Taganga: what to do in the divers' favorite fishing village

Taganga is a fishing village on the Colombian Caribbean coast, just 15 minutes from Santa Marta and at the doorstep of Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona. Its calm bay, its sunsets and its proximity to the region's best reefs made it the diving capital of Colombia. In this guide we tell you how to get there, what to do and why so many divers choose Taganga.

Where is Taganga?

Taganga belongs to Santa Marta, in the department of Magdalena. It sits on the other side of the hills surrounding the city, in a bay ringed by dry mountains that drop into the sea. From downtown Santa Marta you get there in 15 to 30 minutes, depending on transport.

How to get to Taganga from Santa Marta

• Public bus: buses marked «Taganga» leave from downtown Santa Marta. The ride takes 20 to 30 minutes.
• Taxi or Uber: 15 to 20 minutes from almost anywhere in the city. Agree on the price beforehand or check the meter.

We give you the step-by-step in how to get to Taganga Dive Station.

What to do in Taganga

1. Dive in Tayrona Park

It's the star activity. From the bay, boats reach Tayrona's reefs in about 20 minutes. You can try diving in one day with the Mini-Course (from $365,000 COP) or get certified with the PADI Open Water Diver Course. We explain it in diving in Taganga.

2. Go snorkeling

With a mask and fins you can see fish and corals from the surface. Ideal for those traveling with children or who prefer to stay near the surface.

3. Go to Playa Grande

Very close to Taganga is Playa Grande, reached by boat in a few minutes or by walking a trail along the sea. A great day plan: eat fried fish and swim in calm waters.

4. Watch the sunset over the bay

Taganga's sunsets are famous: the sun sets behind the hills and turns the bay orange. A simple, perfect plan after a day of diving.

5. Eat fresh seafood

As a fishing village, fish and seafood take center stage. Try fried fish with patacones and coconut rice.

6. Visit Tayrona Park

Boats leave Taganga for the park's beaches, and you're very close to its road entrance. Read the 4 ways to get to Tayrona Park and our Tayrona Park guide.

Why is Taganga a diver's paradise?

• Location: it's the closest point to Tayrona's reefs.
• Warm, calm waters all year round.
• Certified schools: most of the region's dive centers are here.
• Affordable prices compared with other Caribbean destinations.
• Relaxed atmosphere of a coastal village, with lodging for every budget.

Tips for visiting Taganga

• Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a cap and water.
• Carry some cash: many small businesses don't accept cards.
• If you're going to dive, book in advance in high season (December, January, Easter week and mid-year).
• Use the services of registered companies for boats and diving.

Finally, if you plan to combine Taganga with Tayrona, check schedules and seasons on the official website of Colombia's National Natural Parks.

Frequently asked questions about Taganga

How far is Taganga from Santa Marta?

About 15 to 30 minutes from downtown Santa Marta, by bus, taxi or Uber.

What can you do in Taganga?

Dive and snorkel in Tayrona Park, go to Playa Grande, watch the sunset over the bay, eat fresh seafood and visit Tayrona's beaches.

Is Taganga a good place to learn to dive?

Yes. It's the closest starting point to Tayrona's reefs, with calm waters and PADI-certified schools.