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
Buy
Daniel Edward
a coffee
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