Santa Marta

December-April is drier and best for the Lost City trek (less mud); it stays hot year-round (27-32°C).

• The jungle trek to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)
• Tayrona National Park's natural beaches
• The small colonial old town
• The coastal village of Taganga for diving
• The Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino museum (Simón Bolívar's death site)

The old town as a central base; Taganga for a calmer coastal feel closer to diving.

Book the Lost City trek only through an officially licensed agency (a limited approved list exists) — there is no safe unofficial alternative for this route.

Getting around: The small old town walks entirely on foot. Tayrona National Park is reached by bus or taxi (~1h), and the Lost City trek departs exclusively in groups with officially licensed operators — it isn't visited independently without a guide.

Halal & prayer places: Nearly nonexistent — a coastal town with no notable Muslim community; rely on fresh fish and seafood.

Local safety: The town itself carries moderate caution like the rest of the Caribbean coast; the Lost City and Sierra Nevada routes are practically safe because they're restricted to licensed operators with regular oversight — never attempt independent, unregistered entry.

Cost figures: 2026 prices: Tayrona National Park entry ~$15-20, the Lost City trek (a full 4-5 days) ~$350-450, a local fish meal $8-15, hotels $25-80/night.

2-5 days

Suggested plan:

1. The old town + the Quinta de San Pedro museum
2. A day at Tayrona National Park
3. The Lost City trek (optional, 4-5 days)