ARS $306.854

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Nueva Venecia & Pueblos Palafitos: Discover The Hidden Gems Of Santa Marta Co Tour

Reviews 5/5 Stars - Based On 11 Reviews

Explore Nueva Venecia & Pueblos Palafitos: Unforgettable Santa Marta Co Adventure - Book Now!


The Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta is a stunning wetland ecosystem located on the northern coast of Colombia, at the mouth of the Magdalena River. In the middle of this vast aquatic landscape lies Nueva Venecia, a fascinating floating community that has become a unique tourist attraction in the region.

Visit and tour with us the "Venice of Colombia" and discover the highlights of this unique destination. With transfers included from Santa Marta, we will immerse ourselves in the swamp passing through Pueblo Viejo until we reach Buena Vista, one of the three palafito villages in the area.

We will watch birds, travel by canoe, taste a delicious typical lunch of the region and enjoy a beautiful sunset while the waters of the swamp merge with the floating houses of the inhabitants, creating a dreamlike landscape.
New Venice Stilt Villages (1)
New Venice Stilt Villages (2)
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ARS $306.854

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Details of Day Tours


Estimated Itinerary: 

  • 5:30 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.: Pick up at your accommodation and depart for the Pueblo Viejo pier. Your day begins with a journey to the heart of the Colombian Caribbean. A vehicle will pick you up at your accommodation in Santa Marta and take you along the Troncal del Caribe Highway to the Pueblo Viejo tourist pier. During the journey, you will cross rural and coastal areas that give way to landscapes where the Sierra Nevada merge with the mangroves. It is an excellent opportunity to see how the coastal cultures and ecosystems of the northern Magdalena are connected.

  • 6:30 a.m. – 7:15 a.m.: Boat trip through the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta. Here begins one of the most special experiences of the tour: you will sail through the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and a Wetland of International Importance (RAMSAR). This complex system of coastal lagoons and mangroves is home to more than 200 species of birds, a rich biodiversity of fish and aquatic flora, and is key to climate regulation in the region. As you cross its waters by boat, you will see herons, kingfishers, and storks, and you will see local fishermen going about their daily tasks, as if time were passing at a different pace.

  • 7:15 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.: Visit to Buenavista, a charming floating village. The boat will take you to Buenavista, one of the three palafito villages that inhabit the swamp. This place, like Nueva Venecia, is built entirely on water, with houses supported by wooden stilts. You will learn how the communities adapted to live in harmony with the swamp, developing a unique amphibious culture. Here you will have the opportunity to interact with the inhabitants, learn about their daily lives, and understand how their lives revolve around water, artisanal fishing, and collective resilience.

  • 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Guided tour of Nueva Venecia. Your next stop is Nueva Venecia, the largest and most emblematic palafito village in the lagoon complex. Accompanied by a local guide, you will visit the town center, its floating school, the church, the Lovers` Bridge, the artisan`s house, and even a soccer field built on the water. This tour reveals how, despite its geographic isolation, the community has maintained its cultural identity, organization, and welcoming spirit.

  • 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Typical lunch at the home of a local host. After touring the waterfront, it`s time to enjoy the flavors of the swamp. A local family will open the doors of their home for you to taste a typical lunch based on fresh fish, coconut rice, patacones (fried plantains), and natural juice. In addition to sampling the local cuisine, you will experience an intimate moment of cultural exchange that enriches the experience.

  • 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Free time to interact with the community and enjoy the surroundings. This is the perfect time to chat with the locals, capture unforgettable images of the aquatic landscape, or simply sit and contemplate how the clouds and the reflections of the water merge into the horizon. Nueva Venecia is also a symbol of historical memory, as it was one of the places hit by the armed conflict, and today it represents an example of peace and community reconstruction.

  • 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.: Return by boat to Pueblo Viejo. The return trip is as beautiful as the outward journey, with golden lights reflecting on the surface of the swamp and birds returning to their nests. It is the ideal time to close the day with a reflection on the natural and human wealth of this territory.

  • 3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.: Return by road to Santa Marta. Back on dry land, you will board the vehicle that will take you back to Santa Marta. After this day full of learning, landscapes, and hospitality, you will return with a broader vision of the Colombian Caribbean and a transformative experience in your heart.


* The itinerary times are estimated and may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions on the day. 

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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.
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.
Payment Methods
All credit cards accepted. International Bank Wires.
Starts
SANTA MARTA (CO)
Downtown Santa Marta Hotels - Starts at 5:30 AM
Ends
Downtown Santa Marta Hotels - Ends approximately 9 hours after start time
Duration
9 Hours
Frequency
Everyday
Season
All year round
Difficulty
Low
What To Bring?
* Comfortable, lightweight clothing
* Hiking shoes or tennis shoes with good grip
* Hat or cap and sunglasses
* Sunscreen
* Camera
Destinations
Santa Marta (CO)
Other
* Bring a reusable water bottle. The heat and humidity of the swamp can be intense.
* You will be visiting living communities with their own traditions. Please be respectful when taking photos and interacting with locals.
* This is an immersive trip; be prepared to experience different ways of life and connect with the environment and the community.
* Do not litter and follow the guide`s instructions to protect this fragile ecosystem.
* Access to restrooms may be limited. It is recommended to use the restroom before leaving or upon arrival at the host homes.
* Important: This activity requires a minimum of four participants (or the equivalent payment). We offer scheduled group departures, so individual travelers can join already confirmed groups.

Reviews of New Venice Stilt Villages

Great experience in Santa Marta

Reviews

If you are visiting Santa Marta, consider the tour . We had a really great time!

Reviewed by Anonimo - 26/01/2024

Things to do in Santa Marta

Reviews

If you are looking for what to do in Santa Marta, you should consider booking the tour . It´ll be an experience you won´t forget!

Reviewed by Anonimo - 15/01/2024

Incredible day in Santa Marta

Reviews

if you are traveling to Santa Marta you shouldn´t miss the tour . It is a unique experience!

Reviewed by Anonimo - 11/01/2024

Rates and Prices for New Venice Stilt Villages in Santa Marta

New Venice and Palafito Villages

Group Service
Starts: 05:30 Hs
Duration: 10 HS
Operates: Everyday
Offered in: Español

From: ARS $303.187

Valid rates for 2025 per person

Rate List of New Venice Stilt Villages for 2025 per person

Culture and history Birding Sightseeing Boat tour ECOTOURISM

The excursion to the stilt villages of Nueva Venecia lasts approximately eight hours. The tour includes transportation from Santa Marta, an expert tour guide, a boat ride to the stilt village, and a traditional lunch. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the local culture, participate in community activities, and enjoy unique panoramic views. This tour is ideal for those seeking an authentic experience combining ecotourism and culture in a single day. Remember to bring sunscreen and comfortable clothing to fully enjoy the experience.
Nueva Venecia can be visited year-round, however, the best time to enjoy the weather and outdoor activities is during the dry season, from December to April. During these months, rainfall is less frequent, making travel easier and providing clearer landscapes. During this time, visitors can make the most of their experience in the stilt villages. It is always advisable to check weather conditions before planning your trip to ensure a safe and comfortable tour.
For the excursion to Nueva Venecia, you don`t need to bring any special equipment; however, it`s recommended to wear comfortable clothing, a hat or cap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water to stay hydrated. It`s also advisable to have a camera or phone with photography capabilities to capture the stunning views. Consider bringing a light jacket in case of cool breezes during the boat ride. When traveling to natural areas, it`s always good practice to carry a bag for your trash.
Yes, visiting the New Venice stilt villages is safe for tourists. Tours are organized by professional tour operators who prioritize safety and are staffed by trained guides familiar with the surrounding area. Furthermore, the local community is accustomed to welcoming visitors and contributes to a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. As in any tourist destination, it is important to follow the guide`s instructions and respect local regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
During the tour to New Venice, visitors can enjoy various cultural and natural activities. One of the highlights is the boat tour through the stilt villages, where the unique architecture above the water can be appreciated. Tourists can interact with the local community, learn about their traditions, and participate in craft workshops. Visitors can also enjoy the region`s rich biodiversity, observing birds and other species in their natural habitat. Finally, a traditional lunch provides a rich gastronomic experience of local coastal cuisine.

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