Santa Marta’s city tours pack a powerful punch, offering bite-sized history lessons and cultural encounters without the tourist fluff. The standout is the challenging Lost City trek – a 4-day adventure that’s worth every step. We love the private city tours for their flexibility and personal touch – you’ll get straight talk about colonial history and local life from guides who know their stuff.
For architecture buffs, the historic district walks are a treat, while food tours serve up authentic Caribbean flavors at local-approved spots. What makes these tours click? They’re well-organized, led by solid English-speaking guides, and come with stress-free cancellation policies.
Let’s explore our favorite Santa Marta tours and what makes each special.
Key Points
- Lost City Tours offer a challenging 4-day hiking experience through Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park, including 1,200 steps to ancient ruins.
- Santa Marta City Tours provide private and group tours exploring the city’s historical landmarks, colonial architecture, and cultural attractions.
- Culinary experiences, such as food tours in the Old City, offer opportunities to sample regional Caribbean cuisine and engage with local vendors.
- Combined and Adventure Tours combine sightseeing highlights, including visits to Barranquilla and Rodadero beach, with explorations of Bunkuany Lost City and Crystal Lagoon.
- Tours in Santa Marta generally offer English-speaking guides, medical assistance insurance, and flexible cancellation policies, though accessibility may be limited for those with mobility constraints.
4-Day Walking Tour to Lost City of Sierra Nevada
The Day Walking Tour to Lost City of Sierra Nevada takes travelers on a remarkable journey through the lush Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park.
Over four days, a small group of up to 12 adventurers hike through the jungle and mountains, climbing 1,200 steps to reach the ancient ruins of the Tayrona people.
Travelers can cool off in natural pools beneath waterfalls and enjoy included accommodation and most meals.
This tour, operated by Ecosierra Perdida Tours, requires a moderate fitness level and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
With 100 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, the tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the Lost City.
Read our full review: 4-Day Walking Tour to Lost City of Sierra Nevada Review
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The Magical City of Santa Marta, Enchanted and Private Tour
Travelers seeking a more intimate exploration of Santa Marta’s charm and history can embark on the Magical City of Santa Marta, Enchanted and Private Tour. Priced at $257.00 per group, this one-day private tour allows up to 1 person to discover the city’s colonial architecture, vibrant local culture, and key sites like the Cathedral, Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, and Taganga viewpoint.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour includes entrance fees, a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, and travel insurance.
Immerse in the city’s history, capture panoramic views, and enjoy authentic local cuisine at the city market, all within a flexible and personalized itinerary.
Read our full review: The Magical City of Santa Marta, Enchanted and Private Tour Review
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4-Day Lost City Small-Group Tour in Santa Marta
Embarking on the 4-Day Lost City Small-Group Tour in Santa Marta, travelers can discover the enchanting ruins of Ciudad Perdida, an ancient 9th-century archaeological site hidden deep within the Colombian jungle.
This challenging trek through rugged terrain is limited to 12 people, ensuring an intimate experience. Inclusive of round-trip transport, 3 nights of lodging, and all meals, the tour also provides English-speaking guides and local expertise.
While not recommended for those with limited mobility or medical conditions, the tour’s 96% recommendation rate suggests a rewarding journey for adventurous travelers seeking to uncover the secrets of this lost city.
Read our full review: 4-Day Lost City Small-Group Tour in Santa Marta Review
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Santa Marta City Tour
One of the best ways to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Santa Marta is through the Santa Marta City Tour. Priced from $89.90 per person, this 4-hour activity showcases the city’s top landmarks, including the historical hacienda where Simón Bolívar spent his final days, the impressive Cathedral Basilica, and the Gold Museum’s pre-Columbian artifacts.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at centrally located hotels, a professional guide, entrance fees, and medical assistance insurance. Guests should dress for potentially rainy weather and bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a reusable water bottle.
The itinerary may vary due to operational decisions, with transport between sites involving some walking at each stop.
Read our full review: Santa Marta City Tour Review
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Unmissable City Tour by Bicycle Through Santa Marta
Discover Santa Marta’s captivating history and vibrant culture on a bicycle tour through the city’s historic center. Offered by Rent Bike Santa Marta, this popular 5:00 PM tour provides an immersive and enjoyable experience for visitors.
For just $16 per person, you’ll explore landmarks like the library, beach, church, and school while your local guide shares insightful commentary. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience.
Bike rentals, bottled water, and a friendly, engaging guide are all included. Boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from 95 reviews, this tour is an unmissable way to discover Santa Marta’s charm and get some exercise.
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Old Town and Quinta San Pedro Santa Marta City Tour
Venturing through the historic heart of Santa Marta, this guided tour takes visitors on an exploration of the city’s Old Town and the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the site of Simon Bolivar’s death.
Along the way, travelers will visit major landmarks, including the Tayrona Gold Museum, while also making a trip to the nearby bayside town of Taganga.
The tour is customizable to the pace of the group, with knowledgeable guides providing insights. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and all risk insurance.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the walking tour is suitable for most travelers, with an alternative museum option available on Mondays when the Gold Museum is closed.
Read our full review: Old Town and Quinta San Pedro Santa Marta City Tour Review
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Food Tour in Santa Marta Old City
Travelers exploring Santa Marta’s Old City can enjoy a delectable food tour that showcases the vibrant Caribbean cuisine and local culinary culture.
Priced from $66.72 per person, the 4-hour experience takes participants on a guided journey through the bustling public market and historical center, where they’ll savor local specialties like bollo, patacón, carimañola, ceviche, and coconut rice.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, at least 5 gastronomic experiences, and the chance to interact with locals and learn about their culinary stories.
While the tour doesn’t offer vegan options, the guide can accommodate any dietary restrictions or allergies.
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Food Tour in Santa Marta Old City Half-Day
The Santa Marta Old City food tour immerses visitors in the vibrant Caribbean culinary landscape, offering a guided exploration of the bustling public market and historical center.
Over the course of half a day, travelers can sample regional specialties like ceviche and coconut rice while interacting with local vendors and cooks.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, insurance, and a hearty lunch, all for a starting price of $66 per person.
With a maximum group size of 10, the experience provides an intimate, personalized glimpse into Santa Marta’s food culture.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and diverse tastings, rating the tour 5 out of 5 stars across multiple reviews.
Read our full review: Food Tour in Santa Marta Old City Half-Day Review
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From Cartagena: Barranquilla & Santa Marta Guided City Tour
Departing from Cartagena, this guided tour whisks visitors through the vibrant cities of Barranquilla and Santa Marta. Priced at $82.29 per person, the 15-hour excursion includes transportation, a live guide, and lunch.
In Barranquilla, guests explore landmarks like the La Venta del Mundo monument and Sharks Fin monument. Santa Marta’s highlights include the Pibe Valderrama Monument and the historic colonial center.
After sightseeing, travelers relax on the beaches of Rodadero. While the tour receives generally positive reviews, some note a rushed stop in Barranquilla and crowded conditions at the Santa Marta beach.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, those over 60, or with pre-existing medical conditions and low fitness levels.
Read our full review: From Cartagena: Barranquilla & Santa Marta Guided City Tour Review
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Gold Museum & Santa Marta Old City Tour
This 3-hour guided tour from Gran Colombia Tours offers a comprehensive exploration of Santa Marta’s historical and cultural highlights.
The tour kicks off with a visit to the Tayrona Gold Museum, where guests will learn about the indigenous Tayrona culture and their intricate gold craftsmanship.
Next, the group will stroll through the charming Los Novios Park and visit the impressive Cathedral Basilica of Santa Marta.
The tour also includes a stop at the Simon Bolivar Park and a gastronomic experience to sample traditional Colombian juices and snacks.
With a knowledgeable local guide, this tour provides an insightful look into the diversity and history of Santa Marta.
Read our full review: Gold Museum & Santa Marta Old City Tour Review
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Lost City Teyuna 4 Days Tracking Tour
Spanning four exhilarating days, the Lost City Teyuna Tracking Tour transports adventurous travelers to the ancient ruins of Teyuna, once the thriving capital of the Tayrona civilization.
Priced from $650 per person, this tour offers a moderate physical challenge for groups of up to four. Inclusions cover meals, fees, and tips, with pickup around Santa Marta.
Travelers should be aware of health and fitness requirements – the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
With a 4.5/5 rating from 6 reviews, this tracking expedition promises an unforgettable journey through Colombia’s stunning landscapes and rich history.
Read our full review: Lost City Teyuna 4 Days Tracking Tour Review
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DONAMA STONES TOUR & LOST CITY BUNKUANY
The Santa Marta: Bunkuany Lost City and Crystal Lagoon Tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich history and natural wonders.
Over 11.5 hours, visitors will discover the second most important archaeological site, Bunkuany Lost City, with its impressive terraces and heritage.
They’ll also swim in the crystal-clear waters of Pozo Arcoiris Lagoon and explore sacred stones carved by indigenous communities.
The eco-walk to Bunkuany provides a scenic trail, while a guided bilingual tour, insurance, water, and lunch options ensure a comprehensive and comfortable experience.
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or individuals over 80 years old.
Read our full review: DONAMA STONES TOUR & LOST CITY BUNKUANY Review
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Lost City Tour 4 Days 3 Nights
The 4-day, 3-night Lost City Tour takes adventurous travelers on a captivating journey to uncover the mysteries of the ancient Tayrona civilization‘s “Lost City” nestled deep within Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains.
Priced from $575 per person, the tour includes insurance, accommodation, 4×4 transport, a bilingual guide, meals, and admission tickets.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour departs at 6:00 am from hotel pickups.
Moderate fitness is required, as the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Reviews are exceptional, with a 5.0 overall rating across multiple platforms.
Flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies provide added convenience.
Read our full review: Lost City Tour 4 Days 3 Nights Review
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Old Town and Quinta Pedro Alejandrino Santa Marta City Tour
After exploring the rugged landscapes and ancient ruins of the Lost City, visitors to Santa Marta can now turn their attention to the city’s historic core.
The Old Town and Quinta Pedro Alejandrino Santa Marta City Tour offers a comprehensive experience, covering the colonial architecture, indigenous heritage, and Spanish conquest history of this 1525-founded city.
Highlights include a guided tour of the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the death place of Simón Bolívar, and an exploration of landmarks like the Parque de Los Novios and Santa Marta Cathedral.
With pickup and a full-day itinerary, this tour provides an immersive dive into Santa Marta’s rich past, complemented by optional gastronomic experiences and the Tayrona Gold Museum.
Read our full review: Old Town and Quinta Pedro Alejandrino Santa Marta City Tour Review
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Santa Marta City Tour + Gold Museum
Combining the must-see landmarks of Santa Marta’s historic center with an in-depth exploration of the Tayrona Gold Museum, this comprehensive city tour offers visitors an immersive dive into the region’s storied past.
Priced from $63 per person and with a perfect 5-star rating across 9 reviews, the tour includes all risk insurance, a knowledgeable guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and lunch.
Accessible by stroller and with infant seats available, the private tour ensures personalized attention. Guests praise the guides’ expertise and the tour’s engaging historical narrative.
With free cancellation and flexible rescheduling, this well-rounded experience is an excellent way to discover the vibrant culture and heritage of Santa Marta.
Read our full review: Santa Marta City Tour + Gold Museum Review
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From Santa Marta: 4-Day Lost City Discovery Tour
This 4-Day Lost City Discovery Tour from Santa Marta offers travelers an immersive journey into the ancient ruins of the Tayrona civilization. Priced from €753.99 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, accommodation options, all meals, and an entrance ticket to the archaeological site.
Highlights include hiking through scenic trails, exploring the Lost City, and engaging with local communities. While not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues, the tour is well-suited for adventurous travelers seeking a cultural and natural experience.
With a 4/5 rating based on customer feedback, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Colombia’s north coast.
Read our full review: From Santa Marta: 4-Day Lost City Discovery Tour Review
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Lost City Trek in La Sierra Nevada Natural Park 4 Days Tour
Explore the captivating Lost City Trek in the stunning La Sierra Nevada Natural Park on this 4-day tour. Priced from $1,250 per person, this small-group adventure takes you through the picturesque landscape, led by an indigenous guide.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, all meals, and insurance included, it’s a hassle-free way to discover this natural wonder.
Keep in mind the tour’s physical demands – it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions.
But for travelers in good shape, it promises an unforgettable journey through Colombia’s stunning wilderness.
Read our full review: Lost City Trek in La Sierra Nevada Natural Park 4 Days Tour Review
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Recap
Santa Marta offers a variety of engaging city tours, from walking tours to bicycle tours, that allow visitors to explore the city’s historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in the Lost City, the city’s old town, or its museums, there are tours to suit every interest. With so many options, visitors can easily find a tour that matches their preferences and schedule.