Santa Marta Magdalena Department, Colombia Travel Guide
Staying connected in Santa Marta simple with local SIM cards. Major mobile carriers Claro, Tigo, Movistar. Claro generally widest coverage.
Internet access and Wi-Fi widespread. Most places to stay and hostels free Wi-Fi, quality can vary. Many restaurants and cafes free Wi-Fi.
Spanish official language in Colombia. English used by some staff in larger hotels, tourist agencies, upscale restaurants. Limited English proficiency elsewhere.
Local SIM cards for widespread coverage. Wi-Fi common in tourist spots. Learn basic Spanish phrases for better interaction.
Navigate local opening hours and special days.
Generally 9/10 AM to 7/8 PM. Many smaller shops may have a lunch closure.
Lunch 12-3 PM, Dinner 7-10 PM. Some cafes open earlier for breakfast.
Typically 8/9 AM to 4/5 PM weekdays. ATMs widely available.
Colombia observes numerous public holidays, many religious, like Holy Week, Christmas, and Epiphany.
Seasonal closures and limited schedules can affect your plans.
Business hours vary; check for public holidays. ATMs generally available. Plan for potential seasonal changes.
Cultural insights for respectful interactions.
For formal greetings, a handshake common for men. For women, a light kiss on the cheek (right cheek first) common with friends and acquaintances. Informally, a simple "Hola" sufficient.
It is polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Always show respect for their wishes and cultural protocols. Avoid photographing military personnel or police officers without permission.
Dining and tipping practices covered in detail in other sections.
Female solo travelers should exercise standard precautions, especially at night. Although usually safe, machismo can still be present, but respectful interaction important. Colombia generally progressive for LGBTQ+ rights in Latin America.
Research specific hotels and tour operators for stated accessibility. Online travel forums or disability travel blogs offer anecdotal advice.
