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Cali, Valle del Cauca to Santa Marta (Magdalena), Magdalena from $40: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Cali to Santa Marta (Magdalena): 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.

$40 by busBest price
909 kmDistance
3h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cali 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
Plane
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$68-162
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
25h  18m
Estimated price
$40-71
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 909 km
Duration: 3h 30m

See more options

Company
Expreso Brasilia
Bus
Average Duration
23h  24m
Estimated price
$50-680
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$73-148
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
6h  6m
Estimated price
$149-321
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
24h  37m
Estimated price
$681-682
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
26h  39m
Estimated price
$683-684
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
17h  49m
Estimated price
$685-686
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cali to Santa Marta (Magdalena)

This journey between Cali's lively salsa rhythms and Santa Marta's tranquil Caribbean vibes offers you a rich tapestry of Colombian culture and nature.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

El Rodadero
• Famous for its beautiful beaches and water activities.
• Lively atmosphere with restaurants and nightlife options.
Taganga
• A charming fishing village popular with backpackers.
• Great diving spots and stunning sunsets by the sea.
Historic Center
• Rich in colonial architecture and cultural landmarks.
• Close to museums, shops, and local eateries.

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

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Santa Marta.

Tayrona National Park
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy tranquility while exploring its stunning trails and beaches.
Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)
Plan your trek during the dry season, from December to March, for safer hiking conditions and fewer muddy trails.
Santa Marta's Historic Center
Stroll through in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

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

Santa Marta enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it an inviting destination year-round; however, visiting during the dry months from December to March often leads to a more enjoyable experience with less rain and cooler evenings.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Try the whole grilled fish at Restaurante Ouzo, where fresh catches from the Caribbean Sea meet local spices, offering a flavorful contrast to the bold and spicy dishes of Cali; the relaxed beachfront atmosphere enhances your dining experience, allowing you to savor each bite while soaking in the coastal vibes.

Cali - Santa Marta (Magdalena) operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
avianca.com

Plane from Cali (CLO) to Santa Marta (SMR)

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$688-1621

Plane from Cali (CLO) to Santa Marta (SMR) via Medellin Jose Marie Cordova

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$688-1621

Plane from Cali (CLO) to Santa Marta (SMR) via Bogota

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
$688-1621
Website
latam.com

Plane from Cali (CLO) to Santa Marta (SMR)

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$688-1624

Plane from Cali (CLO) to Santa Marta (SMR) via Medellin Jose Marie Cordova

Average Duration
3h 9m
Estimated price
$688-1624

Plane from Cali (CLO) to Santa Marta (SMR) via Bogota

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
$688-1624
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
01 800 051 8001
Website
expresobrasilia.com

Bus from Terminal de Transporte Cali to Ciénaga

Average Duration
23h
Estimated price
$40-1620

Bus from Terminal de Transporte Cali to Bosconia

Average Duration
20h 50m
Estimated price
$1627-685

Bus from Bosconia to Santa Marta

Average Duration
2h 47m
Estimated price
$1629-400

Bus from Terminal de Transporte Cali to Barranquilla

Average Duration
24h 18m
Estimated price
$681-682

Bus from Barranquilla to Santa Marta

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$401-402
Contact phone
+57 (8)2611550
Website
velotax.com.co

Bus from Terminal de Transporte Cali to Ibagué

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$404-405
Contact phone
+57 311 2730419
Website
expresopalmira.com.co

Bus from Terminal de Transporte Cali to Ibague

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$404-406
Contact phone
01-8000-910293
Website
coomotor.com.co

Bus from Terminal de Transporte Cali to Ibagué

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$409-712
Contact phone
+57 601 4249090
Website
bolivariano.com.co

Bus from Terminal de Transporte Cali to Ibagué

Average Duration
4h 57m
Estimated price
$405-714
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+57 5342 7102

Other from Barranquilla to Santa Marta

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$717-1627

Cali to Santa Marta (Magdalena): Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cali 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 an exciting road trip from Cali to Santa Marta, covering a distance of 769 miles. The scenic journey offers diverse landscapes and experiences along the way. 💸 The cost of driving from Cali to Santa Marta ranges from $60 to $95, providing budget-friendly options for travelers seeking adventure and flexibility on the road. 🌴 After approximately 17 hours and 49 minutes of driving, you'll arrive in Santa Marta, ready to explore its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture. The drive is a memorable way to experience the richness of Colombia's landscapes and destinations.
Average price
$60 - $95
🛫 Flying from Cali Airport to Santa Marta Airport is convenient with a direct flight that only takes 1 hour and 34 minutes. Airlines like Avianca and LATAM Chile operate this route, providing a smooth and efficient travel experience. 🏝️ Once you board the plane in Cali, get ready to enjoy a relatively short flight that will have you in Santa Marta in just 3 hours and 30 minutes. This quick travel time allows you to maximize your time exploring the beautiful beaches and natural attractions of Santa Marta. 💸 Prices for flights between Santa Marta and Cali can range from $68 to $162, offering travelers options to suit their budget while experiencing the stunning coastal views and rich culture that Santa Marta has to offer. Plan your trip wisely and enjoy a seamless journey from Cali to Santa Marta by plane.
Departure Point
Cali Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Marta Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Cali to Santa Marta, travelers can embark on a journey that involves transfers in Bosconia. This route spans roughly 24 hours and 37 minutes. 🌴 The bus service from Cali to Santa Marta is operated by Expreso Brasilia and commences at Terminal de Transporte Cali, with the final stop being the Santa Marta station. The total duration of the trip is approximately 25 hours and 18 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus ride between Santa Marta and Cali typically range from $40 to $71, offering travelers an affordable and scenic way to traverse this diverse region of Colombia. Travelers can expect a long but rewarding journey through picturesque landscapes and diverse scenery.
Departure Point
Terminal de Transporte Cali station
Arrival Point
Santa Marta station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Cali and Santa Marta is approximately 565 miles, or approximately 769 miles by road. The typical travel time by air is 3 hours and 30 minutes, with a fly to Barranquilla followed by a bus journey. If traveling by car, it would take around 17 hours and 49 minutes to reach Cali from Santa Marta. Taking a bus would require approximately 24 hours and 37 minutes for the journey from Cali to Santa Marta.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Cali to Santa Marta is by bus, which typically costs between $30 and $50. However, it is important to note that this method of transportation takes approximately 24 hours and 37 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket can range from $65 to $170.
When traveling from Cali to Santa Marta, the prices of a bus ticket range from $33 to $47. The exact cost may vary depending on factors such as the bus company and the type of seat chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus operators to compare prices and choose the option that suits your budget and preferences.
To travel from Cali to Santa Marta without using public transportation, your best option is to rent a car or hire a private driver. The driving distance between Cali and Santa Marta is 769 miles, and it takes around 17 hours and 49 minutes to drive. There are several car rental companies available in Cali, and the prices can range from $60 to $95 for the journey. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly and consider any necessary stops for rest and fuel along the way.
To travel from Cali to Santa Marta without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Honda. The journey takes approximately 20 hours and 39 minutes and the ticket prices range from $35 to $65. There are likely multiple bus companies operating this route, so it's recommended to check schedules and prices in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
There is no direct link between Cali and Santa Marta by bus. However, you can take a bus from Cali to Santa Marta with transfers at Ibagué and Honda. This journey takes approximately 20 hours and 39 minutes. The bus services are operated by Velotax and Berlinas.
The flight between Cali and Santa Marta typically takes 1 hour and 34 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $68 and $161. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best prices and availability for your desired travel dates.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Santa Marta. With over 1417 hotels to choose from, you are sure to find something that suits your budget and preferences. Prices start at $119 per night, offering a range of options from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Whether you are looking for a beachfront resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel, there is a wide variety of choices available in Santa Marta.