The north Coast of Colombia is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in South America. For those looking for relaxed vibes (with a party or two thrown in) and a handful of sea and sun, this is the place for you.
But you know what? If you're more of a nature geek or like to hike in the mountains or experience the richest of culture and history, this place is for you too!
The north coast of Colombia really does have it all. Bustling and vibrant cites like Cartagena, historic sites like La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), well kept secret beaches like Rincon del Mar, national parks like Tayrona, as well party and boutique hostels along the endless beaches stretching from Santa Marta to Palomino and beyond.
With so much on offer along just one coast, we decided to make a list of the places we thought were definitely worth a visit.
Here are some of our favourite places on this enchanting coast.
Santa Marta
Santa Marta, nestled on the Caribbean coast, is a tropical paradise. Its beaches, like Rodadero and Playa Blanca, offer a taste of sun, sea, and sand. The city's vibrant culture and lively atmosphere make it a fantastic place to explore. Don't miss the chance to visit Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, where Simón Bolívar spent his final days, or embark on an adventure to the nearby Tayrona National Park, where you can hike through lush jungles and relax on pristine beaches.
Top things to do:
Visit Tayrona National Park
Use the airport as a hub for other locations in Colombia
Take a trip to the cloud forest of Minca
Explore the old town and check out the beaches
Accommodation:
La Villana Boutique Hostel:
We stayed in the centre of town on a quiet street. This hostel was perfect for our short stay in Santa Marta. Close to shops and restaurants alike, we had everything we needed in close proximity.
For those heading out east towards Tayrona Park and beyond, the hectic bus terminal is only a 10 minutes walk away.
Buritaca
Buritaca, located near the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, is a nature lover's paradise. This was arguably one of the most beautiful places we've stayed, and some of the hostels were out of this world. The region is known for its lush jungle, pristine rivers, and indigenous culture. From here you can take a guided tour to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), an ancient archaeological site older than Machu Picchu. Trek through the jungle, cross rivers, and encounter the Kogi people, who have inhabited the area for centuries.
Top things to do:
Trek to the Lost City
Relax in some of the most incredible hostels with breath-taking views of the coast
Explore the jungle and tube down the El Rio river, soaking up the sun
Party at El Rio Hostel, where a monstrous rave is held every month
Accommodation:
El Alto Hostel:
This hostel was incredible. We happened to be the only ones there at the time so that made it a little more special, considering we had their wonderful pool all to ourselves.
El Alto sits atop an incredibly steep hill, just off the main road, overlooking the sea. If you've read about this hostel on other blogs, I'm sure you have heard about walk up to it.
It is insanely steep, and enough to consider getting a moto taxi to carry you and your bags up to the top. This is an option, though we opted to hike up. When you get to the top however, you're rewarded with one of the most spectacular views imaginable.
The hostel is almost treehouse like and boasts a gorgeous pool and bar area that you can easily spend the day at, wondering how the time flew by so quickly.
Food isn't included but can be bought at their bar for an additional cost.
Our dorm was about €13 each for the night.
The Fort:
The Fort Hostel. Where do I start? Arguably the nicest place we stayed on our entire trip. Run by a young English and French couple, this hostel (only 5 minutes down the road from El Alto) is utter luxury on a backpacker budget.
We felt like we were on a short holiday when we were here and not backpacking for 6 months. The place immediately feels like home, and the owners dogs and cats only added to that feeling.
Like El Alto, The Fort is just of the road along the coast, only the climb up isn't as severe. Nestled into the jungle, the hostel is comprised of multiple buildings, linked together by winding paths.
You arrive to the main building, which is an open plan style and hosts the bar, kitchen and reception area. Away from the common area, and up a winding path lies the dorms. These are luxurious, and are all open air, with a view out to the sea.
This place was a little more expensive than our average hostel stay at about €14 a night, but it was well worth every penny.
La Ponderosa:
Deep into the jungle (about 40 minutes from the main road up a steep and winding dirt track) lies the eco hostel La Ponderosa.
Set up by an Englishman during COVID, this hostel is a haven for those looking to do some volunteering away from the hustle and bustle of most towns and cities. For nature lovers, this place is ideal. Sitting on the river deep in the jungle, this stripped back eco hostel makes use of solar power, compost toilets and vegetables gardens to sustain itself due to its remoteness.
La Ponderosa uses a chipped bracelet system for payment. Upon arrival you'll receive a band that can be used to purchase meals and drinks, and as you leave, will be totted up for you to pay.
All meals are vegetarian here, and are eaten together as a 'family', meaning there is a set time to eat, to encourage conversation and connection. Oh, and they shut the limited wifi off too during meal time, just to really hammer that point home. We though it was a great thing and really enjoyed that style of dinner.
Per night per person, the hostel was about €13. And the fairly grim moto taxi up was about €6.
Palomino
Palomino is a serene beach town where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet the Caribbean Sea. It's a haven for backpackers and nature enthusiasts. You can hike to waterfalls, float down the Palomino River on a tube, or simply relax on the quiet, palm-lined beaches. The area's unique blend of mountains, sea, and river creates a tranquil and unforgettable setting. Colombia's diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination.
Top things to do:
Surf some mean swells with solid right to left breakers
Enjoy the sunset on the beach with a drink or two
Go tubing down the Palomino River
Accommodation:
The place we stayed in Palomino was not worth it at all (as we booked very late and on a whim), but there are so many good options here. You'll have no problem finding something suitable.
It can be a bit of a party spot so be sure to research where you're staying, to avoid any unwanted noise.
Palomino is for both travellers and families alike, so there can be an eclectic mix around.
Cartagena
Cartagena, often called the "Jewel of the Caribbean," is a city that oozes colonial charm. Its well-preserved, colourful architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic forts transport you back in time. Stroll along the city walls, explore the old town, and be captivated by the lively plazas, street performers, and the delicious Caribbean cuisine. Don't forget to take a sunset walk on the city walls for a breath-taking view of the Caribbean Sea.
Top things to do:
Explore the old city
Eat out in some of the most colourful cafes and restaurants, new and old
Check out the local street performers
Splurge in some of the cities extravagant shops
Accommodation:
Nahimara Champeta Hostel:
We stayed in Nahimara Champeta Hostel. A very average hostel, but while our private room didn't have windows, it did have air conditioning which was vital for our survival in that sweltering heat. It cost us about €13 each per night. Breakfast wasn't included.
Any spot within the walls of Cartagena (Centro) would be ideal, as the old town really has everything you would be looking for. Additionally, when we were here in August, it was stiflingly hot and made for an uncomfortable walk. We couldn't find cheap enough accommodation within the old towns walls, but managed to find a cheap place 10 minutes outside it.
Even though it was just across the bridge, we recommend you book your place in advance to be sure to get a nice hostel or hotel in the centre, as the walk was a little hot (albeit absolutely fine).
Rincon del Mar
For those seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience, Rincón del Mar is a hidden gem. This tranquil fishing village on the Caribbean coast offers a glimpse into authentic Colombian coastal life. Relax on untouched beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and savour fresh seafood prepared by locals. Rincón del Mar's serene ambiance is the perfect antidote to the bustling cities.
Top things to do:
Take a boat out on a bio-luminesce algae tour
Sip cocktails from a coconut while watching the sunset
Head out to Isla Palma for a night or two on an island
Relax by the sea and enjoy the quaint fishing towns lazy vibe
Accommodation:
Hostel Beach House:
This hostel sits right on the beach, with a spacious and compartmentalised open air dorm on the second floor. Overlooking the sea, this hostel catches some of the most colourful sunsets, and with it's open air design, keeps you cool at night with the sea breeze running straight through it.
For a bed in the open air dorm, it'll set you back about €12 per night per person.
Mistica Hostel:
Just off the beach of Rincon del Mar lies an archipelago of islands. One of these islands is called Isla Palma. Formerly a zoo, the island is now home to a hostel in which some of the animals remain.
This spot is only a 20 minutes boat ride from Rincon and really does feel tropical. Meals can be bought on the island and there's lots of activities to do, like beach volleyball, slacklining or just hanging out with the local monkey Nina.
We thought 2 days here would be more than enough time to enjoy it fully, without getting a little bored. A dorm for the night was about €9. The boat out cost about €13.
These five places, from the bustling cities to the tranquil beaches and remote jungles, offer a taste of the coast's many charms. Whether you're drawn to culture, nature, or adventure, the north coast has something for every traveller to discover and enjoy. So, pack your bags and start your Colombian adventure in these incredible places that have left an indelible mark on our hearts. Your journey through this beautiful coast will be filled with warmth, culture, and unforgettable memories.