Exploring the Lost City of Ciudad Perdida with Friends

Santa Marta's Charms: A Day of Coastal Exploration

Today was all about soaking in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Santa Marta. After days of trekking through the jungle, a change of scenery was just what we needed. The day was filled with stunning views, delicious food, and a bit of shopping, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. I was excited to see what Santa Marta had in store for us, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Estadero la Curva. After hearing about it from a local, I knew we had to try it. Located on the road to Minca, the restaurant had a cozy, casual atmosphere that immediately made us feel at home. We opted for a traditional Colombian breakfast of arepas with cheese and eggs, accompanied by strong, aromatic coffee. The owner was incredibly friendly, making sure we had everything we needed and even sharing some tips about the best spots to visit in the area. Dylan, a fellow traveler, mentioned the incredible service at Estadero la Curva, praising the owner's hospitality and the great food. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueled and ready for adventure. It reminded me of the small, family-run restaurants back in Salinas, where the warmth of the people is as important as the food itself.


Experience authentic Colombian cuisine in a serene setting at Estadero la Curva, your perfect stop on the way to Minca.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we headed to Mirador del Parque Tayrona. The views from the mirador were absolutely breathtaking. The vast expanse of the Caribbean Sea met the lush greenery of the Tayrona Park, creating a stunning panorama. I spent a good amount of time just taking it all in, snapping photos, and trying to capture the sheer beauty of the landscape. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of why I love to travel and explore new places. I remember thinking to myself that this view alone was worth the entire trip. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the simple things in life and the incredible beauty of our planet. I shared the experience with my friends, and we all agreed that it was one of the most beautiful places we had ever seen. This was a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Berlin, and I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me.


Experience the breathtaking views at Mirador del Parque Tayrona, a stunning viewpoint in Colombia's Tayrona National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, surrounded by nature's untouched beauty.

Next on our itinerary was Neguanje. The beach was beautiful, although I had read some mixed reviews about it. Some people mentioned overpricing for parking and food, while others praised its cleanliness and suitability for relaxation. We decided to take our chances, and I’m glad we did. The beach was clean and the water was crystal clear, perfect for a refreshing swim. We spent a couple of hours lounging on the sand, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Sure, there were some vendors trying to sell us things, but a polite no thanks was enough to keep them away. I can see why some people might find it a bit touristy, but we managed to find a quiet spot and enjoy the natural beauty of the place. We made sure to bring cash, as suggested by some reviews, to avoid any potential issues with overcharging.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tayrona National Natural Park, where lush jungles meet pristine beaches and cultural heritage awaits.

For lunch, we stopped at El Corral Zazue. After hearing about their burgers, we decided to give it a try. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and the staff was friendly and efficient. I ordered their classic burger with fries, and it was delicious. The meat was juicy and flavorful, and the fries were crispy and perfectly seasoned. It was a satisfying meal that hit the spot after a morning of exploring. While it may not have been the most authentic Colombian food, it was a welcome change of pace and a reminder of home. Plus, it was a great opportunity to relax and recharge before our next adventure. The El Corral Gourmet is known for amazing burgers, fries and sauces. It was a great experience to share with my friends, and we all agreed that it was one of the best burgers we had had in a while.


Experience gourmet hamburgers and vibrant dining at El Corral Zazue in Santa Marta – where flavor meets fun!

In the afternoon, we decided to do a bit of shopping at The Color Wear. I was looking for a unique souvenir to take back to Berlin, and this store seemed like a good place to start. The store had a wide selection of clothing and accessories, with a focus on colorful and trendy designs. I ended up buying a beautiful scarf with a traditional Colombian pattern, which will be a perfect reminder of our trip. The staff was helpful and attentive, making the shopping experience even more enjoyable. The Color Wear has locations in other cities such as Bucaramanga, Cartagena, and Montería. I was happy to support a local business and find a special item to bring back home. I even picked up a small gift for my mom, who always appreciates a thoughtful souvenir from my travels.


Discover The Color Wear in Santa Marta: A colorful dress store offering a unique selection of fashion reflecting local culture and style.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Donde Amalia for dinner. This restaurant was highly recommended for its authentic Colombian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We were not disappointed. The menu featured a variety of traditional dishes, and we decided to try a bit of everything. The soup was hearty and flavorful, the monkfish was cooked to perfection, and the laing was simply divine. The staff was energetic and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. The prices were reasonable, and the atmosphere was pleasant and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our day, savoring the delicious flavors of Colombia. I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the experiences we had shared throughout the day. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes when I get back to Berlin, bringing a little bit of Colombia into my own kitchen. The restaurant is known for offering a diverse array of dishes that change daily, ensuring that every visit is a unique experience.


Discover delightful Colombian cuisine at Donde Amalia in Pozos Colorados - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and affordability.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our last day in Colombia, we plan to visit San Fernando’s Fort. It will be a great way to end our trip, exploring a bit more of the history and culture of this amazing country. We will also be having breakfast at Crepes & Waffles Zazué, lunch at Restaurante Doña Ana, and dinner at BURURAKE. And, of course, we will be celebrating our adventure at La Azotea Disco Bar Santa Marta. I’m excited to see what our final day has in store for us and to make the most of our time in Santa Marta.

Today was a wonderful reminder of the beauty and diversity of Colombia. From the stunning views at Mirador del Parque Tayrona to the delicious food at Donde Amalia, every moment was filled with joy and discovery. Traveling with my friends made it even more special, as we shared laughter, stories, and unforgettable experiences. As I reflect on our journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible country and to connect with its rich culture and warm-hearted people. I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings and to create even more lasting memories with my friends.

As I packed my bag, I realized I had forgotten to pack sunscreen and spare socks. I will need to buy some tomorrow before heading out for the day.

I am looking forward to sharing more adventures with you all soon!