Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Santa Marta, Colombia

A lively Saturday night in Santa Marta—what better way to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife than with a guided bar crawl through its historic center? For $22.50 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a curated visit to four popular venues, including three local bars and one rooftop club, all with discounts and a friendly guide. Led by local hosts, Kevin, Paula, Nicolas, or others, the crawl promises an authentic taste of Santa Marta’s social scene, enhanced by opportunities to connect with Colombians and practice Spanish.

We loved the carefully chosen mix of bars, each with its distinct vibe—from lively, music-filled spots to a rooftop with sweeping views of the city. The fact that the tour is led by friendly locals who give insider tips makes it stand out from simply wandering on your own. Another highlight is the opportunity to meet fellow travelers from around the world, making the night feel more like a shared adventure than just bar hopping.

However, a potential consideration is the dress code—no swimwear, sandals, hats, or sportswear—so pack accordingly if you want to blend in comfortably. Also, since most expenses are paid individually at the bars, be prepared for some extra spending if you want to indulge beyond the discounts.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy socializing, want to discover Santa Marta’s nightspots safely, and appreciate local insights. It’s perfect if you’re traveling solo or in a group and want to experience nightlife with guidance rather than risk getting lost or overwhelmed in the city’s busy streets.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visit four popular bars, including a rooftop disco, with discounts and insider knowledge.
• Guided for Safety & Socializing: Led by friendly local guides who help navigate Santa Marta’s nightlife.
• Meet People & Practice Spanish: A great way to connect with other travelers and locals.
• Affordable & Fun: Cost-effective at $22.50, with discounts on drinks and entries.
• Dress Code & Extra Costs: No swimwear, hats, or sportswear; expect to pay for your own drinks.
• Suitable for: Solo travelers, social butterflies, and those wanting an authentic Colombian night out.

The Full Experience: A Guide to the Santa Marta Saturday Night Bar Crawl

Discovering Santa Marta’s Historic Center

The tour kicks off at Envenenadas Santa Marta, right in the heart of the city’s historic district. A local favorite, this spot offers excellent cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. The 15% discount on the night menu is a nice touch that helps stretch your budget, especially if you’re thirsty after a long day of exploring. We loved the welcoming vibe here, a perfect warm-up for the night ahead.

The first stop’s environment sets the tone—informal and friendly, with a chance to chat with your guide and fellow travelers. The focus is on easing into Santa Marta’s nightlife, not rushing to the next venue.

Moving to the Oldest & Most Lively Bars

Next, the crawl visits Blanco y Negro, formerly known as El Mono Rojo. This spot is renowned among locals and features a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Here, you can take advantage of 2-for-1 cocktails and discounted beers if you opt for a bucket. Reviewers highlight how this bar regularly has a DJ, making it a vibrant, music-filled environment. It’s a favorite among those who love to dance and soak up the local party scene.

The guide’s knowledge shines here—pointing out the bar’s historical significance and helping you navigate the busy weekend crowd. Expect a buzzing scene, with locals and travelers mixing, creating a truly authentic Colombian nightlife feel.

La Puerta: Santa Marta’s Most Famous Bar

The third stop, La Puerta, is often packed on weekends and offers a lively but more laid-back vibe compared to the previous venues. Entry is free, and drink prices are some of the best in the city, making it a favorite for budget-conscious travelers. Many reviews praise La Puerta for its affordability and the chance to mingle with locals, making it a must-visit spot.

Expect the environment to be casual yet bustling, with a mix of students, locals, and travelers. The bar’s popularity means it can get crowded quickly, but your guide helps navigate the scene smoothly. This stop encapsulates what many appreciate about Santa Marta—its vibrant, social atmosphere.

The Night Concludes on a Rooftop

Finally, the tour concludes at La Brisa Loca, a rooftop disco bar offering panoramic views of Santa Marta at night. This environment is distinctly social, with many travelers and expats, making it ideal for those looking to dance and mingle. The discounted cover makes it an attractive final stop, and the lively crowd ensures a memorable end to the evening.

Expect great music, a festive ambiance, and a chance to unwind after visiting several bars. Many reviews mention how the guide’s effort to keep everyone safe and included enhances the experience, turning strangers into new friends. Some travelers stay until late—up to 4 a.m.—highlighting how this tour can turn into a full-fledged night of fun.

Why This Tour Offers Value

Looking at the price—$22.50 per person—the tour pack’s quite generous, considering it includes free and discounted entries at three venues as well as drink specials. The main cost outside the tour is your individual drinks, which you might find are reasonably priced, especially with the discounts. The benefit of having a knowledgeable guide who knows the city’s hotspots and can help avoid tourist traps adds tremendous value, especially if you’re new to Santa Marta.

The carefully curated venues provide a range of environments— from relaxed local hangouts to lively clubs—giving you a well-rounded night that captures the city’s diverse nightlife. Plus, the chance to meet fellow travelers from various countries is a bonus, making the evening more than just about the drinks.

Authenticity & Connection

What really sets this tour apart is the authentic local experience. You’ll have the chance to connect with Colombians and practice your Spanish, making the night more memorable than just bar hopping. Guides like Paula, Nicolas, and Kevin are praised for their friendliness and insights, turning an ordinary night out into a personalized adventure.

Considerations & Tips

Keep in mind the dress code—no swimwear, sandals, hats, or sportswear—so dress smartly enough to enter the venues comfortably. Since each bar has its own vibe, you might want to bring some cash for extra drinks beyond the discounts. And, if you’re a light sleeper or a late-night person, be prepared for a late finish at La Brisa Loca, sometimes as late as 4 a.m.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Saturday Night Bar Crawl is ideal for social travelers eager to explore Santa Marta’s nightlife without the hassle of finding the best spots alone. It’s perfect for solo travelers looking to meet like-minded people or for groups wanting a guided social experience. The mix of local and tourist venues offers a genuine taste of Colombian evenings, which many reviews say makes for a memorable night out.

If you appreciate authentic environments, the opportunity to connect with locals, and a guided experience that ensures safety and fun, this tour delivers. It’s also a smart choice if you’re on a budget but want to maximize your night with discounts and insider tips.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $22.50 per person, which includes entry and drink discounts at several venues, but you will need to pay for your own drinks beyond these discounts.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 8:30 p.m. and ending around 12:15 a.m., with some groups staying longer at the final venue.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Envenenadas Santa Marta, located at Cra. 3 #18-53, in the historic city center.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but there are discounts: 15% off at Envenenadas, 2-for-1 cocktails and discounted beers at Blanco y Negro, and a discounted cover at La Brisa Loca.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the dress code. If you prefer a more relaxed, casual environment, dress accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly mentioned, the focus on nightlife suggests you should be of legal drinking age—usually 18 or 21, depending on local laws.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.

Will I meet locals?
Yes, locals sometimes join the crawl, offering a great chance to practice Spanish and gain insights into Santa Marta’s social scene.

Is transportation provided between venues?
No, the venues are all within walking distance in the historic center, making it easy to move on foot.

In essence, this guided Saturday night bar crawl combines affordability, authentic local flavor, and a social environment that many travelers find irresistible. Whether you’re new to Santa Marta or a seasoned visitor, it’s a fantastic way to experience Colombian nightlife with friendly guides, discounts, and the chance to make new friends.