Coastal Colombian city with Caribbean beaches and UNESCO World Heritage status. Capital of Magdalena Department and fourth-largest urban center in the country.
Santa Marta, founded in 1525, is Colombia's oldest surviving city. This coastal destination is home to El Rodadero Beach, the Gold Museum, and the nearby Tayrona National Park. You can embark on a challenging trek to Ciudad Perdida, an ancient archaeological site, or take a day trip to the mountain town of Minca. With its proximity to both the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains, Santa Marta serves as an ideal base for exploring Colombia's northern coast.
Exploring Tayrona National Park
Tayrona National Park, 34 km from Santa Marta, encompasses 12 square miles of Caribbean waters and 45 square miles of beaches, bays, and rainforest. You can hike through lush trails to reach secluded beaches like Arrecifes, La Ardilla, and La Piscina. As you walk, you might encounter howler monkeys, iguanas, or various bird species. The park's rich biodiversity includes numerous plant and animal species. Remember to wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring plenty of water, as the tropical climate can be hot and humid.
Trekking to Ciudad Perdida
The trek to Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) is a challenging 32-mile, 4-6 day hike through dense jungle. This ancient city, built by the Tairona people in the 7th century, is about 650 years older than Machu Picchu. You'll cross rivers and climb steep hills before reaching the stone terraces of the Lost City. Due to the trek's difficulty and the site's cultural importance, you must go with a licensed tour company. The hike is physically demanding, but seeing this hidden archaeological site is a unique experience.
Discovering Minca
Minca, a small mountain town southeast of Santa Marta, sits at an elevation of about 650 meters. The cooler climate attracts bird watchers, with hundreds of species in the area. You can visit Hacienda La Victoria, an organic coffee farm, to learn about traditional coffee production methods. Minca also serves as a starting point for hikes to nearby waterfalls and swimming holes. After exploring, you can stay in one of Minca's eco-lodges and enjoy the calm mountain atmosphere.
Getting Around Santa Marta
You'll find several options for getting around Santa Marta and its surroundings. Within the city, taxis are plentiful and don't use meters - agree on a price before starting your journey. For longer trips, such as to Tayrona National Park or Minca, you can take public buses from the market in the city center. If you're arriving by air, you'll land at Simón Bolívar International Airport, located about 20 minutes south of town, with closer access to the beach resorts. Budget travelers often use shared minibuses called colectivos, which are cheap but can be crowded and less comfortable than taxis.
