What to expect when visiting Palomino
Palomino is a small beach town on Colombia’s north coast. Its laidback atmosphere is a huge contrast to the rest of the country’s generally hectic vibe. In Palomino, one’s worries go away, even just for a few days.
Its spectacular beaches and surrounding lush jungle make it the perfect destination for adventurous travellers and nature lovers. You can enjoy a variety of activities in Palomino like surfing, horseback riding on the beach and river tubing. It also has an ideal location, close to other popular destinations like Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta and Rioacha.
2 ways to get from Cartagena to Palomino
There are two ways to travel the distance of 350 km (217 miles) from Cartagena to Palomino: by bus (6 hours) and minivan (5.5 hours). The journey takes between 5h30m - 6h and the quickest way is by minivan. The lowest priced tickets start from 40,000 COP ($10) for the bus.Where to stay in Palomino?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Palomino at the bottom of this page.
Cartagena to Palomino by Bus
The companies operating the route Cartagena to Palomino depart from the main bus terminal in Cartagena.
Step 1: City centre to Cartagena bus terminal
Cartagena bus terminal is quite far from the city centre. There are 2 ways to get there: a 1-hour bus or a 30-minute taxi ride.
Option 1: Cartagena city centre to the bus terminal by Transcaribe Bus
The bus terminal is well connected to the city centre of Cartagena, as well as the popular neighbourhoods of Getsemani and San Diego Transcaribe buses.
There are 2 Transcaribe bus stations within the city centre. The first one is called ‘La Bodeguita’, located very close to the port and the walled city, and the second one called ‘Centro’, which is useful if you’re staying in the Getsemani or San Diego areas.
The bus line that connects the city with the bus terminal is the X104 which departs roughly every 20 minutes from ‘La Bodeguita’ Station.
Option 2: Cartagena city centre to the bus terminal by Taxi
You can arrange a taxi with your accommodation or hail one from the street, however we recommend that you only do this during the day when it’s safer.
Expect to pay 18,000 COP ($4.20) for a ride to the old city. Taxi rates are regulated by the local government. Nevertheless, as a general rule in Cartagena, it is better to agree on the price before stepping in.
Uber does not really work in Cartagena. If you do prefer to use an app, locals use InDriver, which allows you to bid the rate you want to pay and drivers will accept or decline it.
Step 2: Cartagena to Palomino by Bus
The companies covering this route are Expreso Brasilia and Unitransco. Both are safe and reputable companies offering a comfortable and good service.
You can book your tickets online or directly at the bus terminal. The bus will drop you at the petrol station in Palomino, located on the main road that connects Santa Marta and Rioacha.
Palomino is a very small town so most hotels in town are within walking distance of the petrol station. If you’re staying out of town there are motorbikes available that can take you to your accommodation for around 3,000 COP ($0.70).
Note that this direct bus service is only available towards Palomino as the bus is actually heading towards Rioacha. It is allowed to drop off passengers on the road but not to pick them up, so to go back from Palomino you must first connect in Santa Marta.
Bus options from Cartagena to Palomino
Cartagena to Palomino by Minivan
A minivan is essentially a shared taxi and a popular way to travel around the main destinations along the north coast. Their added value is their door-to-door service, meaning no extra cost and effort catching public transportation.
Transportes Marsol is the company that operates the route Cartagena to Palomino. There are 2 minivans every morning at 06:00 and 10:00. The trip can take between 5.5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and the destination of other passengers aboard.
You can check the availability and book your minivan tickets online through BookAway. Note that for the Cartagena to Palomino route, you must book at least 48 hours before departure and wait for their confirmation. You will be asked to be ready 1 hour before the pick-up time.
If your hotel is located in the surroundings of Palomino the drop off service may not be included. In that case, you will be dropped at the town where you can take a motorbike from 3,000 COP ($0.70) to your accommodation.
Our favourite places to stay in Palomino
For a small beach town, Palomino offers some incredible accommodation options. Lots of them are situated right on the beach, so you can wake up to the sound of waves.
The most popular hotels do get booked up quite quickly, so if you find somewhere you like, better book it straight away.
Let’s check out some of the best places to stay in Palomino:
Senda Casalina Ecolodge - Treating Yourself
When you think of luxury, a place like Senda Casalina pops into your head. The huge canopy bed, waking up to the sound of waves and nature all around you. You can have that at Senda Casalina!
The onsite restaurant serves some of the best food that you’ll try in Colombia. They even make their own homemade bread every morning for breakfast. Make sure to book this place in advance because it’s pretty high in demand.
- Moments from the beach
- Outdoor bathrooms in beach bungalows
- Incredible onsite restaurant
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms cost $80+ per night
Casa Chapolin - Mid Range
Staying at Casa Chapolin feels like more than just sleeping in a room, it’s an experience. Whether you stay in a beach-front bungalow or a luxury double room, you won’t want to leave.
The hotel is only moments from the beach and also has its own restaurant and fitness centre. The owners add a personal touch to the hotel, instantly making you feel at home. This is a must-stay in Palomino!
- Minutes from the beach
- Beachfront bungalows
- Fitness centre
- Exceptional breakfast included
Double rooms cost between $40-$80 per night
Villa Eden Palomino - Budget Friendly
Book Villa Eden in advance and you can get an incredible deal to stay here. Rooms start from $30 per night if you book early.
The whole hotel oozes tropical vibes, with the thatched roofs and natural decor. The refreshing pool and garden area are the perfect places to spend the day relaxing.
You’ll be excited to return to your room each night because they are so beautifully designed and tranquil.
- Stunning outdoor pool
- Less than 1 km from the beach
- Beautiful rooms
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms cost between $20-$40 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Cartagena to Palomino
What is the distance from Cartagena to Palomino?
The distance from Cartagena to Palomino is 350 km (217 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Cartagena to Palomino?
The fastest way to get from Cartagena to Palomino is by minivan and takes 5.5 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Cartagena to Palomino?
The cheapest way to get from Cartagena to Palomino is by bus with ticket costs starting from 40,000 COP ($10).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Cartagena to Palomino. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
