Santa Marta: Tour to Taganga, a fishing village

Imagine spending a beautiful day exploring a vibrant city, then winding down on a quiet beach with fresh seafood—sounds perfect, doesn’t it? For $73 per person, this 7-hour tour offers just that, taking you from Santa Marta’s historic streets to the colorful fishing village of Taganga. Led by friendly guides (in Spanish or English for private groups), this experience balances cultural insights with relaxing seaside scenery.

What we love about this tour is how it combines city sightseeing with authentic local life—you get a taste of Santa Marta’s iconic landmarks, plus a peek into everyday life in Taganga, all wrapped in a manageable, well-organized day. Two standout elements are the panoramic views from the Taganga viewpoint and the charming boat ride to Playa Grande—both truly highlight the region’s natural beauty.

One thing to consider is that the tour starts early (around 9:00 AM) and involves a fair bit of moving around, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a packed schedule. It’s ideal for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure, especially if you’re keen to see both urban and coastal Colombia in one go.

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy cultural discovery with a laid-back beach vibe—perfect if you’re interested in local stories, stunning vistas, and a relaxed seaside lunch.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering Santa Marta’s landmarks, Taganga’s viewpoints, and Playa Grande.
Authentic cultural insights into the fishing community’s history and daily life.
Beautiful scenery with panoramic views and a crystal-clear beach.
Well-organized day, with transportation, guidance, and a delicious local lunch included.
Flexibility with private or shared guides, and options for in-depth explanations.
Suitable for active travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and outdoor time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Santa Marta’s Coastal Charm: A Deep Dive into the Taganga Tour

When planning a trip to Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Santa Marta is often the jumping-off point for adventures in Tayrona Park or the Lost City. But amid the urban buzz and lush surroundings, it’s worth carving out a day to experience the small fishing village of Taganga—a place that feels worlds away from the tourist crowds. This tour makes it easy to do just that, offering a balanced mix of city highlights, cultural stories, and seaside relaxation.

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Starting the Day: City Tour in Santa Marta

The adventure begins early, with a pickup around 9:00 to 9:30 AM from your accommodation. This is an advantage for those wanting to maximize their day without feeling rushed. The guided tour of Santa Marta covers some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Cathedral of Santa Marta, the Parque de los Novios, and the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino—a site famous for its historical significance.

We found the city highlights to be a good introduction, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Santa Marta’s history or architecture. The guide’s commentary is in Spanish, with private tours offering English, which is helpful for non-Spanish speakers. We appreciated how the guide kept the pace lively, with interesting stories about local streets and personalities like the Pibe Valderrama monument, giving a sense of the city’s vibrant character.

The Viewpoint: Overlooking Taganga

Around 11:00 AM, the tour takes you to the Taganga viewpoint—perched about 100 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll get sweeping panoramic views of Taganga Bay and the surrounding mountains. It’s a photo-worthy spot, and the scenery offers a real sense of the region’s rugged beauty. The viewpoint serves as a perfect pause, inviting you to take a few moments to breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the vastness of the Caribbean Sea.

Exploring Taganga: Culture and Color

Next, the tour guides you through Taganga’s narrow streets, where colorful houses and fishing boats define the landscape. The guide shares stories about the community’s evolution, especially its roots in fishing—something that still shapes daily life here. The Malecón de Taganga is a highlight, with lively maritime scenes and local chatter.

One reviewer notes, “The guide’s stories about the fishermen’s lives made the place come alive—so much better than just walking around aimlessly.” We loved the authentic feel of this part of the tour, where it’s possible to see how tradition and modern tourism coexist.

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The Boat Ride to Playa Grande

At around 12:15 PM, it’s time to hop on a boat and cruise for about 15 minutes across calm Caribbean waters to Playa Grande. This stretch is relaxing, with gentle breezes and views of lush green hills framing the bay. The beach itself is a stunning postcard scene—wide, with crystal-clear waters, palm huts, and rustic restaurants serving fresh seafood and tropical drinks.

While Playa Grande doesn’t have the commercial hustle of major resorts, it offers genuine tranquility. You can swim, sunbathe, or stroll along the shoreline. We found it a refreshing break from city life, and many travelers appreciated the chance to unwind in such a natural setting.

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Lunch: Coastal Flavors

Post-swim, the group reconvenes for a local lunch at one of the small restaurants. The menu varies with the season but typically features coastal specialties—fresh fish, seafood, and tropical fruits. Sharing a meal here is a wonderful way to connect with local culinary traditions and feel the relaxed vibe of the Caribbean coast.

Afternoon Free Time and Return

After lunch, you have about an hour to explore Playa Grande at your own pace—perhaps picking up souvenirs or enjoying a dessert. At around 3:00 PM, the boat takes you back to Taganga, where you can continue exploring or simply relax for a bit longer on the beach. The tour then wraps up with a scenic drive back to Santa Marta, arriving around 5:00 PM.

Value and Practicalities

At $73, this tour offers good value for the variety packed into a single day. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide for private options, city and coastal tours, boat transfers, and a local lunch. The price covers transportation, guidance, and meals, making it an efficient way to see multiple highlights without the need for separate bookings.

One traveler appreciated the professional guide and the seamless organization, noting that “everything was on time and well-coordinated”—a relief when dealing with busy tour schedules.

Considerations and Tips

While this tour suits most active travelers, keep in mind it involves a fair amount of walking and boat transfers. The tour is not recommended for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and boat access. Also, the schedule is somewhat packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider how much time you want to spend at each stop.

Packing essentials include comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for souvenirs or additional snacks. Be sure to bring reusable water bottles and waterproof shoes—the Caribbean sun can be intense, and water-proof footwear is handy on boat rides.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly good for curious travelers eager to see both Santa Marta’s urban highlights and a taste of local life in Taganga. It’s also perfect if you want an easy, organized day that includes plenty of scenic views, cultural insights, and a relaxing beach break.

If you’re after a full-day adventure that balances sightseeing with downtime, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic storytelling, breathtaking vistas, and delicious coastal cuisine.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Marta are included, along with boat transfers to Playa Grande.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour suits most active travelers, but consider the walking and boat portions if traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish for the shared service; private tours can be in English or Spanish.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, it’s advisable to carry cash for souvenirs, snacks, or tips. The tour doesn’t include extras not mentioned.

Are meals included?
Yes, a typical coastal lunch is included, featuring local seafood and seasonal ingredients.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Taganga to Playa Grande takes about 15 minutes each way.

Is sunscreen provided?
No, but biodegradable sunscreen is recommended to protect the environment and your skin.

Can I swim at Playa Grande?
Absolutely, the beach’s clear waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, beachwear, and sun protection are essential.

Is this tour suitable for camera enthusiasts?
Yes, with stunning viewpoints, colorful scenery, and beautiful beaches, it’s a photographer’s delight.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded day—perfect for travelers eager to experience Santa Marta’s vibrant city life, stunning coastal scenery, and authentic local culture. Whether you’re seeking a quick escape to nature, a taste of fishing village life, or just a beautiful beach day, it’s a solid choice that captures the spirit of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.