{"id":58108,"date":"2023-11-07T03:54:08","date_gmt":"2023-11-07T02:54:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/comeamaviaja.com\/santa-marta-colombia\/"},"modified":"2025-09-23T15:22:17","modified_gmt":"2025-09-23T13:22:17","slug":"things-to-do-in-santa-marta","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/comeamaviaja.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-santa-marta\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to do in Santa Marta, Colombia"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Where to stay in Santa Marta, Colombia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Masaya Hostel<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Search for hotels in Santa Marta<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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I would recommend staying in the historic center. This way, you’ll be close to the liveliest streets and the city’s main attractions. You can explore the available accommodations in Santa Marta’s historic center here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re looking for a hostel, I recommend Masaya Hostel<\/a> or Tunido<\/a>. I’ve stayed at both and was delighted with both places. The first one has a livelier atmosphere and features a pool. The second is more modest and has a cozier, family-like atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re looking to stay in a hotel, take a look at the Boutique Hotel Casa Carolina<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some travelers prefer to stay outside the city, particularly in El Rodadero or Taganga. El Rodadero is a more touristy and modern area with beaches, shops, shopping centers, restaurants, and more. In El Rodadero, I would recommend Del Mar Hotel<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly, there’s Taganga, a village near Santa Marta that’s particularly popular among backpackers and diving enthusiasts. In Taganga, I recommend staying at Hostal Palohe<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more detailed information on this topic, be sure to check out my article on where to stay in Santa Marta<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83c\udfe5 Remember that it is always very important to travel with the best travel insurance to Colombia, since you never know if there will be any inconvenience. Without adding much money to the final budget, you can go with the peace of mind that if something happens to you, all your expenses will be covered, in addition to having a team of people to help you. I always use and recommend the company Heymondo, where I can offer you a 5% discount on your next travel insurance policy<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to do in Santa Marta, Colombia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The best things to do in Santa Marta include strolling through the historic downtown, visiting beaches, and taking excursions to the surrounding areas.I’ll provide a detailed explanation of each below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Historical Center of Santa Marta<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Exploring the historical center through a leisurely walk allows you to uncover the rich history of this charming city. There are several must-visit places:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rodrigo de Bastidas Monument<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Rodrigo de Bastidas Monument<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The sculpture of Santa Marta’s founder, Rodrigo de Bastidas, was inaugurated in 1928, situated atop the ruins of San Vicente Fort. It was later moved to a prominent location in front of Bolivar Park, right along the waterfront. You’ll have no trouble spotting it as you walk near the harbor. It was created by the Spanish sculptor Jos\u00e9 Lafita D\u00edaz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bolivar Park<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Bolivar Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In Santa Marta’s Bolivar Park, you’ll come across the statue of the liberator, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar. This square didn’t always carry this name. Initially, it was known as the Plaza de Armas. At the beginning of the republic, it took on the name Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n. Finally, due to its proximity to the Customs House, where Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar once stayed, it became known as Bolivar Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two must-see monuments in this square are the Four Faces Fountain and the previously mentioned Equestrian Statue of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, a creation by sculptor Leone Tommasi donated by the Government of Venezuela.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Santa Marta Cathedral<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Santa Marta Cathedral<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\u200b\u200bLocated in a square right in the heart of the historic center, you can explore the Santa Marta Cathedral, one of the city’s most significant religious buildings. It features a Renaissance style and was constructed in the 1760s. For a period of 12 years, it housed the remains of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar. Since 1953, the resting place of Rodrigo de Bastidas has been here. The square where it stands is typically lively, and in the surrounding area, you’ll find numerous restaurants and street vendors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boyfriend\/Girlfriend Park – a lively spot<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Parque de los Novios<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Parque de los Novios is among the best things to do in Santa Marta, thanks to its lively ambiance. It serves as a culinary and tourist focal point in the city. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll always find locals and tourists having a great time at one of the terraces. Within the park, you’ll come across the statue of Francisco de Paula Santander and the bust of the two-time Colombian president, Manuel Murillo Toro.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 3, Santa Marta (Colombia)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Carrera 3<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another must-visit spot if you’re in search of restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere is Carrera 3 Street. It’s a delightful pedestrian alley lined with numerous cafes and restaurants. I recommend Lulo Cafe Bar for breakfast and brunch, and Lamart Santa Marta for lunch and dinner. During the daytime, it’s a lively and colorful place with painted facades and banners. In the evening, it exudes a pleasant atmosphere with twinkling lights and street musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Stroll at sunset in Rodrigo de Bastidas Promenade Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Sunset in Santa Marta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

When I think of Santa Marta, Colombia, I instantly recall the stunning sunset we witnessed on our first day in the city. We had just arrived from Cartagena de Indias<\/a> on a bus and opted for a downtown stroll. We arrived at Rodrigo de Bastidas Promenade Park just minutes before sunset. After getting there, we bought something to drink and eat, sat by the seafront, and stayed there until the sun disappeared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many other locals were also along the promenade, witnessing the moment. I remember how some children couldn’t stop playing and splashing in the water. A cruise ship had sounded its horn, signaling its departure to everyone present. The sky was painted in shades of pink and orange. It was a truly spectacular moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taking a sunset stroll in Rodrigo de Bastidas Promenade Park is one of the most beautiful things to do in Santa Marta, so don’t miss it. There’s also a small beach here where you can cool off. For a city beach, the water was surprisingly clean. It amazed me! I recommend ending your evening at the Marina, where you can enjoy a drink at one of its bars while you finish watching the sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Enjoy an afternoon in Taganga<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Taganga<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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TNT Viewpoint<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Taganga is a charming fishing village located approximately 5 kilometers from the heart of Santa Marta, which has grown into a prominent tourist hub in the city and a haven for backpackers. You’ll find plenty of hostels, numerous restaurants, vibrant nightlife venues, and diving schools. Besides the village’s appeal, the surroundings of Taganga are pure beauty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can hike up to the viewpoint to savor the views or take a boat ride to Playa Grande or Playa Cristal. By the way, Taganga also offers a lovely sunset view. I recommend watching it from the TNT Mirador. It’s the terrace of an accommodation where you can enjoy a drink and take a dip in the pool with a view.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To reach Taganga from Santa Marta, you have two options: you can either take a taxi, which costs between 10,000 to 15,000 pesos, or you can opt for the local bus, which costs 2,000 pesos. The bus can be boarded on Carrera 5.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Important: While it’s possible to walk from Taganga to Playa Grande, there have been reports of robberies along the path. Therefore, I do not recommend taking the risk. It’s safer to take a boat directly from Taganga Beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Day trip to Tayrona National Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Cabo San Juan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Tayrona Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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View tours to Tayrona Park<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Many travelers come to this city primarily to explore Tayrona National Natural Park, one of Colombia’s most renowned destinations. It’s a small paradise situated approximately 15 kilometers from the heart of Santa Marta. When you venture into this park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush jungle, pristine beaches, and stunning spots like Cabo San Juan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s important to note that the park is accessible only on foot. Once you’ve paid the entrance fee and entered the park, you’re free to stay as long as you like. However, be aware that you cannot exit the park and re-enter on the following day using the same ticket. If you plan to spend more than one day exploring Tayrona, you’ll need to arrange accommodation inside the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep in mind that Tayrona Park is closed to tourists during certain periods of the year for environmental reasons. It’s essential to check the dates before your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In our case, we opted to stay outside the park, quite close to the entrance, and took advantage of a full-day visit to Tayrona. We entered in the morning through the Zaino entrance (there are different entry points), embarked on a trek to Cabo de San Juan, enjoyed a swim, had lunch, and then made our way back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’d like to stay close to the Zaino entrance, check out the following hotels:<\/p>\n\n\n\n