Things To Do
in San Martín
San Martín is a small river town tucked along lush rainforest near Colombia's Amazonian fringe. The town serves as a gateway to jungle adventures, river trips, and wildlife encounters that define the region. Local communities blend Indigenous and mestizo traditions, offering warm hospitality and flavorful river cuisine.
The climate is hot and humid, and the surrounding rainforest bursts with biodiversity year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Martín early in the morning to soak in the fresh mountain air. After settling into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while observing the is bustling atmosphere. Take a short walk around the charming town center to get your bearings.
After lunch, embark on a guided hike to the stunning 'Cascadas de San Martín,' a series of cascading waterfalls nestled in the lush jungle. Keep your camera ready as you cross hanging bridges and admire the vibrant flora and fauna. After exploring the waterfalls, return to town and relax at a quaint café with a view.
Experience local culture with a traditional dinner at a family-run restaurant serving authentic Colombian dishes. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps, join in on a dance session highlighting the region's folkloric music. End the night with a peaceful stroll through the illuminated streets, relishing the tranquility of the town.
Dive into the rich coffee culture of San Martín with a visit to a local coffee hacienda. Join a guided tour to learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to brew, while sampling fresh cups of their finest coffee. The lush landscapes surrounding the hacienda make for a perfect backdrop to your morning exploration.
After a coffee tasting, indulge in a hearty lunch at the hacienda’s restaurant, featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Later, take a leisurely walk through the coffee plantations, engaging with farmers and understanding their techniques. Reflect on the significance of coffee in the region while enjoying breathtaking views of the valleys.
Return to town for a casual dinner at a local eatery, where you can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes. Join a storytelling session around a bonfire with the locals, sharing personal experiences and learning about their way of life. Cap off the night with a traditional drink, savoring the flavors of Colombia.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🥗Lunch at local restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic jungle and river experiences
- Warm, welcoming local communities
- Affordable prices and smaller crowds
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas
- Transportation can be time-consuming
- Healthcare options are basic outside towns
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Quisiera un plato vegetariano" - I would like a vegetarian dish
Places to Visit in San Martín
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour viewpoints along the riverbank offering wide, calm water reflections and silhouettes of palm trees.
Vibrant, colorful market scenes with local people, textiles, and produce; great for candid street photography.
Elevated jungle trails and observation decks that showcase canopy views and a chorus of tropical birds.
Food in San Martín
San Martín Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
River fish fried to crisp perfection served with coconut-infused rice and ripe plantains.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew featuring yuca, plantains, root vegetables, and local fish or chicken, rich in herbs from the jungle.
Tosted green plantain slices with a fresh avocado dip, a common snack or side dish at markets and cafés.
Griddled corn cake often enjoyed with cheese, served as a breakfast staple or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful market stalls offering fresh fruit, yuca, plantains, herbs, and prepared snacks; great for trying regional flavors.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering fried snacks, grilled fish bites, and fruit cups for a quick meal on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm hola or buenos días. A handshake or light hug with friends is common; show respect to elders and local leaders.
Always ask before photographing people in markets or villages; respect privacy and cultural norms.
Dress modestly for religious or community spaces; avoid loud behavior in quiet areas; keep voices calm in public and sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in San Martín
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, a tip of 5-10% at casual spots or 10-15% at nicer restaurants is appreciated. For guides and drivers, small tips are customary after full-day experiences.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; many hotels accept cards. In more remote spots, carry cash and small denominations; some vendors may use mobile payments or QR codes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect lower rainfall, easier river travel, and clearer trails, but higher humidity. Good for boat trips and outdoor exploration with minimal mud.
Rains are frequent and can be heavy; rivers swell, wildlife activity increases after showers, and trails can be slippery. Pack waterproofs and expect lush, vibrant scenery.
Intermittent rain and intervals of sun; a balance of manageable humidity, quieter attractions, and flexible itineraries.
San Martín at Night
Hiking in San Martín
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A jungle trail offering river views, birdlife, and opportunities to observe the unique Serranía de la Macarena ecosystem.
Waterfall trek within reach of the town, with scenic pools and forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach San Martín by plane.
Regional airport with connections to Bogotá and other Colombian cities; from there, onward travel to San Martín by road or domestic flights.
Major international hub; many travelers fly here for international connections and then arrange domestic transport to San Martín.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry form a broad baseline of the population.
Local Indigenous groups contribute to culture and crafts; respectful engagement and consent are important.
Historical communities along rivers and in settlements add to culinary and musical diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region's most popular sport; local teams and informal games are common in community spaces.
Traditional activity tied to local livelihoods and river life; often enjoyed in calm morning hours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Martín.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In markets, focus on fresh fruits, yuca, plantains, beans, rice, and salads. Ask for vegetables cooked without fish stock, and use water and lemon to brighten flavors.