Santa Marta is a city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. It is known for beaches, history, and access to nature. You can visit the historic center, where you will find the Cathedral and the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino. This estate was Simón Bolívar’s last residence. The Tayrona Gold Museum has artifacts from the region’s Indigenous cultures.
Tayrona National Park is a short drive from the city. You can hike, swim, or see wildlife. Playa Cristal and Cabo San Juan are popular beaches there. Minca, a mountain town, offers coffee farms and waterfalls. If you like diving, Taganga is a small fishing village with many dive shops. The Lost City Trek takes four days and leads to an ancient Indigenous site in the jungle.
Santa Marta has some gay-friendly places, but the LGBTQ+ scene is small. You can find bars and clubs in El Rodadero and the historic center. There are also some LGBTQ+ events during the year.
You can get around by taxi, bus, or moto-taxi. Taxis do not have meters, so agree on a price before the ride. Buses are the cheapest option but can be slow. Renting a scooter or car gives you more freedom. Many tourist areas are walkable. To visit Tayrona or Minca, you can take a bus or hire a private car.
Santa Marta is a good base for exploring the Caribbean coast. Plan ahead, especially in high season, to get the best experience.
Hotel Be La Sierra is in the El Rodadero area of Santa Marta, Colombia. The hotel sits near the beach, offering easy access to the sea. Many restaurants, bars, and shops are within walking distance. The area is popular with tourists who want to stay