City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta

The City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta is an exhilarating adventure that whisks travelers away from the historic allure of Cartagena to uncover the vibrant cultures and captivating landscapes of these two distinct Colombian cities. Departing early, this full-day excursion promises an enriching experience complete with breakfast, lunch, and water – all while keeping group sizes intimate. Though the itinerary offers a glimpse into Barranquilla, the real highlight lies in the extended free time in Santa Marta, where visitors can indulge in beach relaxation and shopping. For those seeking a balance of adventure and culture, this tour may just be the perfect fit. But the true magic lies in the journey itself.

Key Points

• This full-day sightseeing tour covers the cities of Barranquilla and Santa Marta, departing early from Cartagena and lasting approximately 13-16 hours.

• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a water bottle, with an optional admission fee for the Quinta of San Pedro Alejandrino.

• Highlights include a brief sightseeing stop in Barranquilla, extended free time in Santa Marta for beach and shopping, and a return to Cartagena around 8 PM.

• The tour has received mixed reviews, with positive feedback on knowledgeable guides and tasty meals, but concerns about language barriers, long duration, and a reported robbery incident.

• The tour departs from Monumento Torre del Reloj in Cartagena, with a maximum group size of 40 and an early start time, which may not be suitable for all travelers.

Tour Overview

The City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta is a comprehensive sightseeing experience that takes travelers on a journey through two picturesque Colombian cities.

This full-day tour departs early from Cartagena, allowing participants to explore the landmarks of Barranquilla and the coastal charms of Santa Marta.

With a maximum group size of 40 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.

Along the way, guests will enjoy an included breakfast and lunch, as well as a water bottle for the walking tour in Santa Marta.

While the tour duration is lengthy, spanning approximately 13-16 hours, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into the history, culture, and natural beauty of these vibrant destinations.

Inclusions and Exclusions

While the tour includes air-conditioned transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a water bottle for the Santa Marta walking portion, it excludes admission to the Quinta of San Pedro Alejandrino, which has an optional price of 25,000 COP.

The inclusions provide a comfortable and refreshing experience, ensuring travelers are well-fed and hydrated throughout the day.

The exclusion of the Quinta of San Pedro Alejandrino’s admission allows travelers to choose whether they want to visit this optional attraction.

The tour’s carefully curated offerings aim to balance convenience, sustenance, and flexibility, enabling participants to make the most of their time in Barranquilla and Santa Marta.

Itinerary Highlights

Early morning pickup around 4:30 AM starts the day, providing travelers with a hearty breakfast of arepa and coffee before heading to Barranquilla.

A brief sightseeing stop in Barranquilla allows participants to view the city’s key landmarks, though the focus remains on the extended free time in Santa Marta, where travelers can enjoy the beach and indulge in souvenir shopping during the 2-3 hour stay.

The tour concludes with a return to Cartagena around 8 PM, capping off a long but enriching day of exploration.

While the itinerary offers a rundown, travelers should prepare for a packed schedule with limited exploration time in Barranquilla and potential challenges, such as closed attractions early in the day.

Traveler Experiences

Travelers have offered a mix of positive and negative experiences regarding the City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta. Many found the tour enjoyable, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and tasty meals provided.

However, some participants experienced issues, such as language barriers, an extended duration, and a reported robbery incident involving personal items from luggage, leading to frustration with the tour company’s response.

Some travelers noted:

1. Difficulty communicating with guides due to language barriers.

2. Frustration with the tour’s lengthy duration, lasting 13-16 hours.

3. Concern over a reported robbery incident where personal items were stolen from luggage.

4. Disappointment with the tour company’s handling of the robbery incident.

Meeting Point and Start Time

According to the tour details, the City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta departs from the Monumento Torre del Reloj in El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, with a starting time around 4:00 AM.

This early morning pickup ensures travelers can make the most of the long day ahead, which lasts approximately 13-16 hours. The tour has a maximum group size of 40 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Participants should be prepared for an extensive journey, as the tour covers significant ground, from Barranquilla to Santa Marta and back to Cartagena.

The early start time and extended duration of the tour may not be suitable for all travelers, especially those with mobility issues or health concerns.

Group Size and Duration

With a maximum group size of 40 travelers, the City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta give you a more intimate sightseeing experience.

Spanning approximately 13-16 hours, the tour covers considerable ground, allowing participants to explore the highlights of both Barranquilla and Santa Marta before returning to Cartagena.

The itinerary includes:

1. An early morning pickup around 4:30 AM to ensure an efficient start to the day.

2. A breakfast stop before the journey to Barranquilla, where the tour makes brief stops at key landmarks.

3. Extended free time in Santa Marta, providing opportunities for beach visits and souvenir shopping.

4. The return to Cartagena around 8 PM, completing the comprehensive tour of the region.

Price and Free Cancellation

At a starting price of $85.00, the City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta offers travelers flexibility through its free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the experience’s commencement.

This pricing point, while not the lowest, caters to a range of budgets and includes several key inclusions such as air-conditioned transportation, breakfast, and lunch.

The free cancellation policy allows travelers to adjust their plans without penalty, providing a level of assurance that can be valuable when coordinating a multi-destination trip.

While some optional activities incur additional fees, the overall pricing and cancellation terms make this tour an accessible and adaptable option for those seeking to explore the cities of Barranquilla and Santa Marta.

Recommendations

Travelers should prepare for a long day with limited exploration time in Barranquilla, as the tour’s itinerary prioritizes sightseeing in Santa Marta.

Bringing snacks and water is advisable, as some attractions may be closed early in the morning. Plus, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or serious health concerns, as it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or individuals with serious medical conditions.

To make the most of the tour, consider:

1. Packing light and comfortable clothing suitable for the day’s activities.

2. Bringing any necessary medications and being aware of the tour’s duration.

3. Researching the attractions in Barranquilla and Santa Marta to manage expectations.

4. Staying vigilant and taking precautions to ensure personal safety throughout the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at All Stops During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed at most stops during the tour, but travelers should check with the guide as some sites may have restrictions. Visitors should be respectful and follow any guidelines provided to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

Can Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Meals Be Accommodated?

The tour provider can generally accommodate vegetarian and other dietary-restricted meals upon request. Travelers should notify the company of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure appropriate meals are provided during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour company does not offer an option to extend the duration of the tour. The standard tour is approximately 13-16 hours long, and the itinerary is fixed. Travelers cannot request or arrange for an extended tour.

How Often Does the Tour Operate During the Week?

The tour typically operates daily, though schedule may vary. Travelers should check with the tour provider for the most up-to-date schedule and availability when booking the tour.

Can the Tour Pickup Location Be Changed From the Default Meeting Point?

The pickup location can generally be changed from the default meeting point, but this may incur an additional fee and require prior coordination with the tour company. Customers should inquire about this option when booking the tour.

Recap

The City Tour Barranquilla and Santa Marta offers an immersive full-day experience, showcasing the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of both cities.

With an intimate group setting, travelers can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and ample free time for beach relaxation and shopping in Santa Marta.

This tour provides the perfect blend of adventure and culture, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an enriching Colombian experience.