Santa Marta

Beach Coastal Beaches

Population: 516k

Cost of Living: High

Train Access: No

Bus Access: Yes (Berlinas, Copetran, Expreso Brasilia)

Weather: Santa Marta experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round, and a distinct wet and dry season.

Santa Marta is a vibrant city located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lush natural surroundings. As the oldest surviving city in Colombia, it boasts a wealth of colonial architecture, with the historic center offering quaint streets and charming plazas. The city serves as a gateway to numerous natural attractions, including the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, which is the world's highest coastal range, and Tayrona National Natural Park, renowned for its biodiversity and stunning beaches. Santa Marta's waterfront is lined with marinas, restaurants, and bars, creating a lively atmosphere that attracts tourists and locals alike. The city's cultural scene is vibrant, with festivals and events celebrating its indigenous and colonial heritage. Santa Marta is also a hub for eco-tourism, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the surrounding jungles and beaches. Despite its growth and popularity as a tourist destination, Santa Marta maintains a laid-back charm and is an excellent base for exploring the Caribbean coast of Colombia.

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Local Schools

Colegio Karl C. Parrish

Schools in Santa Marta

The International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Colegio Bureche, is located in Santa Marta and offers an international curriculum for students from early childhood to the diploma program. Another institution is the Aspaen Gimnasio Cartagena de Indias, which provides a bilingual education with an emphasis on English language proficiency.

Colegio Bureche also offers bilingual education, focusing on English and Spanish languages, and prepares students for the IB program. Additionally, the Aspaen Gimnasio Cartagena de Indias school provides a bilingual environment where students are taught in both English and Spanish.

Living in Santa Marta

Santa Marta's dining scene includes the upscale Restaurante Lamart, known for its gourmet cuisine and ocean views. Mid-range options like Ouzo Restaurante offer Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a relaxed setting. For budget-friendly meals, visitors can enjoy local flavors at La Canoa Café Cultural, which serves traditional Colombian dishes. Additionally, Di Vino is a popular Italian restaurant that provides a cozy atmosphere and a selection of fine wines.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Santa Marta is considered high, especially in tourist areas and beachfront properties, reflecting its popularity as a destination and the amenities it offers.

Healthcare in Santa Marta

Santa Marta has several healthcare facilities, including the Clinica La Milagrosa and the Hospital Universitario Fernando Troconis. These hospitals offer a range of services from basic care to specialized treatments, and they are known for serving both the local population and tourists.