Santa Marta, Colombia's oldest town, was established by the Spanish back in 1525. The most striking thing about the town is its pristine coastline with polar-white sands and crystal clear waters. As well as these postcard-worthy views, this region is home to South America's second-biggest mountain range, making the town a good choice of holiday destination for those that want to reconnect with nature. With an eclectic mix of vibrant town houses, live music venues and traditional eateries, the town has plenty to offer visitors aside from the beach.
The town is a well-rounded holiday destination with a wide range of attractions and places of interest to suit all tastes and personalities whether you're a foodie or a nature lover. To learn more about the town's heritage, you can visit the Casa de Aduana, South America's first house, which has since been transformed into a museum. You can take a hike and explore unspoilt beaches at Tayrona National Park, which boasts some of Colombia's most impressive scenery. The famous Simon Bolivar, who is celebrated as a liberator of South America, is commemorated with the town's most famous monument. The town also hosts a number of annual events and festivals including the Caiman Festival and the International Theatre Festival.
From natural parks to a picture-perfect coastline that's ideal for diving excursions, Santa Marta has an impressive selection of attractions and places of interest.
Diving enthusiasts won't want to miss a day trip to Taganga, a picturesque fishing village situated 3 miles from Santa Marta. With panoramic views of the bay and a plethora of diving opportunities, Taganga remains one of the most popular holiday destinations on the country's Caribbean coast.
The country's best-loved historic hero is Simon Bolivar, a Venezuelan political and military leader who played a leading role in Colombia's establishment as a sovereign state. This attraction features a hacienda built in the 17th century and an on-site museum where you can learn more about his life and work.
The Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is a protected area brimming over with biodiversity. The park spans around 12 square miles of the Caribbean Sea and features horsehoe-shaped bays, rain forest and easily accessible beaches.
Santa Marta hosts a variety of annual events and festivals including the traditional Colombian Festival of the Caiman and an annual celebration of theatre.
Sea Festival: Santa Marta's main annual event is the Sea Festival (Fiestas del Mar), which is held in July annually. In traditional South American style, the festival features a beauty pageant, watersports and other festivities including beach parties and live music.
International Theatre Festival: The International Theatre Festival is hosted by the town each year in either August or September and welcomes both national and international companies as well as musicians and groups from around the globe.
Festival of the Caiman: The Festival of the Caiman takes place every 20th January and features a caiman (fish) made from reeds and a rag doll in its mouth symbolising rebirth and fresh starts. Alongside the caiman ceremony, other festivities include dance competitions and locals wearing traditional costumes.
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