Float down the Buritaca River to where clear freshwater collides with the Caribbean and spend a day swimming, beachside dining, and exploring coastal mangroves. This easy, full-day outing from Santa Marta blends wildlife watching with a memorable estuary swim.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from a shaded riverbank and the Buritaca River takes you, slow and steady, toward the bright slash of the Caribbean. The water carries a faint sweetness of upstream forest; mangroves and palms lean in as if curious about the travelers making their way to where fresh and salt argue at the shoreline.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for short walks and entering a floatation craft
Wildlife
History
The Buritaca corridor lies on lands historically used by indigenous peoples of the Sierra Nevada; rivers here were travel and resource routes long before coastal settlements expanded.
Conservation
Mangroves and riverbanks are sensitive—stay on established paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry out any trash to protect nursery habitats for fish and birds.
Reserve your spot on the Tour to Buritaca from Santa Marta where the River meets the Sea today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a dry bag
Keep phones, documents and a spare shirt dry—river floats and beach swims make electronics vulnerable.
Sun protection
Use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and UV shirt for midday sun on open water and sand.
Insect repellent
Apply repellent before the forested approach and after lunch to avoid mosquito bites near mangroves.
Cash for tips and snacks
Local vendors at the beach may accept only cash; small bills are handy for lunch or extra drinks.
Dry bag (10–20L)
Protects phone, wallet and a spare shirt from splashes during the river float.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Strong tropical sun and reflective water increase UV exposure on this trip.
Quick-dry swimwear and towel
You’ll be swimming at the river mouth and on the beach—quick-dry fabric speeds comfort afterward.
summer
Light waterproof shoes or sandals
Protect feet on rocky riverbanks and when walking short trails through vegetation.