There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Santa Marta into a quick city adventure. From SMR, the Local Bus / Taxi can get you into town in around 90 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside SMR
A few things to sort out before you leave SMR:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Colombia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Santa Marta takes about 90 minutes by Local Bus / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from SMR to Santa Marta
The most straightforward way into Santa Marta is the Local Bus / Taxi, which takes about 90 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 110 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Bus / Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Santa Marta:
Start with City Center Walk. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SMR, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near SMR
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Santa Marta: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe or Terminal Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Santa Marta layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Santa Marta, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at SMR aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Santa Marta itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SMR is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Santa Marta and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SMR.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Santa Marta count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave SMR. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.