Los Viajes de Jham

Los Viajes de Jham

Los Viajes de Jham

Los Viajes de Jham

Tairona Gold Museum: Your Guide to Visiting Santa Marta

Tairona Gold Museum: Your Guide to Visiting Santa Marta

In the heart of Santa Marta, the Tairona Gold Museum, located in the historic Customs House, houses unique pieces from the indigenous cultures of the area. Here’s what you need to plan your visit: how to get there, opening hours, what to see, and nearby accommodation options.

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Where is the Tairona Gold Museum located?

The museum is situated in the historic center of Santa Marta, within the Customs House (the oldest building in the city). The address is Calle 14 #2-68, near Parque de los Novios and the Cathedral.

How to get to the Tairona Gold Museum (Santa Marta)

  • From the airport: Take a bus to the historic center for $3,000 COP. Ask the driver to drop you near the gold museum; you can also take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app (InDriver).

  • From the bus terminal: Take a bus to the historic center for $3,000 COP.

  • If you are in the historic center: Walk to the Customs House (Calle 14 #2-68), easily recognizable by its colonial façade.

Gold Museum Hall Santa Marta

Hotels near the Tairona Gold Museum

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If you want to stay just a few minutes’ walk from the museum, here are some recommended options. Check availability and book in advance for peak dates.

  • Ribai Hotels Santa Marta: Located in the commercial area. It features a restaurant, terrace, bar, and free WiFi. Rooms come with TV, minibar, and air conditioning. Click to see prices and book

    Hotels Santa Marta

  • Panamerican Hostel: A 5-minute walk from the museum. Free WiFi and close to the Cathedral, Simón Bolívar Plaza, and the bay beach. Click to see prices and book

    Hotel in Santa Marta

  • Hotel Granate: A 4-minute walk from the Cathedral and 400 meters from the museum. It has rooms with free WiFi and a good location for exploring the historic center. Click to see prices and book

    Hotel in Santa Marta

All are in the historic center, perfect for walking around and enjoying the local cultural and culinary offerings.

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History and Foundation of the Tairona Gold Museum

The Customs House, built in 1751, was restored and transformed into the Tairona Gold Museum by the Bank of the Republic in 2005. The museum preserves and promotes the legacy of the Tairona and other indigenous cultures of the Sierra Nevada.

Gold Museum Customs House

What to see in the museum: collection and highlights

The museum exhibits over 600 pieces of gold, jewelry, ornaments, and ritual objects showcasing the goldsmithing mastery of the Tairona. The pieces come from funerary contexts and represent beliefs and social hierarchies of the time.

Tairona indigenous costume Santa Marta museum

Gold items Santa Marta Museum

Hours, Admission, and Guides

  • Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

  • Admission: Entry is free.

  • Guides: There is information in the exhibit; ask at the reception if guided tours are available.

Practical Recommendations for Your Visit

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds.

  • Wear light clothing; although some rooms are climate-controlled, the center can be warm.

  • Check the photography policy in each room: some exhibits do not allow photography.

  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Cathedral and Simón Bolívar Plaza, both within walking distance.

Tairona indigenous seals Gold Museum

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much is the admission fee?

    Admission is free.

  • Can you visit with children?

    Yes. It is an educational place suitable for families.

  • Are guides available?

    The information in the exhibit is detailed; ask at the reception about guided tours if they are offered.

Indigenous artifact Gold Museum

Tairona cotton backpack Santa Marta Museum

The Tairona Gold Museum is a must-visit stop in Santa Marta for those who enjoy history and indigenous craftsmanship. Plan ahead, check hotel availability, and create your itinerary for the historic center. Safe travels!

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