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Santa Marta (Magdalena) to Cartagena from $11: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Marta to Cartagena: 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 Santa Marta (Magdalena) to Cartagena 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
Expreso Brasilia
Bus
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$10-26
Recommended
route map
Distance: 141.4 miles
Duration: 3h 23m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$11-18
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$65-80
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Traveling From Santa Marta (Magdalena) to Cartagena

The journey between Santa Marta and Cartagena offers a fascinating contrast, where Santa Marta boasts natural beauty and tranquil beaches while Cartagena dazzles with its vibrant history and colonial architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cartagena

Cartagena is vibrant and diverse, with neighborhoods each offering distinct experiences.

Getsemaní
• Known for colorful street art and local culture.
• Bustling nightlife with unique bars and restaurants.
Old Town
• Historic walled city with colonial architecture.
• Plenty of shops, cafes, and historical landmarks.
Bocagrande
• Modern district with high-rise hotels and beaches.
• Great shopping and dining options along the coast.

Best Times To Visit Cartagena's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cartagena's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Walled City
Explore during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and fully appreciate the sights.
Playa Blanca
Go on weekdays for a more relaxing beach experience without large crowds.

Cartagena Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cartagena enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and humidity throughout the year, making it a suitable destination at any time. However, the dry season from December to April is ideal for outdoor activities, while the occasional afternoon rain during the rest of the year can provide a refreshing break from the heat.

Dining Recommendation in Cartagena

Try the seafood ceviche at La Cevichería, where the fresh catch of the day is marinated in zesty citrus and served with a vibrant array of local ingredients. This dining experience contrasts with Santa Marta's simpler coastal fare, immersing you in Cartagena's lively atmosphere and rich culinary traditions that reflect its diverse cultural influences.

Santa Marta (Magdalena) - Cartagena operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Marta (Magdalena) and Cartagena, 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 Santa Marta to Cartagena

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$10-22
Contact phone
+57 310 654 3797
Website
torcoromaweb.com

Bus from Santa Marta to Cartagena

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$11-18
Contact phone
+57 601 592 0400
Website
copetran.com

Bus from Santa Marta to Cartagena

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$10-26
Taxi
Contact phone
+57 5420 9000
Website
taxxi4209000.com

Taxi from Santa Marta to Cartagena

Average Duration
3h 23m
Estimated price
$65-80
Contact phone
+57 5420 7000

Taxi from Santa Marta to Cartagena

Average Duration
3h 23m
Estimated price
$65-80
Contact phone
+57 3507777791
Website
heytaxisantamarta.wixsite.com

Taxi from Santa Marta to Cartagena

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

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

Traveling between Santa Marta (Magdalena) and Cartagena 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.

🚗 The scenic drive from Santa Marta to Cartagena covers a distance of 226.9 km, providing a journey filled with breathtaking coastal views and lush landscapes. 💰 Prices for the road trip from Santa Marta to Cartagena by car can range from $11 to $18, making it an affordable and convenient option for travelers looking to explore Colombia's Caribbean coastline. 🏖️ Arriving in Cartagena after a 3 hour and 23-minute drive promises a mix of historic charm, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.
Average price
$11 - $18
🚌 Experience a convenient journey from Santa Marta to Cartagena by bus with direct services offered by Expreso Brasilia. 🎟️ The bus trip from Santa Marta to Cartagena takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. The buses operated by Expreso Brasilia ensure a comfortable and efficient travel experience. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket from Santa Marta to Cartagena range from $10 to $26, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture and history of both cities without breaking the bank.
Departure Point
Santa Marta station
Arrival Point
Cartagena station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to book your tickets with reliable bus operators like Expreso Brasilia or Berlinas del Fonce, as they offer comfortable seating and amenities; you can check their schedules at Expreso Brasilia or Berlinas del Fonce.
• Keep some cash handy, as some bus stations may not accept credit cards, and prices can vary between $10 to $26, so be prepared to pay for any snacks or drinks you might want along the way.
• Upon arrival at the Cartagena bus station, be ready for a busy environment; to navigate through, follow the signs to the salida (exit) and consider using a taxi or rideshare service; you can use apps like Beat or Uber which are widely available in the city.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Marta and Cartagena is approximately 172.2 km by road. By car, it typically takes about 3 hours and 13 minutes to travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena. Alternatively, if you prefer to take a bus, the travel time is usually around 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach Cartagena from Santa Marta.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Santa Marta to Cartagena is by bus, with fares ranging from $8 to $17. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, providing a budget-friendly and scenic way to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, for a quicker but slightly more expensive option, taking a taxi can get you from Santa Marta to Cartagena in 3 hours and 13 minutes, with fares typically costing between $60 and $75.
The price of a bus ticket between Santa Marta and Cartagena ranges from $8 to $17.
To travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the distance of approximately 222.1 km. The journey usually takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rental car prices for this route typically range from $11 to $17, providing you with the convenience and flexibility to explore the cities at your own pace.
To travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $8 to $17.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia. Expreso Brasilia operates hourly bus services from Santa Marta to Cartagena, with the journey taking approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Cartagena. With over 1194 hotels to choose from, visitors are sure to find something that suits their needs and preferences. Prices for these hotels start at $90, offering a range of options for different budgets.