city, explaining its rich history along the way. You’ll see one of the city’s most famous places, Parque de Los Novios, and the monument of Santa Marta’s founder Rodrigo Bastidas, as well as the old city’s main Cathedral where they have the tomb of Bastidas. One of the highlights is La Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, a 17th-century hacienda, that was the home and death place to Simon Bolivar, known as one of the most prominent figures in South American independence. From €86.20.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Cultural Heritage Tour Santa Marta
This tour promises to be one-of-a-kind, taking you on a journey through the cobbled streets to find hidden treasures of Santa Marta. The guide has a background in history, journalism, and anthropology, so gives a unique overview of the history, culture, and mystery that are wrapped up in Santa Marta. The tour starts at Bolivar Square, where stories about the monuments and architecture bring the history of the city to life, before heading to the majestic Santa Marta Cathedral Basilica, The Customs House, Parque de Los Novios and finally Tayrona Museum. It’s a fun and insightful two-hour tour. From €13.36.
Booik at Getyourguide.com
Santa Marta City Tour + Gold Museum
This starts with a hotel pick-up and the knowledgeable guide then takes you on a three-hour journey to the key sights and attractions in the city. You’ll experience some of the oldest parts of the city, learning about the history and culture as you go, as well as getting to sample local fruits and juices. There is a visit to the Tayrona Gold Museum, which has been declared a National Monument and holds hundreds of treasures. The guide has some great stories to tell and keeps the tour interesting and entertaining throughout. At the end you can be dropped off at one of the Santa Marta hotels, the port, or the airport. From €57.61
Book at Viator.com