When it comes to the coastline of Colombia, you have a large variety of cities to explore. However, Santa Marta is by far the best beach town to travel to. If you want to explore the country’s culture, traditions, landmarks, and local dishes, head straight to Santa Marta.
You're looking for a great beach getaway in Colombia? Search no more! Here are The Best & Unique Things To Do In Santa Marta, a perfect balance between spectacular landscapes, majestic beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
The story of this town starts in 1525 when Spain settled in Colombia. Since then the city continues to grow while keeping the beach town’s old vibe.
Although there are plenty of things to visit in the city, you do also have impressive landmarks outside to discover. The options are endless!
Definitely, there is a lot to see in this picturesque location so I hope you give the city more than just a couple of days to explore.
With a few months, June to October, which are at the risk of being touched by heavy rains, the rest of the year offers perfect weather for your vacation.
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Iconic Sights in Santa Marta
Santa Marta is a popular destination in Colombia and as a consequence, there are a few unmissable things you should do and see especially if this is your first time here!
Wander the Historical Center
Definitely, the oldest city in the Americas is not only about history, as there are endless things to do, however, you should make some time to explore some of the most well-preserved cobblestone streets and architecture. Santa Marta is a pretty small town so you can visit on your own, but walking guided tours will definitely offer more insights into the area’s history and traditions.
Visit the Simon Bolivar Museum
The most famous museum in Santa Marta is Simon Bolivar Museum, simply because he is the man who lead Colombia and many other Latin American countries to independence from the Spanish empire.
Go on a coffee tour
Coffee tours are easily one of the spectacular things to do in Santa Marta and you can do them in one of the many coffee farms on the hills of Minca. This tour will make it the best way to explore the region, the traditions, and the popular Colombian coffee culture.
History and Culture in Santa Marta
If you are a history lover, you will definitely enjoy a historical tour of this impressive beach town. Whether you simply want to stroll Santa Marta’s old town or dive into the local museums, there is no way to skip this out of your itinerary.
Visit the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum)
Visiting museums may not be the major reason to visit Santa Marta however, in the city center you’ll find Museo del Oro, and this one is definitely worth a look!
Conquer the Lost City Trek
Most travelers come to Santa Marta to trek the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida). Often compared with Machu Picchu, and located high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this tour involves at least 4 hours of hiking through the jungle while exploring the beautiful landscapes. Is an experience and you definitely don’t want to miss it.
Santa Marta Surroundings
Exploring the surrounding is the perfect way to see the love of locals for their country, cultures, and traditions. They will explain everything, whether is about music, dance, coffee, or culinary secrets, with a lot of passion and pride.
Explore Rodadero Beach
Most travelers come to Santa Marta to trek the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida). Located high in the Sierra Nevada mountain, this place is often compared with Machu Picchu. The tour involves at least 4 hours of hiking through the jungle, with scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and cacao farms, making it a great experience for those looking to explore nature, so do not miss it!
Take the boat to Playa Blanca
A boat trip to Playa Blanca is a must! Experience some of the highlights of the Colombian Caribbean coast while you’re relaxing and enjoying the beautiful views. Beside Playa Blanca, you have Radadero Beach, popular for vibrant activities, nightlife, street food, and a lot of fun.
Visit Tayrona National Park
Visit the villages of Sierra Nevada and discover Koguis, Arhuacos, Wiwas, and Kankuamos. the 4 indigenous communities descended from the Tairona. You even can spend the night there which makes it a great way to immerse in their culture and their wisdom about nature.
Shopping and Food in Santa Marta
Making use of my motto again: No holiday without shopping! At least a bit! Whether you want to explore the local cuisine, buy souvenirs, gifts, or some handmade crafts, shopping is an essential part of your trip. And Santa Marta is a great place to find all of the above!
Taste the Colombian life is a Food Tour
When it comes to traditions, culture, and food, Colombia has everything and Santa Marta is the best place to explore it. As you already imagine, most of the famous locations like Cartagena, have changed many things with time, but Santa Marta kept the traditions and the recipes as they were. The local food tour is the easiest way to get a glimpse into the culture and way of life.
Go Shopping
Shopping should be an essential part of any trip, and Santa Marta is no exception! Santa Marta Public Market has over 500 local vendors selling almost everything from fresh local ingredients to clothes and handmade souvenirs. It is a small market but a great way to experience the culture, taste the traditional dishes and enjoy the good vibe.
Take a cooking class
You may also want to take a cooking class if you wish to bring this delicious cuisine back home. The Caribbean food made in Santa Marta is delicious! Imagine a whole fried fish, coconut rice, and rich spices. You do want to learn how to prepare it!
Top Fun Activities in Santa Marta
Fun activities may be one of your major reason to visit Santa Marta! There are plenty of things to do and have a lot of fun since this place is all about beaches and good vibes.
Relax at Playa Grande
Although is not the luxurious-perfect beach as per Western standards, this place is worth it to give it a try. Activities like sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are the best thing to do to enjoy your day here.
Go Sailing
On a sailing trip from Santa Marta, you can visit beaches and multiple locations like Tayrona National Park, the most pristine area in the country, jungle landscapes, and islands. What better way to enjoy these impressive scenic views than on a boat?
Go scuba diving
If you want to go scuba diving while in Colombia then Santa Marta is the place to do it! Not only are there a lot of great dive sites, but diving in Santa Marta is relatively cheap when compared to other places around South America.
Things to Do at Night in Santa Marta
If you want to make the most out of your holiday in Santa Marta, be sure to include the following night experiences on your itinerary.
Enjoy the view at Restaurante Burukuka
If you want to have a drink and a great dinner with a magnificent view then head to Restaurant Burukuka in Santa Marta. The restaurant is located up on a hill overlooking the ocean and beach in El Rodadero it’s simply breathtaking, especially at sunset!
Salsa The Night Away
The dance is part of the Colombian culture and salsa is not just a dance style, is more like a way to live. Whether you want to have fun while partying the night away or you choose to take some lessons, there are plenty of places in the city where you can do it. Also, Santa Marta healds a few salsa festivals throughout the year. If you’re interested, make sure to check the dates before booking your trip.
