Santa Marta, Colombia: Top 5 Things to Do
Take an off-the-beaten-path trip to Santa Marta, Colombia.
By:
Scott Sherwood
Established in 1525 by the Spanish as a base of conquest, Santa Marta sits at the foot of the world’s highest coastal mountain range, the towering Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Sultry by day and balmy by night, the Santa Marta area requires a streak of adventure and willingness to learn a little Spanish, but the broad range of activities and excursions -- including the area’s crown jewel, Tayrona National Park -- are well worth the effort.
Tayrona's Beauty and Beaches
ProExport Colombia
Take land or sea transport to must-see beaches such as Neguange, Playa Cristal and Concha, surrounded by bays jutting out of the Sierra Nevada’s knarled jungle cover and palm trees. After seeing all the beaches, experience some waves on your own or with the family by taking surfing lessons at the relaxed Casa Grande Surf school, just 3 miles from Tayrona.
Diving and Snorkeling off Taganga
Scott Sherwood
Taganga is popular with the backpacker crowd. Loud music from the one club in town can turn a tranquil location into a loudspeaker, but Taganga is worth a visit. Try the Bahia hotel and restaurant overlooking the bay, where the friendly staff are ready to assist with travel arrangements utilizing the best taxi driver in town, Nestor.
6-Day Trek to the "Lost City"
Andrew Hyde, flickr
Minca's Waterfalls, Coffee Plantations and Exotic Birds
Scott Sherwood
Where to Stay
Haceme un 14, flickr
Getting Around Santa Marta
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