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Cartagena, Bolivar to Santa Marta (Magdalena), 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 (Magdalena): Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$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 highlights distinct experiences, with Cartagena showcasing vibrant colonial architecture and lively street life, while Santa Marta offers serene beaches and a closer connection to nature.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta features vibrant neighborhoods that cater to various visitor preferences.

El Rodadero
• Popular for its beautiful beach and water activities.
• Bustling nightlife with numerous restaurants and bars.
Centro Histórico
• Rich in history with colonial architecture and local culture.
• Home to art galleries, shops, and local markets.
Taganga
• Charming fishing village with stunning sunset views.
• Great base for diving and marine adventures.

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 day during weekdays for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Rodadero Beach
Go in the late afternoon for stunning sunsets and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Centro Histórico
Explore on weekday mornings to enjoy a quieter experience among local shops.

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

Santa Marta enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a year-round destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The best times to visit are from December to April when you can expect less rainfall and plenty of sunshine, enhancing your outdoor adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Consider trying the grilled fresh fish at Restaurante La Tapería, where the flavors of the Caribbean shine through local ingredients like coconut and tropical fruits. While Cartagena offers rich seafood dishes with a heavier Spanish influence, Santa Marta presents a lighter, more vibrant culinary experience that captures the essence of coastal living.

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
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 (Magdalena): 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 ticket in advance through the Expreso Brasilia website as well as with other operators like TransMoto and Copetran, especially during peak tourism season when buses might be fully booked: Expreso Brasilia, TransMoto, Copetran.
• Bring snacks and water for the journey; while the bus does not typically make long stops, some operators include short breaks, and it's wise to have refreshments on hand since the landscape along the route is beautiful and you might want to snack while enjoying the view.
• Upon arrival at Santa Marta's bus terminal, be prepared for a bustling environment; grab a map from the information desk and familiarize yourself with local transport options, such as the 'Collectivo' shuttle to nearby beaches or downtown, which will save you money and time when planning your next travel step.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Cartagena and Santa Marta is approximately 107 miles, or 137.1 miles by road. The typical travel time to reach Cartagena from Santa Marta by car is around 3 hours and 12 minutes. Meanwhile, if you prefer to travel by bus, it usually takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes to reach Santa Marta from Cartagena. These travel times may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Cartagena to Santa Marta is by bus, which costs $8-$17 and takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. This is a popular choice for budget travelers as it offers a good balance between affordability and travel time. Alternatively, for those looking for a quicker option, taking a taxi is the most time-efficient option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 12 minutes. However, it is important to note that taking a taxi is significantly more expensive, costing $60-$75 for the journey.
The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Marta and Cartagena can range from $8 to $17. This range in prices is due to factors such as the type of bus, the amenities offered, and the time of year. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, it is advisable to book in advance during peak travel seasons to secure a seat at a lower price.
To travel from Cartagena to Santa Marta without using public transportation, you can rent a car or hire a private driver. The driving distance between the two cities is around 137 miles and it takes approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes to reach Santa Marta from Cartagena by car. The prices for car rentals or hiring a private driver can vary from $11 to $17, depending on the company and type of vehicle chosen.
To travel from Cartagena to Santa Marta without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes and the cost is typically around $8 to $17. Buses run regularly between the two cities and provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation. Other transportation options such as taxis or shared vans could also be available, but the bus is the most popular choice for travelers.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cartagena and Santa Marta. Expreso Brasilia operates buses that depart hourly from Cartagena and arrive at Santa Marta station. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. This provides a convenient and frequent option for travelers who prefer to use public transportation between these two cities.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Santa Marta. With over 1417 hotels available, visitors can find a range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Santa Marta start at $119, with options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. Visitors can choose from beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, and guesthouses, providing a variety of options for a comfortable and enjoyable stay near Santa Marta.