Is Santa Marta Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Santa Marta can be generally safe for solo female travelers who take standard precautions. It does have crime, like any sizable city, but it is mostly non-violent and petty theft or pick-pocketing. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets or tourist locations. Never walk alone at night, take authorized taxis, and keep your belongings in sight. Substance use or abuse can also lead to safety issues, so refrain from accepting drinks or narcotics from strangers. Common sense and being respectful to local customs and laws are your best defense against potential risks.
Safety rating
Santa Marta is currently ranked #4 safest place in Colombia for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.7 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.
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How safe is Santa Marta?
Safety at night:Unsafe
Santa Marta, can pose certain safety risks, especially for solo female travelers at night. Even though it is a well-known tourist destination, it's not strongly recommended to walk alone after dark. There are areas that are more tourist-friendly, but there also exist some regions where the chance of encountering crime is higher, particularly after sunset. Always prioritize your safety, consider taking a trusted taxi or use other accompanied forms of transport after dark.
Public transportation:Moderate
Public transportation in Santa Marta such as buses and taxis are generally reliable. However, it's advised to be cautious, especially during the evening hours. Taxis are preferable over buses for solo travelers for safety purposes and because they are inexpensive. Some taxi drivers may overcharge so it's best to negotiate the fare before getting into a vehicle. Always ensure that the taxi is official and registered. Personal safety precautions should always be observed, like avoiding displaying expensive items.
Street harassment:Moderate
Santa Marta is a delightful destination, however, some form of street harassment is prevalent. It's often verbal and can be attributed to the high visitor traffic around tourist spots. While generally not dangerous, it can still be uncomfortable. It's advisable to remain vigilant, avoid displaying expensive belongings, and stand up for yourself if necessary. Most importantly, don't let it deter you from enjoying the city's beauty and charm.
Petty crimes:Moderate
Santa Marta can be a mixed bag when it comes to petty crimes. Being a popular tourist spot, there's a slightly elevated risk of pickpocketing and bag-snatching, particularly in crowded areas and during festivals or events. However, the situation has been improving over the recent years due to increased police presence. Keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid showing off expensive electronics or jewelry in public. Also, be cautious when using ATMs and try to use them during daytime or inside malls. In residential areas and less populated parts of the city, the risk diminishes considerably. Be alert and take the common-sense precautions, and you should be fine in Santa Marta.
Is Santa Marta worth visiting?
Solo travel
I loved going to Santa Marta, I felt very safe, I stayed at the República Hostel and met many, many solo travelers! It was the best experience of my life. It's a very affordable place and the views are beautiful, the transportation is safe and fast, everything is close by, and the food is delicious.
Posted: December 30, 2024 0
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Solo travel
In Santa Marta usually a tourist feels safe, it’s a very tourist friendly place, you still need to watch out for insecurity, not going out so late, calling the taxi from the hotel. It’s the best city, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, mountain. It has everything
Posted: December 12, 2023 0
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Is Santa Marta safe for women?
Romane
Juste arrived arrived, I can tell so much right now on the city. But really joyfull, lot of art every where, dancing and music all around. And it’s a touristic place, for the first fews days here feel good
Posted: May 17, 2025 0
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Safety in Colombia
