PRIVATE DAY TRIP • NEW VENICE
Palafito Villages: Discover the Amphibious Cultures of Colombia
Step into a world where land and water become one — Colombia’s very own Venice of the Caribbean. Cruise across shimmering lagoons to discover stilt villages that stand gracefully above the water, meet locals who live in harmony with the tides, and experience a timeless way of life found nowhere else.
Stilt Villages: Exploring Colombia’s Amphibious Heritage
5/5
Based on 35 reviews
7
Years operating locally in Santa Marta
2-6
Avg. group size. Always small & private.
Why Travelers Love It
Travelers love this tour because it takes you into a world where color-drenched wooden houses float above the water, vibrant local life unfolds in tight-knit stilt communities, and every paddle stroke across the lagoon becomes a moment of cultural discovery.
- Flexible pacing (you set the rythm)
- Zero logistics stress (permits, insurance, timing handled)
- Don’t miss out: Skip this and you’ll miss the magic of Colombia’s floating villages — a world unlike any other.
Highlights
Cruise through the Ciénaga Grande and see stilt villages rising from the water.
Visit colorful communities like Nueva Venecia and Buenavista.
Learn about the amphibious culture and traditions of local fishermen.
Enjoy private transport and a scenic boat ride to the village.
Your day, step by step
Actual timing adapts to pace, weather, and preferences.
Your driver and guide will meet you at your hotel in Santa Marta for a comfortable private transfer to the small town of Puebloviejo, the gateway to the Ciénaga Grande.
Departure by motorboat through the beautiful Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta.
Be welcomed by the local women guides, who will share their deep connection with the water and the stories of their amphibious culture.
Enjoy a lively dance performance and experience the rhythms that unite the stilt villages of the Caribbean.
Savor a home-cooked meal of fresh fish or a vegetarian alternative while overlooking the lagoon.
Cruise through the floating “streets” of this iconic stilt village, stopping at its church, school, and central plaza to meet friendly residents.
Cross its famous wooden bridge and chat with local hosts about life in a community that lives in harmony with the tides.
Relax on the scenic boat ride back before meeting your driver for the return trip.
Estimated Arrival in Santa Marta
Transparent pricing, clear value
Include:
- Private guide (English‑speaking)
- Hotel pickup/drop‑off
- Admission fees
- Compulsory health insurance
- Bottled water
- Flexible
- Only 2 departures/day to protect the experience
Travelers like you loved it
''Fun in Santa Marta''
David, our guide, was attentive, energetic, creative and entertaining. He was knowledgeable and organized all the stops in a timely fashion. Hader was a very good driver.
— Peter & Pat B, USA
''We spent 5 hours here and drank it ALL in!''
Juan was wonderful! We drove up into the beautiful mountains and all around.
— Ann Marie P, USA 🇺🇸
''Engaged, Educated, and Entertaining!''
Jasper and David were both amazing to travel with, I could not recommend them enough. They made this tour so engaging and enjoyable.
— Dennis B, USA 🇺🇸
✅ Certified bilingual guides ✅ Registered & insured operations ✅ Ethical cultural protocol ✅ Flexible rescheduling
Peace of mind, guaranteed
- Full refund if we cancel for safety/weather
- Emergency‑ready, first‑aid trained guides
- Transparent comms from booking to drop‑off
Good to know
Yes! This experience is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers. The boat ride is calm and comfortable, and walking distances are minimal.
We recommend wearing light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes that can get slightly wet.
Company
Bukap Travels is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bukap Business Group SAS, a privately held corporation.
Address: Santa Marta, Colombia, 470003
Contact us
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