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Where to Stay in Santa Marta

Where to Stay in Santa Marta

Santa Marta Caribbean Coast, Colombia Travel Guide

Accommodation Types in Santa Marta

Santa Marta has a diverse range of lodging options.

Budget & Local Stays

  • Hostels:

    Dormitories and private rooms, often with communal spaces and organized social activities. La Brisa Loca Hostel is a popular choice.

  • Guesthouses (Casas de Huéspedes):

    Smaller, family-run establishments offering private rooms, sometimes with breakfast.

  • Camping:

    Available within Tayrona National Natural Park and some areas around Minca.

  • Hammock Rental:

    A comfortable option within Tayrona National Park, especially at Cabo San Juan.

Mid-Range & Unique Stays

  • Boutique Hotels:

    Stylish properties in historic buildings, offering personalized service and unique design. Casa de Leda, a Kali Hotel, exemplifies this.

  • Mid-range Hotels:

    Standard options with comfortable amenities, pools, and restaurants.

  • Resorts:

    Larger facilities with pools, direct beach access, often all-inclusive. Hotel Tamacá in El Rodadero is well-known.

  • Fincas & Eco-lodges:

    Rural farm stays in Sierra Nevada (Minca) or nature-focused lodges near Tayrona, offering unique environmental connections.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area in Santa Marta has its distinct character.

El Centro Historic Center

Positives
  • Central location, walkability to attractions
  • Diverse dining options, lively atmosphere
  • Charming aesthetics
  • Home to museums, boutique hotels, hostels
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially around nightlife spots
  • Some areas feel less safe at night
  • Pickpockets in crowded spots
  • Avoid walking alone in very quiet streets at night

El Rodadero

Positives
  • Direct beach access, family-friendly
  • Wide dining options, resort amenities
  • Generally safe
  • Good taxi and bus connections to historic center
Considerations
  • Less authentic "Colombian" feel
  • Can be crowded
  • Transportation to historic center
  • Be cautious with belongings on the beach

Minca Sierra Nevada

Positives
  • Cooler temperatures, stunning nature
  • Hiking, coffee tours, eco-lodges
  • Very quiet and peaceful
  • Opportunities for birdwatching
Considerations
  • Transportation from Santa Marta
  • More rustic feel, limited amenities
  • Occasionally experiences safety concerns
  • Limited upscale dining options

Proximity and Safety

El Centro:

Closest to historical sites, museums, and main city bus routes. Taxis are readily available.

Taganga:

Provides access to its own beach, diving centers, and boat tours to Tayrona. Requires a taxi or shared colectivo to the Santa Marta city center. Vigilance important, especially after dark. Use reputable transport, as petty crime can occur.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking a suitable place at a good price.

Optimal Booking Times

  • High Season (Dec-Feb, mid-Jun to mid-Jul, Holy Week): Book 2-4 months ahead for preferred options.
  • Shoulder Season (Mar-May, Aug, Nov): Book 1-2 months ahead for good selection and rates.
  • Low Season (Sep-Oct): Booking a few weeks ahead for popular places is advisable.
  • Cancellation Policies: Many properties offer free cancellation up to a certain period before arrival.

Platforms & Pricing

  • Trusted Platforms: International platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, and Vrbo are widely used and reliable for reservations.
  • Direct Booking: Local boutique hotels or fincas might offer better rates if booked directly.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates: Generally not customary for established hotels. Possible for small guesthouses in low season for cash payment.
  • Seasonal Fluctuations: Prices are 20-50% higher during high season. Weekends and holidays tend to be more expensive.

Unique Options

House/Pet Sitting:

Consider TrustedHousesitters for a unique stay experience.

Vacation Rentals:

Numerous vacation rentals are available through platforms like Airbnb for more space and kitchen facilities.

Accommodation Recommendations

To assist your planning, here is a comparison table.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Hostels:

La Brisa Loca Hostel is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers and solo adventurers.

  • Price Range: COP$30,000 - COP$70,000
  • Good for meeting people and central location.
  • Shared facilities and potential noise.
  • Offering dorms and private rooms, with communal spaces and social activities.
Mid-Range Hotels:

Hotel Casa Verde represents a comfortable option for travelers seeking value.

  • Price Range: COP$90,000 - COP$250,000
  • Comfortable amenities.
  • Less unique character.
  • These establishments often include private baths and pools.

Premium & Unique Stays

Boutique Hotels:

Hotel Boutique Don Pepe exemplifies a charming, personalized experience in the historic center.

  • Price Range: COP$200,000 - COP$400,000
  • Charming, personalized service, central location.
  • Rooms are smaller.
  • Housed in historic buildings with unique design.
Luxury Resorts:

Hotel Tamacá offers beachfront luxury and extensive services in El Rodadero.

  • Price Range: COP$350,000 - COP$1,000,000+
  • Direct beach access, pools, comprehensive services.
  • Can be crowded with a resort atmosphere.
  • Larger facilities with swimming pools and often all-inclusive options.

Family-Friendly Options

  • El Rodadero:

    Numerous apartment rentals and resorts with pools suitable for families.

  • Convenience:

    Properties with kitchens and multiple bedrooms are convenient for added comfort.

  • Recommendations:

    Hotel Tamacá and various Airbnb apartment rentals in Rodadero are good choices.

  • Eco-lodges:

    For an unique experience, consider eco-lodges near Tayrona National Park or in Minca, like Tayrona Tented Lodge.

Solo Travel & Long Stays

  • Hostels:

    Hostels in the historic center (La Brisa Loca, Dreamer Hostel) are excellent for meeting other travelers.

  • Taganga:

    Taganga features many solo-traveler friendly hostels and diving schools, fostering a social atmosphere.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Via Airbnb or local real estate agents are the best option for long stays.

  • Popular Areas:

    Rodadero and Bello Horizonte are popular areas for long-term rentals due to their amenities and beach access.

Cultural Significance

Historic Stays:

Many boutique hotels in the historic center are housed in beautifully restored colonial buildings.

  • Hotel Boutique Don Pepe or Casa de Leda blend history with modern comfort.
  • Offer a glimpse into Santa Marta's past.
  • Provide an unique stay.
Unique Localities:

Fincas in Minca offer a rural experience, often combined with coffee tours. Eco-lodges near Tayrona focus on sustainability and nature immersion.

  • Allow connection with the environment.
  • Offer immersive cultural experiences through specialized tour operators.

Accessibility & Amenities

Wi-Fi:

Most hotels and hostels offer Wi-Fi, though quality may vary, especially in remote areas like Minca.

Air Conditioning:

Common in hotels, specifically in the hot coastal areas of Santa Marta and Rodadero. Less common in budget hostels or Minca eco-lodges.

Laundry Services:

Many accommodations, especially hostels and mid-range hotels, offer laundry services for a fee.