A trip to Colombia is not complete without a visit to Santa Marta. This city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia has all you need for an unforgettable vacation, from its endless stretches of palm-fringed beaches to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tayrona National Park.
For first-timers who are unsure about what to see in Santa Marta or which Santa Marta attractions to visit, there are plenty of other activities that will ensure you make the most of your trip.
Nonetheless, there are also some things you should take note of before visiting Santa Marta so your time here will be well-spent and safe, which we’ll cover more below, so don’t miss out!
Where Is Santa Marta, Colombia Located
Santa Marta is located on the northern coast of Colombia, nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Picture this: waking up to the sound of waves gently lapping the shore and looking out to see the lush, green mountains in the distance. That’s the magic of Santa Marta.
To give you a better idea, Santa Marta is about an hour’s flight from the bustling capital, Bogotá. It’s also close to other popular destinations like Cartagena and Barranquilla, making it a perfect stop if you’re exploring Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
One of the things I loved most about Santa Marta is its proximity to natural wonders. Just a short drive away, you’ll find Tayrona National Natural Park, where pristine beaches meet dense jungles. And if you’re up for an adventure, you can trek to the Lost City, an ancient archaeological site hidden deep in the mountains.
Santa Marta’s location also makes it a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1525. As you stroll through its colourful streets, you can feel the blend of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences.
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15 Best Things To Do In Santa Marta, Colombia
Santa Marta is a city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It’s known for its beaches, including Playa Blanca and El Rodadero. The colonial old town is home to Plaza de Bolívar, with its cathedral and a 16th-century palace.
Nearby is the Gold Museum, displaying pre-Columbian gold artefacts. Santa Marta also has a number of eco-tourism opportunities, including trips to the nearby Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range and Tayrona National Park.
To begin, here are 15 ideas to check off for making the most out of your stay in beautiful Santa Marta!
1. Visit Piedras de Donama in Sierra Nevada
One of my most memorable experiences in Santa Marta was visiting Piedras de Donama, a hidden gem in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Picture this: towering rock formations surrounded by lush jungle, with panoramic views that will take your breath away. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but the journey is half the adventure.
As we hiked, our guide shared fascinating stories about the indigenous Kogi people who consider these mountains sacred. When we finally reached Piedras de Donama, the serenity and beauty of the place were overwhelming.
Make sure to bring good hiking shoes and plenty of water – and don’t forget your camera!
Book a private tour to visit Piedras de Donama here.
2. Visit Marinka Waterfall
Exploring Santa Marta and its surroundings was a journey filled with diverse experiences. I strolled through Santa Marta’s historic streets, soaking in its colonial charm and vibrant markets.
Venturing out, I sailed along the coast to Tayrona National Natural Park, where I snorkeled in pristine waters and relaxed on beautiful beaches like Cabo San Juan.
The hike to the Lost City immersed me in the ancient Tayrona culture, surrounded by lush rainforests and awe-inspiring archaeological sites. In nearby Minca, I savored a coffee tour, took a refreshing dip in a mountain river, enjoyed a hearty Colombian lunch with stunning mountain views, and witnessed breathtaking sunsets from the Minca viewpoint.
Marinka Waterfall was a serene escape, where I trekked through jungle trails to discover a stunning waterfall cascading into a tranquil pool. Back in Santa Marta, El Rodadero offered a lively beach scene with palm-fringed sands and bustling seafood eateries.
Book a full day guided tour to Marinka Waterfall here.
3. Hike for 4 Days to the Lost City, Santa Marta
For the adventurous at heart, the four-day hike to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) is a challenge you won’t want to miss. This trek was one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my travels in Colombia. It’s not just a hike; it’s a journey back in time.
The trail winds through dense jungle, crossing rivers and steep inclines. Each day brought new sights and sounds – exotic birds, howler monkeys, and the ever-present hum of the rainforest.
Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the history and culture of the ancient Tayrona civilisation that built the Lost City over 1,000 years ago.
Reaching the Lost City itself was a surreal experience. The stone terraces and stairways, shrouded in mist and surrounded by jungle, felt like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie.
Remember to bring insect repellent, a good pair of hiking boots, and a sense of adventure. The hike is tough, but the sense of accomplishment and the beauty of the Lost City make it all worth it.
Book a 4 day hike to the Lost City here.
4. Colonial Old Town
This is for you guys who keep asking “What is Santa Marta known for?”
Now, you can’t truly experience this city’s history if you don’t take a tour around the historic downtown area. After all, it was the first Spanish settlement in Colombia.
The tour will give you an excellent overview of what life was like back in colonial times when it was the capital of the New Kingdom of Granada, and you’ll get to check out some world-renowned attractions like Plaza de Bolivar and the Presidential Palace.
I recommend the free walking tours, which are a great way to see the city and learn about its history at the same time.
Alternatively, you could join a more specialized tour like a food tour or a history tour.
5. Visit Tayrona National Park
Santa Marta is also the gateway to one of Colombia’s most beautiful natural attractions, Tayrona National Park. This park is known for its striking coastal scenery, rainforest interior, and pre-Columbian archaeological sites.
It’s a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, with plenty of hiking and swimming opportunities on beautiful beaches.
The hike is not hard but it’s also not an easy one. It’s well worth the effort though. There’s an alternative if you think a hike like this is hard; you can take a horse for most of the treks in Tayrona National Park.
Make sure to bring enough water and snacks with you as it gets very hot at midday. Prices in the park are also inflated due to tourists coming here daily.
Also, remember there’s an entrance fee of COP 60000 / USD 16.03 for foreigners and around COP 18000 / USD 4.81 for Colombian residents.
I’d advise arriving early, even before the doors officially open, as it receives hoards of visitors every day. Why else do you think it’s one of the most popular Santa Marta activities here?
Be prepared for the police to check your belongings before going into the National Park; at least it was what happened to us when we visited in August 2021.
Book a guided tour to Tayrona National Park here.
6. Visit The Gold Museum
Santa Marta is also home to one of the most impressive museums in all of Colombia, the Gold Museum. This museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Santa Marta because it displays an extensive collection of pre-Columbian gold artefacts from all over the country, some of which date back as far as 2,500 years ago.
If you’re really into it, there’s also a Gold Museum tour that’ll take you behind the scenes and give you an even more in-depth look at this fascinating museum. It’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of ancient Colombia.
7. Chill In Playa Blanca
If you’re looking for a Santa Marta beach worth going to, another great beach to visit while in Santa Marta is Playa Blanca. This secluded beach (though getting increasingly crowded) is located about an hour outside of the city and it’s well worth the trip.
It’s known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling.
To get here, the most normal way is by boat and this is exactly the way we did.
To save you the hassle of planning your trip there, you can opt to take a tour from your place of accommodation to Playa Blanca while also exploring an aquarium and Museum of the Sea
If you’re on a tight budget, there are also some buses that take you here, though that would involve some asking around to get more concrete information.
8. Stroll Around El Rodadero
Exploring Santa Marta and its surrounding areas offered a rich tapestry of experiences. In Santa Marta itself, I wandered through historic streets, discovering colonial architecture and vibrant markets.
Venturing further, I sailed along the coast to Tayrona National Natural Park, snorkelling in clear waters and basking on pristine beaches like Cabo San Juan. A hike to the Lost City immersed me in ancient Tayrona culture, surrounded by dense rainforest and breathtaking archaeological sites.
In nearby Minca, I indulged in a coffee tour, bathed in a cool river, enjoyed a traditional Colombian lunch with mountain views, and admired sunset panoramas from the Minca viewpoint.
Back in Santa Marta, El Rodadero provided a lively contrast with its bustling beach scene, complete with palm-fringed sands and lively seafood restaurants.
9. Parque De Los Novios
It’s not only filled with shaded trees and monuments but also benches, where you can take your drink of choice in hand as the sound from nearby bars or live performances floats through the air onto stage-lit grounds below.
At night, this park becomes a gathering place for young people looking to hang out. All this makes it feel like more than just another public space.
10. Santa Marta Cathedral
If you’re looking for something a little more spiritual to do in Santa Marta, why not visit the city’s cathedral? This beautiful colonial-style church was built in the 16th century and is home to some stunning architecture and artwork.
Fun fact: This cathedral is the resting place of Christopher Columbus’ brother, Bartholomew Columbus!
11. Learn To Salsa
One of the best things to do in Santa Marta is to learn how to salsa. There are plenty of places in the city where you can take lessons, and once you’ve got the basics down, you can hit the nightclubs and dance the night away.
There are also a few salsa festivals that are held in Santa Marta throughout the year. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch one while you’re here.
12. Relax At El Rodadero Beach
Santa Marta is close to some of the best beaches in Colombia, and one of the most popular is El Rodadero. This long, sandy beach is one of the best to relax, and there are beachside cafes and restaurants to lounge in
Whether you prefer to sunbathe with a good book or take a leisurely stroll along the shore, El Rodadero invites you to unwind and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Cool off with a swim in the clear, turquoise waters, or indulge in freshly caught seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.
As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the beach, El Rodadero becomes a tranquil haven where you can escape and rejuvenate amidst Santa Marta’s coastal beauty.
13. Day Trip To Taganga
Taganga is a small town located just a few kilometres north of Santa Marta. It’s a great place to go for a day trip, especially if you’re looking for some good snorkelling and diving opportunities.
The town is also home to some pretty epic nightlife, so it’s a great place to party if that’s your thing.
14. Cacao and Coffee Tour At Minca
If you’re looking to experience the processes, history and ways that combine the best of both worlds (coffee and chocolate), then head to Minca.
This village is home to organic coffee and cacao farms where visitors can join organized tours or explore on their own terms in Minca to enjoy these rich flavours.
Book a guided full day tour to Minca here.
15. Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
The art at the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino will make you feel like your toes are in tango territory.
The 17th-century Quinta is worth a visit if you want to see some really cool architecture and history; it was where revolutionary hero Simon Bolivar spent his last days before passing away!
Today, this place has turned into a museum that displays pieces from countries he liberated during revolutionary times.
Book a guided tour to Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino here.
Best Places To Stay In Santa Marta, Colombia
If you’re looking for where to stay in Santa Marta, you’ll want to pore through this section carefully.
It’s organized based on budget level and offers a couple of options for each budget category.
Luxury Hotels In Santa Marta, Colombia
Donde Adela Aparta Suite
The Adobe complex is an excellent place to stay if you’re looking for privacy with all of its amenities. You’ll find 3 bedrooms in this apartment, each offering its own style and flair; there’s even space reserved just so everyone can have fun playing music together without bothering others around you!
If you enjoy spending a day in Santa Marta indoors chilling in the comfort of your place, the pool table and ping-pong await those who enjoy games.
Apartament en Samaria -Pozos Colorados
This air-conditioned whole apartment just for you features 3 bedrooms, and a satellite flat-screen TV and is only 1.4 km from Bello Horizonte in Santa Marta!
It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the beach but not be right on top of it all day long; just enough distance so that you can walk down with your feet wet or catch some waves while wearing jeans instead of a bathing suit (or both!).
There’s also an outdoor pool with bar service that opens late every night until 2 am if drinking after sunbathing is what you’re after.
Apartament Balcones de Costa Azul
The view from your balcony is going to be incredible from this whole apartment just for you. You’ll have access not only to the ocean but also to a fitness centre and WiFi! This place has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation, like a kitchen, TV and pool so there’s no excuse not to enjoy yourself every day (or night).
The 3 bedrooms are perfect if you’re travelling with friends or for big families, as each room has its own private bathroom with a bathtub as well, which will feel pretty amazing after long days exploring Santa Marta.
Apartament Reserva Del Mar 15
This beachfront whole apartment provides guests with access to a pool table, ping pong and private parking. With staff speaking English & Spanish fluently, there’s always someone available who can guide you through your stay in Santa Marta or help answer any questions that may arise while travelling around Colombia’s beautiful city!
The apartment also has 2 bedrooms each equipped with its own flat-screen TV so they’re never left wanting when watching network programming either at home or on-site amenities including an outdoor swimming pool perfect for those warm summer days when all else fails but somehow managing without air conditioning. Yes, you read it right, NO air conditioning.
Reserva del Mar 1421 Santa Marta Ocean View
This whole apartment comes with a balcony and free WiFi, New Reserva del Mar 1421 Santa Marta ocean view is the perfect spot to spend your vacation in Magdalena.
The property is in front of the sea and lies 6 km away from one of Colombia’s most popular beach towns, which makes it an easy getaway for any traveller looking forward to some restful time on land or sea!
Samaria Club Resort
Stay in style at this luxurious apartment, perfect for relaxing on the beach after an action-packed day of exploring.
You’ll be only steps away from some great restaurants and bars that offer live music late at night.
Hotel Boutique Marbore
Hotel Boutique Marbore is a great choice for travellers looking to stay in Santa Marta and enjoy all it has to offer. The property features an outdoor pool and restaurant with 24-hour service as well as Wi-Fi access throughout the establishment!
Amenities include air conditioning, and safety deposit boxes available on-site alongside free breakfast. Concierge Service helps guests plan their trip while you’re here.
Mid-Range Hotels in Santa Marta, Colombia
Alko Hotel Cotona
You’ll be just a 3-minute walk from the beach with Alko Hotel Cotona. This property has an outdoor swimming pool, bar and shared lounge in Santa Marta. It also provides guests access to sun terrace service.
Rooms come fully equipped with an A/C desk, a safety deposit, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower and bathtub. The beds are made up daily alongside towels provided by housekeeping.
The 24-hour front desk offers shuttles and concierge services as well!
Hotel Boutique Casa Carolina
Hotel Boutique Casa is a great place to stay in Santa Marta. It’s a 3-minute walk from the beach and they offer outdoor swimming pools, rooftop hot tubs as well as spa services on-site!
Located next door to Catedral Basilica (which was established back in 1765) with its beautiful architecture that will leave you speechless, not only because it’s the oldest but also due to how nicely maintained this church seems.
Plus, just downstairs, you can find Simón Bolívar Square which provides plenty of space for locals and people to hang out.
Casa de Isabella, a Kali Hotel
This property is located right on the beach! It’s only a 2-minute walk from Santa Marta’s Marine. You will find many shops and bars in this area as well, there are even some great restaurants that serve international cuisine too (like Italian or French food).
The hotel has rooms equipped with free WiFi access so you can stay connected while away your vacation days relaxin’ by the poolside…or maybe take advantage of their rooftop swimming area.
Apartment 1005
With Ocean View At Pozos Colorados. The perfect place to stay when you’re in Santa Marta! It offers guests a great view from its terrace and outdoor pool, not to mention free private parking and ATM.
The 24-hour front desk provides any needs that might arise during your visit while the fully equipped kitchen means you never go hungry after all the adventure and exploring in Santa Marta.
Budget Hotels in Santa Marta, Colombia
Budget hotels are a great option for travellers who’re looking to save money on accommodation and use it to explore more of Santa Marta instead! Santa Marta is a popular destination for budget-minded tourists, so there are a number of great options to choose from.
Casa Verde Hotel
This is a great place to stay when in Santa Marta if you’re travelling on a budget. The chic and modern accommodations offer free WiFi access and a pool in the courtyard.
Casa Verde offers guests a variety of amenities not seen elsewhere on this budget level including private bathrooms with showering facilities.
There’s also an excellent buffet breakfast. You can enjoy them while overlooking beautiful panoramic views from their large windows or the balcony!
3H Hotel Santa Marta
Overlooking the ionic sea, 3H Hotel Santa Marta is a smart choice for travellers looking to save a little cash and still go to a nice place. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool and free private parking as well as 24-hour front desk service with Amex cardholders lounge access.
There’s also WiFi throughout each room that can be used any time of day – perfect if you’re working or just want some time away from your workload!
For those who appreciate modern amenities such as air conditioning units at every bed level (and not only upstairs) this place has it all covered:
Hotel Santa Marta by MIJ
The Hotel Santa Marta by Mij offers guests modern air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi access, a rooftop lounge that has views of the city and 24-hour front desk service.
Visitors can enjoy their stay at this historic hotel in one big room or several smaller ones depending on preference; each includes amenities such as flat-screen TVs (plus box), private bathrooms including showers & toilets plus minibars for those all-day snacks!
There are plenty of nearby restaurants where you won’t have any trouble finding something tasty when hunger strikes–just walk 5 minutes down the street Level 1 it’s the commerce zone.
Apartamento 201
The apartment is located in the Rodadero area, just steps from some of Santa Marta’s best restaurants and museums. The property features WiFi access for guests who want to stay connected while on vacation or enjoy a relaxing day at sea with family members visiting from overseas!
With a two-bedroom capacity (one King Size bed per room), this humble home offers plenty of space both indoors as well outdoors since it provides you convenience such that there’s no need whatsoever to go out into town especially when circumstances allow us all 3.
Casa Ines
Casa Ines is a beautiful home located in Santa Marta, Colombia. This charming house provides guests with all the comforts they need for their stays such as air conditioning or heating units available upon request (no extra charge).
Also, all the amenities like dishware/utensils set so you can enjoy cooking during your vacation time right at hand–and even an equipped kitchen-living room combo if preparing food has been on my mind lately 😉
Casa De Leda, A Kali Hotel
Located in the heart of Santa Marta, the Casa de Leda hotel offers a castle-like space with a bar and indoor pool. The friendly staff are available to help you plan your day or night out on this colonial-style property that also features free WiFi access for travellers looking to stay connected while travelling abroad with private bathrooms alongside air conditioning in each suite or room.
How To Get To Santa Marta, Colombia
There are a few ways to get to Santa Marta in Colombia. The way you take will depend on where you’re starting from.
The airport in Santa Marta is the Simon Bolivar International Airport.
The other way is by bus. There are buses that go from different parts of Colombia to Santa Marta.
And the last way is by car which you already know.
From Cartagena To Santa Marta
There are buses that go from Cartagena to Santa Marta. The trip is about 4 hours long. And the bus makes a few stops along the way.
The buses are comfortable and have air conditioning. They also have a bathroom on board.
You can try buying your tickets online or at the bus station.
The buses usually leave in the morning and arrive in Santa Marta Mid-day
From Bogota To Santa Marta
If you’re starting from Bogota, the capital of Colombia, one way to get to Santa Marta is by plane. There are a few airlines that fly to Santa Marta. The flight is about 1 hour and 30 minutes long. Once you arrive at the Simon Bolivar International Airport, you can take a taxi or bus to your hotel.
The other way is by bus. There are buses that go all the way from Bogota to Santa Marta, it’s a long trip, about 20 hours.
The buses are comfortable and have air conditioning. They also have a bathroom on board. But the buses also make a few stops along the way.
Barranquilla To Santa Marta
If you’re starting from Barranquilla before getting to Santa Marta as we did, you can take a bus which is the cheaper option. Every day, almost 30 of them depart from Barranquilla to Santa Marta.
The bus ride is about 3 hours and 40 minutes long. Most of the buses are comfortable and have air conditioning. They also have a bathroom on board. The buses also make a few stops along the way.
Shuttles are another option, as the price is acceptable and faster than buses.
And finally by taxi to Santa Marta, which is the better of the 2 as it’ll take 2 hours. The only caveat is the cost.
Once you arrive in Santa Marta, you can take a taxi or bus to your hotel. Uber is available and also another option.
Things To Know Before Going To Santa Marta, Colombia
Tayrona National Park
Are you on your way to Santa Marta? Well, before you go all the way there, it’s important to inform yourself the proper way as there are a few things you should know before you go to Santa Marta, so you know what to expect.
In hindsight, our trip to Santa Marta would have been enhanced had we known about these tips beforehand. As full-time travellers (and sometimes spontaneous ones), we don’t always research everything before visiting a place.
However, if you’re a serial planner, do equip yourself with the below information before visiting Santa Marta! This will help when preparing for your Santa Marta trip so that nothing comes as a surprise.
Climate
The climate in this country is tropical and humid all year round which means you should be prepared for hot temperatures and high humidity levels if travelling between November to April.
If it’s not too much trouble, try keeping an eye out for any signs of malaria if you’re travelling during the rainy season. I wrote more about vaccinations to take for certain countries in an earlier post. There are plenty of places where malaria can be contracted in Santa Marta so this is something worth being aware of just in case! It may seem like a hassle but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Culture
You may find that Santa Marta’s culture significantly differs from what you’re accustomed to. Colombians are warm and welcoming, but they have a unique way of doing things.
Expect cultural differences. For example, a more relaxed approach to time. Punctuality isn’t a high priority here. Embrace the relaxed lifestyle and enjoy the experience. You’ll soon see why Santa Marta is so popular.
Additionally, Santa Marta is an excellent place for a wellness retreat. The calm environment is perfect for relaxation. The natural beauty of the area adds to this. You can do yoga by the beach. You can also get spa treatments and eat healthy, local food.
Book a wellness retreat here.
Location
First, the city is on the Caribbean coast. It’s popular with holidaymakers. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and stunning mountains. They’re all close together.
Santa Marta is also the starting point for many backpackers and adventurers. They want to explore the nearby Tayrona National Park. The park is known for its amazing scenery. It has a diverse landscape. It’s a must-see for nature lovers.
Additionally, exploring Santa Marta by motorcycle is easy and exciting. You can also explore its surroundings the same way. The roads are open. A motorcycle lets you travel easily between the city’s attractions. It also lets you explore the area’s natural beauty. It gives a sense of freedom and adventure.
Book a motorcycle tour here.
Safety
Santa Marta is generally safe to travel in if you stay in the right places as the city is pretty big, but like anywhere else in the world, it’s always important to take some precautions.
Avoid walking around at night time and be vigilant when carrying your belongings.
There are a few areas which are best avoided, like Cerro de las Tres Cruces, Pastrana, Ciudad Equidad, María Cecilia, Los Fundadores, San Martín and María Eugenia so it’s always a good idea to research these before travelling. With a bit of common sense and by following the advice of locals, you’ll have no trouble staying safe while in Santa Marta!
FAQs About Things To Do In Santa Marta, Colombia
No schema found.All in all, Santa Marta is a captivating city with a wealth of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Keeping these suggestions in mind will ensure you have the answer to “What to do in Santa Marta, Colombia,” and make the most of your trip!
