Buritaca River Mouth
Where the vibrant Buritaca River meets the powerful Caribbean Sea, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Buritaca River Mouth
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Where the vibrant Buritaca River meets the powerful Caribbean Sea, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
"A beautiful beach with ocean and river. You can have a great experience."
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fees
Expect a small fee for parking and entrance, often around 10,000 pesos for a car. It's worth it for the amenities!
🛶 Kayak Rental Deals
Rent a kayak for the whole day for about 30,000 pesos to explore the river at your leisure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Confluence
Where the Buritaca River meets the Caribbean Sea
Witness the stunning natural phenomenon of a freshwater river flowing into the vast ocean. A truly unique landscape.
River Tubing Adventure
Buritaca River
Float down the scenic river on an inflatable tube, surrounded by lush greenery. A relaxing and fun way to experience the area.
Beachfront Dining
Buritaca Beach
Savor fresh seafood and local delicacies at the numerous restaurants lining the beach. Enjoy the ocean breeze with your meal.
Kayaking the River
Buritaca River
Rent a kayak and paddle upstream, exploring the tranquil waters and vibrant natural surroundings at your own pace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
River Meets Sea Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fees
Expect a small fee for parking and entrance, often around 10,000 pesos for a car. It's worth it for the amenities!
🛶 Kayak Rental Deals
Rent a kayak for the whole day for about 30,000 pesos to explore the river at your leisure.
🌊 Ocean Safety First
The waves can be strong; only experienced swimmers should venture into the ocean. Lifeguards are not always present.
🚤 Lagoon Crossing Option
If you want to stay dry, a small boat can cross the lagoon to the beach for a fee. Walking is also an option.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fees
Expect a small fee for parking and entrance, often around 10,000 pesos for a car. It's worth it for the amenities!
🛶 Kayak Rental Deals
Rent a kayak for the whole day for about 30,000 pesos to explore the river at your leisure.
🌊 Ocean Safety First
The waves can be strong; only experienced swimmers should venture into the ocean. Lifeguards are not always present.
🚤 Lagoon Crossing Option
If you want to stay dry, a small boat can cross the lagoon to the beach for a fee. Walking is also an option.
🍽️ Dining Tips
Ask for prices before ordering at restaurants and check the fish quality for lunch.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Buritaca is a great spot to try surfing. You can rent equipment right on the beach.
🥾 Barefoot Beach Walks
Enjoy the feel of the sand between your toes by walking the beach barefoot.
🎶 Music & Atmosphere
Be prepared for loud music at some beach spots; it can be a lively but sometimes overwhelming atmosphere.
🎒 Pack Light
You can walk to the beach, but if you prefer to stay dry, a boat service is available across a small lagoon.
📍 Hostel Gem
Rio Hostel Buritaca is highly rated, even #1 in South America! Great for party vibes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Buritaca River Mouth is praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the unique confluence of river and sea. Visitors enjoy activities like tubing and kayaking, and the beachfront dining is a highlight. However, some find the beach can be noisy with loud music and a bit littered, suggesting it's not the cleanest option for those seeking pristine shores.
"OMG what a beautiful place.
You will need to pay for entrance but it's completely worthy.
We paid 10.000 pesos for 5 people in car, that includes parking (which is awesome)
You'll find a lot of restaurants (we didn't try them).
We rented a kayak for 30.000 pesos all day, it's awesome to use it to go upstream on the river."
Leonardo Murte
"Buritaca is a beautiful beach with ocean and river. You can have a great experience. Recommendations:
1. Try to arrive at the beach early.
2. There are many places to have breakfast, ask for prices before entering.
3. Try to check the fish for lunch before you buy it.
4. Walk the edge of the beach with your bare feet.
5. Try to practice surf... In Buritaca you can rent the equipment!
Enjoy!"
Marlom Galindo
"Beautiful natural beach. Mostly wild. The waves can be pretty big. Recommended only for experience swimmers. The scenery is breath taking. There are no lifeguards service and in Buritaca town you can fine restaurants and accommodation and a service to cross a small lagoon on a a small power boat in case you want to arrive dry to the beach. You can cross it walking but the water will almost reach your chest."
Helmut Schaus
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Santa Marta towards Riohacha, which will drop you off near Buritaca. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From the drop-off point, you'll typically walk about 10 minutes to reach the beach or the lagoon crossing. +1
Yes, there is parking available, and it's often included with a small entrance fee for vehicles.
Absolutely! Buses heading towards Riohacha from Santa Marta are a common and affordable way to reach the Buritaca area.
After arriving in the general Buritaca area, you'll usually walk a short path. If you wish to avoid getting wet crossing a small lagoon, a boat service is available.
Yes, there are hostels like Niuwi Hostel and the highly-rated Rio Hostel Buritaca, offering great stays and social atmospheres. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a small entrance fee for individuals and a fee for parking if you arrive by car. It's generally considered worth the cost for the experience.
Expect to pay around 10,000 pesos for a car, which includes parking. Individual entrance fees may also apply.
While specific group discounts aren't always advertised, the entrance fee for a car often covers multiple people, making it economical for families.
Buritaca is a natural beach and river area, generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to arrive early to make the most of your day.
While you can bring your own, there are many restaurants and vendors available. It's advisable to check their policies if you plan to bring outside food.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy tubing down the river, kayaking, swimming (with caution in the ocean), trying surfing, and relaxing on the beach.
The river is generally calmer than the ocean and is great for swimming and tubing. However, always be aware of your surroundings. +1
Lifeguard services are not consistently available, so swimmers should exercise caution, especially in the ocean where waves can be strong.
Renting a kayak for the day or going tubing are highly recommended activities to fully enjoy the river's beauty and tranquility.
Light, quick-drying clothing is ideal. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable sandals or flip-flops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood, local Colombian dishes, and refreshing drinks.
While some restaurants can be pricier, it's possible to find more budget-friendly options. Always ask for prices beforehand and compare.
Freshly caught fish prepared in various ways is a must-try. Some vendors also offer unique seafood mixes.
Options might be limited, but many restaurants can prepare simpler dishes like rice, beans, and salads. It's best to inquire directly.
Walk along the beach, check out the menus and prices, and consider asking locals for recommendations.
📸 📸 Photography
The confluence of the river and sea, the lush riverbanks during tubing, and the vibrant sunsets over the ocean offer stunning photographic moments.
Early morning light provides soft, beautiful illumination, while late afternoon offers golden hour hues. Sunsets are also spectacular.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's always best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Some areas might have restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. Waterproof protection for your camera is advisable near the water.
The natural environment might offer opportunities to photograph birds and other local fauna, especially along the riverbanks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ocean waves can be strong, families can still enjoy the beach atmosphere. It's advisable to keep a close eye on children near the water. The beachfront restaurants offer a chance to relax and enjoy meals with a view. Consider arriving early to secure a good spot and avoid the peak crowds, making the day more enjoyable for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
For accommodation, Rio Hostel Buritaca is a standout choice, frequently ranked among the best hostels in South America, offering a social and affordable stay.
🏄♀️ Adventure Seekers
Beyond surfing, kayaking upstream provides an opportunity to explore the river's more secluded areas. The journey to Buritaca itself, often involving buses and a walk, adds to the sense of adventure. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at a lively hostel like Rio Hostel Buritaca, known for its party atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geography of Buritaca
Navigating between the river and the sea often involves a short walk or, for those wishing to stay dry, a small boat service across a lagoon. This adds to the adventure and the sense of discovery. The surrounding environment is lush and tropical, providing a beautiful backdrop for all activities. The natural beauty is a significant draw, offering a glimpse into the wilder side of Colombia's Caribbean coast.
When planning your visit, understanding this geography is key. The river offers a safe and relaxing environment for families and those seeking calm waters, while the ocean provides a more exhilarating experience for the adventurous. The interplay of these two bodies of water is what makes Buritaca River Mouth a truly special place to explore.
Activities for Every Traveler
The Caribbean Sea presents opportunities for surfing, with equipment rentals available directly on the beach. Experienced swimmers can enjoy the ocean, but caution is advised due to potentially strong currents. The unique landscape also makes it a fantastic spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light paints the sky and water in breathtaking colors.
Beyond the water activities, the beachfront restaurants offer a chance to indulge in fresh, local cuisine. It's a great place to unwind, enjoy the ocean breeze, and soak in the vibrant coastal atmosphere. For budget-conscious travelers, hostels like Rio Hostel Buritaca are highly recommended for their social vibe and value.
Navigating Buritaca: Practicalities and Tips
When it comes to dining, it's wise to ask for prices before ordering at the numerous beachfront restaurants, as costs can vary. Checking the freshness of seafood is also a good practice. For those looking to explore the river, kayak rentals are available for an all-day fee, offering great value for extended enjoyment.
It's important to be aware of the ocean's conditions. While the river is typically calm, the sea can have strong waves, so swimming is recommended only for experienced individuals. Lifeguard presence is not guaranteed, emphasizing the need for personal vigilance.
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