Santa Marta was the first city founded by the Spaniards when they invaded what is now Colombia. It is where Colombians go when they want sun on their backs as it is on the Caribbean Coast. The mix of indigenous, Spanish and African is there to see in the people, the food and the chaos of the city.
Close by is Parque Nacional Tayrona which has spectacular forests and beaches. I spent two days hiking including the difficult and eventful climb to Pueblito. I slept overnight on a hammock which thankfully had a very effective mosquito net and enjoyed the best fresh fish ever.It was a memorable experience.