Santa Marta, located on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, is one of the country’s oldest cities, founded in 1525. It has long served as a gateway between the coast and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range. Its colonial center preserves colorful streets, historic plazas, and churches, reflecting a rich blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences.

The surrounding landscape is extraordinary: golden beaches and turquoise waters meet lush tropical forests rising sharply into the mountains. Nearby attractions include Tayrona National Park, with its pristine coastline, hiking trails, and archaeological sites, and the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), an ancient Indigenous settlement hidden in the jungle. The Sierra Nevada provides opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and cultural encounters with local Indigenous communities.

Santa Marta has a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, balancing coastal leisure with cultural and natural exploration. The combination of historic charm, stunning landscapes, and proximity to both beaches and mountains makes it a uniquely layered destination in Colombia’s Caribbean region, offering adventure, history, and immersion in local culture.