Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
Visit the historic villa where Simón Bolívar spent his final days.
Top hotels & flights
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Santa Marta.
Top Hotels in Santa Marta
Top Flights to Santa Marta
Popular activities
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Santa Marta.
Tours
Santa Marta Historic Center Walking Tour
Explore the colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and local markets of Santa Marta's historic center.
Rodadero Sea Aquarium and Museum
Engage with marine life and discover the rich biodiversity of the Caribbean at this popular aquarium and museum.
Parque de Los Novios
Relax at this picturesque park in the heart of Santa Marta, a favorite spot among locals and tourists.
Shopping
Local Market Shopping Experience
Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to Santa Marta's bustling markets.
Outdoor
Tayrona National Natural Park Hiking
Explore the stunning Tayrona National Natural Park known for its breathtaking beaches, lush jungles, and rich biodiversity.
Minca Coffee and Cocoa Tour
Visit the picturesque town of Minca and enjoy tours of organic coffee and cocoa farms set amidst lush mountain landscapes.
El Rodadero Beach Day
Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea at El Rodadero, one of Santa Marta's most popular beaches.
Taganga Diving Experience
Discover the underwater world of Taganga, a paradise for divers with its rich marine biodiversity.
Location videos
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
From travelers
Watch & explore
Practical info
The essentials for planning your time in Santa Marta.
Currency
$ | COP | Colombian Peso
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Spanish, Spanish
Local guide
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Santa Marta.
What people love
Santa Marta, located in the Magdalena region of Colombia, offers a variety of pros for travelers to enjoy. Here are some detailed reasons why traveling to Santa Marta can be a great experience:
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Beautiful Beaches: Santa Marta is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and white sandy shores. Visitors can relax, sunbathe, swim, and partake in water activities like snorkeling and diving.
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Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: This nearby mountain range offers opportunities for hiking, trekking, and exploring lush forests and indigenous communities. The Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) trek is a popular adventure for those seeking a challenging but rewarding experience.
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Rich History and Culture: Santa Marta is one of the oldest cities in Colombia, with a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonization era. Visitors can explore historic sites like Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, where Simón Bolívar spent his last days.
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Tayrona National Park: Located near Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park is a biodiverse area with pristine beaches, tropical forests, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can camp, hike, and experience the beauty of Colombia's natural landscapes.
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Local Cuisine: Santa Marta offers a variety of delicious Colombian dishes, including fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional recipes. Food lovers can enjoy exploring local markets and trying authentic flavors.
Overall, traveling to Santa Marta can provide a mix of relaxation, adventure, culture, and natural beauty for visitors to enjoy.
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What to know
Traveling to Santa Marta, Colombia can have some potential cons that travelers should be aware of:
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Safety Concerns: While Santa Marta is a popular tourist destination, like any other place, it is important to stay cautious of your surroundings and belongings. Petty theft and scams can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas.
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Climate: Santa Marta has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures year-round. Travelers who are not used to such climates may find it uncomfortable, especially during the rainy season when there can be heavy downpours.
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Limited Infrastructure: Compared to more developed cities in Colombia, Santa Marta may have limited infrastructure in terms of roads, public transportation, and healthcare facilities. This can impact the overall travel experience, especially for those who are used to more modern conveniences.
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Language Barrier: While many people in Santa Marta may speak some English, the primary language is Spanish. Travelers who do not speak Spanish may face challenges communicating with locals and navigating the city.
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Tourist Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Santa Marta can get crowded with both local and international tourists. This can lead to longer wait times at popular attractions, crowded beaches, and higher prices for accommodations and activities.
It's important to note that despite these potential cons, many travelers still enjoy their time in Santa Marta and find it to be a beautiful and vibrant destination. As with any travel, being prepared and informed can help mitigate any challenges that may arise.