SANTAMARTA: TOUR Buritaca, River and Sea. Van, Breakfast and Lunch Included.

Experience the Natural Charm of Magdalena with the Buritaca, River and Sea Tour

This full-day tour takes you from Santa Marta into the heart of Colombia’s stunning Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, with visits to Guachaca and Buritaca. For just $44 per person, you’ll enjoy a 7-hour journey filled with crystal-clear river swims, delicious local cuisine, and the chance to relax at the unique estuary where river meets the Caribbean Sea. The tour is operated by cartagena toures y excursiones, with transportation in an air-conditioned bus, and includes breakfast, lunch, entrance fees, and a professional guide.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of adventure and serenity—you’ll love the pristine water in Guachaca’s river, and the spectacular scenery at Buritaca, which offers both calm relaxation and fun water activities. Plus, the authentic regional lunch with options from seafood to vegan dishes ensures you’ll be well-fed during your day. That said, one consideration is that the tour can be somewhat rigid in timing, so if you’re seeking a very flexible schedule, it’s worth keeping that in mind.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, scenic landscapes, and local flavors—it’s ideal for those wanting a day away from the city’s hustle, but who still want some structure and guided facilitation. If you’re sensitive to transport issues or looking for more personalized handling (as some reviews mention), it’s good to read the full details beforehand. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those seeking an authentic, affordable escape into Colombia’s beautiful riverside and coastal scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning natural landscapes: Experience the meeting point of river and sea at Buritaca.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned bus with hotel pickup makes for a smooth journey.
• Authentic regional cuisine: Enjoy a hearty, varied lunch with options from seafood to vegan.
• Balanced itinerary: Time allocated for swimming, photos, and relaxation at each stop.
• Affordable value: For just $44, you get a full day of guided adventure, meals, and transport.
• Potential flexibility issues: Some travelers report timing and pickup challenges.

A Deep Dive into the Sights and Activities

The Journey Begins: From Santa Marta to Guachaca

Our adventure starts with a hotel pickup in Santa Marta, where the bus immediately sets a comfortable tone for the day. The 45-minute transfer whisks us to Guachaca, a quiet village in the Sierra Nevada that’s famous among locals and travelers alike for its pristine river. The ride itself offers glimpses of Colombia’s lush landscape—verdant hills and glimpses of everyday life in small towns.

Refreshing Swim at Guachaca River

Once we arrive in Guachaca, the highlight begins: a swim in the river’s clear waters. The crystal clarity makes for perfect cooling on a warm day and lends itself to some fantastic photos. It’s a straightforward, relaxing experience, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. Many reviews echo this sentiment, noting how the water is refreshingly cold and revitalizing.

A key perk here is the free time—around 1.5 hours—which allows you to swim, take pictures, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. Be sure to bring your comfortable shoes and swimwear to make the most of this stop.

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Transition to Buritaca: The River Meets the Sea

After our swim, we hop back on the bus for a 20-minute ride to Buritaca, a truly magical place where the river flows into the Caribbean Sea. This spot is renowned for its spectacular estuary, offering a unique landscape that’s both calming and visually stunning.

At Buritaca, the tour provides about 3.5 hours of free time, which is ample for relaxing, taking photos, or enjoying water activities. The tour doesn’t include boat rides, kayaking, or tubing, but the natural setting alone justifies the visit. Several travelers mention how peaceful and scenic the area is, making it a perfect retreat from busy tourist spots.

Tasting Local Flavors: The Lunch

One of the tour’s standout features is the lunch break, where you’ll be treated to a delicious meal with a variety of options—poultry, fish, pork, vegan, and more. Many appreciate the generous portions and the opportunity to sample regional flavors. The egg arepa served to one traveler exemplifies the simple, hearty fare you can expect.

The 1-hour lunch also offers a chance to relax and chat with your fellow travelers about the morning’s adventures. Expect a friendly, informal atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.

Final Relaxation and Return

Post-lunch, you’ll have additional free time to swim, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery before the bus begins its return to Santa Marta. The total 7-hour duration ensures a well-paced day, though some reviews suggest the timing can feel rushed or inconsistent, especially regarding pickups and drop-offs.

The tour concludes with the bus returning to your hotel, leaving you with plenty of memories and perhaps some great photos of your Colombian river and sea adventure.

Authenticity and Practical Insights

While this tour offers a solid introduction to Colombia’s coastal and riverine landscape, it’s important to note some practical considerations. The price point of $44 is quite reasonable for transportation, guided commentary, meals, and entry fees, especially given the full-day itinerary. You’ll get a chance to disconnect from city life, enjoy natural beauty, and taste local cuisine—all highlights for many travelers.

However, some reviews reveal mixed experiences. For example, one traveler, Marcela, described feeling ripped off due to issues with pickup timing and lack of breakfast. Such feedback suggests that confirming pickup details and understanding the rigid scheduling are essential for a smooth experience. The tour’s guided commentary, mainly in Spanish, is another aspect to consider for non-Spanish speakers.

Transportation and Timing

The air-conditioned bus makes the trip comfortable, but the timing can be less predictable. The stops are well-spaced, but if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a very flexible day, this might be a concern. The hotel pickup is included, but as Marcela pointed out, some pickups may be limited or require proactive communication.

Food and Activities

The lunch is generally well-received, offering variety and hearty portions, but note that activities like boat rides, tubing, or kayaking are not included. If water sports are a must-have on your list, you might need to arrange those separately.

Accessibility and Comfort

The tour mentions wheelchair accessibility, which is a plus for travelers with mobility needs. The stops involve walking and swimming, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers wanting a taste of Colombia’s river and coastal beauty without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, swimming, and authentic regional food. If you’re not picky about timing or rigid schedules, you’ll find this tour offers great value and memorable sights.

However, if you’re looking for a highly personalized experience or have specific needs regarding pickup and timing, it’s worth discussing these in advance or considering alternative options. Be prepared for a guided, group-oriented day that balances adventure with relaxation.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

For travelers eager to see the confluence of river and sea, sample local Colombian cuisine, and enjoy peaceful natural surroundings, this tour hits many marks. The value is clear—transport, meals, and guided visits for just $44—making it accessible for most budgets. The stops at Guachaca and Buritaca are straightforward but highlight some of the most photogenic and tranquil spots in the region.

If you’re seeking a relaxed day out with plenty of water, scenery, and authentic flavor, this tour offers a solid, well-organized option. Just be prepared for the potential hiccups with pickups and timing, and plan accordingly.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned bus transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for swimming and walking, plus sunscreen and a towel.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast (egg arepa) and lunch, with vegetarian, seafood, and vegan options available.

Can I participate in water activities like kayaking?
No, activities such as boat rides, tubing, or kayaking are not included in the tour.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
The tour mentions wheelchair accessibility, but it’s wise to confirm specific needs when booking.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with the “reserve now & pay later” option.

This SANTAMARTA: TOUR Buritaca, River and Sea offers a balanced glimpse of natural Colombia—perfect for those seeking an authentic, scenic, and affordable day out. With stunning water views, delicious food, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great choice if you want to experience Colombia’s riverside and coastal beauty without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby