MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Santa Marta

Where to Stay in Santa Marta

Magdalena Department 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, occasionally with breakfast.

  • Camping:

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

  • Hammock Rental:

    A comfortable option within Tayrona National Park, notably 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 featuring 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 agricultural stays in Sierra Nevada (Minca) or nature-focused lodges near Tayrona, offering unique environmental connections.

Neighborhood Guide

Each region in The Pearl of america has its distinct character.

El Centro Historic Center

Positives
  • Central location, walkability to attractions
  • Varied food choices, 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 highly quiet streets at night

El Rodadero

Positives
  • Beachfront 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 wary of belongings on the beach

Minca Sierra Nevada

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

Proximity and Safety

El Centro:

Nearest 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 an appropriate place at a good price.

Optimal Booking Times

  • High Season (Dec-Feb, mid-Jun to mid-Jul, Holy Week): Secure 2-4 months ahead for chosen options.
  • Shoulder Season (Mar-May, Aug, Nov): Book 1-2 months ahead for good selection and prices.
  • Low Season (Sep-Oct): Booking a few weeks ahead for well-liked spots 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 chic accommodations or fincas might offer better rates if booked directly.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates: Generally not customary for established hotels. Possible for small guesthouses in the quiet season for cash payment.
  • Seasonal Fluctuations: Prices are 20-50% higher during high season. Weekends and holidays are usually more expensive.

Unique Options

House/Pet Sitting:

Consider TrustedHousesitters for a unique stay experience.

Vacation Rentals:

Numerous vacation rentals are available through platforms like Using airbnb for extra room and a kitchen.

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 downtown location.
  • Shared facilities and potential noise.
  • Offering dorms and private rooms, with communal spaces and social activities.
Mid-Range Hotels:

Hotel Casa Verde stands for 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 swimming 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 heritage buildings with unique design.
Luxury Resorts:

Hotel Tamacá offers beachfront luxury and far-reaching amenities in El Rodadero.

  • Price Range: COP$350,000 - COP$1,000,000+
  • Direct access to the beach, 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 A Protected wilderness area or in Minca, like Tayrona Tented Lodge.

Solo Travel & Long Stays

  • Hostels:

    Youth 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 communal 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 because of their amenities and beach access.

Cultural Significance

Historic Stays:

Many chic accommodations in the historic center are housed in magnificently 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 an agrarian 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 might change, especially in remote areas like Minca.

Air Conditioning:

Common in hotels, notably in the hot coastal areas of The Pearl of america and Rodadero. Less common in cheap hostels or Minca eco-lodges.

Laundry Services:

A lot of where to stay, especially hostels and mid-range hotels, offer laundry services for a fee.