Marjolein Dilven
Santa Marta is a top tourist spot, praised for its diverse scenery and rich culture. Whether you’re an adventurer or a history buff, you will find that there are many things to do in Santa Marta, Colombia.
Founded in 1525 by Spanish colonizers, Santa Marta holds the title of Colombia’s oldest city. Frequent pirate attacks during its early years have left little colonial architecture, but the city has managed to preserve its historical significance and continues to attract visitors.
I absolutely loved Santa Marta. While I didn’t have high expectations when I first arrived, I enjoyed my time there more than I anticipated. From my visit, I’d love to share the things you can’t miss in and around Santa Marta for an unforgettable stay.
1. Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Want to see the recorded highest coastal mountain in the world, with an elevation of 3.55 miles (5,710 meters)? Visit the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
The place is home to many diverse species and ecosystems and became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve back in 1979.
Not only does Sierra Nevada offer its beautiful landscape, but it is also actually the birthplace of the prominent Indigenous Tayrona civilization. Their descendants still live in the area to this day.
To fully enjoy the experience this place can offer, you can trek the mountain, watch birds, see the sights, and visit the villages of Indigenous communities (Kogis, Arhuacos, Wiwas, and Kankuamos).
2. Visit the Santa Marta Beaches
While Colombia has a lot of beaches, Santa Marta’s beaches are just as impressive. Whether you want to escape the heat, snap Instagram-worthy photos, or just admire the scenery, you can’t miss out on its beaches.
Although Santa Marta is a coastal city, you may have to walk a little distance to get to a decent beach. The ones in the town are quite polluted since a port is nearby.
The beaches are usually crowded during the weekend, especially during tourist season, so it is better to go during weekdays.
3. Spend a Day on a Sailboat
If you’re like me and not a fan of sand, or you’ve had enough of the sun’s heat, a day-long excursion on a boat is your perfect getaway.
If the boat trip includes exploring the beaches in the Tayrona National Park, you are in luck. They are one of the best beaches in the country and offer sights of the park’s mountains, islands, and forests.
Most island-hopping tours provide lunches and snacks, as well as snorkeling gear to explore the waters. All in all, you will spend the day well.
4. Explore the Colonial Center
Are you someone who loves history or someone who enjoys learning about culture? If so, you have to visit Santa Marta’s colonial center. A stroll through the old streets can give you sights of the center’s beautiful architecture built during colonial times.
Not only can you see its architecture but also the wonderful street art that brings the place to life.
5. Visit the Museo Del Oro (Gold Museum)
The Museo Del Oro, or the Gold Museum, is another worthwhile place to visit if you’re a history lover. The museum offers an informative insight into the lives of the Indigenous people from pre-Columbian civilizations.
It features many art pieces and a model of the famous Lost City. You should visit the museum if you plan to trek to the La Ciudad Perdida or the Tayrona National Park.
6. Visit the Parque de Los Novios (Park of Lovers)
A visit to the Parque de Los Novios is a great way to experience local life. You can sit on a bench, observe, chat with the locals, or enjoy a drink on the terraces.
And if you’re lucky enough to visit on the weekend, you may also see salsa lessons in action.
7. Visit the Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)
When you visit Santa Marta, you need this place on your travel bucket list. Hike through the mountains and jungles of the Sierra Nevada to see the famous Ciudad Perdida (Lost City).
Most multi-day trips visit the Lost City, especially the four-day trekking excursion has become a very popular tourist activity. The trip includes a guided hike through the mountains and jungles to explore the ancient ruins.
Visit before or after September, as the Ciudad Perdida is closed in September for cleaning and restoring nature.
8. Explore the Taganga Village
Taganga is a small fishing village on the beach that is surrounded by unique, cactus-covered mountains. If you want a short break from the crowded city, plan a short visit to this village. The water may not be ideal for swimming, but the overall experience makes the trip enjoyable.
You will find many popular food places here, including cafes and fresh juice stands. You can ride a bus or get a taxi to the village.
9. Visit the Playa Grande
Why not hype up your Taganga trip with a detour to Playa Grande Beach? Swim through the clear water, or if you are feeling adventurous, go snorkel and jet ski. If relaxation is what you came for, you can rent a chair from one of the restaurants and lounge on the beach.
You can get to the beach through a ten-minute boat ride from Taganga. You can also hike from Taganga to the beach. The walk is 20 minutes long only. However, the trail is steep, and some tourists have encountered robbers, so beware.
10. Try Scuba Diving
Santa Marta is the ideal place to scuba dive, thanks to its many watery spots. While the diving options are few, they’re budget-friendly compared to other places, and the clear blue water offers great visibility.
Plenty of companies offer diving services where you can choose between boat dives or shore dives.
If you’re a newbie to scuba diving and don’t feel like committing to training, you can scuba dive with an instructor called Discovery Diving. If interested, you can also become a certified diver through a PADI course in Colombia.
11. Visit the La Quinta San Pedro Alejandrino
Santa Marta offers numerous places that provide historical insights to locals and tourists. La Quinta San Pedro Alejandrino, 2.9 miles (4 kilometers) from the Colonial Center, is also one of those places.
It was an old villa that had been converted into a museum, and it actually had a botanical garden!
The villa was the final residence of Simon Bolivar, the independence fighter. He is a significant historical figure in Latin America and is remembered for his efforts to liberate numerous South American regions.
You will definitely enjoy the trip if you are a history enthusiast.
12. Visit the Rodadero Beach
If you are staying in one of the hotels in the El Rodadero area, getting to the beach will be easy. Just a 10-minute drive from the city center, the El Rodadero district is a safe and well-established hotspot with plenty of hotels, high-rise buildings, and restaurants.
The beach is quite popular among locals and tourists because of its vibrant and busy atmosphere. It is a good place to have a good time amid the lively crowds.
13. Take a Trip to the Playa Blanca
Want to relax at a calm beach? Take a boat from Rodadero to Playa Blanca, one of the most popular beaches here in Colombia due to its clear water and soft sand.
14. Trek the Tayrona National Park
A trip to Santa Marta is incomplete without a visit to Tayrona National Park. This beautiful park, located along the Sierra Nevada coast, once occupied by the Tayrona Indians, offers a rainforest, beaches, and scenic views.
As you explore the park, you will see remnants of old times in ceremonial places, huts, and burial areas belonging to Indigenous habitats. Feeling adventurous? Go do a two-hour hike to Cabo San Juan.
If you find the heat and humidity a bit too much, you can go and hop on a horse for a comfortable stroll.
After hiking through the park, catch a local bus from the city center and unwind at one of the campsites. You can also stay at hotels near the entrance.
15. Visit the Playa Cristal
In addition to Cabo San Juan, you can visit Crystal Beach in Tayrona National Park. The pristine water and the soft white sand of the beach are perfect for a fun-filled trip where you can stroll on the beach, swim, or snorkel.
Grab your snorkel gear to see all the beautiful coral reefs and sponges, various fish species, dolphins, and sea turtles up close.
16. Go on a Food Tour
I personally love to go on a food tour to experience the local cuisine and gain insight into the local culture and lifestyle.
I highly recommend you take a food tour of the city. You can choose from various options for a food tour in Santa Marta, sample food at local restaurants, and learn about the dishes’ origins.
17. Visit the Carlos El Pibe Valderrama Statue
Santa Marta is a proud home to the 22-foot-tall bronze statue of the legendary football player Carlos El Pibe Valderrama.
The famous athlete played for the national football team in the 1900s, represented his country in various international competitions, and joined Major League Soccer in the US.
His hometown has honored his contribution through his statue outside the Santa Marta Estadio Eduardo Santos in the Comuna 4 neighborhood on Carrera 19. Public bus services are infrequent, so the best way to reach this place is by taxi.
Visit the famous athlete’s statue if you are a soccer fan.
18. Visit the Marine World Aquarium
The Marine World Aquarium in Santa Marta showcases more than 200 species, including sharks, starfish, sea birds, octopuses, and turtles. If you are a nature lover, you will find this place enjoyable, so add the aquarium to your to-visit list.
It is about 20 minutes away from the center of Santa Marta and is located in the Rodedaro neighborhood.
19. Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Many restaurants in Santa Marta feature fresh seafood on their menu. And their prices? Lower than in other cities! So, you can indulge yourself with various seafood dishes and enjoy prepared fresh food without having to worry about emptying your wallet.
Where to Stay in Santa Marta, Colombia
You will find various accommodation options in Santa Marta, and depending on your budget or travel plans, you can easily choose where to stay. Here are a few recommendations.
Hostel Options in Santa Marta
If you are looking for a low-budget option, the Dreamer Hostel is very popular and affordable. It is close to the Tayrona National Park and features a beautiful courtyard, swimming pool, and a communal kitchen.
If you want an affordable lodging option near the city center, consider the La Brisa Loca. The hostel also features a swimming pool and a rooftop bar and patio. You can stay in a dorm or get a private room.
Another highly recommended, though slightly more expensive, is the Color Hostel. It is located quite close to the Santa Marta Cathedral. The hostel offers very comfortable and spacious rooms with modern facilities and breakfast.
Hotel Options in Santa Marta
We highly recommend checking the area of the charming Old Town of Santa Marta if you want to find good hotel options. The area is close to many of the city’s attractions and near the Simon Bolivar National Airport.
Casa de Isabella, a Kali Hotel, is a highly recommended hotel in the area. This hotel is a perfect blend of traditional Colombian culture and modernism. It features a rooftop pool and comfortable and luxurious accommodations.
Another area you can consider for accommodation is El Rodadero. It is located in the well-developed part of the city with high-rise apartment buildings, restaurants, bars, hotels, and the popular El Rodadero beach.
The Hotel Be La Sierra is a good option if you want to stay in El Rodadero. Operating since 1967, it is one of the most traditional hotels in Santa Marta while adapting to modernism through frequent modifications and upgrades. The hotel is on the beach and features a bar and a restaurant.
For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.
Where to Eat in Santa Marta, Colombia
Santa Marta offers many fine dining options thanks to the influx of tourists and a progressive economy. However, if you are on a budget, there is no shortage of options.
A Deriva
A Deriva is a popular French restaurant near the Parquet de Los Novios in Santa Marta. The restaurant has a sophisticated cocktail bar upstairs and is usually quite busy, so arriving early is best.
Ouzo Restaurante
The Ouzo is located on the Parquet de Los Novios. The restaurant generally serves Mediterranean cuisine but offers Italian and Greek dishes, including seafood and wood-fired pizzas.
Lulo
Lulo in Centro Historico is one of the most famous restaurants, with freshly squeezed juices as the stand-out item on the menu. Other popular menu items include wraps, Paninis, salads, smoothies, etc.
La Canoa Café Cultural
Located in the Centro Historico, La Canoa is a tourist favorite. It serves a variety of cuisines, including French and Mediterranean. You may also find some interesting vegan options.
Restaurante Lamart
Restaurante Lamart is located in the Callejon Del Correo Old City. It serves a large menu with various cuisines, perfect for people who want cheap yet delicious food options. You will find seafood, Caribbean, Latin, Colombian and international cuisines.
When to Visit Santa Marta, Colombia
Santa Marta’s weather stays warm in general.
In summer, the temperature can reach 31°C (87.8°F), while in the colder season, it drops to 24°C (75°F) only. August receives the most rain, so avoid going in August if you prefer to travel during dry weather.
Weather-wise, the best months to visit would be February to April, November, and December. Considering the cost of flights, lodging options, weather, and peak traveling season, April is the best time to visit Santa Marta.
Getting to and From Santa Marta, Colombia
You can easily travel to Santa Marta by road or by air. If you plan to travel by bus, there is a bus terminal on the city’s outskirts from where you can get a taxi. It will get you downtown in 10 minutes.
If you plan to travel by air, it takes 25 minutes for a cab to reach the airport.
If you are traveling from Cartagena to Santa Marta, it will take you five hours by bus. The bus goes to Barranquilla first, which takes two hours. The bus stops there and then resumes travel to Santa Marta.
If traveling from Medellin, you can take the air or bus. The air route will take 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the road route will take around 16 hours.
How To Stay Safe In Santa Marta, Colombia?
Santa Marta is considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, like in any other part of the country, petty crimes are common, so take care of your personal belongings, especially when you are in public places like restaurants and public transport.
When you book accommodations, try to find places that offer 24-hour security. If you are in a place where you do not feel safe or comfortable, leave as soon as possible. It is better not to venture out alone, especially at night.
It is also important to consider drug tourism’s implications and avoid such interactions. Failure to do so may land you in trouble.
Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay.
Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs. Travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!
Where to Go After Santa Marta Colombia?
The Caribbean coast has many worth-visiting places, and once you are done with your exploration in Santa Marta, you have various options for where to go next. Here are some of the popular choices.
- Cartagena
- Palomino
- Capurgana
- La Guajira
- Rosario Islands
- Minca
- Isla Fuerte
- Rincon del Mar
- Sapzurro
- Dibulla
- Paso del Mango
Conclusion – Things to Do in Santa Marta Colombia
Santa Marta is truly an amazing place to visit, and you will never run out of things to see and do. Enjoy your stay in this wonderland of diverse landscapes and culture, and when you return, compile your list of things to do in Santa Marta, Colombia.
Colombia Travel Guide – Best Booking Resources
I use a couple of favorite companies every time I travel. They have the best prices, great value, and customer service you can wish for. They’re much better than the competition, and I use them a lot. Every time I travel, these are the companies I go for:
Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my go-to platform for booking flights. It’s so easy to use. Skyscanner also searches the smaller websites and airlines that are often skipped, which means more savings in your pocket. They are hands down the number one place I book my flights.
Booking.com – Looking for the cheapest and lowest rates? Booking.com is the best platform out there. They have the widest selection and availability worldwide, ideal for travelers on a budget. I book 90% of my travels through Booking.com because they always have the lowest rates.
Hostelworld – If you’re into hostels, Hostelworld is the best site to compare hostel accommodation. It’s easy to use, has many options, and has the best availability.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is an online marketplace where you can book tours and excursions. They have tour options worldwide, with any experience you wish for. This includes walking tours, cooking classes, street art lessons, and more unique experiences.
12Go Asia – This platform is my ultimate travel companion in Asia, offering the best budget service platform for seamless booking of trains, buses, ferries, and flights. The platform is easy to use and I have used it extensively when I traveled through Southeast Asia.
Rome2Rio – Rome2Rio is a convenient website where you can see how to get to your destination the quickest and cheapest. It gives you options for train, bus, plane, or even boat routes and tells you exactly how often they operate and how expensive they are.
SafetyWing – If you’re looking for affordable travel insurance, Safety Wing has you covered. It’s ideal if you’re traveling often or for the long term. I never travel anywhere without travel insurance, and I’ve used it often while on the road. So, I can recommend you look into Safety Wing. They have good monthly prices, the best customer service, and a convenient, easy-to-use process to make claims on the road.
LifeStraw – I love LifeStraw, and it’s been my go-to reusable water bottle with built-in filters for 10 years now. With their bottles, you make sure your drinking water is always clean and safe. I’ve used it everywhere, from South America to Southeast Asia, and I’ve always been perfectly safe drinking the local tap water.
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Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.