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Explore pre-Columbian traditions, beliefs and archaeological sites that still exist today in Colombia's coastal Caribbean region - La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Students hear first-hand the history of change indigenous communities have faced through colonization and civil conflicts and the ongoing fight to maintain their ways of life in the face of uncontrolled tourism.
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Where: La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Magdalena
Duration: 2-14 days Number of participants: 6-25 Cost: From $399 p/p (price doesn't include international flights) Language: Spanish or English Subjects: Anthropology, Archeology & History SDG's covered: |
Facts about La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta |
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Nickname: The Heart of the World
Location: Colombia's northern Caribbean coast, between Santa Marta and Guajira Climate: Temperature ranges from 0 °C to 27 °C with humid forests and tropical rainforest making up the lower, reachable areas. Topography: An stand-along mountain range that is one of the largest coastal range in the world. The largest mountain reaches 5,700 m. It spans 17,000 km2 and boasts a source of 36 rivers. Geology: La Sierra is made up of Cretaceous metamorphic rocks and quartzdioritic intrusives. Biodiversity: 440 bird species, including seven endemic hummingbird species and the iconic Andean condor. Large amounts and variety of epiphytes and lianas trees. Population: Four indigenous communities, descendants from the Tayrona people, still inhabit the Sierra - Kogui, Wiwa, Arhuaco and Kankuamo. International recognition: Was labelled the most irreplaceable nature reserve on earth according to a landmark analysis. |
Flexible bookings |
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Even before Covid-19 we aimed to allow you to book in confidence thanks to our incredibly flexible booking terms and conditions. Contact our Kagumu team to learn more. We promise:
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Activities we offerLed by our partners from the indigenous communities and expert archeologists and anthropologists, students take part in unique and inspirational activities and workshops that bring them closer to the region known as The Heart of the World. Past activities have included:
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Example itineraryDay 1 - Arrivals & introduction to the program
After a private bus transfer from the airport, we take students to our hotel located in the historical centre of Santa Marta. They are introduced to our experienced team and the program before heading to the beautiful Parque de los Novios for dinner. Day 2 - Historical introduction to the area and communities Led by local experts and our partners in the native Arhuaco community, students will delve into the history of La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the development of local communities, dating back to Pre-Columbian times. After lunch, journey along the coast to our eco-lodge, embedded into the Caribbean jungle. Day 3 - Discover ancient native traditions Students learn the art of bag weaving using traditional methods and techniques from the Arhuaco community. Each shape, symbol, and color has a sacred meaning and plays a huge part in the woman's role in everyday life. After lunch, we visit a native, organic cacao farm that produces award-winning unique species and uses the very latest in agroforestry techniques. Day 4 - Explore the archaeological site - Ciudad Antigua Enjoy an exclusive experience at one of the region’s undiscovered archaeological ruins - Ciudad Antigua. Led by our partners in Pro Sierra foundation, Students will explore a rediscovered city that dates back to 700 CE, with terraces, walk ways and water systems a sign on innovative construction techniques. Students stay overnight in a reconstructed native house, gaining the ultimate, and unique, experience. Day 5 - Ciudad Antigua and organic cotton farming Our local expert leads a tour around the archaeological site, explaining the extraordinary customs that the indigenous peoples used to practice in the 7th century. After lunch, students explore an organic cotton plantation that is part of a collaborative effort to bring economic sustainability to the area. Day 6 - Enter the spellbinding Lost City After a well-deserved lie in, students walk into Tayrona National Park and to some of the finest Caribbean beaches in the area of Santa Marta. We make our way back to our eco-lodge for our final meal together. Day 7 - Departures We offer private transport for the group, reaching Santa Marta's international airport in plenty of time to catch your return flight. |
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What is included |
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What is not included
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Lost City TrekFancy tackling one of the continents best treks and reaching a jungle-shrouded Lost City? This 4-day hike could be a great addition to your itinerary as it will allow students to explore relatively recently discovered trails to a magnificent archaeological site that boasts vast terraces, underground passages, and fascinating city formations that date back to 700 CE. If you are feeling up to the challenge, you can read more about the Lost City trek by clicking here.
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