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Last update: 16 Oct 2026
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Santa Marta Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
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Suited for
Colombia – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
110 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Colombian Peso (COP) £1 ≈ COP 4,204.52 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common, especially in cities. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in many rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not obligatory, but a tip of 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Taxis generally do not expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is common. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not allowed in some areas, especially in cities. It is best to consume alcohol in licensed venues like bars or restaurants. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public transport. |
| Independence Day (20 July) |
National holiday celebrating Colombia's independence with parades and festivities |
|---|---|
| Christmas (25 December) |
Celebrated with family gatherings and festive meals |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 123 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Cabify |
| Other: | Colombia is known for its coffee, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes, including the Andes mountains and Caribbean beaches. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Santa Marta, Colombia
Tayrona National Park closes for short periods several times a year for indigenous rituals, dates vary
Lost City trek closes in September, trails are driest and least muddy December to March
Colombian school and public holidays (Christmas to mid January, Easter week, late June to July) fill hotels and beaches
Don't miss
- 🏖️ Explore Tayrona National Park's pristine beaches
- 🚶♂️ Stroll cobblestone streets of historic Santa Marta
- 🏛️ Visit Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino museum
- 🛥️ Take a boat to Taganga fishing village
- ⛰️ Hike Sierra Nevada peaks for sunrise views
- 🍽️ Savor arepas and empanadas at local market
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Santa Marta?
Santa Marta, perched on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural depth that appeals to travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration. The city’s historic center, founded in 1525, features colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Marta and the Casa de la Cultura, where local art and history are displayed. From here, visitors can easily access nearby attractions: the Tayrona National Natural Park presents pristine beaches and lush rainforest trails, while the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching and visiting indigenous communities. The coastal climate is warm year-round, making it suitable for beach activities like snorkeling around the coral reefs of the Rosario Islands. Local cuisine reflects Caribbean influences; dishes such as arepas, ceviche and fresh tropical fruits can be sampled in markets and seaside restaurants. Santa Marta also serves as a gateway to the nearby town of Minca, where coffee plantations and cooler temperatures offer a contrasting experience. For those interested in history, nature or simply a quiet coastal setting, Santa Marta provides accessible accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to eco-lodges, ensuring that travelers can tailor their stay to personal preferences.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Tayrona National Park
This Colombian Caribbean sanctuary features dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters and lush rainforests. It offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs and diverse wildlife within a protected national park setting that feels wild yet accessible to visitors seeking natural beauty.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
-
1
Ticket to waterfalls
🍽️Eat & Drink
-
1
Guasimo Restaurante
Colombian and Caribbean seafood in a restaurant in the historic centre of Santa Marta. The menu lists butifarra, a sausage starter. Mains include roasted pork loin and a fish dish with shrimp and creamy rice. -
2
Restaurante LaMart
Caribbean seafood in Santa Marta. The kitchen makes a rich fish and seafood soup with shrimp, calamari, mussels and conch, served with rice. The menu also lists ceviche, pasta and fried ice cream for dessert. -
3
Ouzo Restaurante
Mediterranean food across from Parque de los Novios on Carrera 3. The menu lists pizzetta, lamb pita, beef gyro and bruschetta. Diners can also order tierra y mar, a surf-and-turf plate, or keftedes, which are Greek meatballs. -
4
La Muzzería
Caribbean Colombian food built around cayaye, a mash of green guineo bananas, in Santa Marta. The menu lists kokilla de cayaye with seafood, a regional speciality. The kitchen uses green bananas grown in the region. -
5
Mas Que Pan
Baked goods and Colombian breakfasts at an order-at-the-counter bakery and restaurant in Santa Marta. Guests can order avocado toast with eggs, a cappuccino and pastries to go. This inexpensive restaurant also serves other Colombian favourites in large portions. -
6
Restaurante Bar Burukuka
Latin American food and cocktails at a rooftop restaurant with a wide view over Santa Marta. The menu lists lobster tail risotto and tamarind margaritas. It sits on a hillside near Rodadero, so travellers usually take a car or taxi. -
7
Lulo Café Bar
Latin American food in a café bar in the historic centre of Santa Marta. The menu lists arepas, plantain chips with salsa and guacamole, cubanitos and veggie sliders. The kitchen also makes crème brûlée and a lemonade smoothie. -
8
Ikaro Café
Coffee and vegetarian and vegan food at a café in the historic centre of Santa Marta. The menu lists almond croissants, pancakes, banana bread and a yogurt granola bowl with fresh fruit. The café also pours smoothies.
Knowledge before you go
- Carry a small rain poncho; Santa Marta’s coastal weather is unpredictable.
- Use local transport like colectivos for cost‑effective travel between city and nearby beaches, but avoid late night rides due to safety concerns.
- Purchase a tourist card at the airport; it offers discounted entry to attractions such as Tayrona National Park and the historic center.
- Explore the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino after sunset for quiet gardens and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, often missed by day‑time visitors.
How to travel to Santa Marta
Santa Marta, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is accessible via several transportation methods. The nearest major airport is Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), situated approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights connect Santa Marta to Bogotá, Medellín and other regional hubs. For travelers preferring ground transport, buses operate regularly from Bogotá’s Terminal de Transportes, with journeys taking around 10–12 hours via the Tame or Bolivariano bus companies. Private transfers and taxis are available for direct airport-to-city trips. The city is also connected by road to nearby destinations like Minca (1 hour) and Tayrona National Park (2 hours), accessible via well-maintained highways. Local buses and mototaxis provide short-distance travel within Santa Marta itself.
Access summary
- From Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR): Taxi or bus to Santa Marta city center, 30–45 min.
- From Barranquilla: Bus or train to Santa Marta, 3–4 hours; from Cartagena: Bus, 5–6 hours.
- By ferry from the nearby port of Santa Marta to Tayrona National Park, 15–20 min.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Santa Marta
Santa Marta offers a wide spectrum of lodging that caters to every budget and taste. Budget travelers can find hostels and guesthouses in the historic center, where rooms are modest yet comfortable, often featuring shared kitchens and communal spaces that foster social interaction. Mid‑range options include boutique hotels and small resorts along the beachfront, offering sea views, private balconies and amenities such as Wi‑Fi, breakfast and on‑site dining. Luxury seekers will discover upscale villas and all‑inclusive resorts in nearby coastal enclaves like Taganga or El Rodadero, boasting infinity pools, spa services and personalized concierge care. The city’s proximity to Tayrona National Park also attracts eco‑lodges that blend rustic charm with sustainable practices, providing a tranquil retreat amid lush jungle scenery.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Santa Marta
Santa Marta, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, offers several convenient ways to get around. The most practical method is using taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber, which are widely available for short trips within the city and to nearby beaches such as Rodadero. For longer distances, buses operated by companies like Metrocaldas connect Santa Marta with surrounding areas including Tayrona National Park and Minca. Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring rural regions or coastal roads at your own pace. Local buses are also an affordable option but may be less comfortable due to traffic conditions. Walking is feasible in the compact historic center, though the terrain can be hilly. Always prioritize safety when traveling along Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Santa Marta are around 56% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to COP) is 24% worse than in recent years. That means travelling now is considerably more expensive compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Santa Marta offers relatively low crime rates compared to other Colombian cities, with most incidents limited to petty theft in tourist areas. Travelers should stay vigilant in crowded markets, avoid isolated beaches after dark and use reputable transport services for added security.
Health & Medical
Santa Marta offers reliable medical care with modern hospitals and experienced doctors, especially in coastal health centers. Travelers should stay hydrated, avoid high‑altitude activities without acclimatization, watch for dengue and Zika mosquitoes and use reputable clinics for vaccinations and routine check‑ups.
Accessibility
Santa Marta offers mixed accessibility: sidewalks and public transport are improving, yet many historic streets remain uneven. Wheelchair users can navigate newer malls and the beach promenade, but older markets and cable car access require extra assistance. Plan ahead for ramps and guide services.
Tap water
Tap water in Santa Marta is generally safe to drink after boiling or filtering, though many locals still prefer bottled water for peace of mind. Public fountains are common in tourist areas, but always check local advisories before using tap water directly.
Packing recommendations for Santa Marta
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
SPF 30+
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🍫
Energy snacks
nuts, cereal bars
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🕶️
Sunglasses
🎒
Small rucksack
🪰
Insect repellent
👛
Cash in small denominations
👜
Anti-theft bag
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type A/B/C
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
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