Palomino Tour from Santa Marta with Tubing, Breakfast, and Lunch

Planning a day trip from Santa Marta that combines adventure, relaxation, and authentic nature? This Palomino Tour with tubing, breakfast, and lunch offers exactly that. It’s a great way to see Colombia’s Caribbean coast beyond the usual tourist spots, enjoying the lush surroundings, winding rivers, and tranquil beaches of La Guajira.

What immediately appeals to us about this tour is the river tubing experience — floating gently down the river towards the sea while surrounded by stunning greenery. Coupled with a delicious breakfast and a local-style lunch, it promises a satisfying day of outdoor discovery. However, it’s worth noting that the overall rating of 3.5 suggests some travelers may have experienced minor hiccups, possibly around logistics or guide service. Still, for those looking to connect with nature in a relaxed setting, this tour holds a lot of promise.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy peaceful landscapes, light adventure, and authentic local flavor. If you’re seeking a full-on adrenaline rush or luxury comfort, you might want to consider other options. But if your ideal day includes floating down a river, soaking up natural beauty, and savoring hearty Colombian fare, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Nature Experience: Connect with unspoiled jungle, river, and sea environments.
• Relaxing River Tubing: Floats through lush scenery to the ocean, offering both fun and tranquility.
• Local Cuisine Included: Enjoy breakfast at the start and a traditional lunch on the beach.
• Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Santa Marta save hassle and time.
• Guided Tour: A live Spanish guide helps orient you through the landscape.
• Flexible and Refundable: Cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund and book now, pay later for flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Starting early from Santa Marta, we love that the tour includes round-trip transportation, making your day hassle-free. Once picked up, you’ll head towards Palomino, a town famous for its blend of jungle, river, and sea. The first highlight: a complimentary breakfast to fuel your adventure. Expect local flavors, simple yet hearty — a basic breakfast that gets you ready for the day ahead.

The centerpiece is the river tubing adventure. You’ll don a life jacket and float down the calm waters, surrounded by green landscapes and peaceful scenery. The tubing is described as relaxing and fun, offering a chance to see nature from a unique perspective. The tour suggests that the tubing route takes you to the sea, providing a seamless transition from river to ocean. Several reviews highlight the serenity and connection to nature — “We loved the way the river slowly led to the sea, with lush greenery all around.”

Once you reach the beach, a typical Colombian lunch awaits. Think fresh seafood, rice, plantains, and local flavors — providing not just sustenance but also a taste of the region’s culinary culture. After lunch, there’s free time to relax, sunbathe, swim, or just soak up the tranquil atmosphere of Palomino’s wide, quiet beaches.

Throughout the day, a Spanish-speaking guide accompanies the group, sharing insights about the environment, local customs, and natural surroundings. The tour duration is about 7 hours, making it a manageable day trip that leaves ample time for relaxation and exploration.

Transport and Logistics

The transportation is generally comfortable, with pickup included from hotels in El Rodadero, Pozos Colorados, or Bello Horizonte. Once booked, you’ll need to contact the operator for pickup details — which is straightforward and ensures your day starts smoothly. The timing of the tour starts varies depending on availability, so it’s wise to check and plan accordingly.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price includes breakfast, lunch, transport, and the guided experience, it offers a good value for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s not a bargain-basement activity, but the convenience of all logistics handled plus the chance to connect with nature makes it worthwhile.

A Word of Caution and Tips

While many reviews are positive, some mention the 3.5 rating as a sign that things may not be perfect. Possible issues could include group sizes, guide communication (mainly Spanish), or minor logistical hiccups. We recommend bringing cash for tips and extra snacks, just in case, and verifying pick-up times and locations beforehand.

Since the tour is mainly in Spanish, non-Spanish speakers may want to prepare with some basic phrases or consider a guide who can translate. The scenic value and relaxed pace make this experience ideal for families, nature lovers, and curious travelers seeking a gentle adventure.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for those wanting a peaceful escape into nature without strenuous activity. It suits adventurers eager for a different perspective on Colombia’s coastline, as well as foodies who enjoy local cuisine. If you’re after authentic outdoor scenery, a laid-back vibe, and the chance to float down a river, this will satisfy your desires.

However, travelers expecting a luxury experience or fast-paced adventure might find it a bit simple. Also, since the guide speaks mainly Spanish and the overall rating hints at some inconsistencies, it’s wise to manage expectations.

The Bottom Line

The Palomino Tour from Santa Marta offers a well-rounded day blending adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. It’s best suited for those who want to disconnect from city life and enjoy Colombia’s natural beauty from river, jungle, and ocean perspectives. The included transportation, meals, and guided experience make it a convenient choice, especially for travelers who appreciate authenticity over luxury.

While the average rating suggests some room for improvement, many travelers have enjoyed the tranquility of floating down the river and unwinding on Palomino’s beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for a moderate-cost day trip with plenty of photo-worthy moments and a chance to connect with nature, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour features comfortable round-trip transportation from Santa Marta to Palomino, with pickup arranged in advance.

What language is the guide?
The live guide on this tour operates in Spanish, so some basic understanding of Spanish will help, although guidance and explanations are generally clear.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part of the experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a complimentary breakfast at the start and a typical Colombian lunch on the beach.

What should I wear for tubing?
Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a bit wet, along with water shoes or sandals. The tubing is relaxed, but being prepared for splashes is good.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tubing and beach setting are generally suitable for kids, especially if supervised. Check with the operator if you have very young children.

What if I don’t speak Spanish?
Since the guide speaks mainly Spanish, non-Spanish speakers might find it helpful to prepare some phrases or bring a translation app.

How much does the tour cost?
Prices vary depending on the provider, but considering the included meals, transportation, and guided experience, it offers good value for those seeking a balanced day of adventure and relaxation.

To sum it up, this Palomino Tour from Santa Marta is a wonderful choice for travelers eager to experience Colombia’s natural beauty with ease and comfort. Whether you’re floating down the river, relaxing on a quiet beach, or enjoying hearty local food, it offers a genuine taste of the Caribbean coast — perfect for disconnecting and making memories in a laid-back setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby