A 2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour in Santa Marta offers an immersive way to experience Colombia’s northern coast. For $359 per person, you’ll spend two days riding through scenic hills, stopping at vibrant beaches, enjoying off-road adventures, and sampling local cuisine. Led by knowledgeable guides like Oscar and Santiago, this tour combines adrenaline, culture, and natural beauty in a well-balanced package.
What we love most is how the tour’s focus on personalized experiences — group sizes are capped at six — keeps things intimate and flexible. Plus, the inclusion of all meals and accommodation means you can relax without worrying about extra costs or logistics. On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable on a motorcycle or with off-road terrain, this could be a bit challenging; the balance of adventure and safety depends on your experience level.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see the coast uniquely, food lovers eager to indulge in local flavors, and nature enthusiasts excited about waterfalls, beaches, and jungle hikes. Even if you’re new to riding, reviews highlight how caring guides make safety a priority, making it accessible for beginners willing to learn.
Key Points
- Authentic Colombian coastal experience with riding, river tubing, and jungle hikes.
- All-inclusive pricing covers meals, accommodation, and activities.
- Small group size ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
- Guides like Oscar and Santiago receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
- Two-day itinerary offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural sights.
- Ideal for adventurous travelers and those seeking a safe introduction to motorcycle touring.
Exploring the 2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour in Santa Marta

If you’re craving a trip that balances adventure, comfort, and local charm, this tour might just be your ticket. Starting in Santa Marta, you’ll venture along Colombia’s northern coast, reaching the charming beach town of Palomino, then returning through some of the region’s most beautiful natural spots. For $359, you get a packed two days full of riding, sightseeing, and good food—what more could you ask for?
Planning more time in Santa Marta? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Why This Tour Stands Out
Two of the most notable features are the guided river tubing experience and the off-road trail to The Lost City inside Tayrona National Park. These activities aren’t just fun—they give you a real taste of Colombia’s natural diversity. The river tubing in Buritaca, with all-you-can-drink options, is praised for being a highlight, offering a refreshing break amidst lush surroundings. Meanwhile, the off-road ride to The Lost City combines adventure with cultural discovery, a rare combo on a short trip.
Plus, all meals are included, which means you can enjoy hearty local dishes without worrying about extra costs. The accommodation at El Rio Hostel, voted Colombia’s best in 2018, provides a cozy place to relax after energizing days in the saddle. This combination of comfort and adventure is why many reviews describe the experience as “good value for the money.”
What to Expect from the Itinerary
Day 1: From Santa Marta to Palomino
Your journey kicks off around 9:30 am in Santa Marta, a lively city known for its vibrant culture and gateways to natural attractions. The first leg involves cruising seaside along rolling hills, giving you spectacular views of the coastline. As you climb into Palomino, the scenery shifts from urban to tropical, with swaying palm trees and endless blue horizons.
Once in Palomino, the highlight is tucking into authentic Italian-style pizza at Prima Luna Restaurant. It’s a delightful surprise to find such quality Italian cuisine in Colombia, and the reviews rave about the food’s authenticity. Later, the group heads to Buritaca for a river tubing adventure—a relaxing yet exhilarating float, with drinks flowing freely, as one reviewer put it: “All-you-can-drink river tubing in Buritaca.”
The day concludes with a stay at the El Rio hostel, where travelers often comment on its friendly vibe and excellent location.
Day 2: Tayrona’s Hidden Gems
The second day dives into more diverse activities. The group starts with off-road riding toward Tayrona National Park, which is praised for its manageable trails even for newcomers. The highlight here is cliff jumping at Quebrada Valencia waterfall, a thrilling way to cool off and add some excitement.
Lunch is served at The Journey Hostel inside the park, offering a chance to enjoy local flavors amid jungle surroundings. The afternoon features a jungle hike to a secret beach, an experience many reviews describe as “spectacular” and “off the beaten path.” This part of the tour captures the raw beauty of Colombia’s coast and rainforest, fostering a sense of discovery.
The Balance of Adventure and Comfort
Many reviews emphasize how guides like Santiago and Christian make even first-time riders feel safe and confident. The motorcycles are described as in excellent condition, with a crash course at the start to ensure everyone is comfortable before hitting the roads. The small group size—capped at six—means you’re not just another face in the crowd; guides can tailor stops and help with individual needs.
The inclusion of meals, accommodation, and activities means you’re getting a comprehensive experience without hidden costs. This is a significant advantage, especially if you prefer to have your trip well-organized and worry-free.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While many rave about the experience, some reviews suggest that the physicality of riding and off-road trails may not suit everyone. If you’re uncomfortable on a motorcycle or prefer a more relaxed itinerary, this might be a bit intense. Also, since the tour is booked an average of five days in advance, last-minute travelers could face availability issues.
Weather can also be unpredictable—many reviews mention that guides go the extra mile, rain or shine, but poor weather might impact some outdoor activities. Lastly, the 3-day cancellation policy requires early notice for refunds, so travelers should plan ahead.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for young travelers or couples looking for a lively, active experience. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy motorcycling, outdoor activities, and local cuisine. Reviewers note how guides are attentive and knowledgeable, making it accessible even if you’re a beginner rider.
If you’re searching for a unique way to explore Colombia’s coast beyond typical beaches or city tours, this tour offers authenticity, camaraderie, and a touch of adrenaline—wrapped into a compact two-day package.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. Even if you’ve never ridden a motorcycle before, guides like Santiago and Christian provide a crash course, and the smaller group size allows for personalized attention. Many reviews mention feeling safe and confident after initial instructions.
What’s included in the price?
All meals, accommodation at El Rio Hostel, river tubing, and activities like off-road riding and jungle hikes are included. There are no hidden extra costs, making it good value for money.
How long is the riding each day?
The itinerary covers approximately 8 hours of activities each day, including riding, stops, and sightseeing. The actual riding time varies but is managed to be manageable for most participants.
Are transportation and equipment provided?
Yes. The motorcycles are ready for use, and guides provide safety instructions. The meeting point is accessible from public transportation in Santa Marta.
What activities are part of the tour?
You’ll enjoy seaside cruising, river tubing, off-road riding to The Lost City, cliff jumping at waterfalls, jungle hikes, and visits to secret beaches inside Tayrona Park.
Is meals and lodging included?
Absolutely. All meals are included, and cozy lodging at El Rio Hostel is part of the package, allowing you to unwind comfortably after active days.
What is the group size?
Groups are capped at six participants for a more personalized experience, making it easier to connect with guides and fellow travelers.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to three days before the tour for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts

This 2-day coastal motorcycle tour in Santa Marta offers a rare blend of adventure, natural beauty, and culture. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just lounging on the beach—it’s about feeling the wind, tasting fresh local food, and discovering Colombia’s coast from a fresh perspective. The guides’ dedication, the variety of activities, and the small-group setting make it a memorable experience that’s hard to match in terms of value.
If you’re eager to push your boundaries safely, love off-the-beaten-path sights, or simply want a fun, active way to see Colombia’s coast, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for those new to riding, provided you are open to a bit of physical activity and adventure. For anyone seeking a well-organized, authentic, and exhilarating way to explore Santa Marta’s stunning surroundings, this motorcycle tour delivers.
In essence, this ride is more than just transportation — it’s a journey into Colombia’s vibrant coast and lush landscapes, with the added thrill of riding a motorcycle. It’s a smart pick for curious, adventure-hungry travelers who want a taste of local life, stunning scenery, and a few adrenaline rushes.
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