Santa Marta is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Colombia's northern coast. As one of the oldest cities in South America, it serves as the gateway to the stunning Tayrona National Park and offers a variety of beautiful beaches, lively cultural spots, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe. Whether you’re a budget traveler or looking for a more comfortable option, this guide will show you the best ways to travel from Cartagena to Santa Marta.
How to Get to the Cartagena Bus Terminal
If you’re heading to the Cartagena Bus Terminal, the easiest and most convenient option is to use ride-hailing apps like Uber or InDriver. Both services are widely available in Cartagena and allow you to book a ride directly from your location to the terminal. Prices for a ride to the bus terminal typically range from $10 to $15 USD, depending on traffic and your starting point.
While this option might sound straightforward, keep in mind that Cartagena’s traffic outside touristic area, especially during peak hours, IS challenging. If you’re leaving from the tourist areas such as Getsemaní or the Walled City, expect the journey to take at least an hour or more, even though the terminal is only 16 kilometers away. Plan ahead to ensure you arrive at the terminal with enough time to catch your bus without stress.
Once at the terminal, you can choose from bus companies like Brasilía or Berlinas. Tickets for a one-way journey from Cartagena to Santa Marta cost around $20 USD, and the trip takes approximately 5 hours.
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, a shuttle transfer is the perfect choice. 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 in Marbella neighborhood and take you directly to Santa Marta or vice versa. This hassle-free option is ideal for travelers who want to avoid the complexities of public transportation.
Two well-known companies offering this service are Marsol and Berlinas. With air conditioning, comfortable seats, and direct routes, these shuttles ensure a smooth and efficient journey from hotels located in the touristic area (Centro, Getsemani, Bocagrande etc). Click here to book your shuttle transfer online.
Visiting Palomino or Minca from Cartagena
Planning to explore Palomino or Minca? While shuttles to these destinations directly from Cartagena are currently unavailable, you can easily reach them via Santa Marta. From Santa Marta, buses to Palomino leave every 15 minutes from the local market. Palomino is a favorite for its laid-back atmosphere, pristine beaches, and eco-tourism. If you're visiting Minca, a tranquil mountain town known for its coffee farms, waterfall, longer hikes, birdwatching activities and many more then a private transfer from Santa Marta to Minca is a fantastic option.
What to Do in Santa Marta?
Once you arrive in Santa Marta, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy its beaches, culture, and history. 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, just 20 minutes away from Santa Marta, offers a bohemian vibe and stunning views. From Taganga, you can take a boat directly to Tayrona National Park, one of the highlights of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
For beach lovers, some of the best beaches near Santa Marta include Chengue Beach, Cabo San Juan, Bahia Concha, Cristal Beach, and Playa Neguanje.
When is Tayrona National Park Closed?
Tayrona National Park closes three times a year for environmental conservation and to allow indigenous communities to perform rituals to Mother Earth. For 2025, the park closures are as follows:
- February 1 to 15: KUGKUI SHIKASA – a time for the earth to renew itself.
- June 1 to 15: SAKA JUSO – a period symbolizing the earth’s menstruation.
- October 19 to November 2: NABBATASHI – a time for animals to perform rituals to the earth.
If you’re planning to visit during these closures, consider nearby alternatives such as Minca, Mendihuaca, Rio Buritaca, or Playa Los Cocos.
Travel Tips
For visiting jungles or natural parks, it’s recommended to get vaccinated against Yellow Fever, Tetanus, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid Fever, and Measles.
One of the most common issues travelers face in the Caribbean is stomach discomfort or diarrhea, often caused by a change in diet, water, or simply the heat. To avoid letting this minor setback ruin your trip, be prepared!
We recommend carrying a rehydrating drink called ELECTROLIT, which is widely available in pharmacies and supermarkets across Colombia. Also some Alka-Seltzer tablets & water, and you'll have the fastest formula to recover and get back to enjoying your adventure. Staying hydrated and ready for these common issues can make all the difference in keeping your trip stress-free and fun!
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