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Santa Marta

Colombia, South America

Santa Marta is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains. This coastal gem features lush landscapes, historical sites like the Tayrona National Natural Park, and the enchanting Ciudad Perdida. Visitors can enjoy sun-soaked days on golden beaches, hike through lush jungles, and immerse themselves in local traditions. With a lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene, Santa Marta offers something for every traveler looking for adventure and relaxation in one of Colombia's oldest cities.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Simon Bolivar

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Santa Marta

1. Visit Tayrona National Park

Explore stunning beaches and lush jungles in Tayrona.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

5 hrs

2. Relax on Rodadero Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and water activities at Rodadero.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

3. Hike to Ciudad Perdida

Trek to the ancient Lost City of Teyuna.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

6 hrs

4. Explore the Historic Center

Wander through Santa Marta's vibrant historical district.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Visit Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino

Tour the estate of Simón Bolívar, Colombia's liberator.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Sample Local Cuisine

Taste delicious dishes like arepas and ceviche.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Take a Boat Tour to Playa Blanca

Enjoy a scenic boat ride to pristine Playa Blanca.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

8. Visit the Gold Museum of Santa Marta

Discover indigenous gold artifacts and history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Colombian Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bandeja Paisa

Hearty platter with meats and beans. (National dish)

Ajiaco

Chicken and potato soup with herbs.

Arepas

VE

Corn cakes, often filled or topped.

Sancocho

Savory stew with meat and vegetables.

Empanadas

V

Fried or baked pastry with filling.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)