Things To Do
in Santa María
Santa María is a small town located in the department of Huila in Colombia. It is surrounded by lush green mountains and coffee plantations, creating a beautiful and serene landscape. The town is known for its friendly and welcoming community, offering visitors a warm and authentic Colombian experience.
Santa María also boasts a pleasant climate, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café. Take a walk around the town to enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and shop for unique handicrafts. Indulge in a traditional Colombian lunch at a popular restaurant.
Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local park, watching the sunset. Savor dinner at an eatery known for its regional cuisine.
Hike the scenic trails around Santa María for breathtaking views and rich biodiversity. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
Continue exploring the natural beauty with a visit to nearby waterfalls. Capture stunning photos and take a refreshing swim.
Return to town and unwind at a local bar, enjoying regional drinks. Chat with locals to learn more about Santa María’s culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Natural beauty, including proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Caribbean coast.
- Warm climate conducive to outdoor activities and agriculture.
- Access to local markets and fresh produce.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Economic challenges and lower average income levels.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in urban areas.
- Limited educational opportunities, particularly for higher education.
- Potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Best Activities in Santa María
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking trails of the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Santa María is home to a variety of bird species. Join a guided birdwatching tour to see colorful native birds in their natural habitat.
Participate in local cultural tours to learn about the traditions, history, and lifestyle of the indigenous communities in the region.
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on nearby rivers, suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Set up camp in designated areas in the Sierra Nevada to enjoy the tranquility of nature and stargazing at night.
Visit local coffee farms to learn about the coffee production process and enjoy tastings of freshly brewed coffee.
Join guided tours to spot native wildlife such as capybaras, monkeys, and various reptiles in their natural environment.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santa María with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santa María
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the town itself, perfect for capturing stunning photos at sunrise or sunset.
A hill that features a large cross at its peak, providing breathtaking views of Santa María and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
The main square of Santa María, surrounded by historic buildings and vibrant local life. Ideal for capturing the essence of the town and its community.
A nature reserve known for its diverse bird species and lush vegetation. A great location for nature photography and experiencing the local fauna.
The iconic river that runs through Colombia, offering picturesque views and opportunities for beautiful landscape photography, especially during golden hour.
Food in Santa María
Santa María Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with cheese, yam, and corn, slow-cooked with herbs and spices. A must-try at Restaurante Sabores Andinos.
Must-Try!
Corn dough stuffed with a mix of chicken, pork, vegetables, and wrapped in banana leaves. Visit the stalls in Plaza de Mercado for authentic tamales.
A delicious, slow-cooked stew made with beef, pork, and assorted vegetables. Indulge in this comforting dish at Fonda La Famosa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santa María better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. Don't miss the empanadas and arepas from the various vendors.
A bustling street lined with food stalls offering a variety of Colombian street food such as fried plantains, grilled meats, and tropical fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santa María, it is customary to greet others with a warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and family. Always make eye contact and smile to convey sincerity and friendliness.
Using polite language is very important. Addressing people with 'señor' or 'señora' followed by their last name shows respect. Avoid interrupting others while they speak, as it is considered disrespectful.
Dressing modestly and appropriately for various occasions is valued in Santa María. When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, opt for conservative clothing to show respect for local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santa María with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santa María
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santa María, Colombia, tipping is customary in restaurants and bars. While a service charge may be included in the bill, it is common to leave a tip of about 10% for good service. Tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory.
Payments in Santa María can be made in cash or via card. Many establishments accept major credit cards, but cash is often preferred, especially in smaller shops or markets. It’s advisable to keep some cash on hand for small purchases or in case electronic payment systems are not available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santa María.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Santa María as the weather is typically dry and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the natural scenery. Expect comfortable temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere.
During the rainy season, expect higher humidity and frequent rain showers, particularly in the afternoons. While temperatures remain warm, some outdoor activities may be limited. However, the landscape turns lush and green, offering stunning views.
Visitors can enjoy various cultural festivities year-round, including local fairs and traditional celebrations. These events provide a unique opportunity to experience Santa María's rich culture and community spirit.
Santa María at Night
Hiking in Santa María
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A spectacular mountain range that offers diverse ecosystems, with multiple trails for hiking, including routes to the famous Ciudad Perdida, an ancient archaeological site.
An incredible coastal park with trails through tropical rainforest, leading to stunning beaches and exceptional biodiversity.
A scenic area with trails that offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
A less-traveled area great for hiking, offering beautiful views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
While a bit further away, this park features high-altitude hikes with stunning landscapes, including snow-capped peaks and rich biodiversity.
Aiports
How to reach Santa María by plane.
The main airport serving Santa Marta, Colombia, located approximately 10 km from the city center.
Located in Cartagena, approximately 100 km from Santa María, this airport is a significant international gateway in the region.
Located in Medellín, about 250 km from Santa María, this is one of the major international airports in Colombia.
Located in Bogotá, approximately 500 km from Santa María, it is the largest and busiest airport in Colombia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Santa María, comprising individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
This group includes various Indigenous communities native to the region, maintaining their cultural heritage and traditions.
People of African descent who have contributed significantly to the cultural and social fabric of the area.
This group includes individuals who trace their heritage to European immigrants, primarily from Spain and Italy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Santa María, Colombia, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.
Cycling is a popular activity in the region, with many scenic routes that attract both amateur and competitive cyclists.
Basketball enjoys popularity in schools and local parks, with community leagues and events frequently organized.
Tejo is a traditional sport played in Colombia, involving throwing metal pucks at targets filled with explosive powder, popular in social gatherings.
Volleyball is played recreationally in Santa María, with beach and indoor variants being enjoyed by locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa María.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer vegetarian options like plantain-based dishes, lentil soups, and fresh fruit platters. Additionally, Cafe del Rio and Restaurante El Fogón provide delicious vegan-friendly choices.
While traditional Colombian cuisine heavily features grains, restaurants like Cafe del Rio and Restaurante El Fogón accommodate gluten-free diets with corn-based dishes and rice bowls.