Santa Marta is a lively Caribbean city nestled at the foot of the majestic Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the tallest coastal mountain range in the world. Here, snow-capped peaks soar nearly 6,000 meters just 42 kilometers from the sea, creating a dramatic natural contrast. The region is home to ancestral Indigenous communities whose traditions remain vibrant today. Santa Marta is the gateway to some of Colombia’s most iconic destinations, including the pristine beaches of Tayrona National Park and the legendary Lost City trek. In the city’s historic center, travelers can admire colonial architecture, visit the grand Cathedral, and explore the house where national hero Simón Bolívar spent his final days. 

Our exploration of Santa Marta begins at the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the former sugarcane estate where Simón Bolívar, the liberator of South America, spent his final days before passing away in December 1830. Today, the estate, once owned by Joaquín de Mier, functions as a museum housing artifacts and everyday objects from the 18th and 19th centuries, including Bolívar’s personal belongings and the very bed where he died. The museum also features artwork celebrating key moments in his fight for independence. From there, we continue to the historic center to visit the Cathedral of Santa Marta, Colombia’s oldest church. Our route then follows Avenida 3, passing landmarks like Simón Bolívar Park, Los Novios Park, the Palace of Justice, San Francisco Church, and the scenic beachfront promenade. To finish, we drive into the hills toward Taganga, a traditional fishing village, and pause at a viewpoint to take in the coastal views.

Meals: -/-/-