The Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta is an enchanting wetland ecosystem nestled on the northern coast of Colombia, where the Magdalena River meets the sea. Amidst this expansive aquatic wonderland lies Nueva Venecia, a captivating floating community that stands out as a distinctive tourist destination in the area.
Join us for a tour of the "Venice of Colombia" and explore the key attractions of this extraordinary locale. With transfers provided from Santa Marta, our journey will take us through the swamp, passing Pueblo Viejo until we arrive at Buena Vista, one of the three stilt villages in the region.
We will indulge in birdwatching, travel by canoe, relish a delectable traditional regional lunch, and witness a breathtaking sunset as the swamp's waters blend seamlessly with the floating homes of the local residents, crafting a dreamlike landscape.
Tour Description
Estimated Itinerary:
- 5:30 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.: Departure from your accommodation to Pueblo Viejo Pier. Begin your adventure into the Colombian Caribbean with a pickup from your Santa Marta accommodation. Travel along the Troncal del Caribe Highway to reach the Pueblo Viejo tourist pier. Enjoy the scenic drive through rural and coastal areas, where the Sierra Nevada meets the mangroves. This journey offers a unique glimpse into the interconnected cultures and ecosystems of northern Magdalena.
- 6:30 a.m. – 7:15 a.m.: Boat journey through Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta. Embark on one of the tour's most remarkable experiences as you navigate through the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a RAMSAR Wetland of International Importance. This intricate system of coastal lagoons and mangroves hosts over 200 bird species, diverse fish populations, and aquatic flora, playing a crucial role in regional climate regulation. As you sail, watch for herons, kingfishers, and storks, and observe local fishermen in their daily routines, as if time flows differently here.
- 7:15 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.: Explore Buenavista, a picturesque floating village. Your boat will then take you to Buenavista, one of the three stilt villages nestled within the swamp. Much like Nueva Venecia, this village is constructed entirely over water, with homes perched on wooden stilts. Discover how these communities have harmonized their lives with the swamp, fostering a distinctive amphibious culture. Engage with the locals, learn about their day-to-day lives, and gain insight into how their existence revolves around water, artisanal fishing, and communal resilience.
- 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Guided exploration of Nueva Venecia. Next, visit Nueva Venecia, the largest and most iconic stilt village in the lagoon area. With a local guide, explore the town center, its floating school, church, Lovers' Bridge, artisan's house, and a soccer field built on water. This tour highlights how this geographically isolated community has preserved its cultural identity, organizational structure, and welcoming nature.
- 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Lunch with a local host. After exploring the waterfront, savor the flavors of the swamp with a typical lunch hosted by a local family. Enjoy fresh fish, coconut rice, patacones (fried plantains), and natural juice. This meal is not just a culinary delight but also an intimate cultural exchange that enhances your experience.
- 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Leisure time to engage with the community and enjoy the surroundings. Take this opportunity to converse with locals, capture stunning photos of the aquatic landscape, or simply relax and observe the merging of clouds and water on the horizon. Nueva Venecia stands as a symbol of historical memory, once affected by conflict, now exemplifying peace and community rebuilding.
- 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.: Boat return to Pueblo Viejo. The return journey is as enchanting as the initial trip, with golden light dancing on the swamp's surface and birds retreating to their nests. It's the perfect moment to reflect on the natural and cultural richness of this area.
- 3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.: Journey back to Santa Marta by road. Once back on solid ground, board the vehicle that will take you back to Santa Marta. After a day filled with learning, breathtaking views, and warm hospitality, you'll return with a deeper understanding of the Colombian Caribbean and a life-changing experience.
* Please note that itinerary times are approximate and may change due to 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 excursion includes river transport to Nueva Venecia, a guided tour of the stilt villages, cultural activities, and the opportunity to interact with the local community of Lake Maracaibo. Many tours also include snacks and explanations about local history and culture. Always check with the tour operator to see if additional services such as traditional meals or travel insurance are included in the price.
The excursion to Nueva Venecia typically lasts between 6 and 8 hours. The usual itinerary includes transportation from the meeting point, a boat trip on Lake Maracaibo, a tour of the houses built over the water, a chat with residents, visits to schools or emblematic churches, and time for taking photos and enjoying the scenery. Some tours offer free time to sample local cuisine before returning.
Yes, the excursion is safe when done with certified travel agencies and expert guides specializing in nature and community-based tourism. Boat trips meet safety standards, and visitors are advised to follow the guide's instructions, wear a life jacket, and keep their personal belongings secure. The area is peaceful, and the hospitality of the locals ensures a positive experience.
To fully enjoy the excursion, we recommend wearing comfortable, cool clothing, a hat or cap, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, and closed-toe shoes. We also suggest bringing water, sunglasses, and a small waterproof bag to protect your belongings during the boat trip. It's also useful to have some cash on hand if you'd like to buy handicrafts or sample local cuisine.
The best time to visit Nueva Venecia and the stilt villages is during the dry season, from December to April, as this is when the weather is most favorable, there is less rain, and the lake is in optimal condition for tourism. However, the excursion can be done year-round, although it's advisable to check the weather forecast and water conditions before planning your trip.
Questions
Thank you for your enquiry! We will contact you shortly.
What they say
Reviews
Check Availability
New Venice Stilt Villages
Tour added to cart
View cart