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Medellin, Antioquia to Santa Marta (Magdalena), Magdalena from $24: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Medellin to Santa Marta (Magdalena): Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$24 by busBest price
493.7 milesDistance
3h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Medellin 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  1m
Estimated price
$59-192
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
16h  28m
Estimated price
$24-47
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 493.7 miles
Duration: 3h 1m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  55m
Estimated price
$25-50
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
11h  29m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  14m
Estimated price
$69-218
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Medellin to Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Traveling from Medellin to Santa Marta offers a remarkable contrast, showcasing Medellin's vibrant urban culture and innovative spirit alongside Santa Marta's stunning Caribbean beaches and laid-back coastal charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta features diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct vibe for visitors.

El Rodadero
• Popular for its beautiful beach and water sports.
• Lively nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
Historic Center
• Rich in culture with colonial architecture and local markets.
• Close proximity to key attractions like Parque de Los Novios.
Taganga
• Charming fishing village known for snorkeling and diving.
• Laid-back atmosphere with local seafood restaurants.

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

Planning your visit around the right times can enhance your experience in Santa Marta.

Tayrona National Natural Park
Visit early in the morning to enjoy quieter trails and serene beaches.
Rodadero Beach
Late afternoon offers stunning sunsets and fewer tourists on the sand.
Historic Center
Weekdays are ideal for exploring local markets without the weekend rush.

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

Santa Marta enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures averaging around 80°F year-round. The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit for clear skies and pleasant beach days, while the rainy season from May to November can bring occasional downpours that may alter your outdoor plans.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Indulge in the coastal delight of 'Cazuela de Mariscos' at a local eatery like La Fonda de Juancho, where fresh seafood mingles with rich coconut flavors, a true contrast to Medellin's landlocked cuisine. This dining experience in Santa Marta captures the essence of the Caribbean, with vibrant beachside atmospheres and the use of locally sourced ingredients that bring every dish to life.

Medellin - Santa Marta (Magdalena) operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
latam.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE) to Santa Marta (SMR)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$50-140

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE) to Barranquilla (BAQ)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$45-140
Website
avianca.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE) to Santa Marta (SMR)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$50-180

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE) to Barranquilla (BAQ)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$40-170
Website
jetsmart.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE) to Santa Marta (SMR)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$30-80
Website
copaair.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE) to Santa Marta (SMR)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$23-180
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
01 800 051 8001
Website
expresobrasilia.com

Bus from Terminal Norte to Santa Marta

Average Duration
15h 55m
Estimated price
$28-50
Contact phone
+57 604 44448888
Website
rapidoochoa.com.co

Bus from Terminal Norte to Santa Marta

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
$25-50

Bus from Yarumal to Santa Marta

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
$21-40
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+57 5342 7102

Other from Barranquilla to Santa Marta

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$27-35

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

Traveling between Medellin 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.

🚗 Discover the diverse landscapes of Colombia as you embark on a scenic road trip from Medellín to Santa Marta, covering a distance of 494 miles. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility and affordability of traveling by car, with prices ranging from $40 to $60 for the journey to Santa Marta from Medellin. Pack your bags, hit the road, and create unforgettable memories along the way.
Average price
$40 - $60
🛫 The quickest flight from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova Airport to Santa Marta Airport is a direct flight that takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines like AeroRepública, Avianca, JetSMART, and LATAM Chile offer flights on this route. 🏖️ It takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute to reach Santa Marta from Medellin by plane. The flight offers a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities. 💸 Prices for a flight between Santa Marta and Medellin can range from $59 to $192, providing travelers with options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Medellin Jose Marie Cordova Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Marta Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• To maximize your experience, consider booking your flight with Avianca or LATAM Chile, as they often include better in-flight services and wider luggage allowances—an important factor for luggage-heavy travelers heading to the Magdalena region.
• Upon arrival at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Santa Marta, head to the designated taxi area outside the terminal to avoid unlicensed operators; expect to pay around 20,000 to 30,000 COP (approximately $5-$8 USD) to reach the city center, with a travel time of around 30 minutes.
• Be mindful of your flight times, especially if you are planning to explore the surrounding natural parks; frequent morning flights can be less congested, and it’s wise to check local transport schedules for connections to popular destinations like Tayrona National Park post-arrival.
🚌 The journey from Medellín to Santa Marta by bus takes approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes, with services departing four times a day from Terminal Norte in Medellín. 🌴 Upon arrival at Santa Marta, the bus operated by Expreso Brasilia will drop you off at Santa Marta station, completing the 16-hour and 28-minute journey. 💰 Bus fares between Santa Marta and Medellín range from $24 to $47, offering a budget-friendly travel option for exploring the stunning Colombian landscapes along the way.
Departure Point
Terminal Norte station
Arrival Point
Santa Marta station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Medellín and Santa Marta is 359 miles or 492.2 miles by road. The travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By flying to Barranquilla and then taking a bus, it takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes to reach Santa Marta from Medellín. Taking a direct flight from Medellín to Santa Marta reduces the travel time to around 3 hours and 1 minute. Driving by car from Santa Marta to Medellín takes approximately 11 hours and 28 minutes, while taking a bus from Medellín to Santa Marta can take up to 15 hours and 55 minutes.
To travel from Medellin to Santa Marta in a cost-effective and time-efficient manner, the best options would be either to fly or take a bus. Flying is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and costing between $55 and $210. However, if you are looking to save money, taking a bus via Yarumal is a cheaper alternative, costing between $25 and $50, but taking a longer time of 15 hours and 20 minutes. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your budget and time constraints.
The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Marta and Medellin can range from $20 to $50, depending on the type of bus and the amenities provided. It is advisable to book the tickets in advance to secure the best prices. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the season and availability, so it is recommended to check with different bus companies for the most up-to-date prices.
To travel from Medellin to Santa Marta without using public transportation, you can choose to rent a car or hire a private driver. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 492 miles, and the journey typically takes around 11 hours and 28 minutes. The cost of renting a car or hiring a private driver can vary between $40 and $60, depending on the service provider and type of vehicle chosen.
The best way to travel from Medellín to Santa Marta without a car is by taking a bus via Yarumal. The journey takes approximately 15 hours and 20 minutes and the ticket prices range from $25 to $50. This route provides a convenient and cost-effective option for those who do not have access to a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between Medellin and Santa Marta by bus. The bus services operated by Coonorte depart from Medellín station and arrive at Santa Marta station. The journey typically takes approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes, and buses operate four times a day, every day.
The flight between Medellin and Santa Marta typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $59 and $202, depending on the airline and time of travel. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the best prices and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Santa Marta. With over 1417 hotels to choose from, you can find a suitable place to stay based on your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $119 per night, offering a range of choices for all types of travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly accommodations, there is something for everyone in Santa Marta.

Trips from Medellin