Santa Marta
If Cartagena’s beauty can be described as polished, vibrant, and steeped in literary charm, then Santa Marta’s allure is raw, unpolished, and deeply rooted in the everyday. It’s a city that doesn’t try to impress with flashy embellishments but instead invites you to experience its authentic essence.
⬇️ Some Practical Tips ⬇️
1️⃣ **Getting There:** I arrived from the enchanting old town of Cartagena via a minibus operated by Marsol. These buses run hourly, and the station—Terminal de Buses Marsol—is just a 10-15 minute stroll from the historic district. The ticket cost me 80,000 COP (around 140 RMB), and my journey began at 3 PM, reaching Santa Marta close to 10 PM. It’s a long ride, but it offers plenty of time to admire the passing landscapes.
2️⃣ **Where to Stay:** My home away from home was Distrito Hostel. This budget-friendly gem boasts an affordable 8-bed dormitory for only 20,000 COP (approximately 35 RMB) per night. Conveniently located just a stone’s throw (1-2 minutes) from the Marsol terminal, it also features a spacious kitchen with a welcoming vibe, perfect for socializing or preparing your own meals.
However, if you’re someone who prefers staying indoors during the day, beware: there’s no air conditioning in the common areas, and the room AC operates only between 6 PM and 10 AM. For me, this made the heat almost unbearable!
3️⃣ **Food Adventures:** Since I extended my stay here, I opted to stock up on groceries and cook my own meals, so I don’t have specific restaurant recommendations. That said, I did visit Vivolo Cafe, a picturesque spot right by the sea. While the ambiance was lovely, I wouldn’t recommend their traditional cold brew with sparkling water—it left something to be desired. Perhaps other items on their menu might suit your taste better.
4️⃣ **Things to Do:** Exploring the old town is a must, with its charming streets and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. A short distance beyond lies the Bolivar Estate, a fascinating historical site. Closer to town, adventurers will love Tayrona National Park, renowned for its breathtaking hiking trails and lush tropical rainforests.
Meanwhile, Minca Town offers stunning views and a cooler climate for those seeking respite from the scorching heat. Unfortunately, the weather during my visit was oppressively hot, sapping any motivation I had to venture out. Still, these attractions are definitely worth exploring if you’re up for it!
