Santa Marta, Colombia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Santa Marta, Colombia? If you're planning to go to Santa Marta, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Santa Marta, Colombia

Based on the climate and weather in Santa Marta, Colombia, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Santa Marta, Colombia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santa Marta, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Santa Marta, Colombia by month

January

January in Santa Marta is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you are traveling to Santa Marta in February, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you go to Santa Marta in March, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April for Santa Marta can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

Traveling to Santa Marta in May, you will notice that it is really hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Santa Marta is really hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Santa Marta in July, you will notice that it is extremely hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Santa Marta during August, you are likely to notice that it can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

Traveling to Santa Marta in September, you will notice that it is really hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

Traveling to Santa Marta in October, you will notice that it can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you visit Santa Marta during November, you are likely to notice that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Santa Marta is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Marta. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

If you go to the Museo del Oro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Santa Marta, Colombia

Santa Marta is a charming city located in the northern region of Colombia that borders the Caribbean Sea. The city is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are traveling solo or with your family, there are plenty of top tourist attractions in Santa Marta that you won't want to miss. From pristine natural parks to historical sites, here are the top tourist attractions in Santa Marta, Colombia.

1. Tayrona National Park- Tayrona National Park is the crown jewel of Santa Marta’s tourist attractions. It is a paradise for nature lovers, with lush green forests, golden beaches, and sparkling blue waters. You can hike through the park, take a swim or sunbathe on one of its several beaches.

2. La Ciudad Perdida- La Ciudad Perdida, also known as the "Lost City" is an archaeological site, which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Santa Marta. It is located deep in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and you can only reach it on a guided trek. The journey to the Lost City takes around 4-5 days and is a challenging hike, but the reward is worth it.

3. Minca Town and Coffee Plantations - Minca is a small town that is located just outside of Santa Marta. It is an idyllic location surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and coffee plantations. In Minca, you can enjoy a trek through the forest, swim in rivers, and visit the coffee farms where you can learn about the production process.

4. Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino - Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino is a historical site that is located in the heart of Santa Marta. It is the final resting place of the famous Latin American liberator, Simon Bolivar. You can visit the museum to learn about the history of the city, and its pivotal role in Colombia's independence.

5. Rodadero Bay – Rodadero Bay is a beautiful beach that is located in the heart of Santa Marta. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and it is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports such as surfing and paddleboarding.

6. Playa Blanca – Playa Blanca is a stunning beach that is located just outside of Santa Marta. It is a secluded beach that is famous for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Playa Blanca is an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming or simply relaxing and soaking up some sun.

In conclusion, Santa Marta, Colombia, is a beautiful destination that has something for everyone. From beautiful beaches to historical sites and natural parks, there are plenty of top tourist attractions in Santa Marta. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance so that you can enjoy all of the beautiful destinations that the city has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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