Magdalena's Absolute Essentials

Magdalena spans from the Caribbean coast to the Sierra Nevada mountain range. This selection features the archaeological ruins of Ciudad Perdida and El Pueblito, alongside the diverse ecosystems of Tayrona National Park. The list highlights the colonial architecture of Santa Marta, the mouth of the Magdalena River at Bocas de Ceniza, and the heritage town of Ciénaga. These sites reflect the region's pre-Columbian history, Spanish colonial influence, and unique coastal geography.

Juan Pablo / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Tayrona National Park

The Tayrona National Natural Park is a protected area in the Colombian northern Caribbean region and within the jurisdiction of the city of…

Diana Herrera / CC BY-SA 1.0

B

The Lost City

Ciudad Perdida is the archaeological site of an ancient city in Colombia's Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

Ben Bowes / CC BY 2.0

C

Arrecifes Beach

Definitely worth the walk, the pristine beauty of this beach and its surroundings will take your breath away.

D

Cabo beach

Known for its iconic thatched-roof hut situated on a rocky outcrop, this beach offers two swimming bays and serves as a primary campsite within Tayrona National Park.

Aliman5040 / CC BY-SA 4.0

E

El Pueblito

These ruins of an ancient town are hidden in the jungle just two-hour walk from the beaches of Tayrona.

Juan Carlos Tofiño / CC-BY-SA

F

Parque de Los Novios

Lined with an array of restaurants and bars, this square is considered to be the beating heart of Santa Marta.

Juan Carlos Tofiño / CC-BY-SA

G

Basílica de Santa Marta

Completed in the 1760s, this white-washed colonial cathedral is the oldest in Colombia. It served as the initial burial site for Simón Bolívar before his remains were moved to Caracas.

Cesar Ivan Noreña Vega / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Playas de Santa Marta

This urban beach lines the main bay of Santa Marta, situated between the city’s international marina and the historic center’s waterfront promenade.

I

Parque Simón Bolivar

A central square in Santa Marta featuring a monument to Simón Bolívar. It is bordered by the city's historic Custom House, which now houses the Tairona Gold Museum.