Bocas de Buritaca is a small village located 48 kilometers from Santa Marta. Here, it is possible to dive into the refreshing waters of the river with the same name, or into the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea, where the river flows into. This place is frequently visited, and tourists can find accommodation and food services.

How to get there?

You can reach the village of Buritaca by road from Santa Marta, passing through Bonda, Calabazo, Mata de Plátano, and Guachaca. The trip takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes, and it is possible to go and return on the same day. 

However, it is recommended to spend at least three days in the area to fully enjoy all the natural wonders the region has to offer. 

There, where the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta meets the sea, you can find beautiful hotels, hostels, or cabins with the spirit of the area, by the sea or river, perfect for an unforgettable rest. You can reach the river directly, or also from the road to the beach (by car or a 20-minute walk). 

Bocas de Buritaca is a destination to relax on the beach, go on ecological walks, or rent a kayak to explore the river, discovering native flora and fauna.  

What to do?

One of the most attractive activities in the area is tubing. This practice involves walking up the mountain and descending down the river to the sea. 

You might also be interested in: Travel guide: 5 family travel destinations - Santa Marta

The journey starts in the center of the Buritaca village, from where the walk begins along an ecological trail of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to a high point where the river is reached. The freshwater beach, where the descent begins, receives thousands of visitors each year after walking on an inclined path for about thirty minutes. Along the way, you can enjoy the dense green mountain vegetation and incredible panoramic spots, perfect for taking photos.

Upon arrival, it is necessary to rest from the intense climb and hydrate while the guides prepare the tires, buoys, or floats for the river descent.  

Each person sits on a float to let the current carry them, starting an unforgettable experience surrounded by the lush tropical forest of the area.  During the descent, you will enjoy the mountain landscape, the intense sounds of the hidden wildlife, and the cold water that begins to change in temperature as it approaches the salty waters of the sea.   

To participate in this activity, you need an authorized guide, who will monitor the route and supervise no more than five people. During this experience, relaxation through total connection with nature is imminent.  

You might also be interested in: A tour of Colombian cuisine (Caribbean, Pacific, and Andean regions)

The view upon reaching the sea creates a multisensory experience that you won’t want to miss.

Any activity you do in Bocas de Buritaca will undoubtedly make you hungry.  In the various restaurants and hotels in the area, you will find different Caribbean culinary options, with seafood as the common ingredient.

Fried fish with coconut rice and plantains is the most popular dish, but lobster, crab, and other seafood are also served in different preparations and generous portions.

Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a swimsuit, water shoes, and a waterproof bag for your money and camera.  

Visiting Bocas de Buritaca will surely bring a smile of amazement and satisfaction to your face forever. You can't miss it.