If you’re looking for a full-day escape from Santa Marta that combines scenic coastal views, authentic local flavor, and a taste of Colombia’s ancestral traditions, the Playa Grande & Taganga tour from Sendaria Travel is worth considering. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend around 8 hours exploring two charming fishing towns, enjoying a boat ride, relaxing on a pristine beach, and savoring regional dishes.
Two things we love about this experience are the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters—perfect for cooling off after a warm day—and the opportunity to witness the sunset over the sea, a truly memorable sight. The tour’s focus on local customs and natural beauty makes it feel more genuine than many generic beach trips.
A possible drawback is the duration of transport between Santa Marta and Taganga, which takes roughly an hour each way, so it’s not ideal if you’re pressed for time or sensitive to long rides. Also, the tour is guided in Spanish, so some knowledge of the language or a translator might enhance your experience.
This tour best suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic regional flavors, and scenic coastal landscapes. It’s ideal for those wanting a reasonably priced, culturally rich day away from busy city life, with plenty of time to swim and enjoy the local atmosphere.
- Affordable Price: At $35, this tour offers great value with included boat rides, lunch, and transportation.
- Authentic Experience: Focus on fishing villages and ancestral customs provides genuine insight into local life.
- Scenic Highlights: Expect stunning views from the Taganga viewpoint and a beautiful sunset at Playa Grande.
- Relaxing Water Activities: The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim or sea bath.
- Comfortable Transportation: Includes shared ground transfer and boat rides, making logistics straightforward.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers interested in culture and nature, but not for pregnant women.
Starting Point and Transport
The tour begins with a pickup at one of three convenient locations in Santa Marta: Puma, Centro Comercial Zazue, or Casa del Castillo. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable shared van, which takes approximately one hour to reach the scenic town of Taganga. The journey itself offers glimpses of Santa Marta’s outskirts and the rugged coastline, setting the tone for a day immersed in local life.
Once in Taganga, a scenic viewpoint offers a panoramic look at the coast, ideal for photos and taking in the landscape. This spot is a favorite for travelers who enjoy a quick view before heading out to sea.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Boat Ride to Playa Grande
After the initial sightseeing, you’ll board a speedboat for a short 10-minute trip across the water to Playa Grande, a stretch of beach renowned for its soft sands and calm, crystal-clear waters. This boat ride is the highlight for many, offering a feeling of adventure and a chance to spot marine life or just enjoy the breeze.
While some reviews mention the boat ride as relaxing and picturesque, always remember to hold onto your belongings and wear a life jacket if provided. It’s a quick, fun part of the day that sets the tone for beach relaxation.
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The Beach: Playa Grande
This is the core of the experience. Playa Grande provides a wide expanse of soft sand and tranquil waters, perfect for a sea bath or simply lounging. Expect to be in a less crowded, natural setting that’s ideal for unwinding away from tourist-heavy spots.
You’ll have ample free time—roughly five hours—to swim, sunbathe, or explore the shoreline. The waters are described as soft and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip. Travelers often mention how clear the water is, which adds to the relaxing vibe.
Regional Cuisine and Local Flavors
A highlight of this tour is the typical regional lunch, prepared with fresh ingredients from the sea. Expect dishes that reflect traditional flavors, providing a taste of local culture. It’s a good chance to try regional specialties in a relaxed setting, often with scenic views on the way back to Santa Marta.
Many reviewers appreciate the affordability and quality of the included meal, noting it as a highlight of the trip. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to connect with local culinary traditions.
Sunset and Return Journey
As the day concludes, the tour offers the chance to witness an unforgettable sunset. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, and the peaceful sea acts as a perfect mirror. This moment often earns praise for its beauty and tranquility.
After sunset, you’ll retrace your route back to Santa Marta, arriving at your hotel or designated drop-off points. The return trip is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights and share photos.
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back day filled with scenic views, authentic local culture, and beach time. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate affordable prices and don’t mind a bit of travel time to enjoy the natural and cultural highlights. If you enjoy boat rides, swimming, regional food, and sunset views, this tour checks all those boxes.
However, it might not be perfect for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a more structured or shorter day. Also, since the guide’s commentary is in Spanish, some language familiarity will enhance your understanding of local customs and scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value of the Price
At $35, this tour offers a lot in terms of what’s included: transportation, boat rides, a guided experience, regional lunch, and insurance. Compared to other excursions in the area, it’s a reasonable price for a full 8-hour day of diverse activities. The inclusion of boat rides and free time at Playa Grande makes it a flexible and engaging option.
Some travelers have found the value excellent, especially with the scenic views and authentic experience. The fact that the tour provides regional cuisine as part of the package adds a cultural touch that many other beach trips lack.
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Transportation and Logistics
The shared van transport is straightforward, with pickups at three central locations. While the drive takes about an hour each way, it’s a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The boat ride is short but adds a sense of adventure, and the return journey allows you to unwind and soak in the coastal views again.
The tour’s itinerary is well-paced, giving you plenty of free time at Playa Grande to enjoy the environment without feeling rushed. This flexibility is perfect for travelers who prefer a mix of guided and independent exploration.
The Scenic Highlights
The view from the Taganga viewpoint is a definite high point, providing a panoramic shot of the coast and the fishing village’s charm. The sunset at Playa Grande, with its vibrant colors and calm waters, earns frequent praise and creates a memorable end to the day.
Many reviews mention how stunning the scenery is, whether from the viewpoint or on the boat. The waters’ clarity and soft sands contrast beautifully with the rugged coastline, making the entire trip picture-perfect.
The Cultural and Culinary Experience
Eating regional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients is a simple but meaningful way to connect with local traditions. Many travelers find the lunch satisfying and delicious, often highlighting the authenticity of the flavors.
The tour’s focus on ancestral customs and fishing traditions provides a glimpse into local life that larger, more commercialized tours often miss. This aspect adds depth and authenticity to your coastal adventure.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
The main concern might be the longer transport times and the fact that the guide speaks only Spanish. If you’re not fluent, bringing a translator or relying on basic Spanish can help enrich your understanding. Also, travelers sensitive to boat rides or long rides may find the journey a bit tiring, especially if they prefer quick, action-packed excursions.
The Playa Grande & Taganga tour strikes a fine balance between affordability, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a relaxed day focusing on natural landscapes, local flavors, and traditional fishing villages. The included boat rides, free time, and stunning sunset make it a memorable outing worth considering.
If you’re someone who appreciates genuine experiences over tourist-heavy spots, this tour offers a window into a quieter, more authentic side of Colombia’s coast. With its reasonable price and thoughtful itinerary, it provides significant value and a chance to see the coast from a new perspective.
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes shared ground transfer from Santa Marta to Taganga and back, plus boat rides to and from Playa Grande.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, with the main activities spread out throughout the day.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel, insect repellent, personal medication, closed-toe shoes, and a waterproof bag to protect your belongings.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, the tour’s duration and boat ride might not suit very young children or those sensitive to long rides.
What language is the guide in?
The tour guide speaks Spanish, so some basic understanding or a translator can enhance your experience.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is it suitable for pregnant women?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, likely due to the boat ride and long travel times.
To sum it up, the Playa Grande & Taganga tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and relaxation at a fair price point. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a genuine coastal experience without breaking the bank. You’ll return with beautiful photos, a full belly, and memories of one of Colombia’s quieter, more authentic seaside towns.
You can check availability for your dates here: