Is Santa Marta Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Solo Travel in Santa Marta

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

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How safe is Santa Marta?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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

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
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Is Santa Marta safe right now?

Before your visit to Santa Marta, it's essential to check travel advisories for Colombia, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel

The United States Government advises reconsidering travel due to crime and terrorism. It suggests exercising increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping. Certain areas possess a higher risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 2, 2024
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Colombia due to high levels of crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: October 1, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Colombia overall due to the threat of violent crime and terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: October 1, 2024

Meet locals in Santa Marta

Sandie

Sandie

About Me

Hi, my name is Sandie, I am travelling in South America for 4 months Oct - Feb. Some of it is with friends and some is solo. I'm excited to meet new people along the way that like exploring culture, food, nightlife and like to be active. I am currently in Columbia Bogota tonight and I'm flying to Santa Marta tomorrow and Medellin the week after.

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Jazzie

Jazzie

About Me

Hola! xin chào สวัสดี Hi! I’m Jazzie. I am a digital nomad that’s been on the road for five years I am a blogger/content creator and stand up comedian. I enjoy dining out, dancing, wine bars, beaches, boats, hammocks, tacos, seafood, traveling, astrology, spirituality and laughing.

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Stay with locals in Santa Marta

Jazzie

Jazzie

Santa Marta

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hola! xin chào สวัสดี Hi! I’m Jazzie. I am a digital nomad that’s been on the road for five years I am a blogger/content creator and stand up comedian. I enjoy dining out, dancing, wine bars, beaches, boats, hammocks, tacos, seafood, traveling, astrology, spirituality and laughing.

Speaking

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Safety in Colombia