Highlights

Weekend trip to Santa Marta for nature lovers.
Visit Tayrona Park, Buritica River and Santa Marta Sea.
Kayaking, snorkeling and autonomous diving experiences.
Guided hike in Tayrona Park.

Description

Escape to Santa Marta for a full weekend immersed in nature. Begin by exploring Tayrona Park, famous for its lush jungle and beautiful beaches, with the option to hike to Cabo San Juan for a rewarding view. Alternatively, kayak down the Buritaca River and hike for 25 minutes to meet the beach where you can walk, swim, and relax. On the second day, embark on a sailboat experience for a full day of beach, sea, and paddle board. End the day with a chill sunset session at a local beach hostel. Throughout the experience, enjoy local accommodations in the central area, and a welcome lunch.

Who This Experience Is Good For

Ideal for nature lovers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to spend their weekend surrounded by green mountains, rivers, and the sea.

Meet Our Local Host 

Mario is a local host who has lived in Santa Marta for years after returning from working in cruises. He fell in love with Santa Marta during the pandemic and decided to stay and live there. Mario is a yogi and enjoys outdoor activities. He loves the nature and food of Santa Marta, and is excited to meet you and explore the city together.

Itinerary 

Day 1 (Friday)
Morning: Arrivals at Santa Marta. (as the check ins won't be available until 3 pm, you can safe your luggage in the hotel storage and use the amenities in the meantime)
3:00 pm: Check-in at accommodations in the central area with a local feel.
3:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Sunset and chill at a beach hostel (Chair and $15.000 COP consumption - Transportation not included).
8:00 pm: Welcome dinner

Day 2 (Saturday)

Option 1: Tayrona Park (guided hike to the beach) - Min 4 people to operate
6:00 am: Breakfast.
7:00 am: Private transport to Tayrona Park.
9:00-9:30 am: Estimated time of arrival at Tayrona Park.
9:30 am - 3:30 pm: Guided hike through the valley (3-hour walk/hike) with lunch included at a beachfront restaurant and free short time to lay in the beach.
3:30 pm: Hike back to the Natural park entrance
5:30 pm: Take the van to return to the accommodation.

Option 2: Buritica River (kayaking to the beach) - Min 4 people to operate

7:00 am: Breakfast.
7:30 am: Private transport to Buritica River.
9:30-10:00 am: Estimated time of arrival at Buritica River.
10:00 am - 12:30pm: Kiking up river for 25 minutes, kayaking down river. and free time to enjoy the beach.
1:00 pm: Lunch
2:00 pm: Time to chill in the river beach, hammocks, play volleyball etc. 
4:00 pm: Take the van to drive back to the hotel.

(Itinerary times/hours vary change depending external factors: Weather, group pace and others)

Day 3 (Sunday)
8:00 am: Breakfast.
9:00 am - 5:00 pm: Sailboat experience in Santa Marta Sea, including paddleboarding and snorkeling. *This is not private for RY members; there might be other participants and staff on board.*
7:00 pm: Check out from accommodation and return to Santa Marta airport.

What’s Included

Accommodations for 2 nights.
Welcome dinner on the first day.
Option 1 - Guided hike in Tayrona Park.
Option 2 - Kayaking experience in Buritica River.
Sailboat experience in Santa Marta Sea (not private to RY Members) with paddleboarding and snorkeling.
Breakfast for 2 days.
Lunch for 2 days
Airport transportation in Santa Marta (not Medellin).
Health Insurance on Saturday and Sunday experiences. 

What’s Not Included

-Flights to Santa Marta: Check Avianca or Latam Airlines, book your flights for Friday in the morning or any flight that lands in Santa Marta not later than 4 pm. Flights on Sunday should be booked after 7 pm since we won't be back from the sail boat before that time. 

-Transportation for sunset chill at a beach hostel.

Know Before You Go

Minimum Needed: 6 people
Maximum Capacity: 18 people
Booking Deadline: 14 days before start date
Weather Dependent: Yes, the weather is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 28C to 34C (approx. 84F to 90F).
Difficulty Level: Hiking to Cabo San Juan is rated 3.8 out of 5, and some parts are steep and muddy or have tough rocks.
Special Clothing Required: Bring clothes for warm weather and swim wear
Special Dietary Restrictions: Vegan and vegetarian options are available.
Extra Cash: There's no UBERS only Taxi (cash only). Cash also needed for tipping (Not mandatory: you liked the service Tip! You did not? Is ok not to Tip. 10% is good), additional services & souvenirs. ATMs are available in town. 
Ground Transportation: All ground transportation is included
Additional Information: N/A
Liabilities: The liability for any injury, loss, or damage incurred by participants is not assumed by Remote Year or its affiliates.