About Magdalena
Magdalena is Colombia's Caribbean soul, where the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta—the world's highest coastal mountain range—meet the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. This department is the proud home of the legendary 'Lost City' (Ciudad Perdida), a pre-Columbian archaeological marvel older than Machu Picchu, accessible only via a multi-day jungle trek through indigenous territories. Its crown jewel is the colonial gem of Santa Marta, Colombia's oldest surviving city, offering a charming historic center, vibrant nightlife, and a gateway to Tayrona National Natural Park, with its breathtaking coves, rainforest trails, and pristine beaches. Magdalena's culture is a vibrant fusion of indigenous, African, and Spanish heritage, celebrated through music like cumbia and vallenato, and in colorful festivals. From the wildlife-rich wetlands of the Ciénaga Grande to the coffee plantations in its mountainous interior, Magdalena offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, history, and relaxation.
Things to do in Magdalena
PREMIUM catamaran excursion archipelago of La Maddalena
La Maddalena, Sardinia
From GHS 1,778
5.0 (109)
All inclusive private tour in the Archipelago of La Maddalena
Sardinia, Italy
Learn how to make fresh pasta or Sardinian desserts from Vero Local
La Maddalena, Sardinia
From GHS 2,634
5.0 (6)
La Maddalena Archipelago Tour with Motorboat DC12
La Maddalena, Sardinia
From GHS 15,145
5.0 (4)
Eco Boat Tour of La Maddalena for Small Groups with Aperitif
Sardinia, Italy
Alghero From Olbia - Costa Smeralda
La Maddalena, Sardinia
La Maddalena & Caprera
La Maddalena, Sardinia
Costa Smeralda & Gallura
La Maddalena, Sardinia
Monomaran tour 16 mt with boarding from Maddalena and Palau
La Maddalena, Sardinia
Kayak Tour to Magdalene Island with Snorkeling and Typical Aperitif
La Maddalena, Sardinia
Shared Five Star Relax Yacht CruiseSailing La Maddalena Islands
La Maddalena, Sardinia
LUXURY RIB Excursions from Palau and La Maddalena
La Maddalena, Sardinia
From GHS 10,536
5.0 (22)
Angels and Demons Tour
La Maddalena, Sardinia
Catamaran tour Archipelago Maddalena (lunch included)
La Maddalena, Sardinia
From GHS 1,581
4.9 (152)
La Maddalena archipelago private tour with skipper
Sardinia, Italy
From GHS 15,803
4.9 (83)Travel Tips for Magdalena
Getting Around
In Santa Marta, taxis are plentiful and inexpensive; always ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Didi operate. Local buses (colectivos) and minivans connect Santa Marta to nearby towns like Taganga and Rodadero. For longer distances (e.g., to Palomino, Riohacha), comfortable intercity buses are available from the main terminal. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the department but driving in cities can be chaotic. Motorcycle taxis are common in smaller towns. To reach Ciudad Perdida or remote parts of Tayrona, you must go with an authorized guided tour, which includes transportation.
Best Time To Visit
December to March and July to August. These are the drier months with less rainfall, offering ideal conditions for beach visits, trekking to Ciudad Perdida, and exploring Tayrona National Park. The period from mid-December to mid-January is peak season, coinciding with festivals but also higher prices and crowds. The rainy seasons (April-May and September-November) can make trails muddy and some park areas may close temporarily.
Local Customs
Dress is generally casual but modest when visiting churches or small towns. Beachwear is for the beach only. Greetings are important; a handshake or a single cheek kiss is common. Politeness is valued. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated: 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, small change for taxi drivers, and tips for tour guides are customary. Respect indigenous territories and communities, especially in the Sierra Nevada; always follow your guide's instructions regarding photography and interaction. The pace of life is relaxed ('mañana' attitude).
Safety Information
Exercise increased caution. Tourist areas in Santa Marta, Taganga, and Tayrona Park are generally safe but be vigilant for petty theft, pickpocketing, and bag-snatching, especially on beaches and in crowded markets. Avoid displaying valuables. Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps. Avoid traveling alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Do not hike to Ciudad Perdida without an authorized tour operator. Some rural areas have a presence of illegal armed groups; always check current travel advisories and stick to well-traveled tourist routes. Scams involving unofficial tour guides or inflated prices are common; book tours through reputable agencies.
Health Information
Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date; Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (especially if visiting rural or jungle areas like Tayrona or the Sierra Nevada) are recommended. Dengue fever is present; use insect repellent. Medical facilities in Santa Marta (Clínica Portoazul, Hospital Universitario Fernando Troconis) are adequate for most needs, but serious conditions may require transfer to Barranquilla or Bogotá. Drink only bottled or purified water. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly advised. Altitude sickness can be a concern in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Languages Spoken
Spanish
Quick Facts
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
$
$
Timezone
America/Bogota -05:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+57
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
1.4 million
Area
23188 km²
Government
Department with a Governor and Departmental Assembly
ISO Code
47