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Things to Do in Santa Marta

Things to Do in Santa Marta

Santa Marta Caribbean Coast, Colombia Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Santa Marta and its surroundings offer a range of outdoor adventures for active travelers.

Hiking & Trekking

Tayrona National Park

Easy-to-moderate trails connect the main entrance (El Zaino) to beaches like Arrecifes, La Piscina, and Cabo San Juan del Guía. These paths are relatively flat but can be long and hot.

Minca Hikes

Easy-to-moderate walks to waterfalls like Pozo Azul and Cascada Marinka, as well as to coffee farms. More challenging hikes lead to higher viewpoints or more remote areas.

Ciudad Perdida Trek

A multi-day (4-5 days) challenging trek through jungle, rivers, and mountains. It requires high physical fitness and must be done with authorized guides.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Diving & Snorkeling: Taganga serves as a main hub, offering courses (PADI certification) and boat trips to nearby coral reefs. Bringing your own Snorkel Mask and Fins Set is a good option.
  • Swimming: Enjoyable in the calm waters of Rodadero, Playa Blanca, La Piscina (Tayrona), and other designated swimming beaches.
  • Surfing & Paddleboarding: Opportunities exist in Palomino, a day trip from Santa Marta, with beginner-friendly waves.
  • River Tubing: A popular activity in Palomino, specifically on the Rio Don Diego, for a relaxing float downriver.

Adventure Sports

  • Canyoning and rappelling activities are available near Minca waterfalls.
  • Ziplining is also available in Minca, providing a thrilling ride through the canopy.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Minca is a renowned birdwatching destination.
  • Home to many endemic and migratory species.
  • Tayrona National Park: Monkeys (howler, capuchin), agoutis, and various bird species.
  • Guided birdwatching tours are available and recommended.

Cycling

  • Mostly for leisure in Santa Marta or for reaching specific points.
  • Mountain biking opportunities exist in Minca, offering some challenging trails.
  • Bike rentals are available in the village.

Important Note for Ciudad Perdida

This trek must be done with authorized guides for safety and conservation reasons. Book through reputable operators. Weather can impact trail conditions.

Cultural Immersion

Engage in cultural immersion through various activities in Santa Marta.

Workshops & Performances

  • Formal art, craft, music, or dance workshops are not widely advertised, but some boutique hotels or specialized tour operators arrange private experiences upon request.
  • Cultural performances and traditional ceremonies can sometimes be observed during local festivals or through specific cultural tours.
  • Community-based tourism initiatives offer direct interaction with local communities.
  • Language learning opportunities exist through private tutors or local language schools in Santa Marta.

Cultural Events & Landmarks

Local Festivals

Check local listings upon arrival for any cultural festivals and events, as these provide excellent opportunities to witness traditional Colombian celebrations.

Historic Center

Walk around to admire the colorful colonial and republican architecture and imagine the city's past.

Gold Museum

The Museo del Oro Tayrona provides insight into the region's pre-Columbian history and art of the Tayrona people.

Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino

Visit the hacienda where Simón Bolívar, "The Liberator," spent his last days and died in 1830.

Santa Marta Cathedral

Explore one of the oldest churches in Colombia, built in the 18th century, holding historical significance.

Plaza de Bolívar

The main square in the historic center, facing the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by historic buildings.

Relaxation & Wellness

Santa Marta provides options for relaxation and wellness.

Spa Services & Retreats

  • Spa Services: Several mid-range to luxury hotels in the historic center and Rodadero offer massages and facials.
  • Eco-lodge Wellness: Some eco-lodges in Minca also provide wellness treatments in a natural setting.
  • Hot Springs: There are no significant hot springs directly in Santa Marta or immediately nearby.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Some hostels or eco-lodges in Minca and along the coast (e.g., Palomino) offer yoga classes or retreats.

Pools & Beach Clubs

Hotel Pools

Many hotels in Rodadero have inviting pool areas, providing a refreshing escape from the heat.

Beach Clubs

Some beachfront restaurants offer beach clubs with loungers and service, allowing you to relax by the sea with amenities.

Tranquil Beaches

Tayrona National Park beaches like La Piscina offer calm waters and serene settings for unwinding.

Natural Relaxation

Sierra Nevada Views:

The cooler climate and lush cloud forest of Minca are ideal for peaceful escapes and connecting with nature.

Botanical Gardens:

The Jardín Botánico del Caribe, located on the grounds of Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, offers a pleasant and educational walk for tranquility.

Sunset Views:

Enjoy stunning sunsets over the Caribbean Sea from various viewpoints, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Santa Marta comes alive at night with various entertainment options.

Live Music & Bars

  • Parque de los Novios: The main hub for nightlife, with bars and restaurants featuring live music, especially on weekends (vallenato, salsa, reggaeton).
  • La Puerta: A popular bar near Parque de los Novios known for its lively atmosphere and live music, great for dancing.
  • Pub Crawls: Hostels might organize these, offering a social way to experience the nightlife.
  • Nightclubs: The area around Parque de los Novios and surrounding streets offers various nightclubs playing Latin pop, reggaeton, and salsa. Rodadero also has nightclubs.

Cultural Performances

Teatro Santa Marta

A historic theater that occasionally hosts plays, concerts, or cultural performances. Check local listings upon arrival for any scheduled events.

Casa de la Cultura

The House of Culture offers workshops and cultural events, promoting local arts and traditions.

Street Performers

Often entertain in major plazas like Parque de los Novios, adding to the evening atmosphere.

Evening Ambiance

Enjoy a evening atmosphere around Parque de los Novios, with diverse dining and entertainment options.

Late Night

Nightclubs often stay open until the early hours of the morning, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

Beachfront Fun

Rodadero offers beachfront bars and entertainment, popular for those seeking a lively coastal evening.

Getting Around at Night

Taxis & Ride-Sharing:
  • Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps (like Uber/Didi where available) at night.
  • Agree on fare before starting your ride if no meter is used.
  • Avoid walking alone in very quiet streets after dark.
Public Transport:
  • Public buses operate but might be less frequent or safe late at night.
  • Familiarize yourself with routes if using public transport after dark.
  • In well-lit, populated areas like Parque de los Novios, walking is generally safe.

Safety at Night

Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when alone. Keep valuables out of sight. Trust your instincts.

Activity Planning Summary

Must-Do Experiences

  • Tayrona National Park Exploration: Hike trails, discover pristine beaches (Cabo San Juan del Guía). Book via GetYourGuide.
  • Minca Nature Retreat: Enjoy cooler temperatures, coffee tours, and birdwatching.
  • Ciudad Perdida Trek: For adventurous travelers seeking a multi-day archaeological challenge.
  • Historic Center Immersion: Explore colonial architecture, museums, and lively nightlife around Parque de los Novios.

Consider for your visit

  • Diving or Snorkeling in Taganga: Explore marine life and coral reefs.
  • River Tubing in Palomino: A relaxing float down scenic rivers.
  • Culinary Exploration: Sample fresh seafood, coconut rice, and patacones at local eateries.
  • Cultural Events: Check local listings for festivals, music, and art exhibitions during your stay.