Is Santa Marta safe? A complete tourist safety guide for 2026

Travel Guide Santa Marta

Santa Marta is one of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors with its beautiful Caribbean coastline, proximity to Tayrona National Park, vibrant culture, and easy access to natural attractions such as Minca and the Lost City Trek.

But many travelers planning their first visit ask the same question:

Is Santa Marta safe?

The short answer is yes, Santa Marta is generally safe for tourists, especially in the areas most visitors frequent. Like many destinations around the world, the city has neighborhoods that are best avoided and situations where travelers should exercise caution. However, the vast majority of visitors enjoy their stay without any serious problems.

In this guide, we’ll explain what tourists should know about safety in Santa Marta, including crime, transportation, beaches, scams, neighborhoods, and practical tips to help you enjoy a safe and memorable trip.

Quick Answer: Is Santa Marta Safe?

For most travelers, Santa Marta is considered one of the safer tourist destinations in Colombia.

Tourist areas such as:

• El Rodadero
• Historic Center
• Bello Horizonte
• Pozos Colorados
• Minca
• Tayrona National Park

receive thousands of visitors every year without incident.

Most reported issues involve:

• Pickpocketing
• Opportunistic theft
• Unattended belongings on beaches
• Taxi overcharging
• Tourist scams

Violent crime affecting tourists is relatively uncommon in the main tourism areas.

Why Santa Marta Is Popular With Tourists

Santa Marta offers a unique combination of:

• Caribbean beaches
• Colonial history
• Mountain scenery
• Ecotourism
• Adventure activities

The city serves as the gateway to some of Colombia’s most famous attractions, including Tayrona National Park, Minca, Palomino, and the Lost City Trek.

Because tourism plays an important role in the local economy, authorities and businesses actively work to maintain a safe environment for visitors.

Understanding Crime in Santa Marta

Like most cities in Latin America, Santa Marta experiences some levels of crime. However, tourists are usually not the primary targets of serious criminal activity.

The most common incidents affecting visitors include:

Pickpocketing

Pickpocketing can occur in:

• Busy streets
• Public transportation
• Crowded events
• Popular beaches

Keep phones, wallets, and passports secure, especially in crowded areas.

Bag Snatching

Occasionally, thieves on motorcycles target bags, jewelry, or phones.

Avoid:

• Walking while holding your phone near traffic.
• Carrying expensive jewelry openly.
• Leaving bags unattended.

Beach Theft

One of the most common tourist complaints involves valuables left on beaches while swimming.

Never leave:

• Phones
• Wallets
• Cameras
• Passports

unattended on the sand.

Safest Areas to Stay in Santa Marta

Choosing the right neighborhood significantly improves your experience.

Bello Horizonte

Bello Horizonte is one of the safest and most modern areas in Santa Marta.

Advantages:

• Quiet atmosphere
• Beachfront hotels
• Family-friendly environment
• Modern resorts

Ideal for:

• Families
• Couples
• Resort travelers

Pozos Colorados

This area has grown rapidly in recent years and offers modern accommodations and a relaxed atmosphere.

Advantages:

• Fewer crowds
• New developments
• Beachfront properties

Ideal for:

• Families
• Long stays
• Travelers seeking tranquility

El Rodadero

El Rodadero is one of the city’s most popular tourist zones.

Advantages:

• Restaurants
• Shops
• Beach access
• Strong tourist infrastructure

Be aware that crowded areas can attract pickpockets.

Historic Center

Santa Marta’s Historic Center is the cultural heart of the city.

Advantages:

• Restaurants
• Nightlife
• Museums
• Walkable streets

Most visitors feel comfortable here during the day and evening when basic precautions are followed.

Areas Tourists Should Avoid

Most tourists have no reason to visit the city’s less-developed residential neighborhoods.

As in any destination, it is best to avoid:

• Isolated areas at night
• Poorly lit streets
• Unknown neighborhoods outside tourist zones

If you are unsure about a location, ask your hotel staff or local guide.

Is It Safe to Walk Around Santa Marta?

During the Day

Yes.

The Historic Center, El Rodadero, Bello Horizonte, and major tourist areas are generally safe to explore on foot during daylight hours.

At Night

Walking at night is generally safe in busy tourist areas.

However:

• Stay on well-lit streets.
• Avoid deserted areas.
• Use taxis or ride-sharing services when traveling longer distances.

Is Transportation Safe?

Taxis

Taxis are widely used and generally safe.

Tips:

• Use registered taxis.
• Confirm the fare before starting the ride if no meter is used.
• Ask your hotel to call a taxi when possible.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Ride-sharing services may be available depending on local regulations and circumstances.

Many travelers prefer them because:

• Prices are transparent.
• Routes are tracked.
• Payments are often cashless.

Public Buses

Public buses are inexpensive but can be crowded.

Visitors unfamiliar with the city often find taxis more convenient.

Is Tayrona National Park Safe?

Yes.

Tayrona National Park is one of Colombia’s most visited natural attractions.

Park authorities maintain:

• Entry controls
• Marked trails
• Tourist information points

Visitors should:

• Follow park regulations.
• Stay on designated trails.
• Respect swimming warnings.

Some beaches inside Tayrona have dangerous currents and are not suitable for swimming.

Always follow posted signs.

Is Minca Safe?

Minca is generally considered one of the safest tourist destinations near Santa Marta.

The village is known for:

• Coffee farms
• Waterfalls
• Birdwatching
• Eco-tourism

The relaxed atmosphere and strong tourism community contribute to a positive visitor experience.

Is It Safe to Visit the Beaches?

Most beaches near Santa Marta are safe.

Popular options include:

• Playa Blanca
• Bahía Concha
• Bello Horizonte
• El Rodadero
• Playa Cristal

Safety tips:

• Avoid leaving valuables unattended.
• Stay hydrated.
• Follow local swimming advice.
• Be cautious with strong currents.

Common Tourist Scams

Overpriced Taxi Rides

Some drivers may quote inflated prices.

Solution:

• Agree on the fare before departure.
• Use hotel-recommended transportation.

Unofficial Tour Operators

Book tours through:

• Reputable agencies
• Hotels
• Established online platforms

Street Vendors

Most vendors are harmless, but some can be persistent.

A polite “No, gracias” is usually enough.

ATM Scams

Use ATMs located inside:

• Shopping malls
• Banks
• Supermarkets

Avoid isolated machines.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Santa Marta is a popular destination among solo travelers.

To stay safe:

• Share your itinerary with family.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Use trusted transportation.
• Keep valuables secure.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.

Safety Tips for Female Travelers

Many women travel independently in Santa Marta every year.

Practical recommendations include:

• Using registered transportation.
• Avoiding isolated areas at night.
• Staying in reputable accommodations.
• Trusting your instincts.

Female travelers generally report positive experiences in the city’s tourism areas.

Emergency Numbers in Colombia

Useful numbers include:

Police: 123

Tourism Police: Available in major tourist zones.

Many hotels can also assist visitors with emergencies or translation needs.

How Does Santa Marta Compare to Cartagena?

Many travelers compare Santa Marta and Cartagena when planning a trip.

Safety

Both destinations are generally safe for tourists.

Crime

Petty theft exists in both cities.

Atmosphere

Santa Marta often feels more relaxed and less crowded than Cartagena.

Nature

Santa Marta offers easier access to outdoor activities and natural attractions.

Final Verdict: Is Santa Marta Safe in 2026?

Yes.

Santa Marta remains one of Colombia’s most popular and enjoyable destinations for international visitors. Most travelers experience no major problems and leave with positive memories of its beaches, mountains, culture, and natural beauty.

By following common-sense precautions—such as protecting valuables, using trusted transportation, and staying in well-known tourist areas—you can confidently enjoy everything Santa Marta has to offer.

For nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, families, backpackers, and couples, Santa Marta continues to be one of the best places to visit in Colombia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Santa Marta safe for tourists?

Yes. Most tourists visit Santa Marta without experiencing serious safety issues.

Is El Rodadero safe?

Yes. El Rodadero is one of the most popular tourist areas and is generally safe when normal precautions are taken.

Is Santa Marta safer than Cartagena?

Both destinations are considered relatively safe for tourists, although Santa Marta often feels less crowded and more relaxed.

Can I walk around Santa Marta at night?

Yes, in busy tourist areas such as the Historic Center and El Rodadero. Avoid isolated locations and poorly lit streets.

Is Tayrona National Park safe?

Yes. Tayrona is considered safe for visitors who follow park rules and stay on designated trails.

All about Santa Marta Colombia: what to do and tips

Travel Guide Santa Marta

Our tips

What to do in and outside Santa Marta

What to do in Santa Marta and the surrounding area? From a free tour of the centro histórico to a hike to Tayrona National Park. The best tips for fun things to do and organized tours and activities can be found here.

1. Stroll along the Malecón

Especially during sunset, the Malecón (promenade) on Santa Marta Bay is a hot spot. People come here to relax or exercise. There are many places where you can drink and eat something and there are many street vendors selling ice cream, coffee and souvenirs. Near the letters of Santa Marta you will find the most popular spot for a photo shoot.

2.Admire colonial architecture

Santa Marta is the oldest city in Colombia and was founded in 1525. As such, in the centro histórico you will see a number of beautiful colonial buildings, including the white cathedral at the Plaza de la Basílica de Santa Marta and the Museo del Oro Tairona, the gold museum. The centro histórico is located between Calle 10 and Calle 22, near Santa Marta Bay. Plaza de Bolívar (also called Santander park) is in the heart of the historic center. A fun way to discover the “old” city is with a free tour, which you can book here. The tour is on a gratuity basis for the guide. Guideline:around $10 per person. Other options for a tour in Santa Marta include a street food tour in the historic center, a bicycle tour and a private tour of Santa Marta

3. Check out the street art

Among the traditional buildings, you’ll also find many colorful murals, including in the alley between Plaza de la Basílica de Santa Marta and the Malecón (Calle 16) and Carrera 3. We thought that it all fits together: colonial buildings and street art: a nice contrast between old and new!

4. Stroll through the cozy Carrera 3

The Carrera 3 connects the Parque de Bolívar with the Parque de los Novios. The narrow streets are very pleasant with street performers, such as musicians, mime players and rappers, who can improvise amazingly well. In terms of atmosphere, it reminded us of the Getsemaní neighborhood in Cartagena. There are cafes and restaurants for every taste and budget. Tip: With happy hour, there are high discounts on cocktails,

5. Visit the Gold Museum

The gold museum (Museo del Oro Tairona) is housed in the restored Casa de la Aduana, one of Santa Marta’s oldest colonial buildings near Plaza Bolívar. The museum features a collection of over 500 artifacts—goldwork, ceramics, textiles—that showcase the culture of the indigenous Tairona people and the history of the region. Access to the museum is free. (closed on Mondays). Unfortunately, during our stay in Santa Marta, the gold museum was also closed on Fridays and Saturdays. Check more info on the official website of the Museo del Oro Tairona. Another cultural trip you can take is to the house where Simon Bolivar spent his last days, the hacienda La Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino. 

6. Chill on a beautiful beach

Santa Marta’s most beautiful beaches are not in the city, but outside of the city. The beach at Santa Marta Bay, while nice for watching the sunset, is not a clean beach. The beaches in El Rodadero are better, but crowded. Furthermore, there are many street vendors and you look out on highrise hotels, so not the most beautiful beaches as far as we are concerned. Playa Blanca in El Rodadero is a beach with fun activities for children, such as a zipline. In Tayrona national park there are some nice beaches, such as Bahía Concha, Playa Cristal, Playa Cinto, Playa Cabo San Juan and Playa Brava. Most of the beaches can be reached by boat. A nice way to sail to Bahia Concha is with a sailing trip to Bahia Concha, Tip: From December through April there is a lot of wind, so before booking a boat trip to the beaches, check the forecast for wind and waves.

7. Hike in the Tayrona National Park

The location of Tayrona National Park is spectacular, between the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Nevada de St. Marta. In Tayrona national park you can make beautiful hikes on trails that run through the jungle to the beaches. You can do a day trip, but there are also several options to camp there or stay overnight in a hotel. Tayrona National Park is easily accessible from Santa Marta with a one-hour bus ride. If you prefer to go to Tayrona National Park with a guide, check the options here.

9. Hike to Ciudad Perdida-the lost city.

Santa Marta is starting point of treks to the Ciuadad Perdida, the lost city of Colombia. During a trekking of 4 days, you will swim at waterfalls, spot birds and other animals and enjoy the sounds of the jungle. You will meet people from the Indian communities and can see how they live in the villages. The guide shares with you his insider knowledge about the Indian communities, which makes the whole experience extra special.

8. Spend the night in the mountain village of Minca

Minca is a nice village in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, about a 45-minute drive from Santa Marta. Here you can breathe the wonderful fresh mountain air, a relief from the hot Caribbean coast! There’s not much to do in the village itself, but in the surrounding area you can hike to waterfalls, visit coffee and cocoa plantations and do some serious bird watching. Are you only in Santa Marta for a short time? Then you can take a day trip from Santa Marta to Minca and surroundings, visit coffee and cocoa plantations and do some bird watching. . Check more information in our travel guide Minca

10.Book an off road trip to La Guajira

In Santa Marta, you can book a tour to La Guajira, the home of the indigenous Wayuu community. You have the beaches in la Guajira mostly to yourself. You can kitesurf in Cabo de la Vela, “sandboard” in the Tarao dunes and bird watch in Parque Nacional Natural Macuira, the “wettest” area of La Guajira. If you want to go to Punta Gallinas -the most extreme point of the peninsula -a tour is absolutely a must, given the limited infrastructure. Plus, with a guide, you’ll get an insider’s look at Wayuu culture.

CLIMATE AND BEST TRAVELING PERIOD

The dry season is from December through April. It is then less warm and there is more wind. From December to February is the high season. In March and April it begins to rain more and in the month of May it rains almost every day. June through August are busier months with an extra busy period in July during the festival “Fiestas del Mar,” which takes place every year during 10 days at the end of July. During this period it is essential to book your hotel early. From September to November is the rainy season and things get quieter. October is the rainiest month. We were in Santa Marta at the end of September and had very nice weather, so you also need a little luck with the weather. Due to the rougher sea, the period from December to April is tricky for booking a boat trip. The boat trip can be very rough. Therefore check the wind and waves in Santa Marta before booking a boat trip.

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA MARTA?

Where to stay in Santa Marta? Centro histórico en El Rodadero…. Which district is the most fun and convenient to stay in? Find the best tips here.

Centro Histórico and El Rodadero and are the two most popular neighborhoods with travelers. Rodadero is 5 km. from the centro histórico. For Colombian tourists, Santa Marta is a #1 beach destination. In particular, the beaches in Rodadero are very popular and many of the luxury hotels are located here.

In the Centro Histórico you will find a wide selection of boutique hotels. There are also plenty of choices in the cheaper price range.

If you want to be close to the beach, in a quieter location than Rodadero Beach, then Pozo Colorado an option. The neighborhood is 30 minutes by taxi from the centro histórico. Bello Horizonte is a safe, upscale neighborhood between the airport and El Rodadero, 25 minutes by taxu from downtown. The neighborhood resembles El Rodadero but is quieter and is more of a residential area.

If you want to take a diving course, then Taganga is an option to book a hotel or hostel. Prices for hostels and hotels there are lower than in Santa Marta.

 

#ColombiaMyWay hotel tips

We found centro histórico a nice neighborhood to spend the night. Here you will find some of Santa Marta’s most beautiful traditional buildings.

From the roof terrace of our hotel Catedral Plaza we looked out on the white cathedral.

Also from the roof terrace of Masaya Santa Marta hostel, you have a great view of the cathedral and the city.

Furthermore, there are cheerfully colored facades, quaint stores and colorful murals.

The more luxurious Boutique Hotel Don Pepe is also in the historic center -a bit closer to the Malecón- and looked very cozy.

Especially the colorful street Carrera 3 is a pleasant place to be. In terms of atmosphere, it reminded us of the artsy neighborhood of Getsemani in Cartegena.

Furthermore, its location is central: you can walk to the Malecón, the boulevard on Santa Marta’s bay.

Even if you travel onward to Tayrona national park, Minca and Palomino, the historic center is a convenient place to spend the night as buses leave from the market.

What are the best hotels in Santa Marta? Check out more hotel tips in Santa Marta for every budget below.

$ price range up to $50

$$ price range $50 – $100

$$$ price range above $100

Centro histórico

$

• Masaya Santa Marta
• República Bahía Santa Marta hostel
• Distrito hostel
• La Brisa Loca
• Jardín del duque hotel boutique

 

$$

• Hotel boutique la solera del pozo
• Catedral Plaza
• Casa de Isabella
• Casa Carolina
• Casa Rosa – Alma hotels

$$$

• Hotel boutique Don Pepe
• Placita Vieja hotel boutique spa
• Luxury apartments el Cactus
• Alko hotel Cotona
• Casa de Leda

El Rodadero

$

• Hostal Paraiso
• Hotel Rodadero Inn by GEH Suites
• Brizzamar hotel
• Santa Marta apartamentos-Palanoa
• Hostel Casa Telma

$$

• Hotel Be la Sierra
• Penon del Rodadero
• Hotel IY Mathilu Rodadero
• Apartamentos el Peñon del Rodadero-by Apartamar Santa Marta
• Akela Gaira Hotel

$$$

 

• Hotel Mandalas House by DOT Boutique
• Hotel Marco Polo Rodadero
• The Garden by DOT Suites
• El Rodadero Atlantis
  

Other neighborhoods

Pozos Colorados

30 minutes by cab from the centro histórico

• Playa del Ritmo Beach Hostel & Bar
• Casa Verano Beach hotel-adults only
• Apartasuites Samaria-Club de Playa
• Best Luxury Samaria
• Santa Marta Apartamentos Pozos Colorados -Samaria

 

Bello Horizontes

25 minutes by cab from the city center.

• Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida
• Zuana Beach Resort
• Hilton Santa Marta
• Makaira Casa de Playa

Tatanga

• Cielo hostel
• Tayrona Colors Hostel
• Vito hotel boutique
• Puro Paraíso Eco Hotel
• Ocean lovers Apartamentos

More hotels in Santa Marta

Food and drinks in Santa Marta

Santa Marta has restaurants for every taste and budget: from “gourmet” arepas to Mediterranean and specialty seafood restaurants.

In Carrera 3, which connects Parque de Bolívar with Parque de los Novios, there are several cafes and restaurants for every taste,and budget, like mexican, chinese, but also fast food places where you can buy a hot dog for COP6000/$1.50. Several cafes have happy hour from 6pm-8pm, with a big discount on cocktails. As you walk further toward Calle 16, the music gets louder and you’ll find more clubs.

Around Parque de los Novios you will also find several restaurants and bars, and there is regular live music in the evening.

On the Malecón on Santa Marta Bay, you’ll find coffee shop Juan Valdez and several businesses where you can buy an ice cream, oblea or Malteada (a kind of combo of a shake and cream). There is also fast food, such as a place where you can order fries all kinds of ways, with meat, chicken and lots of sauces.

The best nights to go out are Thursday and Saturday nights. If you want to go out in the big Colombian clubs, El Rodadero is the place to be.

Organized food & drink tours

During a street food tour in the centro histórico, you can taste Santa Marta’s traditional specialties while learning all about Colombian culture.

A trip in a Chiva, is a typical Colombian “party” experience. A chiva is a
cheerfully colored bus that has been converted into a “party bus.” A ride in a Chiva guarantees lots of music, lots of ambiente and Aguardiente!

Here are our tips for Santa Marta’s best restaurants, best coffee shops and best clubs in Santa Marta’s historic center.

Our tips

COFFEE & ICECREAM

Juan Valdez café

Calle 14 Entre # 2 y 3 al lado de la Alcaldía

For a good cup of coffee on a shaded terrace at Plaza Venezuela, near the gold museum.

Ikaro café

Parque de los Novios
Calle 19 #3-60

Ikaro café uses local coffee beans that they roast themselves. It’s a great place to work for digital nomads and you can get good vegan and vegetarian food here. Also for oriental dishes like Pad Thai. Organic products are used.

 

Gnam Gelateria

Carrera 3 #17-73

Italian ice cream parlor with long lines at the door. Here you can taste Italian ice cream with traditional flavors, but also with a local touch, through the addition of fruits, such as the corozo fruit typical of the Caribbean coast and maracuja (passion fruit).

RESTAURANTS

Ouzo Restaurante Bar

Parque de los Novios
Cra. 3 #19-29

Mediterranean restaurant serving Italian and Greek meals such as octopus, lamb, pizza, raviolis and pasta with seafood. You can sit outside or inside, on several floors.
Tip: From Mon-Fri, you can get cheap lunch (around COP15,000/$4) with the menú del día (daily menu).

 

Andres Carne de Res

Calle 16 #3-112

Between the Plaza de la basílica de Santa Marta and Santa Marta Bay, you’ll find Andres Santa Marta. Easily recognizable by the colored flags in front of the restaurant. Here, in an atmospheric setting, you can enjoy a good piece of meat or chicken a la Parilla, or typical Colombian dishes and snacks, such as patacones with various sauces.

Donde Chucho Gourmet

Parque de los Novios
Calle 19 #2 – 17

Donde Chucho is a traditional restaurant with a very extensive menu, which specializes in fish and seafood. There are also 2 more restaurants in El Rodadero; Chucho Blu (on the waterfront) and Donde Chucho Rodadero. The establishment on Parque de los Novios has regular live music.

 

Lulo Cafe Bar

Carrera 3 #16-34

In this cozy building -next to Gnam gelateria- you can get breakfast, superdeluxe “gourmet” arepas and wraps, among other things. There are also vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

 

Restaurante Lamart

Carrera 3 #16-30

This little restaurant is known for its delicious fish, ceviche and handmade pasta. There are a few tables outside and you can also sit inside, in a nice setting.

Porthos Steakhouse and Pub

Parque de los Novios
Calle 19 #3 – 25

For tasty steak, chicken and the best burgers in Santa Marta. Porthos Steakhouse and Pub is also a great place for a good glass of beer and a cocktail.

CLUBS

La Brisa Loca hostel

Calle 14 # 3-58

A party hostel, where you can party on the rooftop terrace from Thursday to Sunday, with live music and DJs.

La Azotea disco bar

Parque de los Novios
Carrera 3 #19-25

Come early and try one of the 20 cocktails. You can dance all night on the rooftop terrace with music from the DJs. (rock, funk, hip-hop, disco, dance, house, salsa)
@herwegofilms.

La Puerta

Calle 17 #2-29

Nightclub with a mix of locals and travelers, where you can dance to salsa music.

Practical info A-Z

Is Santa Marta safe? What should I bring with me? What about withdrawing money in Santa Marta? Check here for practical information and useful tips for your stay in Santa Marta.

Drinking water

The water from the tap is not drinkable

Cash withdrawals

There are plenty of ATMs in Santa Marta. If you go to Minca, Tayrona National Park or Cabo de la Vela after Santa Marta, withdraw money in Santa Marta, as there is no ATM in those places.

Packing List

• Anti mosquito spray
• Sunscreen
• Waterproof bag or plastic bags to protect your belongings during possible boat trips
• Swimwear
• Hat or cap
• Sandals or flip flops

Vaccinations

No vaccinations are required for Santa Marta. If you are going to Tayrona National Park, a yellow fever shot is recommended.

Safety

Our own experience (September 2023)

• We visited the historic center of Santa Marta and felt safe. We did notice that some streets in the historic center were very dark at night and looked rather shady, so these are best avoided.
• The Malecón in particular is a place where you see homeless people and people asking for money. What we noticed was that the security guards who were present, immediately intervened when people came asking for money. On the Malecón, we felt a great sense of security due to the presence of police and security. There wer many street vendors. If you are not interested, a “no gracias” usually suffices.
• We recommend to ask the receptionists of your hotel or hostel for tips where it’s (not) safe to walk at night.

Update about security Santa Marta July 2025

In the last few years, Santa Marta has become less safe. The city can be relatively safe in popular tourist areas during the day, especially with proper planning and vigilance. However, there are elevated risks, particularly from petty crimes, scams, and rare but serious violent incidents. In April 2025, an Italian tourist was killed on the outskirts of Santa Marta. The murder was  linked to organized crime in the Sierra Nevada region.

Staying informed of local advisories and choosing secure neighborhoods and transportation options is key for a safe visit. 

• Safer Neighborhoods:
  El Rodadero, Centro Histórico, Taganga, Bello Horizonte — these areas are more tourist-friendly with better infrastructure and lower crime reports
• Areas to Avoid:
  Pescaito, La Paz, and remote regions of Sierra Nevada — these are associated with higher crime rates and paramilitary group presence, making them potentially hazardous for visitors
• Solo travelers: Exercise high caution, avoid walking alone at night. Especially female travellers run the risk of being harassed.
• Couples & familiesGenerally safe in tourist zones if precautions are taken
• LGBTQIA+ travelers Accepted in main zones but discretion advised in more conservative areas

Tips to stay safe

• Stay in well-lit and populated tourist areas, especially after dark.
• Avoid flashing valuables; follow the Colombian advice: “no dar papaya” (don’t give papaya) — meaning don’t advertise what you have or invite theft
• Use official ride services or hotel-arranged transportation rather than street taxis
• Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers during business hours, not on the street
• Consider travelling with a companion or guided tour, especially in remote areas.

Wifi and phone

Wifi is generally good in Santa Marta. If you want a data package for your phone, provider Claro has the best coverage in Colombia.

Stores

There are several small stores that sell basic groceries.

In the centro histórico, we found the Exitó a must. A kind of department store, where you can buy food and drinks as well as clothes, among other things.

At Totto (next to Hotel Catedral Plaza) you can buy backpacks, rain jackets and other travel items for a fraction of what it costs in Europe or the Caribbean.

Round trip north coast: from Barranquilla to Santa Marta

Travel Guide Santa Marta

From Sept. 11 to 23, 2023, we toured along the north coast of Colombia, from Barranquilla to Santa Marta. In Barranquilla we visited relatives of my travel partner. Meanwhile, she showed me some of the sights of “her city.” After this we went hiking in Tayrona National Park, after which a good dose of relaxation was scheduled during our stay at a wellness resort near the park. After this, the round trip along the north coast continued to the mountain village of Minca and Tierra Adentro nature reserve. To conclude the trip, we stayed two nights in Santa Marta, the oldest city of Colombia.

For us, this trip proved to be a perfect combination of city and nature. Would you also like to take a trip like this? Then read about our North Coast roundtrip here and check out our insider tips for fun things to do, transportation and the best hotels.

 

DAY 1-4, BARRANQUILLA

The arrival in Barranquilla was unlike any other city I had been to before, such as Cartagena, Medellín and Bogotá. Barranquilla came across as a bit chaotic, when we drove through the suburb of Soledad to Barranquilla. It was a lively scene with bici-taxis, tuktuks and even horse and carriage, driving through the narrow streets.

Barranquilla is known for its delicious food and the Barraquilleros love to enjoy that food. On every street corner we saw a BBQ restaurant or a toko with a few tables. The Riomar district where our (excellent) hotel GHL Hotel Collection was located, is a fairly new neighborhood, with neat, clean streets filled with trees and more expensive stores. A huge contrast to the chaotic Soledad!

The locals are super nice and have the cheerful character of the Costeños, the inhabitants of the north coast. Barranquilla has relatively few attractions and tourism is not as developed as in nearby Cartagena. We didn’t encounter a single Western tourist during our 4-night stay, even at the hotel, which was frequented mostly by Colombian tourists and businessmen.

During our stay in Barranquilla, we did many fun things with the family. For example, we took a mototaxi to Bocas de Ceniza, where the sea meets the river, we went to eat and watch Colombian soccer on the Malecón, (the Avenida del Rio), posed for a photo shoot at the monument Aleta del Tiburón and took a trip to Puerto Colombia, the city where immigrants first set foot in Colombia. Furthermore, we tasted the atmosphere of carnaval in Barranquilla in the carnaval museum, shopped in the giant shopping malls Buenavista 1 and 2 and Mall Plaza and had a bite to eat in hotel El Prado, Latin America’s first luxury hotel. Read the travel guide Barranquilla for more information and tips.

DAY 5-7 TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK

After the super fun and busy stay in Barranquilla, it was time to say goodbye to the family and we left for the Kantawa Eco Spa hotel, near the Tayrona National Park.

We found this a super place to completely unwind. We relaxed in the pool, while the birds and butterflies were flying back and forth and we spotted a squirrel during a walk in the beautiful garden.

We hiked in the jungle of Tayrona National Park, home to various beautiful beaches, such as Playa Arrecife and the popular Cabo de San Juan beach. Along the way we saw monkeys (white-shouldered capuchin monkeys), which we were able to spot at very close range. After a hike in the Tayrona park -which involved a lot of sweating with the humidity of 79%! -, body and soul were well pampered in the pool with hydromassages, a superdeluxe jacuzzi and a massage “by the river”.

We didn’t do that, but it is also possible to stay overnight in Tayrona National Park, including at Playa Arrecifes, Cabo de San Juan or Playa Brava.

Read the travel guide Tayrona National Park for more information and tips.

DAY 9-10 MINCA, RESERVA NATURAL TIERRA ADENTRO

Through Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro we arranged transportation to the reserve by 4×4. This solid car was absolutely a necessity, because it was a bumpy ride to the hotel. Driver Jesús was very experienced and maneuvered the car along boulders, potholes and through streams that flowed into the road. This ride was an adventure in itself and after we passed the Marinka waterfall, it was another short drive to the nature reserve. Once we arrived, it was an oasis of peace. We installed ourselves on the terrace with huge hammock and spent the rest of the afternoon just enjoying the amazing view.

A fun activity at the nature preserve is a short tour of the animal sanctuary. This gives you a better understanding of the background of the animals, which are rescued from illegal trade, have been hit by vehicles, or attacked by other animals. Through a small path you can walk to a small creek, from where you have a beautiful view of the forest. A must-do is a visit to the Marinka waterfall. From Tierra Adentro, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the Cascada de Marinka waterfall.

I almost didn’t recognize the entrance of the Marinka waterfall anymore, because recently all kinds of artwork had been placed at the entrance. There were also several additional big hammocks installed, so you now have a nice view of the waterfall from several spots.

From Tierra Adentro, you can also hike to Mirador Los Pinos.

Here you can read more about fun things to do in Minca.

DAY 11-12 SANTA MARTA

Santa Marta was the finale of our trip along the North Coast, before we got back on the plane to Bogotá and then back to Curaçao. This was a city of which I had hardly any expectations. Most travelers stay only one night in this city in transit to refuel from an intense trip to Ciudad Perdida or Tayrona National Park. Because of this, we heard few stories about Santa Marta from other travelers. Nevertheless, we found it a great place to stay. Our hotel Catedral Plaza was in a great location in the historic center, near Santa Marta’s Malecón. This boulevard is a nice place to watch the sunset. Carrera 3 is a very pleasant street with many restaurants and street performers in a setting of colorful murals. There is also a (free) Gold Museum in Santa Marta, but unfortunately it was closed when we were there.

Read the Santa Marta travel guide for more information and tips.