Travelers get the most out of Santa Marta through its excellent guided experiences. The standout tours include hiking through Tayrona National Park‘s pristine beaches, exploring the ancient Lost City trek, and joining local food walks through the historic center.
I’m particularly fond of the Minca day trip, which offers coffee farm visits and waterfall swimming in cooler mountain temperatures. The Tayrona coastal hikes are another favorite, combining jungle trails with spectacular Caribbean beach stops – perfect for nature photographers and beach lovers.
For the best guided experiences in Santa Marta, check out our carefully selected tours below.
Key Points
- Tayrona National Park offers guided hikes showcasing stunning natural beauty, with a 2-hour trek each way through lush forests and the Caribbean coast.
- Guided walking food tours in Santa Marta provide insights into the local culinary heritage, with stops at the public market and traditional dish tastings.
- Full-day tours to Minca include visits to a coffee farm for production insights and tastings, as well as a hike or 4×4 ride to the Marinka Waterfalls.
- The 5-day private guided hiking tour to the Lost City features all-inclusive transportation, accommodation, meals, and an expert guide for an immersive experience.
- The Santa Marta Marine World Aquarium tour offers a guided exploration of over 250 marine species, with options for family-friendly activities like shark feeding.
Tayrona Park Hike & Beach Day With Private Guide
This guided tour of Tayrona National Park offers travelers a chance to experience the park’s stunning natural beauty.
The 2-hour hike each way takes visitors through lush forests and along the pristine Caribbean coast. The private guide is praised for their extensive knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and history, enhancing the overall experience.
Round-trip transportation from nearby towns is provided, and the tour includes Tayrona Park admission fees, bottled water, and optional lunch.
While the hike is considered moderately strenuous, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
Customers rave about the guides, highlighting their passion, photography skills, and ability to set a comfortable pace.
The tour earns a 100% recommendation from previous travelers, with many noting the opportunity to appreciate the park’s natural wonders.
Priced at $189.90 per person, this private Tayrona Park adventure is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Santa Marta.
Read our full review: Tayrona Park Hike & Beach Day With Private Guide Review
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Cartagena: Barranquilla and Santa Marta BILINGUAL GUIDE
While the Tayrona Park hike offers a chance to take in the region’s natural beauty, those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Colombia’s northern coast can consider the Cartagena: Barranquilla and Santa Marta Bilingual Guide tour.
Priced at €67.53 per person, the 15-hour excursion provides a flexible and inclusive experience, with complimentary breakfast, lunch, and water. Key highlights include the scenic drives, visits to the Bay of Santa Marta, Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, and Barranquilla’s Aleta del Tiburón and Shakira Statue.
Travelers have the opportunity to explore these destinations with the guidance of a bilingual tour leader. However, some reviewers have noted concerns about the tour guide’s English proficiency, and the overall experience has received a 3.3/5 rating.
Nevertheless, the tour’s accessibility, transportation, and included amenities make it a viable option for those eager to discover the diverse attractions of Barranquilla and Santa Marta.
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Guided Hiking Through Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan
For travelers seeking an immersive experience in Colombia’s natural wonders, the guided hiking tour through Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan offers a rewarding adventure.
With a 4.6-star rating based on 62 reviews, this tour provides visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s lush landscapes, guided by professionals who offer a mix of Spanish and English.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, tourist insurance, and park entrance for Colombian nationals, though an additional foreign tax applies.
While a bilingual guide isn’t included, the professional guide give you a quality experience. Pickup and drop-off at travelers’ accommodations, with a 30-minute window, ensure convenience.
However, the tour may not be suitable for all, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.
Some reviews mention delays, language barriers, and safety concerns, though the agency appears responsive to feedback.
Travelers seeking more flexibility may prefer independent visits over group tours.
Read our full review: Guided Hiking Through Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan Review
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From Santa Marta: Tayrona National Park Guided Tour
Offering a seamless way for travelers to discover the wonders of Tayrona National Park, the “From Santa Marta: Tayrona National Park Guided Tour” promises an immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides.
This 11-hour excursion takes participants on a journey through the park’s tropical forests, culminating in a refreshing swim at the picturesque Cabo San Juan beach.
Priced at $62.18 per person, the tour includes hotel pick-up, private bus transportation, a professional guide, travel insurance, and park entrance fees.
Guests are encouraged to bring suitable attire, sun protection, and necessary supplies for a comfortable day of hiking and relaxation.
While the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with certain physical limitations, it has received positive reviews, particularly for the friendly guides and comfortable air-conditioned bus.
Travelers seeking an engaging way to explore Tayrona National Park can consider this guided tour, which offers a hassle-free and informative experience.
Read our full review: From Santa Marta: Tayrona National Park Guided Tour Review
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Amazing Full Day Tour to Minca With a Private Guide
The “Amazing Full Day Tour to Minca With a Private Guide” offers travelers an immersive experience in the lush, mountainous region near Santa Marta.
Highly recommended by 100% of previous visitors, this private tour boasts a 5.0 overall rating from 16 reviews. Guests can expect to visit Finca La Victoria, one of Colombia’s oldest coffee farms, where they’ll learn about coffee production and enjoy tastings.
The tour then continues to the town of Minca, where travelers can hike or take a 4×4 ride to the picturesque Marinka Waterfalls for a refreshing swim.
Accompanied by a professional bilingual guide, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation and optional meal services. Priced from $178 per person, the tour includes coffee farm entry, Marinka Waterfalls admission, and bottled water.
With convenient hotel pickup and free cancellation, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic, nature-filled day trip from Santa Marta.
Read our full review: Amazing Full Day Tour to Minca With a Private Guide Review
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From Cartagena: Barranquilla & Santa Marta Guided City Tour
Though departing from Cartagena, this guided city tour provides travellers the opportunity to explore the vibrant cities of Barranquilla and Santa Marta.
The 15-hour day trip starts before sunrise with pickups from various locations around Cartagena. Guests will travel approximately 90 minutes to Barranquilla, where they’ll visit landmarks like the La Venta del Mundo monument, the Malecón del Río, and the Pumarejo Bridge.
In Santa Marta, the tour showcases the Pibe Valderrama Monument, La Bahia de Santa Marta, Parque de los Novios, the Cathedral, and the Gold Museum.
Travelers can also enjoy some beach time at Rodadero. The tour includes a guided experience in English or Spanish, lunch, transportation, and admission fees.
However, it’s not recommended for those with limited mobility or certain medical conditions. Overall, customer feedback suggests a generally positive experience, though some cite issues with transportation reliability.
Read our full review: From Cartagena: Barranquilla & Santa Marta Guided City Tour Review
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Skip the Line: Santa Marta Marine World Aquarium Admission Ticket and Guide
Visitors to Santa Marta can skip the lines and explore the wonders of the Santa Marta Marine World Aquarium with a guided tour. The aquarium is home to over 250 marine species from the Colombian Caribbean Sea, including sharks, turtles, manta rays, seahorses, and colorful fish.
The guided tour includes a short informative walk-through and free time for independent exploration. Travelers can witness the captivating shark feeding events held on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 4 PM.
The aquarium is suitable for families, appealing to both children and adults. Tickets start from $6.67 per person and can be booked in advance. The tour capacity is limited to 15 travelers, and hotel pickup and drop-off are available.
The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are permitted. Reviews highlight the value for money and the enjoyment experienced, especially by children.
Read our full review: Skip the Line: Santa Marta Marine World Aquarium Admission Ticket and Guide Review
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Tayrona Surf Sector: Lessons and Local Tour Guide
What can visitors to the Tayrona Surf Sector expect when booking lessons and tours with a local guide?
Based on the facts provided, the Tayrona Surf Sector offers an array of exciting experiences. Visitors can embark on a 6.5-hour sailing tour to Tayrona Park, led by the Luis Team, starting at $65 per person. This tour provides a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty from the water.
For those interested in learning to surf, the Tayrona Surf Sector offers surf lessons and tours with local guides. These experiences range from 4 to 9 hours and are priced from $42.57 to $74.14 per person.
Guests can explore the hidden waterfalls and cacao workshops in Minca, or enjoy a trekking tour that delves into the area’s indigenous heritage.
With a variety of options catering to different interests and budgets, the Tayrona Surf Sector promises an immersive and memorable experience for visitors to Santa Marta.
Read our full review: Tayrona Surf Sector: Lessons and Local Tour Guide Review
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5-Day Private Guided Hiking Experience to The Lost City
For those seeking a more immersive adventure, the Kagumu Adventures‘ 5-Day Private Guided Hiking Experience to The Lost City offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich history and stunning natural beauty of the region.
Priced from $699 per person, this all-inclusive tour features private transportation, accommodation, meals, and an expert guide to lead the way. With a 5.0-star rating based on one review, the experience promises an unforgettable journey through the lush landscapes of Santa Marta, Colombia.
Guests can expect confirmation within 48 hours, a private tour, and a moderate fitness level requirement. Accessibility is limited, but the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
Plus, the cancellation policy allows for free cancelation up to 24 hours before the start. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a new adventure, this guided experience to The Lost City is an exceptional choice.
Read our full review: 5-Day Private Guided Hiking Experience to The Lost City Review
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Santa Marta: Guided Walking Food Experience
While exploring the vibrant city of Santa Marta, travelers can enjoy the local cuisine and culture through the Santa Marta: Guided Walking Food Experience.
This 4-hour guided walking tour showcases the city’s rich culinary heritage, with stops at the public market, the iconic Catedral de Santa Marta, and the Bahia de Santa Marta.
Along the way, you will sample traditional dishes like arepa de huevo and cayeye, and enjoy coffee, tea, fresh juice, beer, or alcoholic beverages.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in both English and Spanish.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 20 reviews, the experience offers excellent value for money, with notable praise for the attentive and personable guides who provide authentic local insights.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and water, and prepare for the tour to run rain or shine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request.
Read our full review: Santa Marta: Guided Walking Food Experience Review
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Tayrona Park: Hike & Beach Day With Private Guide in English
Travelers seeking an immersive outdoor experience in the stunning Tayrona National Park can embark on the Tayrona Park: Hike & Beach Day With Private Guide in English.
This 9-hour excursion offers the opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to pristine beaches. Led by an expert guide, the tour includes a moderate hike, a visit to the picturesque Playa Cristal, and a chance to learn about the indigenous heritage of the region.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 10 reviews, this tour is a popular choice among adventurers, with a price of $65.77.
Participants can expect to be captivated by the natural beauty of Tayrona Park, as well as gain insights into its rich cultural history.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or seeking a unique cultural experience, the Tayrona Park: Hike & Beach Day With Private Guide in English is an excellent option to consider.
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Recap
Santa Marta offers a variety of guided tours that cater to diverse interests. Visitors can hike through the stunning Tayrona National Park, explore the vibrant city of Cartagena, or embark on a private multi-day hiking adventure to the lost city. With knowledgeable guides and unique experiences, these tours provide an excellent way to discover the natural and cultural wonders of the region.