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''Aracataca is the top Colombian destination for visitors
interested in the cultural legacy of the Caribbean and of course Gabriel García Márquez.'' - Tim Buendia |
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Recommended by
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Welcome to the heart of Colombia's magical Caribbean region. As the birthplace of Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez, Aracataca holds immense literary and cultural significance. We are here to guide you through the highlights of what to do during your visit to this captivating destination.
Why Aracataca?
The spirit of Garcia Marquez is everywhere. You can sense it roaming the streets after sunset or in the recently restored House of the Telegraphist where his father used to work and live. You can feel it its river where you can flow along with the clear water (seasonal). Go and sit on the carriage which rode Gabo around town when he last came here in 2007. Go and visit his nanny (make sure you'll bring her a gift) or visit the countless friends he had and will always have.
Even though the original house where Gabo was born no longer exists but a replica was created in its place to give surprisingly depoliticized information about the Nobel Prize winner. A must see!
Warning! There are so many experiences that you would miss out on if you would helplessly stroll the streets by yourself. Aracataca has no tourist maps or signs that show you around town and that's why we highly recommend to go either on a tour with a professional guide or see the town through the eyes of the locals by visiting the houses of Tim's closest friends while you listen to their stories and meet their families.
Even though the original house where Gabo was born no longer exists but a replica was created in its place to give surprisingly depoliticized information about the Nobel Prize winner. A must see!
Warning! There are so many experiences that you would miss out on if you would helplessly stroll the streets by yourself. Aracataca has no tourist maps or signs that show you around town and that's why we highly recommend to go either on a tour with a professional guide or see the town through the eyes of the locals by visiting the houses of Tim's closest friends while you listen to their stories and meet their families.
What to do in Aracataca?
Attractions
1 Aracataca Train Station: Take a step into the magical realm of Macondo, the fictional town that García Márquez made famous. Visit the Aracataca Train Station, which served as the inspiration for numerous stories in his novels. This evocative location will transport you into the pages of his literary masterpieces, leaving you captivated by the blend of reality and fantasy.
2 Plaza de Bolivar: Explore the bustling heart of Aracataca at the Plaza de Bolivar. This vibrant square is lined with colorful buildings and offers a glimpse into the town's rich history and architecture. Relax on a park bench, enjoy the local atmosphere, and savor the flavors of traditional Colombian cuisine from nearby street food vendors.
3 García Márquez House Museum: Highlight your journey by exploring the childhood home of Gabriel García Márquez, which has been transformed into a fascinating museum. Immerse yourself in the author's literary world as you discover the inspiration behind his renowned works, such as "One Hundred Years of Solitude." Uncover the writer's personal belongings, manuscripts, and family photographs, gaining insight into his life and creative process.
4 Coffee Plantations: Delve into Colombia's rich coffee culture by visiting one of the many coffee plantations surrounding Aracataca. Learn about the meticulous process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans, and indulge in a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for one of the country's most famous exports.
5 Cultural Festivals: Time your visit to coincide with one of Aracataca's lively cultural festivals, which showcase the region's vibrant traditions and folklore. From colorful parades to lively music and dance performances, these events offer an authentic glimpse into Colombia's diverse cultural heritage. Celebrate alongside the locals and create unforgettable memories.
6 Local Handicrafts: Discover the artisanal talents of Aracataca's locals by exploring the town's craft markets. From intricate woven textiles and handmade jewelry to unique pottery and traditional artwork, these markets offer a chance to support local artisans while bringing home a piece of Colombia's cultural heritage.
7 Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta: Embark on a captivating journey to the nearby Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, a stunning coastal wetland teeming with biodiversity. Take a boat tour through the mangroves, encounter vibrant bird species, and witness the beauty of this unique ecosystem. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature while experiencing the region's breathtaking landscapes. Also visit the unique town of Nueva Venecia.
A three night getaway to hit the spot
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Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Arrival in Aracataca Check in at your hostal Pick up your T-shirt and book "Poesía de Macondo" Afternoon: Walk around town. Plaza, Radio Station. Evening: Welcome Dinner at El Patio Magico de Gabo y Leo Matiz Vegetarian Menu: Arepas Rellenas: Stuffed corn cakes with cheese and vegetables, served with a side of avocado salad. Stroll around town. Day 2 Morning: Breakfast at your hostal Guided walking Tour around Aracataca. Explore Gabo's Childhood Home Afternoon: Lunch at a local eatery Visit to the River and the Museum. Learn about the Cultural Significance of the River Evening: Creative Workshop with a local Artist. Create Art Inspired by Macondo's Magical Realism Dinner at a traditional restaurant Vegetarian Menu: Bandeja Paisa Vegana: A vegan version of the traditional dish with rice, beans, plantains, avocado, and a variety of sautéed vegetables. Day 3 Morning: Guided Motorbike Tour to the surrounding villages; Macondo and Sevilla Discover the Charms of caribbean small towns. Afternoon: Return to Aracataca Enjoy a Traditional Cooking Class Vegetarian Menu: Sancocho de Verduras: Hearty vegetable stew with plantains, yuca, corn, and a medley of locally sourced vegetables. Evening: Farewell Bonfire with Local Music and Stories Dinner around the bonfire Vegetarian Menu: Mazorca Asada: Grilled corn on the cob topped with a zesty lime and chili seasoning. |
Where and what can I eat
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How to get there?
From Santa Marta; Go to the bus terminal and buy a ticket to Aracataca (Berlinas $20.000 pesos) Get out at ‘La Vuelta del Estadio’ and take a ciclotaxi, $6000 a person (with backpack $10.000) to the center.
From Cartagena; Take a Berlinas bus that leaves every 30 minutes and have a quick change of bus in Barranquilla. Get out at ‘La Vuelta del Estadio’ and take a ciclotaxi to wherever you want.
From Bogota; Buy a ticket to Aracataca ($100.000) and get out in Aracataca. From there take a mototaxi to town ($5.000 pesos).
From Cartagena; Take a Berlinas bus that leaves every 30 minutes and have a quick change of bus in Barranquilla. Get out at ‘La Vuelta del Estadio’ and take a ciclotaxi to wherever you want.
From Bogota; Buy a ticket to Aracataca ($100.000) and get out in Aracataca. From there take a mototaxi to town ($5.000 pesos).
Caribbean Colombia has its own language, culture and idiosyncrasies. And it's beautiful.
Tim Buendia's recommendations for mingling in Aracataca can become a hugely relevant language experience for you. Asking for the meaning of the following words and frases or simply using them can break the ice and will help you create new friends in the friendliest town in Colombia,
Tim Buendia's recommendations for mingling in Aracataca can become a hugely relevant language experience for you. Asking for the meaning of the following words and frases or simply using them can break the ice and will help you create new friends in the friendliest town in Colombia,
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Mamar Gallo
Hechar los Perros No me jodas mas con ese Nobel Donde puedo vender mi voto? |
Cuentamelo todo
Donde encuentro a Macondo? Busco a los amigos de Tim Buendia Como anda la vaina? |
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