Santa Marta Colombia Travel Guide: 17 BEST Things To Do In Santa Marta

Santa Marta Colombia Travel Guide: 17 BEST Things To Do In Santa Marta

So you want to know what are the best 
things to do in Santa Marta, Colombia? Great, you’re in the right place.
In this video we’re gonna discuss the top things to do in Santa Marta.
Number 17: Parque de los Novios Parque de los Novios is one of the liveliest 
places in Santa Marta’s Historic Center. During the day, you can walk along 
cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, cafes, and restaurants.
In the evening, the park comes alive with music, dancing, and lights as locals and 
tourists gather to enjoy the warm air. You’ll see the bronze statue of 
General Francisco de Paula Santander and a white pavilion surrounded by trees.
Around the square, you can have dinner, sip wine, or try tropical drinks 
while street musicians perform nearby. It’s also a popular spot to join locals 
celebrating with vallenato and Caribbean rhythms late into the night.
Number 16: Lost City Trek Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, the 
Lost City Trek takes you through dense jungle, rivers, and mountain trails to reach 
Ciudad Perdida, an ancient site built by the Teyuna people around 800 AD.
You’ll start in Santa Marta and hike 29 to 37 miles (46 to 60 km) over 
four or five days with a guide. Along the way, you pass remote 
villages, swim in waterfalls, and climb about 1,200 stone steps to the ruins.
The trek is challenging because of the heat and humidity, but the journey offers stunning 
scenery and encounters with local communities. Meals, guides, and accommodation in 
basic camps are included during the hike. Number 15: Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
This 17th-century estate is where Simón Bolívar, the revolutionary who led much of South 
America to independence, spent his final days. You can walk through the house where he lived 
and see the white marble monument honoring him, marked with the words “Colombia al Libertador.”
Inside, there’s a museum displaying artworks from countries he helped liberate and 
exhibits about his life and achievements. The surrounding gardens are filled 
with tall trees and colorful plants that add to the peaceful atmosphere.
You can reach the estate in about 15 minutes from Santa Marta’s center, with 
private taxis and local buses available. Number 14: Taganga
Just 3 miles (5 km) north of Santa Marta, Taganga is a small fishing 
village known for its relaxed feel and clear blue bay surrounded by cactus-covered hills.
You will notice murals along its unpaved streets and fishing boats lined up on the shore.
Many travelers visit for scuba diving, as it’s one of the most affordable places in South America 
to learn or dive with PADI-certified guides. The village is also known for its 
fresh seafood—grilled or fried fish served at beachside restaurants or sold 
directly by local fishermen each morning. In the evening, you can enjoy a drink 
or a piña colada while watching the sunset from the waterfront.
Number 13: Santa Marta Public Market (Mercado Público de Santa Marta)
If you want to see local life in action, visit the Santa Marta Public Market on Carrera 9.
You’ll walk through rows of over 500 stalls filled with tropical fruits, vegetables, seafood, 
and local dishes like ceviche and lobster. The smell of grilled food mixes with 
the sound of vendors calling out prices. You can buy cheap clothes, shoes, or sunglasses, 
or pick up a small handmade souvenir. Many locals come here daily, making it 
one of the busiest places in the city. After shopping or eating, you can head to Avenida 
Bastidas nearby for a meal with ocean views. Number 12: Playa Grande
If you have visited the beach in Taganga and want a calmer place, you 
can take a short boat ride to Playa Grande. The beach sits in a quiet bay with clear blue 
water and dry mountains in the background. You can swim, snorkel around coral 
reefs, or rent a kayak or jet ski. There are restaurants along the shore serving 
fresh seafood, cocktails, and fruit juices. You can also rent a chair and relax under the 
shade or join locals fishing near the cliffs. As the day ends, the beach faces west, 
giving you a wide view of the golden sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
Number 11: Santa Marta Cathedral (Catedral Basílica de Santa Marta)
Built in the 1760s, Santa Marta Cathedral is one of the city’s most important 
religious and historical landmarks. Its white walls and elegant neoclassical 
design stand out in the historic center. Inside, you can see a monument commemorating 
Rodrigo de Bastidas, the city’s founder, whose remains were moved here in 1953.
You will also learn that Simón Bolívar was first buried here in 1830 before his 
remains were moved to Caracas in 1842. The cathedral’s prominent bell tower is a 
distinctive feature of the facade, which, along with the city itself, has withstood 
the centuries, including fires and floods. As you walk through the plaza outside, 
you will notice locals resting or taking photos of the grand facade.
Number 10: Bastidas Boardwalk For a scenic walk beside the sea, take 
a stroll along the Bastidas Boardwalk, locally called Malecón de Bastidas.
You will see the large “Santa Marta” sign that’s perfect for photos, along 
with parks, playgrounds, and outdoor gyms. As you walk, you can enjoy wide views of 
the Caribbean Sea and the city skyline, especially beautiful at sunset 
when the sky reflects on the water. The sea breeze and open space make it 
a relaxing place to spend an afternoon. You will also find restaurants 
serving local seafood and ceviche, giving you a taste of Santa Marta’s coastal 
flavors while enjoying the ocean view. Number 9: Parque Bolívar
You will enjoy spending time at Parque Bolívar, a peaceful park and plaza facing Santa Marta’s bay.
You can relax under tall trees, watch locals chatting on benches, and see the bronze statue 
of Simón Bolívar, the city’s famous hero. The park is surrounded by colonial buildings, 
including the old City Hall and the Customs House, now home to the Tairona Gold Museum.
As you walk around, you’ll notice the Caryatids Monument, symbolizing the end of slavery, and 
an equestrian statue of Bolívar in the center. Vendors often set up nearby, selling 
crafts, snacks, and fresh juices that give you a taste of local life.
By the way, check the links in the description for the ultimate guide on saving 
money while traveling, plus recommended tour operators in Santa Marta.
Number 8: Tairona Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Tayrona–Casa de la Aduana)
At the Tairona Gold Museum, you will see hundreds of gold artifacts made by ancient cultures 
from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. As you walk through the rooms, you will 
notice golden ornaments shaped like birds, bats, frogs, and human figures created 
by the Nahuange and Tayrona people. The displays show how their skills developed 
from 200 CE until the Spanish arrived. Upstairs, you will find exhibits 
about Santa Marta’s colonial past, the struggle for independence, and the role of 
Simón Bolívar, who once lay in this same building. You will also learn about the traditions of 
the Wiwa and Kogi tribes who still live nearby. Number 7: Go Sailing
One of the best ways to enjoy Santa Marta is by getting out on the Caribbean Sea.
You can join a sailing trip to Tayrona National Park and visit beaches like Bahía Concha, 
known for its clear water and calm setting. As you sail, you’ll see green mountains, 
small islands, and beautiful coastline views. Many tours include lunch, snacks, and 
snorkeling or paddleboarding gear, so you can swim or relax on deck between stops.
You can also charter a private boat with friends for a day, cruising to quiet beaches or nearby 
bays while soaking up the sea breeze and enjoying the Caribbean scenery.
Number 6: Minca About 35 minutes from Santa Marta, Minca 
is a small mountain village surrounded by rivers, waterfalls, and lush forests.
You can join a coffee tour at La Victoria, Colombia’s oldest coffee farm, or taste 
local cacao at La Candelaria Coffee Farm B&B. You can also swim in the clear waters 
of Marinka Waterfalls or Pozo Azul, both popular spots for cooling off after a hike.
The village is also known for birdwatching at El Dorado Nature Reserve, where hundreds 
of colorful species can be seen. As you ride a motorcycle or bike through the 
hills, you’ll enjoy cool air, peaceful views, and the charm of rural Colombia.
Number 5: Rodadero Rodadero is another lively area located 7 miles 
(12 km) from Santa Marta, known for its beaches, restaurants, and high-rise hotels.
You can relax on Playa El Rodadero, a wide 1,600-foot (500-m) stretch of 
clean sand and calm Caribbean water, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach is lined with food stalls, bars, and shops, so you’ll always find something to enjoy.
Along the Rodadero Promenade, palm trees shade a long walkway where you can take a 
peaceful stroll or jog by the sea. For adventure, you can hike about 40 
minutes through the hills to Playa Calderon, a quiet hidden beach with turquoise 
water and soft sand perfect for swimming. Number 4: Playa Blanca
For more relaxation, take a 15-minute boat ride from Rodadero Beach to Playa Blanca.
You will find soft white sand, calm blue water, and rows of small restaurants where you 
can enjoy fresh seafood and cold drinks. You can rent a shaded tent, stretch out, 
and spend the day swimming or sunbathing. The beach can get busy, especially on weekends, 
but the lively atmosphere adds to the charm. If you want something more exciting, try the zip 
line that runs across the beach, giving you a fun view of the coastline as you glide over the water.
Number 3: Pico Cristóbal Colón At 18,947 feet (5,775 m), Pico Cristóbal Colón 
is the second highest mountain in Colombia, standing tall in the Sierra 
Nevada de Santa Marta range. You will see snow-covered peaks rising above green 
forests, clear blue lakes, and shining glaciers. The mountain is home to unique 
plants and animals, including the Andean condor and the spectacled bear.
To visit, you need to join a guided tour with a licensed company that works with local tribes.
These tours take you through quiet jungle trails, cool rivers, and mountain paths 
that lead toward the icy summit. As you climb, the air feels fresher, and 
the views become wider and more beautiful. Number 2: Parque San Miguel
Parque San Miguel sits on the edge of Santa Marta’s Historic Center and 
is a lively place where locals gather. You can watch older men play chess under the 
trees, join a Zumba class, or see a basketball or mini-soccer game on the court.
Families come in the evenings to relax while children play nearby.
The park is cared for by residents who keep it clean, prune the trees, and maintain the 
court since the city gives it little attention. Though lighting is limited at night, 
you will still find people socializing and enjoying the open space.
Number 1: Taste Local Flavor For food lovers, Santa Marta offers 
delicious ways to experience local culture. You can join a food tour that takes you through 
the city to try traditional dishes like yuca, arepas, and empanadas from family-owned 
restaurants and street vendors. As you move from one stop to another, you’ll 
taste a variety of Caribbean flavors and learn about the stories behind each recipe.
Another fun way to enjoy Santa Marta’s cuisine is by joining a cooking class.
You’ll prepare classic dishes such as fried fish, coconut rice, and plantains, guided by local 
chefs who show you the techniques and spices that make Caribbean food special.
Click here to watch this video.

This Santa Marta travel guide shares the best things to do in Santa Marta.

————–
How to travel more and visit your dream destinations without breaking the bank: https://travelmorepayless.com

Recommended Tours in Santa Marta:

Hike for 4 days to the Lost City, Santa Marta: https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Marta/Walk-for-4-days-to-Ciudad-Perdida-Santa-Marta/d4520-158442P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SantaMarta

Sailing to Tayrona with Luis and his team:https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Marta/Sailing-to-Tayrona-with-Luis-Unique/d4520-173175P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SantaMarta

MINCA TOUR – Explore waterfalls and discover the origin of coffee and cocoa: https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Marta/Minca-Coffee-and-Cocoa/d4520-196065P10?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SantaMarta

2-Day Coastal Motorcycle Tour: https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Marta/2-Day-Coastal-Motorcycle-Tour/d4520-66846P2?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SantaMarta
—————

Welcome to Santa Marta, Colombia, a historic coastal city where the Caribbean meets the Sierra Nevada mountains. Known for its beaches, colonial charm, and gateway access to Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta, Colombia is one of the country’s top destinations for both relaxation and adventure.

Start your visit in the city’s historic center, the oldest in Colombia. Walk through narrow streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, cafés, and small shops. The Cathedral Basilica of Santa Marta is one of the oldest churches in South America and is believed to hold the remains of Rodrigo de Bastidas, the city’s founder. Around Parque de los Novios (Lovers’ Park), you’ll find lively restaurants and bars where locals and travelers gather in the evenings.

Santa Marta, Colombia is also home to the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, a peaceful estate surrounded by gardens and mango trees. This is where Simón Bolívar, the liberator of South America, spent his final days. Today, the site serves as a museum dedicated to his life and the history of Colombia’s independence.

For beach lovers, Santa Marta offers easy access to some of the most beautiful coastal spots in the country. El Rodadero Beach is the most popular urban beach, filled with restaurants, hotels, and water sports. For a quieter experience, head to Taganga, a fishing village just a few minutes away. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent diving schools that offer trips to coral reefs nearby.

The highlight of the region is Tayrona National Park, located about an hour from Santa Marta, Colombia. This protected area combines jungle, mountains, and beaches, making it one of the most scenic places in South America. Hike through tropical forests to reach beaches like Cabo San Juan, where palm trees meet turquoise waters. Along the trails, you might spot monkeys, tropical birds, and other wildlife.

Beyond Tayrona, you can visit the indigenous village of Minca, set in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This small mountain town is known for its coffee farms, waterfalls, and cool climate — a refreshing escape from the coast.

Food in Santa Marta, Colombia reflects its coastal setting. Fresh seafood dishes like ceviche, fried fish with coconut rice, and patacones (fried plantains) are local favorites. Street vendors also sell arepas, empanadas, and tropical fruits like mango, guava, and passionfruit.

At sunset, head to the Santa Marta Marina or the Malecon for a walk along the waterfront. The views of the sun setting behind the mountains and the sea are unforgettable.

With its mix of beaches, history, and nature, Santa Marta, Colombia offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring colonial streets, hiking through Tayrona’s jungle, or relaxing by the Caribbean, Santa Marta captures the spirit and beauty of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

Keep watching to see the top things to do in Santa Marta, top attractions in Santa Marta, places to visit in Santa Marta and Colombia travel guides.

Subscribe for travel inspiration videos and travel guides! Inspired by Touropia, expedia, Wolters World, Beautiful Destinations, MojoTravels & Tourradar.

Inspired by Top 10 Best Things to Do in Santa Marta, Colombia [Santa Marta Travel Guide 2024]

Inspired by SANTA MARTA: The secret paradise in Colombia

Inspired by Watch this before traveling to Santa Marta, Colombia 🇨🇴 (4k)

Inspired by SANTA MARTA Colombia | What To Know Before Visiting

Inspired by Why NOBODY visits Colombia’s oldest city! (24 hours in Santa Marta)

(PG Clean, Family Friendly For kids, No Swearing)