This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Santa Marta.
Santa Marta is located in the north of Colombia on the Caribbean coast. Santa Marta is a port town, with a small beach, and many restaurants, banks, markets, a post office, and a bus terminal.
Santa Marta is a good base for trips to the nearby Tyrona National Park, a tropical jungle located on the coast of the Caribbean, with white powdered sand beach; large coconut trees; and clear, calm, and water waters. There are several daily boats that operate from Santa Marta to Tyrona. There is also an option to take a taxi to the park entrance, and hike through the national park, to the beach. Multi-day treks can also be arranged from Santa Marta to the Lost City (La Ciudad Perdida). This can be quite demanding -- you'll be trekking through the jungle for several hours in knee-high mud; however, the views of the surrounding jungle environment, wildlife, and city ruins are worth all the hard work. The price of the trek is government monitored, and includes a guide, all transport, food, and accommodation. The trek can be done in four, five, or six days.
Hostels in Santa Marta provide basic facilities, such as complimentary breakfast, communal areas, free Wi-Fi, lockers for your valuables, as well as overnight luggage storage (for people going on a multi-day trek). Fans and a fully equipped communal kitchen are sometimes included. Hostel staff can usually offer advice on activities, such as hikes in the nearby national parks, and information on local events. Hostels in Santa Marta usually have an onsite bar, with happy hour, and a social vibe, making them an ideal place to meet other travelers.
Written by local enthusiast for Santa Marta hostels
Kelly Sheldrick
