The Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta is a breathtaking wetland ecosystem situated on Colombia's northern coast, precisely at the mouth of the Magdalena River. Nestled within this expansive aquatic environment is Nueva Venecia, a captivating floating community that serves as a distinctive tourist attraction in the area.
Join us for a tour of the "Venice of Colombia" and explore the remarkable features of this one-of-a-kind destination. With seamless transfers included from Santa Marta, we will delve into the swamp, passing through Pueblo Viejo before arriving at Buena Vista, one of the three stilt villages in the region.
Our journey includes bird watching, canoeing, savoring a delectable traditional lunch from the region, and experiencing a stunning sunset as the swamp's waters blend with the floating homes of the residents, creating a magical landscape.
Tour Description
Estimated Itinerary:
- 5:30 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.: Pickup from your accommodation and departure to Pueblo Viejo pier. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive into the Colombian Caribbean. A vehicle will collect you from your Santa Marta accommodation and transport you via the Troncal del Caribe Highway to the tourist pier at Pueblo Viejo. Along the way, you'll traverse rural and coastal environments, where the Sierra Nevada meets the mangroves, offering a glimpse into how coastal cultures and ecosystems in northern Magdalena are intertwined.
- 6:30 a.m. – 7:15 a.m.: Boat excursion through Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta. This marks the start of a remarkable experience: navigating the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a RAMSAR Wetland of International Importance. This intricate system of coastal lagoons and mangroves hosts over 200 bird species, a wealth of fish and aquatic plants, and plays a crucial role in the region's climate regulation. As you glide across the waters, you'll spot herons, kingfishers, and storks while observing local fishermen engaged in their daily routines, as if time flows differently here.
- 7:15 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.: Explore Buenavista, a delightful floating village. The boat will ferry you to Buenavista, one of three stilt villages nestled in the swamp. Like Nueva Venecia, this village is built entirely over water, with homes resting on wooden stilts. You'll discover how the communities have adapted to coexist harmoniously with the swamp, fostering a unique amphibious culture. Here, you'll have the chance to interact with residents, gain insight into their daily lives, and comprehend how their existence revolves around water, artisanal fishing, and collective resilience.
- 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Guided exploration of Nueva Venecia. Your next destination is Nueva Venecia, the largest and most iconic stilt village within the lagoon complex. With a local guide, you'll explore the town center, its floating school, the church, the Lovers' Bridge, the artisan's house, and even a soccer field built on water. This tour unveils how, despite geographic isolation, the community has preserved its cultural identity, organization, and welcoming nature.
- 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Enjoy a traditional lunch with a local host. After exploring the waterfront, you'll indulge in the flavors of the swamp. A local family will welcome you into their home to savor a typical lunch featuring fresh fish, coconut rice, patacones (fried plantains), and natural juice. Beyond tasting the local cuisine, you'll engage in a cultural exchange that enriches your experience.
- 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Free time to engage with the community and appreciate the surroundings. This is an ideal moment to converse with the locals, capture memorable photos of the aquatic landscape, or simply sit back and watch as the clouds and water reflections blend into the horizon. Nueva Venecia also stands as a symbol of historical memory, having been impacted by armed conflict, and today serves as an example of peace and community rebuilding.
- 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.: Boat return to Pueblo Viejo. The return journey is as captivating as the initial voyage, with the swamp's surface illuminated by golden light and birds making their way back to their nests. It's the perfect time to reflect on the natural and human riches of this region.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.: Road return to Santa Marta. Once back on solid ground, you'll board the vehicle that will take you back to Santa Marta. After a day filled with learning, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, you'll return with a deeper appreciation of the Colombian Caribbean and a transformative experience to cherish.
* The itinerary times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions on the day.
What’s included?
What’s included:
* Round-trip ground transportation to/from your accommodation in Santa Marta.
* Boat transportation from the Pueblo Viejo dock to the palafitos (stilt villages).
* Local guide in Spanish.
* Tour of Buenavista and Nueva Venecia with cultural and community stops.
* Traditional lunch at a local host`s home.
* Free time for photos, community interaction, and local shopping.
* Travel assistance insurance.
What’s NOT included:
* Pickup and drop-off at accommodations located outside of Santa Marta (rural areas, Taganga, Minca, among others).
* Breakfast.
* Tips for guides, drivers, or hosts (optional).
* Personal expenses and services not specified in the itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour includes land and river transportation from Barranquilla or Santa Marta, a tour guide specializing in cultural and ecological tourism, a boat tour of the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, visits to stilt villages like Nueva Venecia, travel insurance, and a traditional lunch. Stops at photo spots perfect for observing local life and nature are also included. Everything is designed to maximize your tourism experience in Colombia, offering direct contact with the region's unique culture and landscapes.
The total duration of the excursion to Nueva Venecia is approximately 8 to 10 hours. Departure is usually early in the morning (between 6:00 and 8:00 am, depending on the pick-up point), and the return is scheduled for the afternoon. This allows you to make the most of the trip for a full day, enjoying ecotourism, local culture, and the region's cuisine, while ensuring comfort and safety during transportation.
Yes, the excursion is safe and suitable for families with children. All transfers are in vehicles and boats that meet all required safety standards. The tour is led by experts in responsible tourism, who also provide continuous assistance at all times. The activities are adapted for all ages, and the safety and well-being of participants are prioritized, guaranteeing a peaceful and memorable travel experience for adults and children alike.
To make the most of your excursion to Nueva Venecia and the stilt villages, we recommend bringing comfortable, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat or cap, sunglasses, a camera, insect repellent, reusable water bottles, and cash in case you wish to purchase local crafts or snacks. It's also advisable to wear appropriate footwear for water activities. This will ensure a safe, responsible, and enriching tourist experience, allowing you to appreciate the culture and biodiversity of the Colombian Caribbean.
Yes, the tour can be adapted to dietary needs such as vegetarian or vegan diets, or allergies, provided this is informed in advance at the time of booking. Regarding reduced mobility, although part of the tour involves boat travel and uneven terrain, the Best Colombia Tours team makes every effort to facilitate access and comfort. It is recommended to communicate any special requirements well in advance to ensure an inclusive and enjoyable trip.
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