%2Cpin-s-a%252B356151(-74.1175%2C11.1435556)%2Cpin-s-b%252B8B4513(-74.232654%2C11.117164)%2F-74.175077%2C11.1303598%2C10%2F560x280%402x%3Faccess_token%3Dpk.eyJ1IjoiZ2Vja29yb3V0ZXMiLCJhIjoiY2plc2p0NmQ4MHh1cDJ4bXI3aWlraGh3YyJ9.ftb9bE1kUJiddMRbmZblQQ&w=3840&q=75)
Santa Marta is the oldest surviving city in Colombia. It sits on the Caribbean coast about 14 kilometres (9 miles) downhill from the mountain village of Minca. The colectivo is the cheapest and quickest way to get from Minca to Santa Marta, taking 45 minutes for $2.90 (10,000 COP). A private transfer costs more but lets you set your own departure time.
Distance from Minca to Santa Marta
Minca and Santa Marta are about 14 km (9 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 20 km by road. The quickest way to get from Minca to Santa Marta is by taking the colectivo, which takes around 45 minutes.
2 ways to travel from Minca to Santa Marta
There are two ways to travel from Minca to Santa Marta. You can choose between the colectivo and private transport. The journey takes 45m–50m and the quickest way is by colectivo. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at $2.90 (10,000 COP).
Reach out to our Community
No questions yet — be the first to ask about Minca to Santa Marta.
Minca to Santa Marta by Colectivo
The cheapest way to travel from Minca to Santa Marta is by colectivo. It's not exactly the most comfortable, but many budget travellers pick this option for the price, which is only $2.90 (10,000 COP).
Colectivos are often cramped, and many still don’t have have air conditioning — not ideal for a ride through winding mountain roads.
Some colectivos do have A/C, though, so it’s worth asking at the ticket office before you board. Airconditioned colectivos cost the same as non-airconditioned ones.
The journey by colectivo from Minca to Santa Marta takes around 45 minutes.
IMPORTANT: If you're short on time, especially if you're catching a flight in Santa Marta, we don't recommend taking a colectivo. Their departure times vary depending on the number of passengers. It can depart at the scheduled time, or 40 minutes later.
Departure and arrival stations
Colectivos leave from the Cootrasminca Stop in Minca on the town’s main street. They operate daily from 07:00 to 18:00.
In Santa Marta, it stops at the Central Market (Mercado Público de Santa Marta), about a kilometre from the historic centre. That's a 15-minute walk, but the streets outside the tourist areas are not pedestrian-friendly. It's better to take a taxi with rates from $2.90 (10,000 COP).
If you’re heading to Santa Marta Airport, taxi fares range between $8.70 (30,000 COP) and $12 (40,000 COP). To the bus terminal, expect to pay around $4.30 (15,000 COP).
Keep in mind that drivers in Santa Marta are known for overcharging tourists, so we don't recommend hailing one from the street. It's more convenient to book a taxi via the Uber app.
Minca to Santa Marta by Private Transport
A private transfer from Minca to Santa Marta is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 50m - 1h 30m, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation or the airport — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Uber is a good choice, if you can book one. Prices start from $23 (79,000 COP) for an Uber taxi and $27 (94,000 COP) for an Uber car. If you're in a group of 4, it’s about $12 (42,000 COP) each. Just keep in mind that Minca is quite remote, so it might take a while for an Uber driver to accept your request.
If you prefer booking in advance, BookAway is a great choice. They’re very reliable but come with a higher price tag, starting at $49 (167,000 COP).
Regular taxis are also available for the Minca to Santa Marta route, but don't just hail any taxi from the street. It's best to ask your hotel to help you get a reputable driver. A regular taxi ride typically costs the same as an Uber taxi.
Private Transport options from Minca to Santa Marta
Private Transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Where to Stay
See our accommodation guide for ColombiaABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Santa Marta?
Santa Marta is one of the main tourist hubs on Colombia’s north coast. It is the gateway to Tayrona National Park, arguably the most beautiful national park in the country. But to be honest, there's not much to do in Santa Marta itself.
You can spare a few hours exploring the colonial houses in the Old Town or scuba diving in El Rodadero, which has some of the most affordable scuba diving centres in South America. But we recommend saving your time for the more exciting destinations near Santa Marta — like Tayrona, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Ciudad Perdida.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Minca to Santa Marta, roughly 14 kilometres (9 miles) apart. In all, there are 2 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $2.90 (10,000 COP). The quickest trip takes 45m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Minca to Santa Marta?
The distance from Minca to Santa Marta is 14 kilometres (9 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Minca to Santa Marta?
The fastest way to get from Minca to Santa Marta is by colectivo and takes 45 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Minca to Santa Marta?
The cheapest way to get from Minca to Santa Marta is by colectivo with ticket costs starting from 10,000 COP.
About the Authors
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Gecko Routes free and up to date.
