Gabriel Garcia Marquez literature tour in his native Aracataca
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Aracataca, Gabo's hometown, a lovely and traditional village that inspired him to create the fictional and magical town of Macondo (Buendia family home town), mentioned and used as location for several of his novels and short stories. Understand the imaginary of Colombia's greatest man in literature, follow his steps and live a cultural immersion in a real Colombian Caribbean town.
Available options
Spanish-speaking guide
SUV or Minivan: We will transport you in an SUV if you are a group of 1 to 3 people, or in a minivan, if you are a group of maximum 6 people.<br/>Pickup included
English-speaking guide
SUV or Minivan: We will transport you in an SUV if you are a group of 1 to 3 people, or in a minivan, if you are a group of maximum 6 people.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Professional guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
One bottled water per person
Detailed itinerary
1
Aracataca's old train station inspired Gabo and played a huge role in 100 years of solitude since it was the way Macondians were introduced to the new inventions, breakthroughs, and people who placed in Macondo all of their hopes to live a "brighter" future.
2
Once you read Gabo and immerse into his magical stories, we sometimes wonder, where did he get all of his inspiration? In order to understand him better, it is worth to follow his steps, walking the same streets, and visiting this museum that gathers important information about his life and achievements.
3
We will also visit the Casa del Telegrafista, a place that inspired Gabo to write his heartbreaking story "Love in the Time of Cholera". Here you will be able to buy souvenirs and Gabo's books.
What's not included
Food (breakfast, lunch or dinner)
Driver tip (optional)
Guide tip (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Santa Marta
Santa Marta is a vibrant coastal city in Colombia, known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and as the gateway to the iconic Tayrona National Park. This city offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination on the Caribbean coast.
Top Attractions
Tayrona National Park
A stunning national park with beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and diverse wildlife. Perfect for hiking, camping, and relaxing.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Moderate (Entry fee around $10-15 USD)
Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
A historic hacienda and museum dedicated to the life of Simón Bolívar, Colombia's legendary liberator.
Historical
2-3 hours
Budget (Entry fee around $2-5 USD)
Taganga
A charming fishing village with a laid-back vibe, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Beach
Half day or full day
Budget to Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter with rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, plantain, avocado, and arepa.
Lunch
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Arepas
Cornmeal cakes, often stuffed with cheese, meat, or vegetables.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
Appetizer
Contains seafood
Popular Activities
Hiking in Tayrona National Park
Trek to Ciudad Perdida
Surfing in Palomino
Beach relaxation in El Rodadero
Spa treatments
Coffee tasting in Minca
Visiting Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
Exploring Centro Histórico
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the dry season, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
26°C to 32°C
79°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Santa Marta is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and avoid walking alone at night in certain areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in certain areas
- • Use licensed taxis or app-based services
Getting there
By air
- Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport • 20 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte de Santa Marta
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely used, but can be crowded and slow.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
El Rodadero
Centro Histórico
Gairiga
Day trips
Minca
40 km • Full day or overnight
A picturesque mountain town known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and eco-lodges.
Palomino
80 km • Full day or overnight
A laid-back beach town with beautiful white sand beaches and a relaxed vibe.
Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)
40 km • Multi-day trek (4-5 days)
A challenging trek through the jungle to an ancient ruins site, older than Machu Picchu.
Festivals
Festival de la Autenticidad • January
Carnaval de Santa Marta • February/March (before Lent)
Feria de las Flores • July
Pro tips
- Visit Tayrona National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take a boat tour to the nearby islands for a unique experience
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and souvenirs
- Try the local coffee and seafood dishes
- Be cautious of pickpockets and avoid walking alone at night in certain areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
