How to get to Palomino from Santa Marta and other cities in the country

How to get to Palomino from Santa Marta

Distance between Santa Marta and Palomino

• Distance: approximately 80 km
• Estimated time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Route: Caribbean Trunk Road

The road is in good condition and offers spectacular scenery where the Sierra Nevada meets the sea.

Cheapest option: Bus or shared taxi.

It is the most common way to travel between Santa Marta and Palomino.

Distance and duration

•  Average travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Route: Caribbean Trunk Road
• More than 14 daily departures

Where do they come from?

• Santa Marta Public Market
• Transportation Terminal

Approximate price:

The ticket price varies depending on the company and the type of service:

•  General range: $25,000 – $70,000 COP
• Most common price in intercity companies: $25,000 – $30,000 COP
• Budget options (local buses): from $12,000 COP

Prices may vary depending on the season and availability.

The main companies that cover this route are:

• Unitransco
• Brasilia Express

Both offer comfortable buses, some double-decker or intercity minibuses with air conditioning.

Output frequency

•  From 5:00 am
• Constant departures throughout the day
• Service until late

Where to buy tickets

• Directly at the Santa Marta Transportation Terminal
• At authorized points of the Public Market
• Online through platforms such as:
• redBus Colombia
• Pinbus

Booking online may be advisable during peak season.

If you are staying at Aité Eco Resort, we recommend letting us know your approximate arrival time so we can send you more precise directions.

Taxi or private transport, the most comfortable option

If you're looking for a more direct and comfortable arrival, this is the best option. Many travelers prefer this option if they arrive at Simón Bolívar Airport and want to go straight to their accommodations.

 Estimated price 2026: around $330,000 - $350,000 COP

 Average travel time: 1 hour 37 minutes.

Ideal for:

• Travel in a group
• Bring large luggage
• Arrive directly at the hotel

 Recommendation: It is advisable to agree on the fare with the taxi driver before starting the trip.

Car rental

Available at Santa Marta airport.

It is recommended if you plan to visit:

• Tayrona Park
• Valencia Ravine
• Cape of the Sail
• Flamingo Sanctuary

Approximate price per day: $130,000 - $200,000 COP

In addition, it gives you the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.

If you arrive by plane

Simón Bolívar International Airport is located about 20 minutes from downtown Santa Marta. From there you can:

• Take a taxi directly to Palomino
• Go to the city center first, then take the bus.
• Rent a vehicle

How to get to Palomino from Riohacha

Riohacha is another gateway close to Palomino.

• Distance: approximately 90 km
• Estimated time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Route: Caribbean Trunk Road

Options:

• Intercity bus to Santa Marta (drops you off on the main road of Palomino).
• Taxi or direct private transportation.

In some cases, flying to Riohacha can be a convenient alternative depending on available airfares.

How to get to Palomino from Barranquilla

From Barranquilla the journey is longer, but completely feasible by road.

• Distance: approximately 230 km
• Estimated time: 4 to 5 hours

Options:

• Car rental
• Private transport
• Bus to Santa Marta and then connection to Palomino

Many travelers combine Barranquilla, Santa Marta and Palomino in the same tour of the Colombian Caribbean.

How to get to Palomino from Cartagena

Cartagena is further away, but it is a common route for those visiting several Caribbean cities.

• Distance: approximately 320 km
• Estimated time: 5 to 6 hours by car

Recommended options:

• Flight Cartagena → Santa Marta (30 minutes)   ground transfer
• Road trip passing through Barranquilla and Santa Marta

It is an excellent option if you want to combine historical tourism in Cartagena with nature in Palomino.

How to get to Palomino from Bogotá

If you are traveling from Bogotá, flying is the best option.

Option 1: Flight Bogotá → Santa Marta

• Flight duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Then a 1.5-2 hour ground transfer to Palomino

Option 2: Flight Bogotá → Riohacha

• Flight duration: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Then a ground transfer of approximately 1h30

The road trip from Bogotá is not recommended due to the distance (more than 16 hours).

What is the road like to Palomino?

The Troncal del Caribe is a main paved road. The route is safe and frequented by tourists. During the journey, you will enjoy views of mountains, jungle, and sea.

Advice:

• Avoid traveling at night if you don't know the area.
• Bring cash for small tolls or local payments.

Where does the transport drop you off in Palomino?

Most buses and taxis drop you off on the town's main road. Some hotels are just a short walk from the beach.

If you are staying at Aité Eco Resort, it is recommended to coordinate your arrival in advance to ensure easy and direct access to your room.

Getting to Palomino from Colombia's major cities is easy and safe. Whether you're traveling from Santa Marta, Riohacha, Cartagena, Barranquilla, or Bogotá, you can combine flights and ground transportation to begin your Colombian Caribbean adventure.

If you are planning your stay, we recommend visiting: What to do in Palomino in 2026 – Complete Guide to Beaches, Excursions and Nature)