– Safety Tips, What to Wear, Where to Go, Eat, and More
Planning a trip to Santa Marta? Great choice! This Caribbean gem on Colombia’s north coast offers an unforgettable mix of beaches, mountains, wildlife, and culture. But before you pack your bags, here’s everything you need to know to make your stay smooth, safe, and memorable.
✅ General Safety Tips
Santa Marta is generally safe for tourists, especially in areas like El Rodadero, Historic Center, Minca, and Bello Horizonte. Still, basic travel precautions are always recommended:
- Don’t flash valuables (phones, jewelry, cash) in public.
- Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
- Always use authorized taxis or private transport (Bukap can help arrange safe rides).
- Stick to well-known tourist zones and accommodations with good reviews.
- When in doubt, ask a local guide or trusted contact — it can make all the difference.
✅ What to Wear in Santa Marta
- Light and breathable clothing: Daytime temperatures are consistently warm and humid.
- Swimwear: Essential for beach days and waterfall visits.
- Comfortable shoes or sneakers: Especially if visiting Minca, Tayrona, or doing any nature walks.
- Sun protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Bug protection: Long sleeves or insect repellent are useful for jungle or mountain areas.
✅ Where to Go
- Beaches: Playa Cristal, Bahía Concha, Playa Blanca, Cabo San Juan (Tayrona).
- Nature & Culture: Tayrona National Park, Minca, Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, and Taironaka.
- Adventure: Diving in Taganga, tubing in Don Diego, or hiking to Ciudad Perdida.
- City charm: Walk through Santa Marta’s Historic Center, with colonial streets, live music, and artisan markets.
✅ Where to Eat
These restaurants are not only some of the highest-rated in the city, but also frequently praised by our own clients over the years for their quality, ambiance, and service:
- Ouzo: Mediterranean cuisine, wood-fired pizzas, and cocktails in the Historic Center.
- Lulo Café Bar: Perfect for fresh Colombian bowls, smoothies, and vegetarian-friendly dishes.
- Guásimo: A fine dining experience that blends local ingredients with elegant presentation.
- Ikaro Café: Specialty coffee and wholesome breakfasts, made with organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Tip: Make reservations in high season (December–January, Holy Week, June–July) as these places fill up quickly.
✅ Useful Contacts and Emergency Info
Emergency Numbers in Colombia:
- National Police: ☎️ 123
- Ambulance: ☎️ 125
- Fire Department: ☎️ 119
- Tourist Police: Available in Rodadero, Centro Histórico, and Tayrona entrances.
Hospitals & Clinics:
- Clínica El Prado (Centro): +57 5 4362333
- Clínica Mar Caribe (Rodadero): +57 5 4224688
- Clínica La Milagrosa: Emergency 24/7 services
Police Stations in Tourist Areas:
- Rodadero Police Post: Near main beach entrance
- Centro Histórico Police Post: Carrera 5 with Calle 22
✈️ Final Thoughts – Plan with Confidence
Santa Marta is warm, vibrant, and full of surprises. With some smart preparation and a few local insights, it’s an ideal destination for couples, solo travelers, families, and adventure seekers alike.
And if you want insider recommendations, safe and comfortable transport, or custom tours based on your interests — we’re here to help.
Email us at info@bukaptravels.com
Message us on WhatsApp: +57 300 1270620
Let our team at Bukap make your visit seamless, exciting, and unforgettable.
Santa Marta is waiting — and so are we.
