Colombia I (July 18th - July 24th)

Having crossed at San Antonio del Tachira/Cúcuta border, the expedition withdraw some pesos (Colombian currency) from the ATM and continued to Bucaramanga. It was rather an administrative stop to stock up more local currency, take a break before traveling further to Santa Marta and visit nearby village of Girón.

Meeting Rene in Bucaramanga, friendly local and passionate stamp collector

The atmosphere of Girón

With an overnight stop at Ciénaga (interesting sight here were cyclo-rickshaws very similar to those in India), Santa Marta was next. Allegedly one of the best beach cities in Colombia, it was a disappointment at first, but turned into great fun pretty soon. Nowhere before did the adventurers saw such an ugly, dirty and smelly "beach capital". Beaches full of tyres and rubbish and scenery with oil tanker and excavator soon turned into highlight of the day.

Fishermen at work in Santa Marta

Lovely beach of Santa Marta

Next stop was Parque Tayrona, where three days were spent. Unlike Santa Marta, Tayrona highly overexceeded any expectations. It is a paradise - deserted beaches, blue lagoons, palm trees, jungle forest - you name it. Sleeping in hammocks and trip to El Pueblito (lost city accessable by a one-day hike through the jungle) further contributed to the enjoyment from this great place.

Don Madonarra in Tayrona paradise

Coconut farmer showing the way to El Pueblito

Local girl playing with El Fredovito

Expedition Maya on one of Tayrona beaches

Don Madonarra and Miguel Hudeiro being hit by a wave

More news from Colombian trip coming in a few days!

May the Maya be with you! :)