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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Santa Marta
Santa Marta
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Santa Marta
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Santa Marta
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Santa Marta
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Santa Marta?
Santa Marta, Colombia’s oldest city, is a vibrant coastal hub with stunning beaches, historic sites, and access to incredible natural landscapes. While taxis and buses are available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore at your own pace.
Explore Tayrona National Park. A rental car provides easy access to Tayrona’s diverse ecosystems, from pristine beaches to lush rainforests, allowing you to discover hidden trails and viewpoints without relying on public transport schedules.
Visit Minca and the Sierra Nevada. Drive up into the mountains to Minca, a charming coffee-growing town, and continue exploring the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world's highest coastal mountain range. A car gives you the flexibility to stop at waterfalls, coffee farms, and scenic overlooks.
Discover Nearby Beaches. Beyond Santa Marta's city beaches, a rental car allows you to explore secluded coastal gems like Playa Cristal, Taganga, and Rodadero, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Santa Marta
Before booking a rental car in Santa Marta, it's crucial to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here are some essential points to consider:
Area
2,394 square kilometers (924 square miles)
Population
Approximately 540,000 residents
Time Zone
UTC-5
Ideal for
Long-term rental
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 5 PM – 7 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Santa Marta require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have a minimum age of 23 or 25 for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required for all rentals. Foreign visitors typically need to present their original driver's license from their country of residence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not always mandatory.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection, are available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon vehicle return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals come with unlimited mileage, while others may have restrictions. Fuel policies vary—many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. Be sure to clarify these policies when booking.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats. Familiarize yourself with these potential fees before finalizing your reservation.
Car Rental Prices in Santa Marta – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to January, June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (March to May, September to November): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Santa Marta?
Renting a car in Santa Marta is simple, but following these steps will ensure you get the best deal and a vehicle that suits your needs:
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison sites like rentycars.com to find the best deals from various rental companies in Santa Marta. Consider factors like price, included insurance, and customer reviews.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel plans. An economy car is suitable for city driving, while an SUV might be better for exploring rugged terrains or carrying more luggage.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms and conditions, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking your car well in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When collecting your rental car, bring your driver’s license, credit card, and passport. Inspect the car for any existing damage and document it before driving off.
General Information About Santa Marta
Santa Marta, the oldest city in Colombia, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Exploring this vibrant region is best done with a car, allowing you to venture beyond the city center and discover hidden gems.
Santa Marta is a captivating city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, surrounded by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains and pristine beaches. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the diverse landscapes and attractions in the region. However, it's essential to be aware of local traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel availability to ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Tayrona National Park
A stunning natural reserve with diverse ecosystems, including beaches, rainforests, and archaeological sites.
Minca
A charming mountain town known for its coffee farms, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Rodadero
A popular beach resort area with a vibrant nightlife and various water sports activities.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Secure parking options are available in commercial areas and shopping centers.
On-Street Parking
Available in some areas, but pay attention to parking signs and time limits.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer parking facilities for their guests.
Gas Stations in Santa Marta
Major Brands
Look for Terpel, Esso, and Petrobras stations.
Availability
Gas stations are generally available in and around the city, as well as along major highways.
Payment
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Santa Marta
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of traffic congestion during peak hours, especially in the city center.
Watch for Motorbikes
Motorbikes are common; exercise caution and be aware of their movements.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially when driving to remote areas.
Check Road Conditions
Road conditions can vary, particularly in rural areas; check before you travel.
Key Transportation Hubs in Santa Marta
Major Bus Stations
Santa Marta Transport Terminal
The main bus terminal connecting Santa Marta to other cities in Colombia.
Railway Stations
Santa Marta Railway Station
Limited passenger train services are available.
Airports
Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR)
The main airport serving Santa Marta, with domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Santa Marta?
Renting a car in Colombia is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need
If you're from Colombia, your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license for up to 12 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters
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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Santa Marta as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Santa Marta was amazing! Having a car made exploring the coast so easy. Spent blissful days relaxing on the beaches and exploring hidden coves. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 15.08.2025
Back in Santa Marta after years, and it's even better! Getting around with a car was a breeze.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 12.12.2024
Exploring Santa Marta by car was fantastic! Such freedom to discover hidden beaches and charming towns.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 15.01.2025
Santa Marta exceeded expectations! Having a car made it so easy to see everything; loved the beaches and the city.
Benjamin Lee
Reviewed: 26.04.2025
Loved our quick stop in Santa Marta! Having a car was perfect for exploring the area before continuing our road trip. The beaches were stunning.
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 19.07.2025
Santa Marta was a delightful detour on our road trip. Having a car made everything so convenient!
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 15.08.2024
Meh. Beaches okay, but crowded.
Jacob Peterson
Reviewed: 25.03.2025
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Isabelle Moreno
Reviewed: 02.10.2024
Summer in Santa Marta was unforgettable! Having a car made getting around so much easier, allowing us to explore hidden gems and enjoy the beautiful beaches. Highly recommend!
Katherine Jones
Reviewed: 23.03.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 17.10.2024