Santa Marta

Things to do in Santa Marta

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Top 10 attractions in Santa Marta

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Parque de Los Novios

Parque de Los Novios

4.4
is one of the cultural and social hubs of the historic city of Santa Marta. Although small in size, its unique architectural style and rich historical atmosphere make it a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike. In the center stands a neoclassical-style gazebo, whose simple columns and symmetrical structure reflect the elegance of early 20th-century Colombian architecture. Surrounding the gazebo are well-maintained walkways and green spaces, perfect for strolling and relaxing. It also features commemorative sculptures, including statues of Manuel Murillo Toro and the founding father Francisco de Paula Santander, highlighting Colombia's historical figures and cultural heritage. The surrounding buildings are mostly early 20th-century Republican-style structures of historical value, such as the Palace of Justice and the old Fourth School, which add to its rich historical atmosphere.Santa Marta · 873m from downtown
Tayrona National Natural Park
No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Colombia

Tayrona National Natural Park

4.4
5.0/5
6 reviews
Tayrona National Natural Park is located in Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia, and is a nature reserve known for its magnificent natural views and rich biodiversity. Situated along the Caribbean coast, the park features stretches of beaches, dense tropical rainforests, and majestic mountains, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can choose from multiple hiking trails within the park to explore different ecosystems. One of the more popular routes is to Cabo San Juan beach, which attracts many visitors with its clear water and unique coastline. Along the way, you can see various wildlife, including monkeys and many types of birds. The park offers camping and eco-lodge accommodations. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season. Visitors should note that some areas of the park require walking to access, so wearing comfortable shoes and carrying enough drinking water is necessary. For transportation, Tayrona National Natural Park is about 34 km from downtown Santa Marta, and visitors can choose to take a bus or taxi. The park entrance has an information center that provides maps and tour suggestions to help visitors better plan their itinerary.Santa Marta · 16.8 km from downtown
Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca

4.2
Playa Blanca is a tourist destination characterized by its natural views and beach leisure. The beach features fine sand, clear water, and a gentle coastline, making it suitable for walking, sunbathing, and relaxing swims. The surrounding lush vegetation provides natural shade for visitors and adds a tranquil atmosphere to the beach. Its environment is relatively open, allowing visitors to enjoy the sunrise or sunset by the sea and experience the natural rhythm of the sea breeze on their faces and waves lapping against the shore. Beach activities here are diverse, including boating and snorkeling, offering visitors opportunities to get close to nature. Beyond the beach itself, the surrounding area features simple dining and rest facilities, offering local seafood and drinks to make your visit more convenient. Visitors can set up tents on the beach or rent umbrellas to enjoy a leisurely time by the sea. The local community is also known for being friendly and welcoming, allowing visitors to experience the local lifestyle and cultural atmosphere during their visit. This is not only an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature, but it also allows people to unwind in a calm coastal environment and experience the unique natural charm of the Caribbean coast.Santa Marta · 4.4 km from downtown
Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
No. 11 of Family-friendly Attractions in Colombia

Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino

4.1
Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino is located in the northern Caribbean coastal city of Santa Marta. With a long history, it served as the residence of the Liberator Simón Bolívar before his death. Built in 1608 and originally known as "La Florida San Pedro Alejandrino," it once produced sugarcane, honey, rum, and panela (a type of cane sugar block). Bolívar lived here until his passing. Today, it has been converted into a history museum and cultural site, featuring the Museum of Contemporary Art of Bolívar, the "Altar of the Fatherland," a botanical garden, colonial-era estate buildings, and well-preserved furniture and objects. The garden is filled with towering trees, including several century-old specimens that are part of the botanical garden. It is located approx. 5 km from the historic center of Santa Marta and is an important destination for tourists and locals to learn about Bolívar's final days and the colonial-era lifestyle in Colombia.Santa Marta · 3.4 km from downtown
Bahía de Santa Marta

Bahía de Santa Marta

4
Bahía de Santa Marta is a gem that blends magnificent nature, rich history, and Caribbean charm. As a natural barrier in northern Colombia, this bay is not only one of the most enchanting bodies of water along the coast but also a gateway to natural wonders. It boasts a unique geographical setting, with the turquoise, warm waters of the Caribbean Sea on one side and majestic mountains on the other. It is not just a seaside resort but a cultural melting pot where nature and history converge. From the bay, visitors can easily dive into the clear waters to snorkel and explore shipwreck ruins and abundant marine life, or rent a sailboat to feel the Caribbean breeze on the sparkling sea. Whether tracing the footsteps of history or craving an adventure between the mountains and the sea, this bay will leave visitors with unforgettable memories.Santa Marta · 1.1 km from downtown
Plaza Parque Simon Bolivar

Plaza Parque Simon Bolivar

3.9
Santa Marta · 986m from downtown
Acuario Rodadero

Acuario Rodadero

3.6
Santa Marta · 4.4 km from downtown
Tayrona Park entrance

Tayrona Park entrance

3.6
Santa Marta · 32 km from downtown
Museo del Oro Tairona - Casa de la Aduana

Museo del Oro Tairona - Casa de la Aduana

3.5
Santa Marta · 937m from downtown
Playa Bello Horizonte

Playa Bello Horizonte

3.5
Santa Marta · 10.2 km from downtown

Traveller favourites curated for you

Acuario Mundo Marino

Acuario Mundo Marino

3.5
Gaira · 1.1 km from downtown
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Sailing to Tayrona with Luis and his team: Unique!

Sailing to Tayrona with Luis and his team: Unique!

4.7/5
140 reviews
Departs from Santa Marta
Free cancellationBook now for tomorrowDuration: 8 hrsEnglish
From£58.67
13 days · Caribbean · Fort De France - Guadeloupe - Saint Lucia - Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Caribbean Netherlands - Colombia - Panama - Colon

13 days · Caribbean · Fort De France - Guadeloupe - Saint Lucia - Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Caribbean Netherlands - Colombia - Panama - Colon

Ponant
Ponant
Le Lapérouse
5
Depart from Fort De France
From GBP 7,497
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2D1N • Cerro Kennedy Sightseeing Tour with Accommodation

2D1N • Cerro Kennedy Sightseeing Tour with Accommodation

Birdwatching during the sightseeing tour | Discover the highest mountain in Colombia near the sea | See the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada
EnglishPrivate Tours
From GBP 4
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Experiences you can't miss in Santa Marta

Featured Culture & history in Santa Marta

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Old Town and Quinta San Pedro Santa Marta City Tour
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Old Town and Quinta San Pedro Santa Marta City Tour

4.7/5
· 6 reviews
Duration: 5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
From£123.28
Minca: Hidden Waterfall + Coffee and Cocoa Workshop
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Minca: Hidden Waterfall + Coffee and Cocoa Workshop

Duration: 1 day
Free cancellation
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From£67.33
Santa Marta: Guided Walking Food Experience
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Santa Marta: Guided Walking Food Experience

Duration: 4 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£152.56
Santa Marta: A Historical & Street Food Experience
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Santa Marta: A Historical & Street Food Experience

Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£48.10
Santa Marta: Trekking in Minca Complete Waterfall Circuit
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Santa Marta: Trekking in Minca Complete Waterfall Circuit

Duration: 5–7 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£44.49
Minca: Sunset with campfire, indigenous cacao ceremony, and Wiwa music
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Minca: Sunset with campfire, indigenous cacao ceremony, and Wiwa music

4.9/5
· 9 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£32.67
Santa Marta: Centro Histórico Bar and Club Crawl with Guide
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Santa Marta: Centro Histórico Bar and Club Crawl with Guide

Duration: 4 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£25.76
Museum and Interactive Ancestral Trail in Minca
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Museum and Interactive Ancestral Trail in Minca

Duration: 2.5 hrs
Spanish
Free cancellation
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From£8.35

Featured Day tours in Santa Marta

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A Pearl In The Caribbean-walking tour in English
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A Pearl In The Caribbean-walking tour in English

4.9/5
· 46 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
44 consecutive positive reviews
From£14.44
Full Day Tour from Cartagena through Barranquilla and Santa Marta
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Full Day Tour from Cartagena through Barranquilla and Santa Marta

3.9/5
· 19 reviews
Duration: 795 mins
Free cancellation
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From£63.13
Santa Marta: Tayrona National Park by Sea Boat Tour
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Santa Marta: Tayrona National Park by Sea Boat Tour

5.0/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
From£84.17
From Santa Marta: Sisiguaca Beach Hike with Snorkeling
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From Santa Marta: Sisiguaca Beach Hike with Snorkeling

4.0/5
· 6 reviews
Duration: 4–4.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
From£60.12
From Santa Marta: Sunset Sailboat Tour with 2 Beverages
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From Santa Marta: Sunset Sailboat Tour with 2 Beverages

4.5/5
· 27 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
From£40.88
Sailing on a catamaran: A fun adventure
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Sailing on a catamaran: A fun adventure

Duration: 7 hrs
Free cancellation
From£68.31
Full-Day Hiking Tour in Minca with coffee & Cocoa Workshop
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Full-Day Hiking Tour in Minca with coffee & Cocoa Workshop

4.7/5
· 57 reviews
Duration: 450 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for today
96.5% of travelers recommend
From£40.85
Santa Marta: Sailboat day tour to Tayrona Park
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Santa Marta: Sailboat day tour to Tayrona Park

4.6/5
· 145 reviews
Duration: 7.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
From£55.31

Featured Food & drink in Santa Marta

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Minca: Coffee, Cocoa, Waterfall and Vantage Point Sightseeing Tour
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Minca: Coffee, Cocoa, Waterfall and Vantage Point Sightseeing Tour

4.9/5
· 30 reviews
Duration: 6–8.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
30 consecutive positive reviews
From£39.39
Minca Eco-Hike: Waterfall, Coffee Farm & Chocolate Workshop
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Minca Eco-Hike: Waterfall, Coffee Farm & Chocolate Workshop

4.5/5
· 6 reviews
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£38.16
Minca: Chocolate Factory workshop with Jungle Joe
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Minca: Chocolate Factory workshop with Jungle Joe

4.8/5
· 8 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£11.93
Cacao and Coffee Tour
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Cacao and Coffee Tour

Duration: 4.5 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£37.47

Featured Outdoor & sports in Santa Marta

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Santa Marta: Tayrona Park Hike to Cabo San Juan
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Santa Marta: Tayrona Park Hike to Cabo San Juan

Duration: 9 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£119.35
Tayrona National Park: Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners with Expert Guides
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Tayrona National Park: Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners with Expert Guides

5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 6 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
From£113.38
Tayrona Sailing Sailboat trip
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Tayrona Sailing Sailboat trip

4.4/5
· 63 reviews
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
From£40.85
Yacht sightseeing tour with stops at 6 beaches in Santa Marta + lunch
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Yacht sightseeing tour with stops at 6 beaches in Santa Marta + lunch

5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 7 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
From£59.62
Minca: Full Day Minca Tour with Jungle Joe
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Minca: Full Day Minca Tour with Jungle Joe

Duration: 6 hrs
Free cancellation
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From£33.38

More things to do

Santa Marta Cruises

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11 days · Caribbean · Miami - Willemstad - Oranjestad - Santa Marta - Cartagena - George Town - Miami

11 days · Caribbean · Miami - Willemstad - Oranjestad - Santa Marta - Cartagena - George Town - Miami

Explora Journeys ·
EXPLORA I5
Depart from Miami
From GBP 2,570
19 days · Caribbean · Miami - North America - South America - Miami

19 days · Caribbean · Miami - North America - South America - Miami

Explora Journeys ·
EXPLORA I5
Depart from Miami
From GBP 6,486
8 days · Caribbean · Colon - Cartagena - Santa Marta - Oranjestad - Willemstad - Colon

8 days · Caribbean · Colon - Cartagena - Santa Marta - Oranjestad - Willemstad - Colon

4.3/5 · 3 reviews
Royal Caribbean ·
Grandeur of the Seas3
Depart from Colon
From GBP 675
8 days · Caribbean · Colon - Cartagena - Santa Marta - Willemstad - Oranjestad - Colon

8 days · Caribbean · Colon - Cartagena - Santa Marta - Willemstad - Oranjestad - Colon

4.3/5 · 3 reviews
Royal Caribbean ·
Grandeur of the Seas3
Depart from Colon
Up to 60% off 2nd guest-GBP 468
From GBP 887GBP 1,355
8 days · Caribbean · Cartagena - Santa Marta - Oranjestad - Willemstad - Colon - Cartagena

8 days · Caribbean · Cartagena - Santa Marta - Oranjestad - Willemstad - Colon - Cartagena

4.3/5 · 3 reviews
Royal Caribbean ·
Grandeur of the Seas3
Depart from Cartagena
From GBP 965
8 days · Caribbean · Cartagena - Santa Marta - Willemstad - Oranjestad - Colon - Cartagena

8 days · Caribbean · Cartagena - Santa Marta - Willemstad - Oranjestad - Colon - Cartagena

4.3/5 · 3 reviews
Royal Caribbean ·
Grandeur of the Seas3
Depart from Cartagena
Up to 60% off 2nd guest-GBP 624
From GBP 929GBP 1,552
18 days · Caribbean · San Juan - North America - South America - Panama City

18 days · Caribbean · San Juan - North America - South America - Panama City

4.9/5 · 2 reviews
Explora Journeys ·
EXPLORA III5
Depart from San Juan
From GBP 8,171

Group Tours in Santa Marta

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4D3N • 4-Day Lost City Small-Group Tour in Santa Marta

4D3N • 4-Day Lost City Small-Group Tour in Santa Marta

EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours
From GBP 431
3D2N • Punta Gallinas y Cabo de la Vela

3D2N • Punta Gallinas y Cabo de la Vela

EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours
From GBP 259
4D3N • Lost City - Ciudad Perdida Colombia

4D3N • Lost City - Ciudad Perdida Colombia

4.9/5
285 reviews
EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours
From GBP 556
4D3N • Lost City Trek 4 days - 3 nights

4D3N • Lost City Trek 4 days - 3 nights

4/5
2 reviews
EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours
From GBP 490
5D4N • Trek to Ciudad Perdida: 5 Days from Santa Marta

Level 25D4N • Trek to Ciudad Perdida: 5 Days from Santa Marta

EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours
From GBP 974
3D2N • PADI Open Water Diver | Learn to Dive in Tayrona

3D2N • PADI Open Water Diver | Learn to Dive in Tayrona

Max. 8 peopleEnglishNo mandatory shoppingMini Group
Discover threatened coral species rarely seen so healthy. · Earn the world's most recognized scuba certification. · Learn to dive in Tayrona National Park.
From GBP 477
10D9N • Mountains, Desert, and Sea: Sightseeing Tour of Valledupar, Riohacha, and Santa Marta

10D9N • Mountains, Desert, and Sea: Sightseeing Tour of Valledupar, Riohacha, and Santa Marta

Max. 15 peopleEnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours
Gastronomic experience (typical and fusion cuisine, corn as an ancestral food) · Historic centers, cathedrals, plazas, alleys, murals, and cuisine · Nature (Sierra Nevada foothills, Badillo and Candela rivers)
From GBP 6,598
2D1N • Vibra in the Desert of Cabo de Vela (2 days 1 night)

2D1N • Vibra in the Desert of Cabo de Vela (2 days 1 night)

EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours
From GBP 96
Santa Marta Today's weatherPartly cloudy 25-34℃
Santa Marta weather for the next 2 days11/6: 25-32℃, 11/7: 24-32℃

Free things to do in Santa Marta

Museo del Oro Tairona - Casa de la Aduana

Museo del Oro Tairona - Casa de la Aduana

3.5
Santa Marta · 937m from downtown

What travellers say about Santa Marta

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乖小咪September 16, 2019
5.0
Tayrona National Park is a large coastal park in Santa Marta, with beautiful bays and seaside reefs of various shapes. In the waters of the national park, there are dozens of marine creatures, including whales and dolphins. If you are lucky, you can see them on the coast.

Tayrona National Natural Park

Trip Moments in Santa Marta

Tayrona National Park: Jungle Hike to Paradise Beaches 🇨🇴🌴

Tayrona National Park: Jungle Hike to Paradise Beaches 🇨🇴🌴

“We did a day trip to Tayrona National Park and it was definitely one of the highlights of Colombia!”@Jeffrey Geuijen · daytrips · 14 days ago
COLOMBIA — A Vibrant Land of Coffee and Caribbean Charm.

COLOMBIA — A Vibrant Land of Coffee and Caribbean Charm.

“🇨🇴✨ COLOMBIA — A Vibrant Land of Coffee and Caribbean Charm Colombia is a captivating nation in northern South America, boasting everything from colorful historic towns and emerald mountains to lush coffee plantations and pristine Caribbean beaches 🌴☕ It’s a place where nature, culture, and a unique way of life await discovery.”@Arach · colombia · 7 days ago
My Colombia Itinerary: 12 Incredible Places to Visit! 🇨🇴

My Colombia Itinerary: 12 Incredible Places to Visit! 🇨🇴

“Planning a trip to Colombia?”@Siobhain · colombia · 15 days ago
Discovering Santa Marta Favela: An Authentic Tour Experience in Rio

Discovering Santa Marta Favela: An Authentic Tour Experience in Rio

“My guide, Raycca, made the experience truly special.”@Jason119 · 19 days ago

Popular cities near Santa Marta

Cartagena

Cartagena

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Santa Marta?

Don't miss these attractions in Santa Marta: Parque de Los Novios, Tayrona National Natural Park, and Playa Blanca. If you like Culture & history, try Old Town and Quinta San Pedro Santa Marta City Tour. If you enjoy Day tours, try A Pearl In The Caribbean-walking tour in English.

You can give Minca: Coffee, Cocoa, Waterfall and Vantage Point Sightseeing Tour and Minca Eco-Hike: Waterfall, Coffee Farm & Chocolate Workshop a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include A Pearl In The Caribbean-walking tour in English, Full Day Tour from Cartagena through Barranquilla and Santa Marta, and Santa Marta: Tayrona National Park by Sea Boat Tour. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 5, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Santa Marta is around GBP 14.44 – GBP 84.17. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.