Santa Marta Colombia, is a stunning coastal city on the Caribbean Sea, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or a history enthusiast, Santa Marta has something for everyone.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the top things to do in Santa Marta.
1. Explore Tayrona National Park
Tayrona National Park is one of Colombia’s most famous natural reserves, offering pristine beaches, lush jungle trails, and incredible wildlife. Some of the best activities include:
- Hiking through the tropical forest to Cabo San Juan, the park’s most famous beach.
- Visiting Playa Cristal, known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkelling.
- Camping overnight in eco-huts or hammocks under the stars.
Important Tip: Head to Tayrona National Park early (around 7 AM) to avoid long queues at the entrance. It’s a full-day experience, so be prepared to hike and explore different beaches before heading back.
Distance from Santa Marta, Colombia: About 1 hour by car.
2. Relax on Santa Marta’s Best Beaches
Santa Marta is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia. Be sure to visit:
- Playa Blanca – A quiet and picturesque Santa Marta beach with white sand and turquoise waters. (Favorite beach!)
- Rodadero Beach – Popular among locals and tourists, perfect for water sports and nightlife.
- Bahía Concha – A hidden gem with calm waters, ideal for swimming and picnics.
Distance from Santa Marta, Colombia: Playa Blanca (15 minutes by boat), Rodadero Beach (10 minutes by car), Bahía Concha (45 minutes by car).
3. Visit the Historic City Center
Santa Marta’s historic district is full of colonial charm, colorful buildings, and lively plazas. Key highlights include:
- Cathedral of Santa Marta – The oldest church in Colombia, dating back to the 16th century.
- Parque de los Novios – A vibrant square surrounded by bars and restaurants, perfect for a night out.
- Museo del Oro Tairona – A small but fascinating museum showcasing indigenous gold artifacts and history.
Distance from Santa Marta hotels: Walking distance within the city center.
4. Take a Day Trip to Minca
Located in the Santa Marta Sierra Nevada, Minca is a small town famous for its coffee farms, waterfalls, and eco-lodges. Some highlights include:
- Touring La Victoria Coffee Farm to learn about organic coffee production.
Hiking to Pozo Azul or Marinka Waterfalls for a refreshing swim. You can visit near the coffee shops in town and ask for motorbikes, so they can take you to these places instead of hiking, it’ll take like 20 minutes to first waterfall then another 20 to next and further on to Sierra Minca.
A full day of travel around Minca to visit all the spots, including waterfalls, costs about £20, which may seem expensive but includes visits to multiple sites. Instead of walking up steep roads, you can take a motorbike taxi for around £20 round trip, which saves time and effort.
- Visiting Sierra Minca for incredible views and relaxation.
Must Read: The Best Dessert Spots Bali
Distance from Santa Marta, Colombia: About 45 minutes by car.
5. Discover Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City)
For adventure seekers, the Lost City Trek is a must. This four to six-day trek through the jungle leads to an ancient Tayrona civilization site, older than Machu Picchu.
Distance from Santa Marta, Colombia: The trek starts in El Mamey, about 2.5 hours by car.
6. Best Cafés in Santa Marta Colombia
If you’re a coffee lover or looking for a cozy café, check out:
- Pink Monkey Laundry & Açaí Coffee Shop – A unique combination of a laundromat and a trendy café.
- Another Pink Café – A stylish and Instagrammable café with great coffee.
- Natiuros – Known for its amazing açaí bowls.
- Vivolo Café – The best place to try Nutella coffee!
7. Experience the Local Cuisine
Santa Marta has a delicious mix of Caribbean and Colombian flavors. Be sure to try:
- Cazuela de Mariscos – A seafood stew packed with local flavors.
- Arepas de Huevo – Corn patties stuffed with eggs, a local snack.
- Fresh tropical fruits like mango, guava, and lulo from local markets.
Top Restaurants:
- Casa Magdalena
8. Snorkeling and Diving in Taganga
Taganga, a small fishing village just outside Santa Marta, is a diving and snorkeling paradise. It offers:
- Affordable PADI certification courses for scuba diving.
- Coral reefs and marine life at sites like Granate Island.
Distance from Santa Marta, Colombia: 15 minutes by car.
9. Enjoy Santa Marta’s Nightlife
Santa Marta comes alive at night with vibrant music and dance. Some of the best spots include:
- La Brisa Loca
- El Patio Bar
- La Puerta
Final Thoughts:
Santa Marta, Colombia, is an incredible destination offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Plan your trip now and experience the magic of Santa Marta la Dominadora!
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