The Backstory: How I Fell in Love with Santa Marta
I’ll never forget my first night in Santa Marta back in 2018. After a chaotic taxi ride from the airport, I found myself sitting on the malecón at sunset, overwhelmed by the sensory explosion—salsa music spilling from doorways, the scent of arepas con queso from nearby carts, and that impossible Caribbean horizon. I was supposed to stay three days. I canceled my return flight and stayed three weeks.
Seven visits later, Santa Marta has become my second home. This Caribbean gem on Colombia’s northern coast somehow balances pristine beaches, mountain adventures, and colonial charm without the overwhelming tourism of Cartagena. But it’s not without its challenges—which is exactly why I’ve created this no-nonsense guide based on years of mistakes, discoveries, and local friendships.
Whether you’re planning to lounge on the beaches of Parque Tayrona, explore the historic center, or use Santa Marta as your gateway to the lost city (Ciudad Perdida), this cheat sheet will save you time, money, and headaches in 2025.
Getting to Santa Marta in 2025: Transportation Guide
Most international travelers arrive at Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport (BOG), then connect to Santa Marta’s Simon Bolivar Airport (SMR). However, there are several options worth considering:
Flight Options
- Direct to Santa Marta (SMR): The airport is small but has seen major renovations in 2024. Avianca, LATAM, and Viva Air operate multiple daily flights from Bogotá (1.5 hours).
- Fly to Cartagena + Bus: Sometimes cheaper! Flights to Cartagena (CTG) can be 30-40% less expensive than flying directly to Santa Marta. From there, it’s a 4-hour bus ride.
- Fly to Barranquilla + Bus: My personal hack—often overlooked by tourists, flights to Barranquilla (BAQ) are frequently cheaper with fewer delays, and it’s only a 2-hour bus ride to Santa Marta.
Money-Saving Flight Hack: I’ve found Tuesday and Wednesday flights to Santa Marta are consistently 15-25% cheaper than weekend arrivals. The new 2024 morning flights (6-8 AM) from Bogotá are also typically less expensive than afternoon options.
Bus Travel
If you’re already in Colombia, bus travel is economical but time-consuming:
- From Cartagena: 4-5 hours, COP 40,000-60,000 (~$10-15 USD)
- From Barranquilla: 2-3 hours, COP 25,000-35,000 (~$6-9 USD)
- From Bogotá: Not recommended (20+ hours)
I always use RedBus or Busbud to compare prices, but buy tickets at the station—online prices are marked up for foreigners.
Airport to City Transfer
The airport is about 20 minutes from central Santa Marta. Your options:
- Authorized Taxis: COP 30,000-35,000 (~$8-9 USD) – look for the official yellow taxis with “Aeropuerto” markings
- Ridesharing: Uber operates in a legal gray area but works fine. DiDi and Beat are more reliable local alternatives.
- Colectivo: Shared vans for COP 8,000 (~$2 USD) – find them just outside the airport exit
Warning: Last year I made the mistake of accepting a ride from an unofficial taxi driver who approached me inside the terminal. He charged me triple the normal rate. Always arrange transportation at the official stands or use an app.
Where to Stay: Neighborhood Breakdown
Santa Marta’s neighborhoods each offer a completely different experience. Based on seven visits, here’s my honest assessment of each area:
El Centro (Historic Center)
The heart of Santa Marta with colonial architecture, Parque de los Novios, and most restaurants/nightlife.
Pros: Central location, historic charm, walkable to everything, best restaurants
Cons: Noisy at night, some areas feel unsafe after dark, limited beach access
Best for: First-time visitors, social travelers, history buffs
My picks:
- Budget: Masaya Hostel (COP 60,000/night, ~$15 USD) – gorgeous colonial house with pool
- Mid-range: Hotel Casa Carolina (COP 280,000/night, ~$70 USD)
- Luxury: Hotel Boutique Don Pepe (COP 700,000/night, ~$175 USD)
Rodadero
A beachfront suburb 15 minutes south of Santa Marta’s center with high-rise condos lining its beach.
Pros: Better beaches than El Centro, more family-friendly, modern amenities
Cons: Crowded during high season, touristy (mostly Colombian tourists), beach vendors can be aggressive
Best for: Families, longer stays, beach priorities
My picks:
- Budget: Airbnb apartment (COP 150,000/night, ~$38 USD)
- Mid-range: Hotel Tamacá Beach Resort (COP 400,000/night, ~$100 USD)
Taganga
A former fishing village turned backpacker haven in a bay just north of the city.
Pros: Gorgeous bay views, diving schools, bohemian vibe, budget-friendly
Cons: Basic infrastructure, safety concerns at night, limited options
Best for: Backpackers, divers, budget travelers
My picks:
- Budget: Casa de Felipe (COP 50,000/night, ~$12 USD)
- Mid-range: Casa Los Cerros (COP 200,000/night, ~$50 USD) – incredible views
Bello Horizonte / Pozos Colorados
Upscale beachfront zones between Santa Marta and the airport.
Pros: Quieter beaches, resort amenities, newer infrastructure
Cons: Isolated from city life, car/taxi needed, limited dining options
Best for: Luxury travelers, relaxation seekers
My pick: Irotama Resort (COP 700,000/night, ~$175 USD) – splurged here once for a special occasion
My Honest Recommendation: For first-timers, stay in El Centro for 2-3 nights to explore the historic area, then move to a beach area (Rodadero or Taganga, depending on your style) for the remainder. I wasted so much time and money on taxis during my first visit by staying in Rodadero the entire time!
Must-See Santa Marta Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Traps
Skip the overpriced tourist packages and explore these spots like a local:
Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Tayrona is the crown jewel of the region—a protected coastal jungle with pristine beaches. But it requires some planning:
- Entrance fee: COP 63,500 for foreigners (~$16 USD) in 2025, up from 57,500 in 2024
- Getting there: Take a bus from the market in Santa Marta (COP 9,000, ~$2.25 USD)
- Inside transportation: Walk, boat, or horseback
- When to go: Weekdays before 8AM (weekends are packed with domestic tourists)
Insider Tip: Tayrona now requires advance reservations through the official website. The new system implemented in 2024 limits daily visitors, especially during peak season (December-January and Easter week). Book at least 3 weeks ahead for these periods.
Must-visit beaches inside Tayrona:
- Cabo San Juan: The postcard beach with the famous lookout
- La Piscina: Natural swimming pool protected by rocks
- Playa Cristal: Only accessible by boat but worth it for the crystal water
Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City)
The legendary 4-5 day trek to the ancient ruins of an indigenous civilization. Few experiences in Colombia compare to this adventure.
Important facts:
- Must be done with an authorized tour company
- Cost: COP 1,300,000-1,800,000 (~$325-450 USD)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (23+ miles of hiking)
- Best season: December-March (drier)
Recommended tour companies:
- Magic Tour Colombia – I used them and had an indigenous guide which enriched the experience
- Expotur – Most established company, slightly more expensive
Personal Mistake: I initially booked the cheapest Ciudad Perdida tour I could find, only to discover they cut corners on food and accommodations. The price difference between companies is minimal—spend the extra $20-30 for better quality.
Minca: Mountain Escape
This small mountain town 45 minutes from Santa Marta offers cooler temperatures, coffee farms, and incredible views.
- Getting there: Shared colectivo from the market (COP 10,000, ~$2.50 USD)
- Must-see spots:
- Casa Elemento – Famous for its giant hammocks with mountain views
- La Victoria coffee farm – 19th century coffee plantation
- Pozo Azul waterfall – natural swimming holes
Money-Saving Hack: Instead of a tour, negotiate with a local moto-taxi driver in Minca to take you to all key spots for the day. Last year I paid COP 120,000 (~$30 USD) for an entire day with stops at coffee farms, waterfalls, and viewpoints—less than half the price of organized tours.
El Centro Walking Tour
Don’t miss these spots in Santa Marta’s historic center:
- Parque de los Novios: The heart of nightlife and dining
- Catedral Basílica: Colombia’s oldest church (1765)
- Casa de la Aduana: Colombia’s oldest house, now the Tayrona Gold Museum
- Malecón: The recently renovated waterfront promenade
Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems
After multiple visits, these are the spots most tourists miss but locals love:
Bahía Concha
Located just outside Tayrona Park’s boundaries, this beach has similar beauty but a fraction of the crowds and cost. The bumpy road keeps mass tourism away.
How to get there: Take a taxi (COP 60,000 roundtrip, ~$15 USD) or colectivo from Santa Marta. The new road completed in late 2023 has significantly reduced travel time.
Quebrada Valencia
A stunning freshwater waterfall and natural pools in the jungle between Santa Marta and Palomino. The 20-minute hike through the forest to reach it keeps it relatively uncrowded.
Entrance fee: COP 5,000 (~$1.25 USD)
Taganga Sunset Point
I discovered this spot by accident when getting lost in Taganga. Head up the hill on the southern side of the bay just before sunset. The view over the bay as the sun drops behind the mountains is breathtaking, and only locals know about it.
Playa Los Cocos
This hidden beach near Rodadero requires a short boat ride or a hike over a hill, but rewards you with far fewer people. I’ve spent entire days here without seeing more than a dozen other tourists.
Where and What to Eat: From Street Food to Fine Dining
Colombian Caribbean cuisine is a delicious mix of seafood, tropical fruits, and African influences. Here’s where to find the best:
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dish | Description | Where to Try It | Approx. Price |
---|---|---|---|
Pescado frito con patacón | Whole fried fish with fried plantains | Restaurant La Costeñita, El Centro | COP 30,000-45,000 (~$7-11 USD) |
Cazuela de mariscos | Seafood stew in coconut milk | El Muelle Restaurant, Rodadero | COP 40,000 (~$10 USD) |
Arepa con huevo | Corn cake stuffed with egg | Street vendors on the Malecón | COP 5,000 (~$1.25 USD) |
Carimañolas | Yuca fritters filled with cheese or meat | Café Ikaro, El Centro | COP 8,000 (~$2 USD) |
Mote de queso | Cheese soup with yam | Donde Chucho, near Parque de los Novios | COP 15,000 (~$3.75 USD) |
Top Restaurant Recommendations
Budget Options (Under COP 25,000 / ~$6 USD per person)
- El Jardín del Sabor: Local lunch spot with daily “corrientazo” specials for COP 15,000 (~$3.75 USD). The fish soup on Wednesdays is incredible.
- Donde Betty: Near the public market. No Instagram or website—just follow the locals at lunchtime. Get the mojarra frita (fried fish).
- Street food along the Malecón: Try the piangua (tiny clams) from the Afro-Colombian vendors.
Mid-Range (COP 25,000-60,000 / ~$6-15 USD per person)
- Raíces Café: My go-to for breakfast and coffee. Try the calentado with hogao sauce.
- Ouzo: Mediterranean fusion in El Centro. The octopus carpaccio is worth every peso.
- Govinda’s: Vegetarian heaven near Parque de los Novios. The thali plate provides incredible value.
Special Occasion (COP 60,000+ / ~$15+ USD per person)
- Bastián: Contemporary Colombian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Reservation essential.
- El Burukuka: Spectacular sunset views in Rodadero with excellent seafood. New chef in 2024 has improved the menu significantly.
Local Phrase: When ordering at local spots, ask for food “al punto” (perfectly cooked) or “poquito picante” (slightly spicy). Saying “Está delicioso, lo preparó con amor” (It’s delicious, you prepared it with love) will earn you smiles from local cooks.
Coffee and Desserts
Colombia’s coffee culture is strong in Santa Marta:
- Ikaro Café: Specialty coffee with beans from the Sierra Nevada mountains
- Dulce Jesús Mío: Local dessert shop with traditional sweets like coconut alegría and arequipe
Navigating Local Transportation
Getting around Santa Marta efficiently requires some local knowledge:
Within the City
- Taxis: Start at COP 8,000 (~$2 USD) for short trips within El Centro. Always confirm price before entering.
- Rideshare apps: DiDi and Beat are more widely used than Uber. Download both before arriving.
- Buses: Local blue buses cost COP 2,200 (~$0.55 USD) per ride. No route maps available—ask locals where they stop.
- Walking: El Centro is completely walkable. In the daytime, it’s safe to walk from the historic center to Taganga (30-40 minutes along the coast).
Safety note: The new malecón (waterfront) is generally safe during the day but avoid walking there late at night. The section between El Centro and Taganga has seen improved police presence in 2024 but still requires caution after dark.
To Nearby Destinations
Colectivos (shared vans) are the most economical option:
Destination | Cost (one-way) | Duration | Departure Point |
---|---|---|---|
Tayrona Park (Calabazo) | COP 9,000 (~$2.25 USD) | 45 minutes | Market area |
Minca | COP 10,000 (~$2.50 USD) | 45 minutes | Market area |
Taganga | COP 2,500 (~$0.63 USD) | 15 minutes | Calle 11 with Carrera 9 |
Rodadero | COP 2,500 (~$0.63 USD) | 20 minutes | Calle 11 with Carrera 11 |
Palomino | COP 18,000 (~$4.50 USD) | 1.5 hours | Market terminal |
Money-Saving Hack: For an authentic and ultra-budget day trip, take the local bus to Tasajera (COP 3,500, ~$0.88 USD) and then a short motorcycle taxi to Isla del Rosario. This small fishing village has beaches comparable to Tayrona but costs nothing to enter. Bring your own food and drinks.
Staying Safe: Honest Security Tips
Santa Marta is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it has its issues. Here’s my unfiltered safety advice:
Neighborhood Safety
Safety levels vary dramatically by area:
- Very Safe: Rodadero, Bello Horizonte, El Rodadero Sur, inside hotel zones
- Generally Safe: El Centro (during day and evening), Taganga (main beach area)
- Exercise Caution: Peripheral areas of El Centro at night, Taganga’s side streets after dark
- Avoid: The area between the market and bus terminal after dark, isolated beaches without other people
Personal Experience: On my second trip, I was pickpocketed near the market while checking my phone. Now I never take out my phone while walking in crowded areas and keep a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash for daily use.
Practical Safety Tips
- Use ATMs inside shopping centers or banks during daylight hours
- Don’t wear flashy jewelry or watches
- Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash
- On beaches, never leave belongings unattended while swimming
- If going out at night, use ride-hailing apps instead of walking
- The new tourist police units (identified by light blue shirts) installed in 2024 speak basic English and are helpful
Health Safety
- Tap water: Not recommended for drinking. Bottled water costs COP 2,000-3,000 (~$0.50-0.75 USD)
- Sun protection: The Caribbean sun is intense. The UV index regularly exceeds 11—even on cloudy days
- Mosquitoes: Present year-round. Bring repellent with at least 25% DEET
- Emergency care: Clínica Mar Caribe is the best hospital for tourists (accepts international insurance)
Sustainability Tip: Instead of buying bottled water daily, purchase a large 5-gallon jug (COP 12,000, ~$3 USD) for your accommodation. Refill a reusable bottle as needed. This saves money and reduces plastic waste.
Money Matters: Budgeting for Santa Marta
Colombia uses Colombian Pesos (COP). As of early 2025, the exchange rate is approximately:
- 1 USD = 4,000 COP
- 1 EUR = 4,400 COP
Daily Budget Guidelines
Expense Category | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option | Luxury Option |
---|---|---|---|
Accommodation | COP 40,000-80,000 (~$10-20 USD) |
COP 150,000-300,000 (~$38-75 USD) |
COP 400,000+ (~$100+ USD) |
Meals | COP 30,000 (~$7.50 USD) |
COP 60,000 (~$15 USD) |
COP 120,000+ (~$30+ USD) |
Transportation | COP 15,000 (~$3.75 USD) |
COP 40,000 (~$10 USD) |
COP 100,000+ (~$25+ USD) |
Activities | COP 20,000 (~$5 USD) |
COP 100,000 (~$25 USD) |
COP 200,000+ (~$50+ USD) |
Money-Saving Insider Tips
- Eat where locals eat: Restaurants on side streets away from Parque de los Novios are often 40% cheaper with larger portions.
- Happy hour hunting: Many bars in El Centro offer 2-for-1 drinks from 5-7 PM. La Brisa Loca’s rooftop has the best deal: 2-for-1 on all drinks Monday to Friday.
- Beach economics: Bring your own drinks and snacks to beaches. Prices from vendors can be 3-4 times higher than supermarket prices.
- Transportation hacks: The collectivo to Tayrona drops you at the entrance for COP 9,000, while a tour company charges COP 60,000+ for the same trip.
- Free activities: Wednesday nights feature free cultural performances in Plaza de la Catedral, and many hostels offer free walking tours.
Local Phrase for Bargaining: When negotiating at markets, “Hay algún descuento? Es que estoy un poco corto de plata” (Is there a discount? I’m a bit short on money) works better than aggressive bargaining.
Tipping Culture
Tipping in Colombia is evolving:
- Restaurants: 10% service charge (“propina voluntaria”) is often included but is technically optional
- Taxis: Not expected but rounding up is appreciated
- Tour guides: 10-15% for good service
- Hotel staff: COP 5,000-10,000 for housekeeping is generous
Payment Methods
Cash is still king in many places:
- Small restaurants, street vendors, and local transport: Cash only
- Mid-range to upscale restaurants and hotels: Credit cards accepted
- ATMs: Bancolombia and Davivienda have the most reliable ATMs with English options
Payment Warning: Even some places that accept cards will offer a 5-10% discount for cash payment to avoid tax. During my last visit in 2024, I noticed more businesses implementing this practice due to economic pressures.
Cultural Insights: Connecting with Locals
Samarios (Santa Marta locals) are known for their warmth and laid-back Caribbean attitude. A few cultural insights:
Useful Local Expressions
- “¿Qué más?” – The standard greeting, literally “what else?” but means “what’s up?”
- “Bacano” – Cool or awesome
- “A la orden” – “At your service,” you’ll hear this everywhere
- “Epa nojoda!” – A very local expression of surprise or emphasis
Local Customs to Know
- Caribbean time: Things move slower here. Appointments and restaurant service operate on a relaxed schedule.
- Personal space: Samarios stand closer during conversations than what might be comfortable for North Americans or Europeans.
- Greetings: Women often greet with a cheek kiss, men with a handshake or half-hug.
- Music and dance: Vallenato and champeta music are cultural cornerstones. Don’t be surprised if locals invite you to dance.
Connection Tip: Participating in a local “parrandón” (informal street party with live music) was my gateway to making local friends. When you hear street music, don’t be shy—join in. Bringing a bottle of Aguardiente to share will instantly make you friends.
Indigenous Cultures
Santa Marta is surrounded by the ancestral territories of four indigenous groups:
- Kogui
- Arhuaco
- Wiwa
- Kankuamo
You may encounter indigenous people selling handcrafts in the city. When purchasing their crafts or photographing them, always ask permission and show respect.
Sustainability and Responsibility
The region faces environmental challenges. Be part of the solution:
- Choose tour operators who employ local guides and follow environmental practices
- Decline single-use plastics (Colombia banned plastic bags but straws are still common)
- Stay on marked trails in Tayrona and other natural areas
- Support businesses that hire local staff and source local products
Weather and When to Visit
Santa Marta’s climate is tropical with distinct dry and rainy seasons:
Season Overview
Season | Months | Weather | Tourism |
---|---|---|---|
Dry Season (High) | December-April | Hot, sunny, minimal rain | Peak prices, crowded |
Transition | May-June | Increasing humidity, occasional storms | Good deals, moderate crowds |
Rainy Season | August-November | Afternoon showers, high humidity | Lowest prices, fewer tourists |
Second Dry Period | July (“Veranillo de San Juan”) | Brief drier spell mid-rainy season | Good opportunity, local holiday season |
Best Time to Visit
Based on my multiple visits in different seasons:
- May and November are my personal favorites—shoulder seasons with good weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds
- February-March has the most reliable weather but higher prices
- Avoid holidays like Christmas/New Year and Easter week when domestic tourism floods the region
Packing Tip: Regardless of season, bring a light rain jacket. During my May visit last year, we had perfectly sunny mornings followed by brief but intense afternoon showers, then clear evenings.
Your 5-Step Action Plan for Santa Marta
After seven visits, here’s my recommended approach to maximize your Santa Marta experience:
Step 1: Plan Around Tayrona
Book your Tayrona Park entry permit first (at least 2 weeks in advance for high season) and build your itinerary around those dates. The park is closed for one month each year for ecological recovery (usually February), so check the official website.
Step 2: Base Yourself Strategically
Split your stay between El Centro (for culture, dining, nightlife) and either Taganga or Rodadero (for beach access). Two locations give you a more complete experience than staying in one area the entire time.
Step 3: Mix Iconic Sites with Hidden Gems
For every famous attraction (Tayrona, Ciudad Perdida), pair it with a lesser-known spot (Bahía Concha, Quebrada Valencia). The contrast will give you a more authentic experience and balance touristy crowds with peaceful discoveries.
Step 4: Connect with Local Culture
Attend a local event, try a cooking class, or simply spend an afternoon in Plaza de los Novios people-watching. The cultural experience is as valuable as checking off attraction boxes.
Step 5: Schedule Downtime
The Caribbean coast operates on a different pace. Plan at least one day with nothing scheduled to wander, discover, and embrace the relaxed lifestyle. Some of my best memories came from unplanned encounters and spontaneous detours.
My Biggest Travel Regret: On my first visit, I rushed through Santa Marta to check off all the “must-see” attractions. I now realize I missed the city’s true essence by not slowing down. Don’t make my mistake—leave room in your itinerary for spontaneity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santa Marta safe for tourists in 2025?
Yes, Santa Marta is generally safe for tourists, especially in areas frequented by visitors. The historic center, Rodadero, and Taganga’s main areas have increased police presence since 2024. Standard precautions apply: avoid displaying valuables, be cautious at night, and stay in well-traveled areas. The city has made significant safety improvements in the last few years.
Is Santa Marta or Cartagena better to visit?
They offer different experiences. Cartagena has a more preserved colonial center and better tourism infrastructure, but is more expensive and crowded. Santa Marta has superior natural attractions (Tayrona, Sierra Nevada mountains), feels more authentic, and offers better value. Ideally, visit both, but if choosing one, Santa Marta is better for nature lovers and budget travelers, while Cartagena appeals to history buffs and luxury travelers.
How many days do I need in Santa Marta?
Minimum 4 days, ideally 6-7. This allows for: 1 day exploring the historic center, 1 full day at Tayrona Park, 1 day in Minca, and 1 day for Taganga or local beaches. With additional days, you could add the Ciudad Perdida trek (4-5 days) or explore further along the coast to Palomino.
Do I need to speak Spanish to visit Santa Marta?
While you can get by with English in tourist-focused businesses, basic Spanish significantly improves your experience. Outside major tourist areas, English proficiency drops considerably. Learning key phrases for ordering food, negotiating prices, and asking directions will enhance your trip and earn respect from locals.
What’s the best way to get from Bogotá to Santa Marta?
Flying is the only practical option, as bus journeys exceed 20 hours. Direct flights (Avianca, LATAM, Viva Air) take about 1.5 hours. Book 2-3 months in advance for the best fares, which start around $70-100 USD round trip. The new early morning flights from Bogotá (added in 2024) are typically the most affordable.
Can I drink tap water in Santa Marta?
No, tap water is not recommended for tourists. Stick to bottled or filtered water. Most accommodations provide purified water for guests. A sustainable alternative is buying large water jugs (5-gallon) and refilling a personal bottle.
Is Tayrona Park worth the visit?
Absolutely. Despite increased entrance fees and visitor restrictions implemented in 2024, Tayrona remains one of Colombia’s most spectacular natural areas. The combination of pristine beaches, tropical forest, and indigenous history creates an unparalleled experience. Just be sure to book your entry permit in advance through the official website.
What’s the best beach in Santa Marta?
The best beaches are actually outside the city proper. Within Tayrona Park, Cabo San Juan and La Piscina are stunning. Closer to the city, Playa Blanca (accessible by boat from Rodadero) offers white sand and clear water. The city beaches in Santa Marta and Rodadero are convenient but not as pristine.
Is Santa Marta suitable for families with children?
Yes, particularly Rodadero with its calmer waters and family-oriented infrastructure. Tayrona can be challenging with very young children due to heat and hiking required. Many hotels now offer family rooms and kid-friendly activities, a notable improvement since 2023-2024 when the region began actively promoting family tourism.
How should I handle money in Santa Marta?
Bring a combination of cash and cards. Use ATMs in shopping centers or banks during daytime hours. Many small businesses, taxis, and local restaurants only accept cash. The US dollar is not commonly accepted, so exchange for Colombian pesos. When using credit cards, some places offer discounts for cash payments to avoid taxes.
What are the COVID-19 protocols in Santa Marta in 2025?
As of 2025, Colombia has eliminated most pandemic restrictions. Masks are now optional in all settings. Vaccination proof is no longer required for entry to Colombia or to access any establishments. However, some businesses maintain hand sanitizing stations as a precaution. Check the latest requirements before travel as policies can change.
References and Further Reading
- Official Tayrona National Park Website – For permits, regulations and current status
- Colombia Official Tourism Portal: Santa Marta – Government tourism information
- Lonely Planet: Santa Marta – Comprehensive travel information
- Santa Marta Tourism Office – Official local tourism resource
- Colombia Tourism Quality Certification – For identifying quality certified services
- Degusta: Santa Marta Food Guide – Local restaurant reviews and recommendations
- ProExport Colombia: Santa Marta – Export and tourism promotion entity
- Colombian Ministry of Environment – Environmental regulations for protected areas
- The Uncorked Librarian: Books About Colombia – Reading recommendations before your trip
- Colombia Reports: Santa Marta News – Current events and developments
- The City Paper: Destination Santa Marta – English-language Colombian publication
- Magic Tour Colombia Blog – Updates on Ciudad Perdida trek conditions