Santa Marta Caribbean Coast, Colombia Travel Guide
Santa Marta experiences a tropical dry climate with consistently warm temperatures all year. Days typically see temperatures between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F), while nights cool slightly to 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F). Humidity remains high, averaging around 75-80%.
Santa Marta has two distinct seasons: a dry season (December to April) with minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine, and a wet season (May to November) bringing higher rainfall, often in short, heavy afternoon or evening showers. September and October are typically the months with the most rain. Despite the rain, the sun still shines for much of the day.
Travelers understand the entry requirements for Colombia. Many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, most European Union countries, Australia, and New Zealand, enter Colombia for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa. This initial 90-day period extends for another 90 days, totaling 180 days within a calendar year. Travelers who need a visa apply online through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cancillería) website before their trip. The process involves uploading required documents digitally.
An interview might be needed at a Colombian consulate in your home country. Confirm your specific nationality's requirements well in advance of your travel dates. For consumer visa application services, visit IVisa or VisaHQ.
For entry into Colombia
Valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
Proof of your intent to leave Colombia (e.g., flight itinerary).
Important for immigration
Immigration officials may ask for evidence of financial means to support your stay.
Upon arrival, receive an entry stamp or "Andean Migration Card" in your passport. Keep it safe.
What to expect
No general entry fees apply for tourists upon arrival in Colombia.
An entrance fee is needed for Tayrona National Natural Park. Rates vary by nationality and season.
The currency used is the Colombian Peso (COP). Exchange rates fluctuate. Major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and stores. Cash remains useful for smaller vendors, street food, local buses, and many establishments outside major tourist areas. Always carry some local currency.
ATMs are widely available in Santa Marta from banks like Banco de Bogotá, Bancolombia, BBVA, and Davivienda. Withdrawal limits typically range from COP$600,000 to COP$800,000 per transaction. Your home bank may also charge foreign transaction fees. For security, use ATMs located inside banks or major shopping centers. Currency exchange services are available at banks or "Casas de Cambio." Compare rates before exchanging. Avoid exchanging large amounts at the airport, as rates are often less favorable.
10% service charge often included. Ask for it to be removed if service was poor. If not included, 10% for good service.
Tipping not expected. Round up to the nearest thousand pesos.
Small tips (COP$2,000 - COP$5,000) appreciated for good service.
Expected for good service. COP$10,000 - COP$30,000 per person per day.
For medical and travel coverage, visit Insubuy.
Prioritize your health and safety when planning a trip to Santa Marta. While no specific vaccinations are strictly required for entry to Colombia (unless coming from a Yellow Fever risk country), several are recommended.
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for personalized health advice for your trip.
Santa Marta is generally safer than some larger Colombian cities. However, petty crime, like pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common, especially in crowded tourist areas and markets.
Awareness of natural disaster risks and seasonal hazards is a part of safe travel.
Colombia lies in an active seismic zone. While major earthquakes are rare in Santa Marta, minor tremors occur.
Heavy Rains & Landslides: During the wet season (May-November, especially September-October), heavy rainfall causes localized flooding and mudslides. This is especially true in mountainous areas like Minca or on roads leading to Tayrona. Monitor local weather forecasts.
Call 123 for Police, Fire, and Ambulance services. This is the main emergency number.
Fast and direct access to emergency responders across Colombia.
Only for real emergencies. Misuse can lead to penalties.
Call 112 for direct contact with the police force in case of crime or public order issues.
Direct line for incidents requiring police intervention.
Be clear and concise with your location and situation.
Reach the Tourist Police at (605) 420 5464 for issues related to tourists or tourist areas.
Dedicated assistance for foreign visitors and common tourist issues.
Best for non-life-threatening incidents in tourist zones.
| Contact Type | Contact Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Your Country's Embassy/Consulate | Locate contact details prior to travel | Most are in Bogotá; keep details handy for emergencies. |
| Local Hospital/Clinic | Identify nearest reputable facility | For immediate medical attention. |
| Trusted Person/Emergency Contact | Inform someone of your itinerary | Share your plans with family/friends at home. |
