Santa Marta, Colombia’s oldest city, beckons expats with its Caribbean charm, stunning natural surroundings, and affordable coastal lifestyle. Nestled between the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the sea, it offers a mix of colonial history, beach access, and gateways to treasures like Tayrona National Park. Whether you’re planning a permanent move or an extended stay, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—complete with expert tips, accommodation recommendations, and must-do experiences.
Pros and Cons of Living in Santa Marta as an Expat:
Pros:
- Natural Beauty: Beaches, mountains, and national parks like Tayrona and Sierra Nevada at your doorstep.
- Tropical Climate: Warm weather year-round, averaging 80-90°F (27-32°C), ideal for coastal living.
- Affordable Living: Lower costs than Cartagena or U.S. coastal cities, especially outside tourist zones.
- Growing Expat Community: A small but welcoming group of expats, particularly in Rodadero and Taganga.
- Historic Charm: As Colombia’s first Spanish settlement, it boasts a quaint historic center.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, diving, and beach activities abound in this biodiverse region.
Cons:
- Heat and Humidity: Intense tropical conditions, especially May-October, can be challenging.
- Tourist Crowds: Peak seasons (December-March) bring visitors, crowding beaches and raising prices.
- Limited Infrastructure: Power outages, spotty internet, and unpaved roads occur outside central areas.
- Language Barrier: Spanish dominates; English is mostly limited to tourist hotspots.
- Smaller City Feel: Fewer urban amenities and job opportunities than Bogotá or Medellín.
- Public Transit: Basic bus system; expats often rely on taxis or walking in the compact core.
How to Research Moving to Santa Marta
Before relocating, visit Santa Marta for at least a couple of weeks to explore its neighborhoods. The historic Centro is cultural and lively, Rodadero is touristy and beach-focused, and Taganga offers a bohemian, budget-friendly vibe. This will help you decide if its tropical, nature-rich lifestyle suits your long-term plans.
Where to Stay When Researching the Area
Your accommodation choice during a research trip can shape your impression of Santa Marta. Here are some options:
- Luxury Stay: Hotel Boutique Don Pepe – A colonial-style hotel in Centro with upscale amenities.
- Mid-Range Comfort: Hotel La Ballena Azul – A beachfront stay in Rodadero blending value and comfort.
- Budget-Friendly: Masaya Santa Marta – Affordable hostel in Centro, ideal for digital nomads.
- Authentic Experience: Central and renovated studio apartment in Taganga – Stay in a laid-back fishing village for a local feel.
Things to Do When Researching the Area
To understand daily life in Santa Marta, immerse yourself in its rhythm:
- Explore Neighborhoods: Wander Centro, visit Rodadero, and check out quieter areas like Bello Horizonte.
- Shop Locally: Browse Mercado Público or local tiendas for groceries and goods.
- Meet Expats & Locals: Join expat groups (e.g., “Santa Marta Expats” on Facebook) or attend a beach event.
- Test Transportation: Ride local buses, try taxis, or walk the compact centro to gauge mobility.
- Check Services: Visit clinics, pharmacies, and coworking spaces to assess essentials.
- Experience the Vibe: Dine at seafood stalls, sip aguardiente at a bar, and relax on the beach.
Top Activities in Santa Marta
Santa Marta offers a blend of history, beaches, and nature. These activities highlight its best features:
- Tayrona National Park: Hike to pristine beaches and jungles, a short trip away. Book a tour.
- Historic Centro: Stroll the oldest city in Colombia, visiting the Catedral Basílica. Join a walking tour.
- Playa Blanca: Relax or snorkel at this nearby beach accessible by boat. Plan a visit.
- Lost City (Ciudad Perdida): Trek 4-6 days to this ancient archaeological site. Reserve a guided hike.
- Taganga Diving: Explore coral reefs and shipwrecks in this diving hotspot. Book a dive.
- Minca Day Trip: Escape to this mountain village for coffee farms and waterfalls. Plan a tour.
- Rodadero Beach: Enjoy water sports or nightlife in this lively coastal area. Explore on foot.
- Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino: Visit Simón Bolívar’s final resting place. Book a visit.
Click the links above to book your activities and dive into Santa Marta’s coastal allure!
Banking & Finances
Opening a Bank Account
Banks like Bancolombia, Davivienda, and Banco de Bogotá have branches in Santa Marta. Expats typically need a visa (e.g., Migrant or Resident), passport, proof of address, and sometimes proof of income; requirements vary by bank.
Managing Money Internationally
Santa Marta’s tourist-driven coastal economy provides decent access to financial services, though less extensive than in larger cities. Many expats use accounts from their home countries and withdraw Colombian pesos (COP) from ATMs, which are common in Centro, Rodadero, and near shopping areas like Centro Comercial Arrecife. Services like Wise, Charles Schwab, and Capital One offer low-fee transfers and ATM reimbursements, though ATM availability may thin out in less touristy zones like Taganga. Local digital apps like Nequi or Daviplata are gaining traction and can be linked to international cards with a Colombian phone number, useful for small purchases at beach vendors or local eateries.
Currency & Exchange Rates
The Colombian peso (COP) is the official currency. U.S. dollars are occasionally accepted in tourist areas like Rodadero, but it’s best to exchange money at banks, reputable casas de cambio (found in Centro), or withdraw from ATMs for better rates than airports or hotels.
Cost of Living Budget
- Rent: $350–$1,200/month (varies by location—Centro vs. Rodadero)
- Groceries: $200–$400/month
- Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet): $50–$120/month
- Transportation (Buses, Taxis): $30–$100/month
- Healthcare (Private Insurance or EPS): $50–$200/month
Final Thoughts
Santa Marta offers expats an affordable, tropical, and nature-rich lifestyle with a small but growing expat community and deep historical roots. Visiting beforehand is essential—explore its neighborhoods, test daily routines, and connect with expats to ensure it aligns with your goals. From its Caribbean shores to its mountain trails, Santa Marta could be your ideal expat retreat.
Start Your Journey Today!
Click the affiliate links above to book your stay, plan activities, and take the first step toward your new life in Santa Marta!
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Information may change over time, so always consult local experts, legal professionals, and financial advisors before making decisions about moving to or living in Santa Marta.