How to get from Santa Marta to Palomino
Why visit 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.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Santa Marta to Palomino?
There are 2 ways to travel the 80 kilometre (50 miles) distance from Santa Marta to Palomino. You can choose between the bus and taxi. The journey takes 1 to 2 hours and the quickest way is by taxi. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 14,000 COP ($3.80).
Where to stay in Palomino?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Palomino.
Santa Marta to Palomino by Bus
The bus is an affordable way to get from Santa Marta to Palomino. Bus fares start from 14,000 COP ($3.80) and the journey takes around 2 hours.
You can choose from five bus companies: Expreso Brasilia, Unitransco, Expreso Almirante Padilla, and Exalpa. Tickets are available for booking online.
Among these, Expreso Brasilia and Unitransco are generally the most reliable. They have frequent departures and are known for good service and comfort.
Almirante Padilla and Exalpa offer two afternoon trips each. However, travellers often mention delays and subpar service.
Another option is Cootransoriente Tayrona. It has departures throughout the day, but tickets are only sold in person at their office. Be prepared to wait, though — Cootransoriente buses usually don’t leave until they’re full, which can mean a delay of up to 30 minutes.
Departure stations
Most buses depart from Terminal de Transportes de Santa Marta near the city centre.
If you’re travelling with Cootransoriente Tayrona, their buses leave from Cootransoriente Bus Stop behind the central market (Mercado Central).
Uber fares in Santa Marta start from 20,000 COP ($5.40) if you’re coming from the centro, and around 34,000 COP ($9.20) from El Rodadero.
Taxis are another option and can be a bit cheaper than Uber, but there’s a catch. Drivers often try to overcharge, especially if you’re a tourist. More often than not, you have to negotiate. Make sure to agree on the fare before getting in!
Bus schedule from Santa Marta to Palomino
Arrival stations
The bus will drop you off on the main road in Palomino, along the highway that connects Santa Marta and Riohacha. If you’re travelling with Cootransoriente Tayrona, you’ll likely be dropped off directly at the petrol station on the highway.
Palomino is a small town, so most hostels and hotels are within walking distance of the bus stops. From your drop-off point, you can walk into town and head toward the beach. Start by following the main road, then take one of the smaller side streets that lead directly to the coast and most accommodations in the area.
If you’re staying outside the centre, you can take a mototaxi for about 5,000 COP ($1.40).
Santa Marta to Palomino by Taxi
A private transfer from Santa Marta to Palomino is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 1 to 2 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
If you want reliability and peace of mind, it’s best to book in advance with BookAway. Prices start from 313,000 COP ($85). This is higher than other options, but you get a better car and won’t need to negotiate.
Uber is also available and is the cheapest private transfer, with prices starting at 240,000 COP ($65) for a 4-seater. Split it with your group and it’s about 60,000 COP ($16.20) each. Just note it can sometimes take a while for a driver to accept your booking, if they do at all, since not all drivers take trips outside Santa Marta.
You can also arrange a taxi through your accommodation or an official company. Rates vary depending on negotiation, but expect to pay at least 259,000 COP ($70) for a private trip from Santa Marta to Palomino.
Private Transport options from Santa Marta to Palomino
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Santa Marta 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!
Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Marta to Palomino
What is the distance from Santa Marta to Palomino?
The distance from Santa Marta to Palomino is 80 kilometre (50 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Santa Marta to Palomino?
The fastest way to get from Santa Marta to Palomino is by taxi and takes 1 hour.
What is the cheapest way to get from Santa Marta to Palomino?
The cheapest way to get from Santa Marta to Palomino is by bus with ticket costs starting from 14,000 COP ($3.80).
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.
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
