Things To Do
in Santa Ana

Santa Ana is a picturesque town located in the department of Magdalena, Colombia. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, it boasts stunning natural beauty and a vibrant local culture. The town is known for its coffee production, traditional architecture, and friendly locals.

It serves as a gateway to explore the surrounding coffee region and the Sierra Nevada National Park.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Santa Ana
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local coffee farm where you can learn about the coffee production process and sample freshly brewed coffee.

afternoon
:

Head to the town square to visit the Church of Santa Ana and enjoy lunch at a nearby local restaurant serving traditional Colombian dishes.

evening
:

Take a stroll along the picturesque streets of Santa Ana and enjoy a dinner at a local eatery, followed by enjoying live music at a local bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike to the nearby waterfalls, where you can enjoy the scenic views and take photographs.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs, then have lunch at a food stall offering local street food.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a cultural event or festival if available, or enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant offering a mix of local and international cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$20
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🛍️Souvenir shopping$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine and coffee.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Transportation can be challenging in rural areas.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Me gustaría..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Santa Ana

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de Santa Ana

The town square surrounded by colonial architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of local life.

Café de la Montaña

A coffee farm with stunning backdrops of the Sierra Nevada mountains, ideal for landscape photography.

Cascada de Santa Ana

A beautiful waterfall located a short hike from town, offering breathtaking natural scenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Santa Ana

Santa Ana offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culture of the region. From traditional Colombian meals to unique street food, there is something for every palate.

Santa Ana Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried, often filled with cheese, meats, or avocado.

Must-Try!

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter that includes beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón, avocado, and fried plantain.

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with various meats, vegetables, and spices, typically served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Local de Santa Ana

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the town offering empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruit juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Santa Ana experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season (December to March) averages around 28°C (82°F), while the wet season (April to November) brings more humidity and temperatures averaging 24°C (75°F). Expect afternoon rains during the wet season, but mornings are often clear. Nights are cooler, making it pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and a smile are common; addressing people with 'Señor' or 'Señora' is polite.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful during local celebrations and religious events.

Personal Space

Colombians tend to stand close when talking, but respect personal space if someone seems uncomfortable.

Safety Guide

Safety

Santa Ana is generally a safe town for tourists, but it's wise to stay vigilant, especially at night. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in less crowded areas. It's best to travel in groups and use reputable transportation.

Tipping in Santa Ana

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in most places, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect sunny days and vibrant local festivals, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (April to November)

Frequent rain showers may occur, but the landscapes are lush and the coffee harvest season begins.

Festive Season (December)

The town comes alive with Christmas festivities, making it a joyful time to visit.

Mid-Year (June to August)

Temperatures are mild, and you can experience cultural events, but be prepared for afternoon rain.

Nightlife Guide

Santa Ana at Night

Santa Ana offers a laid-back nightlife scene with local bars, live music venues, and occasional cultural events. While there are not many clubs, the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. Enjoy a drink at a local bar where you can listen to traditional Colombian music or dance salsa with locals.

Hiking in Santa Ana

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Paz

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada and surrounding landscapes.

El Parque Tayrona

A renowned national park featuring breathtaking coastal trails and diverse ecosystems, ideal for hiking and nature exploration.

Airports

How to reach Santa Ana by plane.

Simón Bolívar International Airport

Located in Santa Marta, approximately 60 km from Santa Ana, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the closest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Santa Ana is a small town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to easily explore the area. The streets are generally safe for pedestrians, though it’s wise to remain vigilant in less populated areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Groups

Indigenous communities, such as the Kogi, inhabit the surrounding areas and maintain traditional customs and practices.

Afro-Colombian Communities

These communities contribute significantly to the cultural diversity of the region, particularly in music and culinary traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Colombia, with many local teams and community events.

Cycling

Cycling is common, both for recreation and transportation, with beautiful routes around Santa Ana.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Santa Ana is generally light, allowing for easy navigation whether walking or driving. Public transportation, including local buses and taxis, is available, with buses being a cost-effective option for getting around. However, be mindful of the schedules as they may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Ana.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications to ensure meals meet dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, particularly in traditional dishes, so it's important to communicate dietary restrictions clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Santa Ana is limited to local clinics and small hospitals. While emergency care is available, for more serious conditions, it might be necessary to travel to larger cities like Santa Marta. Travelers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and consider bringing necessary medications.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide