Santa Marta is the oldest continuous city in the country of Colombia. Nestled between the Santa Marta Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, this area has become a popular destination for tourists and adventure seekers.
Backpackers in particular will find much of interest in the city of Santa Marta. From the climbs in the foothills of the mountains to the strolls through the rain forests, backpacking has a natural home in this region. One can even visit the Quebrada Valencia, a huge waterfall that is surrounded by the aforementioned rain forests.
The temperatures in Santa Marta range from 80-95◦ Fahrenheit (27-35◦ Celsius). Backpackers should wear clothing that allows for proper ventilation to prevent extreme water loss at peak temperatures. It is also important to remember that night hikes or staying under the stars could feel much colder than 80◦, so appropriate clothing should be readily available to prevent chills.
The mountains also present a variation in temperature as they provide colder temperatures the further up one backpacks into them. It is also best to have footwear that is sufficient for rain forest and rocky terrain. Alternating types of shoes may be worn but could prove impractical on longer trips because of the changing landscape.
Backpackers in Santa Marta should also come prepared for emergencies. Due to the rain forest and mountainous terrain, there is the possibility that an accident could happen. It is recommended that the backpackers carry sufficient water and food for their trip both forward and back.
There is a chance of some self-sufficiency in the rain forest with edible plants and small game, however, for the inexperienced survivalist this would be a risky gamble. The addition of a first aid kit and flash lights are also recommended for emergency situations. These items can both save a live and provide signals for possible rescue in the most drastic of times.
Lastly, it is important that the backpackers notify a person or party of their planned trip and milestones or destination goals for the trip. This will allow for a more coordinated response if the backpackers become lost or incapacitated.
In the end, a trip to Santa Marta could pay huge dividends for any backpacker. The changes in terrains could provide adequate challenges for the experienced as they push deeper in to the forests or up the mountains. For the inexperienced, the beautiful sites, like Quebrada Valencia and other notable historic sites could provide the motivation to travel more often. No matter the level of expertise this small area of Colombia has a lot to offer.
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