Palomino Travel Guide

Why Palomino is Your Next Must-Visit Destination

The Vibe: Where the Jungle Meets the Sea

Palomino occupies a rare and captivating space on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Here, the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range, descend through dense, tropical jungle and meet the warm, turquoise sea. The landscape is a study in contrasts: lush green foliage lines the banks of freshwater rivers that flow directly into the salty ocean, all under the gaze of jungle-clad peaks. This unique geography creates a palpable energy, a place where nature feels both immense and immediate.

The town itself moves at a slower pace. Dusty, unpaved roads lead from the main highway down to the beach, lined with bamboo-walled hostels, open-air restaurants, and small artisan shops. The atmosphere is decidedly bohemian and unpretentious. It’s a place to trade shoes for sandals, to read a book in a hammock for hours, and to let the rhythm of the waves dictate your day. The vibe is less about a polished resort experience and more about a genuine connection to the natural surroundings and a laid-back community of travelers and locals.

A Backpacker’s Paradise with a Modern Twist

For years, Palomino was a well-kept secret on the gringo trail, a rustic outpost known for its affordable hostels and communal spirit. Its roots are firmly planted in backpacker culture, and that sociable, adventurous ethos remains a core part of its identity. You can still find simple dorm rooms and lively hostel bars where travelers from around the world share stories over a cold beer.

However, Palomino has gracefully evolved. Alongside the traditional hostels, a new wave of boutique hotels, stylish guesthouses, and eco-lodges has emerged. These establishments offer more comfort and privacy without sacrificing the town’s natural charm. The culinary scene has also blossomed, with artisanal bakeries, wood-fired pizza ovens, and creative vegetarian restaurants now complementing the local kitchens serving fresh fish and traditional Colombian fare. This blend allows Palomino to cater to a broader range of travelers, from budget backpackers to those seeking a bit more polish with their jungle escape.

Adventure and Relaxation in Perfect Harmony

Palomino’s greatest appeal lies in its perfect balance of activity and stillness. It is a destination that invites you to do as much, or as little, as you please. You can spend your morning hiking through the jungle to a hidden waterfall, your afternoon floating gently down a crystal-clear river on an inner tube, and your evening watching the sun dip below the horizon from a beachfront bar.

Conversely, a day spent entirely on the wide, windswept beach with nothing but a book and the sound of crashing waves is a day well spent here. The town offers a rare opportunity to seamlessly transition between invigorating adventure and profound relaxation. Whether you’re seeking to learn how to surf, connect with Indigenous cultures in the mountains, or simply disconnect from the digital world, Palomino provides the ideal setting to tailor the experience to your own pace.

Planning Your Trip: How to Get to Palomino

Nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Palomino is relatively remote, which is a significant part of its charm. While it doesn’t have its own airport, reaching this coastal haven is a straightforward journey from several nearby cities. Here’s a breakdown of the most common and efficient ways to arrive.

Flying In: The Nearest Airports

Your journey to Palomino will almost certainly begin with a flight into one of two regional airports. Santa Marta is the most popular and convenient entry point for most international and domestic travelers.

• Santa Marta (Simón Bolívar International Airport – SMR): This is the closest major airport to Palomino, located approximately 90 minutes to two hours away by car. It receives daily flights from Bogotá, Medellín, and other major Colombian cities, as well as some international connections.
• Riohacha (Almirante Padilla Airport – RCH): Situated to the east of Palomino, Riohacha’s airport is a viable alternative, especially if you plan to explore the La Guajira desert. The drive from RCH to Palomino is also about 90 minutes.

Ground Transportation from Major Hubs

Once you’ve landed, the final leg of your journey will be by road. The route along the coastal highway offers beautiful glimpses of the changing landscape as you approach the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.

From Santa Marta

By Public Bus: The most common and economical way to get to Palomino is by public bus. Head to the main bus terminal (Terminal de Transportes) or, more conveniently, the public market (Mercado Público) in Santa Marta. From the market, look for buses heading towards Palomino, Mingueo, or Riohacha. These buses, often operated by companies like Cootransoriente, pass directly through Palomino on the main highway. Simply inform the driver or their assistant that you’re going to Palomino, and they will drop you off at the town’s main entrance. The trip is scenic and typically takes around two hours.

By Private Taxi or Shuttle: For greater comfort, directness, and convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a group, a private taxi or pre-booked shuttle is an excellent option. You can arrange this at the airport upon arrival or book in advance through your accommodation. While more expensive, it offers a door-to-door service, taking you directly from the airport to your hotel in Palomino.

From Cartagena

By Direct Shuttle: Several companies, such as Marsol and Berlinastur, operate direct door-to-door shuttle services from Cartagena to Palomino. This is the most hassle-free method, though it is more costly than public buses. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, including a stop in Barranquilla. Booking at least a day in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

By Bus via Santa Marta: For a more budget-friendly route, you can take a large, comfortable bus from Cartagena’s main bus terminal to Santa Marta. From Santa Marta’s terminal, you would then follow the instructions above to catch a smaller, local bus for the final leg to Palomino. This option takes longer but can significantly reduce travel costs.

Getting Around Palomino Itself

Palomino is a small, laid-back town where your own two feet are the best mode of transport. The main road, where the bus will drop you off, is connected to the beach by a few dirt roads, and the entire area is easily walkable. Strolling from the highway down to the beach takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

For longer distances, such as getting from your hostel to the starting point for river tubing, or if you’re carrying heavy bags, moto-taxis are readily available. These are the town’s primary taxi service—a quick and affordable way to get around when you don’t feel like walking in the heat.

The Best Time to Visit Palomino

Palomino’s tropical climate means warm temperatures are a constant, but the experience of visiting can differ significantly depending on the time of year. The main factor to consider is the rainfall, which divides the calendar into two distinct seasons. Your choice will depend on whether you prefer guaranteed sunshine amidst crowds or lush landscapes with a more tranquil atmosphere.

Dry Season (December to April)

This is Palomino’s high season, and for good reason. The weather is characterized by long, sun-drenched days with very little rain, creating perfect conditions for beach lounging and coastal exploration. The clear skies are a major draw, but this popularity comes with trade-offs. This period, especially late December, January, and Easter week, sees the largest influx of tourists, which means higher prices for accommodation and a livelier, more bustling town. While the beach is at its best, the reduced rainfall can lead to lower water levels in the Palomino River, potentially making the tubing experience a bit slower.

• Pros: Consistently sunny skies, minimal rainfall, ideal weather for beach activities.
• Cons: Peak tourist season with more crowds, higher prices, and potentially slower river flow for tubing.

Shoulder & Rainy Seasons (May to November)

Often called the “green season,” these months reveal a different side of Palomino’s beauty. The landscape becomes incredibly lush and vibrant, with the Sierra Nevada foothills exploding in shades of green. While rain is a regular feature, it’s rarely an all-day affair. Typically, you can expect clear mornings followed by a heavy but short-lived downpour in the afternoon. This weather pattern rewards early risers and those with flexible schedules. The main advantages of visiting during this time are the significantly fewer crowds and the excellent conditions for river tubing, as the water is higher and flows more swiftly. The trade-off is the higher humidity and the need to pack a rain jacket.

• Pros: Spectacularly green and lush landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices, and optimal river conditions for tubing.
• Cons: Likelihood of daily afternoon rain showers and higher overall humidity.

Top Things to Do in and Around Palomino

Go Tubing Down the Palomino River

The signature experience in Palomino is a slow, meditative float down its namesake river. This activity perfectly captures the town’s blend of gentle adventure and natural immersion. The process is a journey in itself. You begin by finding one of the many local operators along the main road to rent a large inner tube. From there, you’ll hop on the back of a moto-taxi for a bumpy but scenic ride up a dirt path into the jungle.

The driver will drop you at a trailhead, where a guide will lead you on a 20 to 30-minute hike through the forest, a peaceful walk accompanied by the sounds of tropical birds and insects. At the river entry point, you’ll settle into your tube and let the clear, cool current carry you. The float itself lasts between one and three hours, winding through a canopy of green until you emerge, remarkably, right where the river meets the Caribbean Sea. You simply step out onto the beach and walk back to your lodging.

For a slightly different experience, consider tubing on the nearby Río Don Diego. This trip is generally longer and offers greater opportunities for spotting wildlife, including howler monkeys and a vast array of birds. It requires a bit more organization but is a worthwhile alternative for those seeking a deeper connection with the area’s biodiversity.

Relax and Unwind on Palomino Beach

Palomino’s long, wide stretch of golden sand is the town’s social and spiritual heart. It’s where the formidable Sierra Nevada mountains slope down to meet the powerful Caribbean Sea, creating a dramatic and beautiful backdrop. The beach is an ideal place for long walks, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light catches the mountains and the sea spray.

Dotted along the shore are a variety of rustic-chic bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a fresh fruit juice or a cocktail with your feet in the sand. These spots offer a front-row seat to the daily spectacle of the sun dipping below the horizon.

A crucial note on safety: the currents at Palomino Beach are notoriously strong and unpredictable. While the water is inviting, swimming is generally not advised. Most visitors enjoy the ocean by wading in the shallows and respecting the power of the waves from a safe distance.

Hike in the Foothills of the Sierra Nevada

The mountains that loom over Palomino are part of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range and a sacred ancestral land for several Indigenous groups, including the Kogi, Arhuaco, Kogi, and Kankuamo peoples. Venturing into these foothills offers a profound glimpse into a different world.

It is essential to undertake these hikes with a registered local guide. A guide not only ensures your safety and navigation but also serves as a cultural interpreter, facilitating respectful interactions if you encounter members of an Indigenous community. They can share knowledge about the local flora and fauna and the deep spiritual significance of the land.

When visiting the area, practice responsible tourism. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their homes. Support the community directly by purchasing authentic handicrafts, such as the iconic woven mochila bags, from the artisans themselves. Approach any interaction with humility, respect, and a willingness to listen and learn.

Learn to Surf

With a consistent beach break, Palomino is a welcoming spot for beginner surfers. The waves are often manageable, providing an excellent environment to learn the basics of paddling, popping up, and riding a wave to shore. Several local surf schools operate directly on the beach, offering lessons for individuals and small groups, as well as board rentals by the hour or day. The best conditions are typically found in the morning before the afternoon winds pick up.

Discover Local Waterfalls

The jungle landscape around Palomino hides a number of waterfalls and natural swimming pools. The most well-known is Quebrada Valencia, a series of cascades and pools that can be a refreshing escape. However, it is important to note that this waterfall is highly seasonal and can be reduced to a trickle or completely dry during the peak dry season (January to March). It’s wise to ask locally about the water levels before making the trip.

For a more reliable and often more private experience, ask your guide or the staff at your accommodation about other, lesser-known swimming holes. Local knowledge is key to finding these hidden gems where you can cool off in the fresh mountain water.

Where to Stay: Accommodation for Every Budget

Palomino’s accommodation scene has evolved beautifully, retaining its backpacker soul while adding layers of comfort and style. Whether you’re looking to meet fellow travelers in a social hostel or unwind in a private jungle cabana, you’ll find a place that fits your travel style.

Budget-Friendly Hostels

The heart of Palomino’s social scene beats within its hostels. These are more than just a place to sleep; they are vibrant hubs with communal kitchens, pools, and organized activities, making them ideal for solo travelers or those on a tight budget. Expect a mix of shared dormitories and basic private rooms, all centered around a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Popular spots like The Dreamer Palomino and Tiki Hut Hostel are well-known for their lively environments and excellent facilities, often including a pool and an on-site bar where stories are exchanged over a cold beer.

Mid-Range Boutique Hotels & Guesthouses

For travelers seeking more privacy and comfort without sacrificing charm, Palomino offers a growing number of boutique hotels and guesthouses. These establishments typically provide private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and often a swimming pool set within a tranquil garden. They strike a perfect balance between comfort and local character, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure. Properties such as Casa Chapolin Boutique Guesthouse and Aite Hotel are noted for their stylish design, attentive service, and serene settings, providing a more polished but still authentic Palomino experience.

Eco-Lodges and Unique Stays

Reflecting the town’s deep connection to its natural surroundings, Palomino is home to several eco-lodges and unique stays that prioritize sustainability and harmony with the environment. These accommodations are designed to immerse you in the landscape, often featuring natural building materials, open-air architecture, and practices like rainwater harvesting and organic gardening. Staying in one of these lodges offers a chance to disconnect and appreciate the jungle and sea on a deeper level. Look for places that offer unique experiences, from thatched-roof bungalows nestled in the trees to beachfront cabanas that allow you to fall asleep to the sound of the waves, offering a truly memorable stay that respects the local ecosystem.

A Taste of Palomino: Best Food and Drink

Palomino’s culinary scene is a direct reflection of its character: a delightful mix of rustic Caribbean tradition and international influence. From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to surprisingly authentic wood-fired pizza, the food here is an essential part of the experience, best enjoyed with sandy feet and a relaxed state of mind.

Must-Try Local Cuisine

The heart of Palomino’s food culture lies in its connection to the sea and the fertile land of the Sierra Nevada. Simplicity and freshness are key, offering a true taste of the Colombian Caribbean coast. For a broader culinary journey through Colombia, consider our guide on Colombian food and drinks.

• Freshly Caught Seafood: The star of most local menus is the catch of the day, often snapper (pargo) or sea bass (robalo). A classic plate is pescado frito (whole fried fish) or a la plancha (grilled), typically served with coconut rice, crispy patacones (fried green plantains), and a simple salad.
• Traditional Colombian Dishes: Beyond seafood, you’ll find staples that fuel the country. Look for street-side stalls selling arepas, thick corn cakes that can be filled with cheese or meat. For a hearty meal, a bowl of sancocho, a rich soup made with fish or chicken, root vegetables, and herbs, is deeply satisfying.
• Tropical Fruit Juices: Escape the midday heat with a freshly blended juice (jugo natural). Made with water or milk, options like lulo, maracuyá (passion fruit), mora (blackberry), and mango are incredibly refreshing and widely available.

International Flavors

As travelers from around the world have made Palomino their temporary or permanent home, the dining options have expanded. This has created a vibrant and diverse food landscape where you can find comforting international dishes made with local ingredients.

Many restaurants offer excellent vegetarian and vegan options, moving beyond the standard rice and salad. You’ll find creative bowls, lentil burgers, and flavorful curries. For a taste of Europe, several spots have mastered the art of thin-crust, wood-fired pizza, which has become a beloved evening meal for many visitors. To start your day, seek out one of the small artisanal bakeries or coffee shops for a quality cup of Colombian coffee and freshly baked bread or pastries.

Where to Grab a Drink

The beverage scene in Palomino is as laid-back as everything else. There are no sprawling nightclubs, but rather intimate and scenic spots to enjoy a quiet drink and good conversation.

• Beachfront Bars: The best way to end the day is at a simple bar along the beach, watching the sun dip below the horizon. If you’re looking for more beach recommendations, check out our guide to the Rosario Islands. Here, you can sip on a tropical cocktail, like a mojito or a caipirinha, with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack.
• Local Tiendas: For an authentic and affordable experience, pull up a plastic chair at a local tienda (a small neighborhood store). It’s the perfect place to grab an ice-cold Aguila or Club Colombia beer and watch the daily life of Palomino unfold.
• Hostel Bars: If you’re looking to socialize and meet other travelers, the bars at the larger hostels are your best bet. They often feature happy hours, music, and a lively, friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to connect with people from all over the world.

Essential Palomino Travel Tips

Money Matters: Cash is King

This is perhaps the most critical piece of advice for a smooth trip to Palomino: bring sufficient cash. The town has very few, if any, reliable ATMs, and they often run out of money or are out of service. The vast majority of businesses, including restaurants, tour operators, small shops, and moto-taxis, operate on a cash-only basis. While some larger, high-end hotels may accept credit cards, you should not depend on this. Plan your budget and withdraw enough Colombian Pesos (COP) in a larger city like Santa Marta, Barranquilla, or Cartagena before you arrive.

Health and Safety

Palomino is a safe destination, but like any travel, it requires common sense and preparation. The natural environment poses the main challenges, so keep these points in mind:

• Mosquito Repellent: Situated between the jungle and the sea, Palomino has a healthy mosquito population, especially around dawn and dusk. A reliable insect repellent is non-negotiable to prevent uncomfortable bites.
• Sun Protection: The Caribbean sun is intense. Protect your skin with a high-SPF sunscreen, and wear a hat and sunglasses, particularly during the middle of the day.
• Hydration: The tropical heat and humidity can lead to dehydration quickly. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to refill and reduce plastic waste.
• Ocean Currents: Palomino’s beaches are beautiful but known for their strong currents and riptides. Swimming can be hazardous. Always exercise caution, avoid swimming alone, and never go too far from the shore. Pay attention to local advice and any posted warnings.

Staying Connected (or Disconnecting)

Palomino offers a perfect opportunity for a digital detox. Wi-Fi is available in most hostels and hotels, but it is often slow and can be unreliable, especially during peak hours or after a rainstorm. Instead of getting frustrated, embrace the chance to disconnect. If you need a more stable connection, the best option is to purchase a local SIM card from providers like Claro or Tigo in a larger city. Their mobile data networks generally offer better service than the local Wi-Fi.

What to Pack

Packing for Palomino is about preparing for heat, humidity, sun, and adventure. Keep your luggage light and focused on practical essentials:

• Lightweight Clothing: Pack breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and light dresses are ideal.
• Swimwear and a Quick-Dry Towel: You will likely spend a significant amount of time at the beach or by the river. A microfiber towel is useful as it dries quickly in the humid climate.
• A Light Rain Jacket: Even in the dry season, a brief tropical shower can occur. A lightweight, packable rain jacket is always a good idea.
• Sturdy Footwear: A pair of sturdy sandals or water shoes is perfect for river tubing and walking around town. If you plan on hiking in the Sierra Nevada foothills, bring comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots.
• A Headlamp or Flashlight: Many of Palomino’s streets and paths are not well-lit at night. A small light source is invaluable for navigating your way back to your accommodation after dark.

Exploring Beyond Palomino: Easy Day Trips

While Palomino offers more than enough to fill your days, its strategic location on the Caribbean coast makes it an excellent base for exploring some of Colombia’s most iconic and diverse landscapes. From world-famous national parks to cool mountain retreats, a new adventure is always just a short journey away.

Tayrona National Natural Park

One of Colombia’s most celebrated natural treasures, Tayrona National Natural Park is a protected expanse where dense jungle tumbles down to meet the Caribbean Sea, creating a series of stunning bays and boulder-strewn beaches. The park is a sanctuary for biodiversity and a highlight for any traveler in the region.

Getting there from Palomino is straightforward. You can catch any bus heading west towards Santa Marta and ask the driver to drop you off at the main El Zaino entrance to the park. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. From the entrance, you will hike through lush jungle trails to reach the park’s famous beaches. The trek to Cabo San Juan, one of the most picturesque spots, is a rewarding experience, offering breathtaking views and the chance to swim in protected coves.

Minca: The Mountain Escape

If you need a break from the coastal heat, the small mountain town of Minca offers a refreshing change of scenery. Tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Minca is known for its cooler climate, vibrant birdlife, and a thriving coffee and cacao culture. It’s a place to reconnect with nature in a different way.

A visit to Minca allows you to explore:

• Coffee and Cacao Farms: Take a tour of a local finca like La Victoria to learn about the bean-to-cup process, from cultivation to roasting, and sample some of the finest organic coffee and chocolate.
• Waterfalls: Hike to natural swimming holes like Pozo Azul or the Marinka waterfalls to take a revitalizing dip in cool mountain water.
• Birdwatching: The area is a hotspot for ornithology, home to hundreds of bird species, including toucans and hummingbirds.

To get to Minca, you will need to travel back towards Santa Marta and then take a colectivo or private taxi for the final scenic drive up the mountain.

The Guajira Desert

For the truly adventurous traveler seeking a starkly different landscape, the vast and arid Guajira Desert awaits. This is a journey into a remote and dramatic region, home to the indigenous Wayuu people, where immense sand dunes plunge directly into the turquoise sea. It offers a profound sense of isolation and raw beauty.

While not a simple day trip, Palomino serves as a popular launching point for multi-day guided tours into the desert. These excursions are the most practical way to navigate the challenging terrain. Trips typically include visits to Cabo de la Vela, a remote fishing village known for kitesurfing and stunning sunsets, and the even more remote Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of the South American continent. A trip to La Guajira is an unforgettable expedition into one of Colombia’s most unique and culturally rich environments.