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This is what Santa Marta, the «Heart of the World», has to offer in commemoration of its 500 years of foundation.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism (MinCIT) invites all Colombians to take part in the commemoration of the 500 years of Santa Marta “Heart of the World”, a destination that offers an unparalleled fusion of history, stunning natural landscapes, ancient living ethnic groups and authentic cuisine of the Caribbean region.

During the next few weeks, the city will be the epicenter of celebrations that highlight its heritage and its extraordinary tourist and cultural offerings, ideal for all types of travelers.

Founded in 1525 by Rodrigo de Bastidas, Santa Marta is a living testimony of Colombian history. As a strategic port during colonial times, it was a meeting point for indigenous, European and African cultures, making it a melting pot of traditions that enrich its current identity. It has also been the cradle of great cultural, musical and literary manifestations that have contributed to the intangible heritage of the nation.

Santa Marta offers travelers and visitors paradisiacal beaches, places that dazzle with the mysticism and cosmogony of the ethnic groups that have preserved the culture and heritage of this hospitable city for thousands of years. Its flavors and traditional cuisine, ancestral knowledge, handicrafts, folklore and the great human warmth that characterizes its people are the differential that makes it consolidate as a destination with a diverse and vibrant cultural tourism offer.

The following is a guide of unmissable experiences to discover Santa Marta, both in its urban and rural areas, during these days, as part of the celebration of its 500 years of foundation: 

Beaches. Santa Marta is famous for its paradisiacal beaches that offer experiences for those seeking relaxation, water sports or contact with nature.

El Rodadero: one of the most iconic beaches, ideal for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, water sports and a wide range of hotels and restaurants without leaving the city.

Taganga: a fishing village with a bohemian atmosphere, perfect for diving and snorkeling. snorkel thanks to its transparent waters and abundant marine life.

Playa Blanca: This beach stands out for having a Blue Flag certification, an international recognition for environmental quality, safety and sustainability of beaches, this beach has fine sand and calm waters. In addition, it is recommended to go to enjoy with the family the fascinating experience of the aquarium.

Playa Cristal: Considered one of the most beautiful in the Colombian Caribbean for its coral reef and biodiversity. It is located within the protected area of the Tayrona Park (Neguanje sector), so on the way you can enjoy the viewpoint of 7 waves and Neguanje Beach.  

Concha Bay: Quiet beaches surrounded by nature, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy different water sports.

2. Natural Parks: Santa Marta is the gateway to two of the most amazing ecosystems in the country.

Tayrona National Natural Park: natural sanctuary that combines jungle, mountains and sea. Visitors can hike ecological trails that lead to beaches such as Arrecifes, Cabo San Juan and La Piscina, and observe unique species of flora and fauna.

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: the highest coastal mountain in the world, home to indigenous communities such as the Kogui, Wiwa and Arhuacos. From there you can access the Lost City (Teyuna), an ancient archaeological site that offers one of the most emblematic hikes in South America.

3. Historical sitesSanta Marta is an open book of history. Visitors can walk through it:

Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino: house-museum where the Liberator Simón Bolívar died, surrounded by gardens and historical monuments.

Cathedral Basilica of Santa Marta: the oldest church in Colombia, a jewel of colonial architecture.

Historical center: a place full of a varied offer of lodging, museums, restaurants, nightlife, handicrafts, mansions with republican architecture, the Parque de los Novios and the tourist boardwalk from where you can see the famous Morro de Santa Marta and its enigmatic sunsets.

The 500 years are an invitation to rediscover the magic of this Caribbean land, to recognize the importance of preserving its historical and environmental heritage through responsible tourism.

The Minca village, the Tayrona corridor, Bello Horizonte and the Don Diego River are destinations outside the city, little explored, but recommended to complement and enrich the tourist experiences of the city.

Magdalena Caminos Andinos

 

4. Cultural sites: Samarian culture is a fusion of indigenous, African and European influences. Visitors can visit:

Tairona Gold Museum (Casa de la Aduana): a window to the pre-Columbian and colonial history of the region.

Santa Marta Theater: stage for cultural and artistic events that celebrate the Caribbean identity.

Indigenous villages near the city: Guided cultural visits to communities such as the Kogui, Arhuaco, Wiwa and Chimilas (Ette Ennaka) that allow for a cultural immersion, learning about their cosmovision and unique handicrafts.

Festivals and celebrations: During this year, the city will have a special agenda with parades, concerts, exhibitions and gastronomic samples in honor of its 500th anniversary. But also in the second half of the year you can enjoy the Festival de la Guacherna Samaria and the Festival Vallenato Mar de Acordeones.

5. Not to be missed plans. Santa Marta has a varied offer in the surrounding area.

Minca: A town full of ecology, charming hostels, natural sites such as Pozo Azul, Cascadas de Marinca, and the river, where visitors can delight themselves with local gastronomy and also enjoy delicious coffees and all the coffee culture of the Sierra Nevada.

Tayrona Corridor: Those who do not have time to enter the Tayrona Park, can visit the wide variety of tourist attractions around (parallel to the Troncal del Caribe - Via Palomino). Here you can find hostels with events and festivals, eco-hotels, etc. boutique, The area is also home to many other ecological and beach tourist attractions, including the Macondo Labyrinth, beaches such as Casa Grande, Playa Los Angeles, and Mendihuaca.

Bello Horizonte: This hotel and sun and beach area has a great variety of lodgings, but also an extensive coastal area for enjoyment and relaxation.

Don Diego River: ideal place for those seeking an escape to natural sites and adventure. Just 20 km. from the main entrance of the Tayrona Park (on the road to Palomino) is the Don Diego Zone, bathed by the river of the same name, where you can practice a number of tourist activities such as tubing, paddle board, kayaking, We can also visit indigenous settlements, go to Buritaca, Guachaca, and Quebrada Valencia or enjoy the delicious local gastronomy. In short, an entertaining experience in the middle of nature.

6. Gastronomic offerSanta Marta offers a gastronomy that delights with its authentic flavors of the Caribbean region: fresh fish and seafood: red snapper, mojarra and seafood casserole, served in restaurants facing the sea or in traditional stalls; typical dishes such as arepas de huevo, cayeye (mashed green guineo), rice with coconut and giant patacones.

Also, a great variety of drinks and desserts: tropical fruit juices, cocadas, enyucados and bollo limpio are a must, and gastronomic markets such as the Mercado Público de Santa Marta, The "Plazoleta de Jujos de la Bahía" and the Taganga boardwalk, where you can live an authentic culinary experience.

With this commemoration, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism reaffirms its commitment to the development of sustainable, inclusive and transformative tourism, which highlights the value of the natural and cultural diversity of Santa Marta.

The 500 years are an invitation to rediscover the magic of this Caribbean land, to recognize the importance of preserving its historical and environmental heritage, and to support the growth of its communities through responsible tourism.

Today, Santa Marta not only celebrates its history, but also projects itself as a vibrant, welcoming destination full of opportunities for those seeking authentic and memorable experiences.

Finally, we invite all Colombians to learn about the agenda for the commemoration of the 500th anniversary of Santa Marta on the web page of MinCultura and the Mayor's Office of Santa Marta.

SOURCE: https://www.mincit.gov.co/prensa