10.0 hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Santa Marta Colombia for around 10.0 hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.

Tours & Experiences in Santa Marta Colombia

30 experiences available — book through our trusted partners

2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour
2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (109 reviews) ⏱️ 48.0h
All inclusive motorcycle tour of Colombia's north coast. Many more tour options available. Come with the longest running / highest rated motorcycle tour company in Northern Colombia!
VIATOR
Private Door-to-Door Transfer from Santa Marta to Cartagena
Private Door-to-Door Transfer from Santa Marta to Cartagena
★★★★★ 5.0 (80 reviews)
Avoid crowded buses, confusing connections, unreliable pickups, and unexpected charges. Travel door-to-door with a vetted professional driver and a private vehicle suited to your group. We confirm your pickup details before the journey and remain available throughout the trip. Need assistance in English? Select the option with a bilingual host.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Horse Riding through Jungle with Local Lunch
Horse Riding through Jungle with Local Lunch
★★★★★ 5.0 (25 reviews) ⏱️ 5.5h
At the start of the day we pick you up in Palomino, either at your accomodation or if you come from somewhere else we will send you a meeting point. With our trusted motortaxis we get you to our farm. You get an explanation of our project and we will explain you how we ride. We get on the horses and make a beautiful trip to nature. We will pass our neighbours land, go on the old trails used by indigenous people (and most probable see some on the way). We enjoy a swim in the gorgeous river. Around midday we have a lunch at a local farm, and see how they live. We will head back to the farm and finish the day! We work with rescue horses, choosing us means giving these animals the best life ever! We cannot accept people over 90KG, there is a maximum weight the horses can carry (20% of their body weight), and we work with local mountain horses which are not the biggest breed. But they are strong and the most useful in the terrain we are located.
VIATOR
Private Tayrona Hike to Cabo San Juan: Bilingual Guide+Transport
Private Tayrona Hike to Cabo San Juan: Bilingual Guide+Transport
★★★★★ 5.0 (23 reviews) ⏱️ 9.0h
Tayrona is waiting for you. Visit Tayrona National Park on a private full-day hike to Cabo San Juan, one of Colombia's most iconic Caribbean beaches. Walk through tropical forests, coastal viewpoints, and scenic trails while enjoying some of the most spectacular landscapes on Colombia's Caribbean coast. Along the way, you'll visit beaches such as Arenilla, La Piscina, and finally Cabo San Juan. Depending on your pace and preferences, you may spend more time swimming, relaxing, taking photos, or learning about the park's culture and nature. Your guide will also try to spot wildlife along the way. Everything is taken care of for you, from hotel or Airbnb pickup in Santa Marta to private transportation, entry assistance, and personalized guidance. You decide the pace and stops. Founded by Tour Guide Cesar, Entertaining Travel specializes in safe, flexible, and personalized private experiences designed to help travelers make the most of Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private La Victoria Coffee Tour – Waterfalls & Minca
Private La Victoria Coffee Tour – Waterfalls & Minca
★★★★★ 5.0 (17 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
This private tour combines coffee culture, waterfalls, and nature into one well-paced day in the Sierra Nevada. With private 4×4 transport and a dedicated guide, you reach Pozo Azul early, enjoying its jungle pools and waterfalls before the crowds arrive. You then visit La Victoria Coffee Farm, founded in 1892, where original machinery from London and New York is still used today. Learn the full coffee process—from bean to cup—and taste freshly brewed mountain coffee. After a local lunch in Minca, relax and swim at the scenic Marinka Waterfalls. Designed for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and flexibility, this private experience offers a deeper and more relaxed way to discover Minca in a single day.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private transportation from hotel close to Tayrona Park to Cartagena de Indias
Private transportation from hotel close to Tayrona Park to Cartagena de Indias
★★★★★ 5.0 (14 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
Enjoy a private stress-free transfer from your hotel in Los Naranjos to your hotel in Cartagena de Indias. A professional driver will take you to your next hotel. The trip lasts 5 hours (time varies depending on traffic). Drivers do not speak English. Once you meet him he will take you to the vehicle and the next destination will be your hotel. There is one optional stop after passing Barranquilla where you can stretch your legs, drink a cup of coffee and go to the toilette. There is also the possibility to stop for lunch in case you need it.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Full Day Private Sierra Nevada Tour with Transport
Full Day Private Sierra Nevada Tour with Transport
★★★★★ 5.0 (13 reviews) ⏱️ 7.0h
Embark on a full day adventure into jungle waterfalls, panoramic views and nature in the depths of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains at the private nature reserve of Nevada San Martin.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Chocolate: From tree to the bar, in Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Chocolate: From tree to the bar, in Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
★★★★★ 5.0 (11 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Artisanal Chocolate, from the garden to the table is a wonderful experience for the people who want to know more about the cacao and his star sub product, the chocolate. The participants will make a tour for a sustentably cacao forest, they will know all about his ecological management and his transformation,and then, they will be to enjoy a chocolatier class. The participants will can to stay for enjoy the beautiful and crystal clear rivers close to the farm.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Community kogui 1 day - option tubing.
Community kogui 1 day - option tubing.
★★★★★ 5.0 (11 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
On this trip we will have the opportunity to get to know the Kogui Sewiaxa community where around 25 families live that basically live off nature, growing cassava, corn, beans, among others. In the visit we will see the mamo who gives us his teachings and a sacred ritual, on the tour we are surrounded by a lot of fauna such as hummingbirds, the toucan and monkeys, we also have the opportunity to look at the peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the beaches of palomino and at the end we bathe in the palomino river where by decision of the client can take the option of tubing to go down to the sea. This Tour is exclusive.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Canyoning in Minca Waterfall Descent
Canyoning in Minca Waterfall Descent
★★★★★ 5.0 (10 reviews) ⏱️ 3.5h
The best way to get to know the nature of Minca is to live it from the inside: we start with a 40-minute ecological hike through the jungle before reaching the canyon, where 4 waterfalls of 27, 15, 25 and 35 meters descend in the heart of the Sierra Nevada. Always with 2 certified guides, we guarantee safety and personal attention on every descent. Suitable for all levels — adrenaline, nature and adventure in one experience.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Cacao & Taironaka Tour on the Don Diego River
Private Cacao & Taironaka Tour on the Don Diego River
★★★★★ 5.0 (10 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
This private tour combines exclusivity and comfort with authentic cultural encounters, offering a rare chance to experience Colombia’s past and present in one unforgettable day. Cacao Experience Begin with the Arhuaco Cacao Tour, where you’ll see how this sacred crop is cultivated beneath the jungle canopy and taste handmade chocolate infused with uncommon local flavors that reflect the spirit of the Sierra Nevada. Taironaka Archaeology Continue to Taironaka, an ancient site of the Tairona civilization. Walk through stone paths and terraces, explore artifacts, and connect with the Kogi people, guardians of this living heritage. River & Wildlife After a delicious local lunch, journey along the Don Diego River, where vibrant jungle surrounds you, colorful birds soar above, and howler monkeys are always part of the adventure.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Seviaka Indigenous People and Tubing Tour in Palomino
Seviaka Indigenous People and Tubing Tour in Palomino
★★★★★ 5.0 (10 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
If you enjoy exploring the less known treasures of a region: you are in the right place. In this tour you will go to the Seviaka indigenous town. You will have a motorbike ride. And you will also talk to a Kogui indigenous leader who will teach you about their cosmology, customs and beliefs. Besides this cultural approach, you will enjoy a tire ride down the Palomino River and its rapids to enjoy surrounding nature in a different way. - A 3-hour hike among nature - The unique experience of learning and interacting with the indigenous of the Seviaka town - A trip by motorbike - Tubing downstream the river - A lesson about medicinal plants and indigenous beliefs and customs.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private shuttle service from Santa Marta Airport to hotel in Tayrona Park area
Private shuttle service from Santa Marta Airport to hotel in Tayrona Park area
★★★★★ 5.0 (9 reviews)
Enjoy a stress-free transportation from Simon Bolivar International Airport (SMR) to your hotel in Tayrona Park area. The estimated time of arrival is approximately 60 minutes (depending on traffic), on the road to your hotel you will be able to observe the majestuosity of the Sierra Nevada which embrace this magnificent, unique and authentic city.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private shuttle service from Santa Marta Airport to Palomino
Private shuttle service from Santa Marta Airport to Palomino
★★★★★ 5.0 (9 reviews)
Enjoy a stress-free transfer from Simon Bolivar International Airport (SMR) to your hotel in Palomino. The estimated time of arrival is 1h40 minutes (depending on traffic conditions), on the road to your hotel you will be able to observe the wonderful mountains of the Sierra Nevada which embrace this magnificent, unique and authentic city.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private transfer from Santa Marta to Tayrona Park area o Palomino
Private transfer from Santa Marta to Tayrona Park area o Palomino
★★★★★ 5.0 (9 reviews)
Do not bother trying to understand locals language and enjoy a stress-free transfer from Simon Bolivar International Airport to your hotel in Tayrona Park. This rate includes bottled water per person, and also the meet & greet service; a professional driver will be waiting for you in the arrival hall with a sign. The trip last from 60 to 85 minutes (time varies depending on traffic). Drivers do not speak English. Once you meet him he will take you to the vehicle and the next destination will be your hotel. No stops are made throughout the trip.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Santa Marta : Horseback riding to Duwanaby, the ancestral stone
Santa Marta : Horseback riding to Duwanaby, the ancestral stone
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 6.0h
The adventure begins on horseback from the "El Trompito" sidewalk high, to the ancestral stone "Mama Duwanaby", this will be a 5-hour excursion where we will ride to the height of 650 mtsn. The sea and the river will be your landscape for the day, accompanied by the guide you will find quite wooded vegetation with different species of fauna and flora and you will have the opportunity to learn from the traditions of the Kogui community.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Cultural and Tasting Electric Motorcycle City Tour in Santa Marta
Cultural and Tasting Electric Motorcycle City Tour in Santa Marta
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 2.5h
Explore the vibrant city of Santa Marta like never before with the TURBO City Tour, offering a unique Cultural and Tasting Ride on electric scooters. Enjoy the Caribbean sea breeze while immersing yourself in local history and flavors. Kick off your tour visiting famous historic sites and learning about the history and culture of the oldest city in Colombia. In the evening, capture stunning sunset views while enjoying exotic ceviche on the boardwalk. This tour promises an authentic experience tailored for modern travelers seeking Instagrammable moments and culinary delights. - Morning and Sunset rides available to suit your schedule - Taste local delicacies, including seafood soup and ceviche - Visit cultural highlights like the Tayrona Gold Museum and San Francisco Church - Ride in style with signature blue helmets and eco-friendly scooters
Free cancellation VIATOR
incredible Sunset on Sailboat by Bahí Santa Marta
incredible Sunset on Sailboat by Bahí Santa Marta
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 2.5h
An experience not to be missed during your stay... Let yourself be enchanted by the changing colors of the sky, the golden reflections on the sea and the iconic rock “El Morro,” the unique panoramas between the mountains and the bay of Santa Marta... A suspended moment in time, simply magical. We will set sail through the bays of Santa Marta and its surroundings (depending on the weather: Tayrona or Inca Inca) aboard our magnificent sailboat, at 12.5 m Beneteau. We favor small groups in order to offer you greater comfort and a more exclusive experience. You will be able to relax and enjoy the spacious areas of the sailboat, ideal for admiring the scenery and letting yourself be carried by the moment. On board, a welcome beer, snacks, and water will be offered. It is the perfect tour for solo travelers, couples, groups of friends, or families who wish to experience an unforgettable sunset at sea in a friendly atmosphere
Free cancellation VIATOR
Sanctuary Los Flamingos Tour
Sanctuary Los Flamingos Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (6 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
Experience the majestic flamingos in their habitat, the Sanctuary of Fauna and Flora. Here you have the opportunity not only to get very close to the animals by boat - the Wayúu indigenous people are also looking forward to your visit. We are proud to donate a percentage of the tour fees to the local indigenous community and to offer you a high qualified bilingual guide.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Lost City Tour 4 Days 3 Nights
Lost City Tour 4 Days 3 Nights
★★★★★ 5.0 (6 reviews) ⏱️ 96.0h
The Lost City Tour Colombia is one of the most amazing trekking in all of South America, this plan is clearly designed for all those lovers of adventure, nature, history and culture. Here you will find a natural paradise where you can appreciate countless endemic species of fauna and flora, discover the pre-Columbian history that took place in this archeological zone, learn about countless unique and unparalleled landscapes and live unforgettable experiences. Disconnect from everything for 4 or 5 days and connect with Mother Nature.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private transportation from Santa Marta city to hotel close to Tayrona Park
Private transportation from Santa Marta city to hotel close to Tayrona Park
★★★★★ 5.0 (6 reviews)
Enjoy a stress-free transportation service from your hotel in Santa Marta to your hotel in Tayrona Park area. The estimated time of arrival is approximately 60 minutes (depending on traffic), on the road to your hotel you will be able to observe the magnificent Sierra Nevada which embraces this unique and truly authentic national park.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Friday Night Bar Crawl in Santa Marta, Colombia
Friday Night Bar Crawl in Santa Marta, Colombia
★★★★★ 5.0 (6 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
IMPORTANT- There is a dress code for this tour! Swimwear, sandals, hats, sportswear, and sunglasses are NOT allowed! Furthermore, we do not allow any aspects of sex tourism either. We are a group of local friends that host bar crawls in Colombia. We wanted to give foreigners and tourists a unique "locals' experience", so we started these bar crawls. This bar crawl consists of 3 local bars and 1 disco bar/club, all located in the historic center of Santa Marta. Centro Histórico is one of the most popular nightlife areas among locals and tourists in Santa Marta. We will meet at the first bar at 8:30 pm to congregate and converse. We will then proceed to the next bars every hour, finally finishing off at the rooftop disco bar/club by 12:15 am. Sometimes locals also come on our crawls, so you may have the opportunity to connect with some Colombians and practice your Spanish!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Lost City Trek 4 Days | Jungle Trek | Ciudad Perdida Teyuna
Lost City Trek 4 Days | Jungle Trek | Ciudad Perdida Teyuna
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 96.0h
Venture into the heart of Colombia's Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta on a captivating 4-day trek to the ancient Lost City - Ciudad Perdida Teyuna. This journey immerses you in nature, history, and indigenous culture as you navigate through lush jungles, cross rivers, and encounter local communities. Enjoy guided tours of an archaeological wonder and experience the traditions of the Tairona civilization. Each day presents both physical challenges and enriching cultural encounters, making this trek a transformative adventure. - Trek through stunning landscapes, including rivers and tropical forests - Stay in rustic camps with basic amenities, ensuring an authentic experience - All meals included from Day 1 lunch to Day 4 lunch, accommodations, guide service, plus contributions to local communities, round-trip transportation, accident insurance - Expert local guides belonging to native and farming communities provide insights into the rich history and culture of the region
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private transportation from Minca police station to Cartagena
Private transportation from Minca police station to Cartagena
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
Enjoy a private stress-free transfer from your hotel in Minca to your hotel in Cartagena de Indias. This rate includes bottled water per person; a professional driver will take you to your next hotel. The trip lasts 5 hours (time varies depending on traffic). Drivers do not speak English. Once you meet him in the parking lot he will take you to the vehicle and the next destination will be your hotel. There is one optional stop before passing Barranquilla where you can stretch your legs, drink a cup of coffee and go to the toilette. There is also the possibility to stop for lunch in case you need it.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Shell Bay Tour
Shell Bay Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (4 reviews) ⏱️ 9.0h
On this tour we will visit one of the first beaches belonging to the Tayrona National Natural Park, just 30 minutes from Santa Marta by car, it is located approximately 12 km from the city. Its crystal clear waters are perfect for spending a great day at the beach, it is perfect for snorkeling, hiking and getting a good tan. This beach is an opportunity to relax, enjoy the sea, swim and have fun with your family or friends. Also, the conditions of this beach allow you to snorkel.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Passion Fruit and El Saltillo Waterfall Tour
Passion Fruit and El Saltillo Waterfall Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (4 reviews) ⏱️ 9.0h
The Maracuyá tour takes place in the vicinity of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, it will take you hiking through the El Paraíso Reserve in search of passion fruit. A perfect excursion for nature lovers! You will enjoy a fascinating day in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta while appreciating its flora and fauna. You will be able to have contact with passion fruit crops and share with locals. You will end the tour taking a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the El Saltillo waterfall.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Sierra Minca Day Tour
Sierra Minca Day Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
Start your adventure in Minca with fresh local coffee and homemade chocolate bread before exploring the region’s highlights in one unforgettable day. Unlike shorter tours, this experience combines the refreshing Marinka Waterfalls with the panoramic views of Sierra Minca, the famous eco-lodge perched 1,000 meters above sea level. Relax in giant hammocks, capture photos at the “big hands” and “big heart,” and enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by mountain scenery. For the adventurous, add an optional zipline ride over the jungle canopy. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, this tour offers the most complete way to discover Minca in comfort and style.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Diving in Santa Marta Taganga and Tayrona Park
Diving in Santa Marta Taganga and Tayrona Park
★★★★★ 5.0 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Sailing from the Marina de Santa Marta makes a difference. Forget walking along beaches with heavy equipment; your adventure begins with a comfortable and exclusive boarding. We will sail to the most impressive reefs of Tayrona Park, highlighting our dives on the iconic Isla de la Aguja. This place is acclaimed for its crystal clear waters, vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life that will leave you breathless. Unlike bulk operations, we focus on an agile and personalized service with expert guides. So that you only care to explore, we immortalize your adventure: we include high-quality underwater photos and videos with GoPro cameras at no additional cost. With a friendly atmosphere, delicious snacks on board to recharge energy between dives and the guarantee of safe operation, this internship is designed to live the magic of the Colombian Caribbean. Ready your fins and come explore with the best!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Lionfish Scuba Mini Course Underwater Adventure
Lionfish Scuba Mini Course Underwater Adventure
★★★★★ 5.0 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Comfort and the depth of the experience are what set us apart. Premium Departure: Say goodbye to the hassle of public beaches. We set sail from Santa Marta Marina, ensuring a quick, safe and private boarding process. Double Dive: Most introductory dives only offer a single dive. At Lionfish Scuba, we give you two, because we know that on the first one you’re learning, but it’s on the second one that you really get to enjoy the freedom underwater. Elite Location: We dive at Isla de la Aguja, a prime spot in Tayrona National Park renowned for its visibility and marine life. Memories Included: We don’t charge extra for photos. We’ll give you the digital footage from your GoPro so you can share your adventure straight away. Personalised Attention: Small groups per instructor so you feel safe every second of your first underwater breath.
Free cancellation VIATOR
ñitaxalda waterfall 1 day
ñitaxalda waterfall 1 day
★★★★★ 5.0 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
The waterfall is a sacred place where the Tayronan chiefs visited to make their spiritual glues, one of the main entrances to the Sierra Nevada and the main road to the Kogui Sheñdukua community
Free cancellation VIATOR

When to Visit Santa Marta Colombia

Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes

Winter Season
Dec – Feb
40,669 estimated passengers across 26 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Spring Season
Mar – May
9,445 estimated passengers across 9 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
9,056 estimated passengers across 9 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.

Cruise Lines Visiting Santa Marta Colombia

12 cruise lines. View full breakdown →

AIDA Cruises Cruises (32) Ponant Cruises Cruises (16) Star Clippers Cruises (12) Oceania Cruises Cruises (10) Royal Caribbean Cruises (6) Crystal Cruises Cruises (5) MSC Explora Journeys Cruises (5) Ambassador Cruise Line Cruises (4) Small Cruise Lines Cruises (3) Carnival Cruise Line Cruises (2) Emerald Cruises Cruises (2) Holland America Cruises (2)

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