Santa Marta is a top destination for travelers exploring the north of Colombia. This small city boasts beautiful beaches, both within the city and in more remote locations along the coast. More importantly, getting to Santa Marta from Cartagena is the gateway to the stunning Tayrona National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
How to Travel from Cartagena to Santa Marta by Public Transportation
Taking public transportation is the most budget-friendly option but also the longest way to travel from Cartagena to Santa Marta. If you have time to spare and want to save money, this is a good choice. Keep in mind that the Cartagena Bus Terminal is located far from the city center, about 1 hour by bus or 40 minutes by taxi. A taxi could cost around COP 20,000 (approximately $7 USD).
If you're near India Catalina on Avenida Pedro de Heredia, look for the bus company Metrocar to take you to the bus terminal (ask the driver if the bus route goes to the terminal). The bus fare is less than $1 USD. Once at the terminal, look for buses from Brasilía or Berlinas. The cost for a one-way ticket from Cartagena to Santa Marta is around $15 USD, though you might try to haggle for a better price. The bus ride takes about 4 hours.
We recommend traveling during the day so you have time to settle into Santa Marta and get acquainted with the city. Note that the Santa Marta Bus Terminal is also located outside the city center, just like in Cartagena.
Shuttle Transfer Service from Cartagena to Santa Marta
If you're looking for the quickest, easiest, and most comfortable way to get from Cartagena to Santa Marta, consider booking a shuttle transfer. Shuttle services are reliable, modern, and offer a secure way to travel between the two cities. A van will pick you up from a designated meeting point in Cartagena and take you directly to Santa Marta or vice versa.
Two well-known companies that offer this service are Marsol and Berlinas. You can book your shuttle seats online for convenience and avoid any last-minute hassle. Click here to book your shuttle service.
Traveling to Palomino from Cartagena? You can reach this small beach town on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast by bus from Santa Marta. Palomino is popular among backpackers for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. Regular buses depart from the Santa Marta public market every 15 minutes (the same buses that go to Tayrona). Find out how to reach Palomino from Cartagena here.
UPDATE 2023: Shuttle routes to Palomino and Tayrona from Cartagena are temporarily suspended. To visit Palomino or Tayrona, you must travel to Santa Marta first and then take a public bus from the market.
What to Do in Santa Marta?
Once you arrive in Santa Marta, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy its beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Popular beaches in the city include Rodadero Beach and Playa de los Cocos, both known for their relaxed vibe and lively night scenes. Take time to walk through the historic center, visit the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino where Simón Bolívar spent his last days, and explore Parque de los Novios, a charming square surrounded by restaurants, bars, and artisanal shops.
Taganga is another fantastic spot just 20 minutes from Santa Marta, offering a bohemian vibe and beautiful beach views. It’s a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike, and from Taganga, you can even take a boat directly to Tayrona National Park.
Some of the best beaches near Santa Marta include Chengue Beach, Cabo San Juan, Bahia Concha, Cristal Beach, and Playa Neguanje.
Travel Tip: To visit certain regions in Colombia, you need the Yellow Fever Vaccine at least 15 days before your trip. Although the certificate is not required to enter Tayrona National Park, it’s still a good idea to get vaccinated.
When is Tayrona Park Closed?
Tayrona National Park closes three times a year for environmental conservation and to allow indigenous communities to perform rituals to Mother Earth. Check the official Parques Nacionales website to confirm dates. If you're planning to visit during a closure, consider nearby alternatives like:
- 📌 Minca
- 📌 Mendihuaca (Desembocadura and beach)
- 📌 Poza Encantada
- 📌 Rio Buritaca
- 📌 El Saltillo Waterfall
- 📌 Playa Los Cocos
Additional Travel Tips
If you’re planning to visit jungles or natural parks, it’s also recommended to get vaccinated against Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid Fever, Measles, and Rubella. If you have more questions about activities or vaccinations, feel free to contact us at info@juanballena.com or via WhatsApp for personalized assistance.