2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour from Santa Marta — Palomino, Buritaca & Tayrona
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
48 hours (2 days)
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic mobility; riders should be comfortable with shifting and short off-road sections. Passengers should be comfortable on long bike days.
Overview
Ride from Santa Marta along the Caribbean to Palomino and Buritaca over two days of coastal roads, river tubing, jungle trails and a night at El Rio hostel. This tour mixes scenic pavement with short off-road sections and guided access to hidden beaches inside Tayrona National Park.
2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour from Santa Marta — Palomino, Buritaca & Tayrona
Select participants and date
The engine’s steady thrum becomes part of the coastline’s soundtrack as the convoy peels away from Santa Marta at first light, tires kissing pavement framed by the Caribbean on one side and the abrupt ridges of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta on the other. Salt air and diesel mingle; gulls wheel ahead as the road climbs and drops over low coastal hills, offering quick vistas of surf-blackened rocks and a coastline that seems to breathe.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear a full-face helmet
Road and trail sections alternate; a DOT or ECE-rated full-face helmet protects against dust and low branches.
Bring a hydration system
High humidity and heat make frequent hydration essential—carry a 1–2L bladder and drink between stops.
Choose grippy boots
Expect short off-road segments and river rock at waterfalls; ankle-supporting, treaded boots improve comfort and safety.
Carry cash for small villages
Many beachfront eateries and craft stalls accept only cash—small bills for tips and snacks are useful.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Howler monkeys
- Coastal seabirds such as frigatebirds and herons
History
The region borders lands historically occupied by Tayrona cultures; the nearby Lost City trail traces pre-Columbian networks that predate Spanish colonization.
Conservation
Tayrona National Park is protected—stick to marked trails, avoid single-use plastics, and respect local fishing practices to limit ecological impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Santa Marta
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
DOT/ECE helmet
Protects against wind, dust and low branches during both pavement and trail sections.
Ankle-support motorcycle boots
Improves stability on pebbly surfaces, riverbanks, and when dismounting on soft sand.
Hydration bladder (1–2L)
Hands-free drinking on the bike and between stops keeps energy up in tropical heat.
Light waterproof shell
Short, heavy showers are possible near the Sierra Nevada; a packable shell keeps you dry.