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Cartagena to Santa Marta (Magdalena) from $11: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cartagena, Colombia
to
Santa Marta (Magdalena), Colombia

How to Get from Cartagena to Santa Marta : Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$11 - DriveBest price
141.4 milesDistance
3h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cartagena to Santa Marta (Magdalena) with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  15m
Estimated price
$10-26
Recommended
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$11-18
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 141.4 miles
Duration: 3h 23m

See more options

Company
Copetran
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$10-26
Company
Torcoroma
Bus
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$11-18
Company
Transportes Marsol
Bus
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$16-16
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$65-80
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Traveling From Cartagena to Santa Marta (Magdalena)

The journey from Cartagena to Santa Marta takes you from the vibrant, historic streets of Cartagena to the laid-back beaches and mountainous landscapes of Santa Marta, offering a delightful contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

El Rodadero
• Popular beaches with vibrant nightlife.
• Great dining options along the waterfront.
Historic Center
• Rich in colonial architecture and history.
• Close to museums and cultural sites.
Pozos Colorados
• Tranquil beaches perfect for relaxation.
• Eco-friendly lodges near nature reserves.

Best Times To Visit Santa Marta (Magdalena)'s Attractions

Timing your visits to Santa Marta's attractions enhances your experience and enjoyment.

Tayrona National Natural Park
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for tranquility and fewer tourists.
Rodadero Beach
Afternoons during the week offer a less crowded atmosphere for relaxation.
Historic Center
Exploring in the early morning or late afternoon avoids peak crowds.

Santa Marta (Magdalena) Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Marta enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an appealing destination anytime. The dry season from December to April presents the best opportunities for outdoor adventures, while the rainy season may bring brief showers but can also mean fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Try the freshly caught grilled fish at Restaurante La Canoa, where the emphasis on local ingredients brings a distinct coastal flavor compared to Cartagena's fusion dishes. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with stunning ocean views, creates a dining experience that truly celebrates Santa Marta's maritime heritage.

Cartagena - Santa Marta (Magdalena) operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cartagena and Santa Marta (Magdalena), with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
01 800 051 8001
Website
expresobrasilia.com

Bus from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$10-22
Contact phone
+57 310 654 3797
Website
torcoromaweb.com

Bus from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$11-18
Contact phone
0057 300 808-3147
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$16-16
Contact phone
+57 601 592 0400
Website
copetran.com

Bus from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$10-26
Taxi
Contact phone
+57 5668 5200
Website
amarillos.co

Taxi from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Average Duration
3h 23m
Estimated price
$65-80
Contact phone
+57 5663 4613
Website
amarillos.co

Taxi from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Average Duration
3h 23m
Estimated price
$65-80
Contact phone
+57 5666 3709
Website
amarillos.co

Taxi from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Average Duration
3h 23m
Estimated price
$65-80

Cartagena to Santa Marta : Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cartagena and Santa Marta (Magdalena) offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Cartagena to Santa Marta, covering a distance of 226.9 km. 💰 Experience cost-effective travel with prices ranging from $11 to $18 for the drive to Santa Marta from Cartagena by car. 🏖️ Explore the coastal charm of Santa Marta after a 3-hour and 23-minute drive from Cartagena.
Average price
$11 - $18
🚌 Traveling from Cartagena to Santa Marta by bus is a convenient option with direct services departing every hour. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes. 🎉 Explore the vibrant city of Santa Marta upon arrival at the Santa Marta station. With affordable ticket prices ranging from $10 to $26, this bus trip offers an affordable way to travel between these two popular destinations in Colombia.
Departure Point
Cartagena station
Arrival Point
Santa Marta station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons; Expreso Brasilia is a reliable option, and you can check their schedule and buy tickets at their website: expresobrasilia.com
• Keep some Colombian pesos ready for snacks and drinks during the trip; local vendors often sell refreshments at the bus stations, and having cash can help you avoid inconvenience.
• Upon arrival at Santa Marta, familiarize yourself with the layout of the bus terminal; it is relatively small, but you can find taxi services right outside. Consider downloading the local taxi app like EasyTaxi for more convenience in getting to your accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cartagena to Santa Marta (Magdalena).

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cartagena and Santa Marta is approximately 172.2 km by air, but the road distance is longer at 220.6 km. If you choose to travel by car, it typically takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes to reach Cartagena from Santa Marta. However, if you opt for a bus journey, the travel time is usually longer at around 5 hours and 15 minutes to reach Santa Marta from Cartagena.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cartagena to Santa Marta is by bus, with fares ranging from $8 to $17. This mode of transportation takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a taxi, which can take around 3 hours and 12 minutes but costs between $60 and $75.
The prices for a bus ticket from Cartagena to Santa Marta vary depending on the bus company and type of service. On average, prices can range from $8 to $17.
To travel from Cartagena to Santa Marta without using public transportation, you can opt to rent a car and drive yourself. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 220.5 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes to drive from Cartagena to Santa Marta. Rental car prices usually range from $11 to $17, depending on the type of car and the rental company you choose.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Cartagena to Santa Marta is by bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $8 to $17.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cartagena and Santa Marta. There is a bus service operated by Expreso Brasilia that departs hourly from Cartagena and arrives at Santa Marta. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes.
There are many options for places to stay near Santa Marta with over 1417 hotels available. Prices for accommodations in the area start at $119 per night.