Hotels in Colombia

Our Colombia hotels are in two very different cities. Santa Marta, on the Caribbean coast, is among the oldest Spanish-founded cities in South America and the jumping-off point for Tayrona National Park, the coffee and cloud-forest village of Minca and the multi-day trek to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) in the Sierra Nevada.

Cali is far to the south-west, in the Cauca Valley. It's a warm, busy city with a reputation as the capital of salsa, and its older neighbourhoods around the centre and San Antonio are good places to base yourself. Both cities' hotels are listed below by town.

Places to stay across Colombia

A selection from every destination. Open a destination above to see all of its hotels with filters.

Places to stay in Colombia

Hotels we list in Santa Marta and Cali.

Cali

Santa Marta

Planning a trip to Colombia

Getting there and around

Most long-haul flights arrive at El Dorado airport in Bogotá, and domestic airlines connect it with Santa Marta and Cali in under two hours. Flying is usually the practical way to travel between regions, as mountain roads make bus journeys long. Within each city, use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps rather than hailing cars on the street at night.

Santa Marta and Tayrona

Santa Marta is hot all year, and the drier months are usually December to April. Tayrona National Park closes for short periods each year to let the environment recover and for the Indigenous communities of the Sierra Nevada, so check the current dates before planning a visit. The historic centre, near the seafront, is the most convenient base for tours.

Cali

Sitting about 1,000 metres above sea level, Cali is warm rather than steamy. The city's salsa schools and clubs are a big draw, and in late December the Feria de Cali fills the streets with music and parades. Its international airport is outside the city, so allow time for the transfer.

Before you go

Entry rules and safety advice change. Read the UK government's foreign travel advice for Colombia on gov.uk, or your own country's equivalent, before you book.

Questions about staying in Colombia

Where should I stay in Santa Marta?

The historic centre is the most practical choice for first-time visitors, with restaurants, the seafront and tour agencies within walking distance. Rodadero, south of the city, is more of a beach resort.

Can I visit Tayrona National Park from Santa Marta?

Yes. The main entrances are roughly an hour's drive east, and many visitors go as a day trip or stay a night or two inside or near the park. Check opening dates first, as the park has scheduled closures.

Is Cali worth visiting?

If you love music and dancing, yes. It's also a gateway to the Pacific coast and the Valle del Cauca countryside, and it's warmer than Bogotá or Medellín.

Do you take bookings?

No. Each hotel links to booking partners, where you compare live prices and book directly with them.