Understand

Santa Marta, a bustling port city and popular tourist destination, offers a vibrant atmosphere that will captivate your senses. From the beach, you can witness the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean Sea as it stretches towards the majestic horizon, adorned with an impressive island rising dramatically from its azure depths. To the right, the port hides behind an even grander rock, adding to the allure of this coastal paradise.

If you crave a beach experience right in the heart of the action, Santa Marta boasts a lively beach scene filled with people, enthusiastic vendors, and an energetic ambiance. Beyond the city center, this enchanting destination offers two distinct suburbs: El Rodadero and Taganga.

El Rodadero entices visitors with its luxurious hotels and exclusive clubs that cater to the affluent Colombian society. On the other hand, Taganga, once a humble fishing village, has evolved into a haven for adventurous backpackers, drawing a diverse array of foreign travelers. Dive enthusiasts will find plenty of scuba-diving agencies in Taganga to explore the mesmerizing underwater world.

Whether you visit during the high season or low season, Santa Marta never fails to enchant. The peak time from mid-December to late January corresponds with the holidays and vacation breaks, making it the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this Caribbean gem.

Get in

Arriving in the vibrant city of Santa Marta is an experience like no other. The Simón Bolívar International Airport, which shares its name with the one in Caracas, Venezuela, is the gateway to this captivating destination. You can reach Santa Marta by non-stop flights from Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Pereira, Bucaramanga, and San Andrés. Located along the beach, just 20 minutes south of the city, this airport is conveniently close to most beach resorts and a mere 10-minute drive from El Rodadero, the main beach. It's important to note that some airlines may promise to send your baggage directly to Santa Marta, but it's advisable to check if it will be unloaded in Bogotá for proper handling. For those seeking adventure on the road, the bus station is situated on the main highway, a bit farther from the city center. Taxi fares from the city to the beach range around 7,000 Pesos. You can also opt for a more budget-friendly mini-bus, which costs 1,600 Pesos (1,700 on holidays) and will take you anywhere within the city. If you're planning to explore nearby cities, there are convenient bus rides available. Here are some of the options: - Cartagena (Colombia): A 3.5-hour journey with Linea Flamingo, priced at 30,000 COP. Please note that this route takes an hour longer due to multiple stops along the way. - Barranquilla: A 2-hour ride. - Medellín: A 15-hour trip. - Bucaramanga: An 8-hour journey. - Bogotá: Prepare for a 16-hour adventure. - San Gil: If you're headed to San Gil, the bus ride will take approximately 13 hours. One recommended option is to take a Copetran bus from Santa Marta at 18:30, arriving at 07:00 the next day. The cost is 75,000 COP per person. Brasilia expreso is also available since November 2016. For a more comfortable and enjoyable road travel experience across northern Colombia, several companies offer air-conditioned van services between Cartagena and Santa Marta, with convenient stops in Barranquilla along the way. Cochetur is highly recommended for their reliable services. The price per person between the main two stops is 50,000 pesos. They provide door-to-door transportation, picking you up and dropping you off at your desired locations in each city. Please note that the van is shared with 6-8 people, including the driver. Tipping is not expected, but a small gesture of appreciation goes a long way. If you're seeking a more exclusive and hassle-free option, private transfers by taxi are available. It's worth considering this option, especially if you're traveling with a group or prefer not to wait for other passengers on buses.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Bandeja Paisa: This hearty platter is a staple in the Colombian cuisine and typically consists of white rice, red beans cooked with pork, ground beef, chorizo sausage, morcilla (blood sausage), plantains, avocado, ground meat, and a fried egg. It's often served with an arepa, a corn-based bread, on the side.

Ajiaco: This traditional Colombian soup is made with chunks of chicken, corn, potatoes, avocado, and guascas (a type of herb). Served hot, it is typically accompanied by a portion of white rice, capers, heavy cream, and an avocado slice. The unique taste comes from the combination of the herbs and spices used in its preparation.

Arepas: These versatile, round corn-based breads are a staple in Colombian cuisine. They can be found everywhere, from street vendors to restaurants. Traditionally made with pre-cooked corn flour called masarepa, they come in a variety of flavors like plain, cheese, or sweet ones with coconut or cinnamon. Arepas can be served warm, either halved and buttered, or split and used as a pocket bread filled with tasty ingredients such as meats, cheeses, or vegetables.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing