Santa Marta Port Guide

SANTA MARTA, COLOMBIA

The oldest surviving city in Colombia: pristine beaches, lush national parks, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Caribbean and Sierra Nevada mountains, a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.


KEY INFO

Currency: Colombian Peso (COP) 

Population: 500,000 (50 million Colombia)

Emergency #: 123

Drinking Water: Bottled water recommended

Time Zone: GMT-5 (Colombia Time)

ID Requirements: Government-issued photo ID

Languages: Spanish (official); limited English

Drive on the: Right

Pharmacy: Drogas La Rebaja, Cra. 1 #22-12

Protection: Sun protection, mosquito repellent

Wi-Fi: Available in cafés, hotels, and public areas

Post Office: 4-72, Calle 14 #3-56


PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Ships dock at the Port of Santa Marta, located approximately 1 km (10-min walk) from the Old Town.

Facilities: Restrooms, taxis, and limited tourist information are available.

Port Address: Port of Santa Marta, Cra. 1 #10-12, Santa Marta, Colombia

Getting Around: The city centre is walkable, but taxis or private tours are recommended for further afield. Public buses are available (tickets: approx. 2,000 COP ($0.50 USD), pay onboard in exact change (COP)). These buses connect the city to nearby areas, including Taganga and El Rodadero Beach.

Taxis: Taxis do not use meters; agree on a fare before starting. Typical fare to the city centre: $5-7 USD.

Tourist Bus: There is no hop-on, hop-off tourist bus in Santa Marta. Private tours are widely available.

Discover more: https://www.thedreamer.com/blog/a-guide-to-santa-marta-colombia


SANTA MARTA HIGHLIGHTS

Parque de los Novios: A vibrant plaza surrounded by restaurants and bars, ideal for relaxing and people-watching. 24 hours | Free | 1.5 km (5-min drive)

Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Tayrona): Learn about the region’s indigenous cultures and view fascinating gold artifacts. 9a-5p (Tue-Sun) | Free | 1 km (10-min walk) | www.banrepcultural.org/santa-marta/museo-del-oro

Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino (Museo Bolivariano): The historic estate where Simón Bolívar spent his final days, also home to the Museo Bolivariano de Arte Contemporáneo, which features contemporary art exhibitions. 9a-5p | 25,000 COP ($5 USD) | 5 km (15-min drive) | www.museobolivariano.org.co

Taganga: A small fishing village known for its beaches, diving, and laid-back atmosphere.
24 hours | Free | 7 km (20-min drive)

Tayrona National Park: A stunning natural reserve featuring beaches, hiking trails, and indigenous heritage. 8a-5p | 75,000 COP ($20 USD) | 35 km (1-hour drive) | www.parquesnacionales.gov.co

Santa Marta Cathedral: The oldest cathedral in Colombia, featuring impressive colonial architecture and historical significance. 8a-6p | Free | 2 km (10-min walk) | colombia.travel/en/santa-marta/visit-cathedral

Rodadero Sea Aquarium and Museum: A marine park showcasing local sea life and environmental education exhibits. 8a-5p | 20,000 COP ($8 USD) | 10 km (20-min drive) | www.acuariorodadero.com

Marinka Waterfalls: A serene spot in Minca with thick forest, cascading waterfalls and natural swimming pools. Made even more fun with a giant hammock, plus a café.
9a-5p | 10,000 COP ($4 USD) | 22 km (50-min drive)

BEACHES NEAR SANTA MARTA

Playa Los Cocos: Small urban beach, close to the port. 24 hours | Free | 1 km (5-10 min walk) | Map

El Rodadero Beach: Lively with water sports and restaurants. 24 hours | Free | 7 km (15-min drive) | Map

Playa Blanca: Tranquil and perfect for snorkelling. 9a-5p | $5 USD (boat) | 10 km (20-min boat ride) | Map

Taganga Beach: Known for its clear waters and diving. 24 hours | Free | 7 km (20-min drive) | Map

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Taironaka: A cultural and ecological park showcasing the indigenous Tayrona culture, with archaeological ruins and serene river access. 8a-5p | $10 USD | 40 km (1-hour drive)

Buritaca: A tranquil village where the river meets the sea, offering tubing and stunning natural beauty.
24 hours | Free | 50 km (1.5-hour drive)

Minca: A picturesque mountain village offering waterfalls, coffee farms, and birdwatching.
24 hours | Free | 20 km (45-min drive)

Palomino: A serene coastal town known for tubing down the Palomino River.
24 hours | Free | 75 km (2-hour drive)

Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City): An ancient archaeological site accessible via a multi-day trek.
Guided tours only. Starts at $350 USD | 44 km (4-day trek) | www.ciudadperdida.com

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TIPPING CUSTOMS

Tipping is not mandatory. In restaurants, leave 10% for good service. Tour guides and taxi drivers may also expect small tips.

FOOD & DRINK

Arepas: Cornmeal cakes filled with cheese or meat, a Colombian staple. Find them at local markets like Mercado Público or from street vendors in the city centre.

Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice and spices, popular in coastal areas.

Patacones: Fried green plantains served as a side dish or snack.

Aguardiente: A traditional Colombian anise-flavoured spirit.

SOUVENIR TOP TIPS

Take home Colombian coffee, handwoven mochilas (bags), or artisanal jewellery. Local chocolate and carved wooden crafts are also great keepsakes.


LOCAL LINGO

Hello: Hola

Goodbye: Adiós

Please: Por favor

Thank you: Gracias

Toilet: Baño

Cruise Ship Port: Puerto de Cruceros