$36 Car Rental Santa Marta

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What you need to know for your Santa Marta car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Marta

Renting a car in Santa Marta offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for your travel adventures. With your own vehicle, you can explore the stunning attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. For beach lovers, Rodadero Beach is a must-visit, providing a beautiful spot to soak up the sun. Families can enjoy the lush surroundings of Parque de los Novios, an urban park perfect for outdoor activities. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the journey to Ciudad Perdida, an archaeological site that reveals the rich history of the region.

Your rental car also allows you to venture beyond Santa Marta to nearby destinations like Taganga, known for its picturesque beach and vibrant views, or Buritaca, where you can discover Buritaca Beach and the stunning Quebrada Valencia Waterfall. The convenience of a rental car enhances your experience, ensuring you can easily visit these key locations without relying on public transportation. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural explorations, or relaxing beach days, having a rental car in Santa Marta makes the journey all the more enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Marta

  • Economy: The economy car option is highly popular among travelers in Santa Marta, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking to explore the city at their own pace. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through busy streets and find parking, ensuring a hassle-free experience as you enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
  • Compact: Offering a bit more luggage space, the compact car option fits up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for families or couples who want to bring along a bit more gear for their adventures. With its efficient fuel economy, this car is ideal for those looking to maximize their exploration while keeping travel costs low in and around Santa Marta.
  • Midsize: The midsize car option is perfect for travelers needing extra space, fitting up to 5 passengers and accommodating up to 3 large suitcases. This choice is especially beneficial for couples or families who want to travel comfortably while managing luggage with ease. The midsize option strikes a balance between space and maneuverability, making it well-suited for the scenic drives and charming locales around Santa Marta.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Marta

  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo features 2 rental locations in the Santa Marta area, providing travelers with convenient access to their services. Known for its strong focus on customer satisfaction, Alamo primarily offers Economy and Compact vehicles, making it an excellent choice for those looking for affordable and efficient transportation during their stay.
  • Enterprise: With 2 rental locations in Santa Marta, Enterprise is a popular supplier among tourists seeking flexibility and convenience. They offer a diverse selection of vehicles, with Compact and Economy options being the most booked. This supplier is committed to providing a seamless rental experience, allowing travelers to explore the beautiful surroundings at their own pace.
  • Greenmotion: Greenmotion has 1 rental location in Santa Marta, making it a convenient option for visitors. They specialize in Economy and Mini vehicles, offering an eco-friendly choice for those conscious of their environmental impact. With a focus on value and customer service, Greenmotion provides a great opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of Santa Marta and its surroundings.

Where to go in Santa Marta

  • El Rodadero: El Rodadero is a vibrant neighborhood in Santa Marta known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. It is especially popular from December to February, making it an ideal time for beach vacations. Key attractions include Rodadero Beach, a perfect spot for sunbathing, and Parque de los Novios, an urban park suited for family outings. The area also features shopping centers and malls, providing various options for dining and entertainment.
  • Taganga: Taganga is a charming village located near Santa Marta, attracting visitors year-round but peaking in April, July, and December. It is famous for its adventure opportunities, including diving and boating. Taganga Beach offers a relaxing beach vacation, while the Taganga Viewpoint provides stunning views and serves as a romantic spot for sunset watching. The nearby Santa Marta Cathedral adds a cultural aspect to your visit, enriching your experience in this picturesque village.
  • Buritaca: Buritaca is another delightful village near Santa Marta, attracting travelers throughout the year, particularly in June and December to January. Known for its scenic beauty and adventure options, Buritaca Beach is ideal for a beach getaway. For a touch of romance and adventure, visit Quebrada Valencia Waterfall or explore Parque Isla Salamanca, a national park perfect for outdoor activities. This area offers a blend of relaxation and exploration, making it a great choice for your stay.

10 tips to save on your Santa Marta car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a suitable balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santa Marta

The best value period to rent a car in Santa Marta is September, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. August also offers slightly lower prices with average demand, making it a reasonable choice for travelers. Moving into the end of the year, December becomes the most expensive month with high demand, while January and February follow closely, typically being the busiest times for car rentals. March sees a moderate demand and price level, but remains busier compared to the late summer months.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January79.9°F (26.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February80.1°F (26.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
March80.2°F (26.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
April81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
May81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October80.8°F (27.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November80.6°F (27.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Marta

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Santa Marta into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Santa Marta and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Santa Marta

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Santa Marta. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Santa Marta

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $36.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$36
 
Our second best deal of the day
$37
 
Our third best deal of the day
$41
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Santa Marta?
Within the past seven days, the lowest daily price found for a budget car rental in Santa Marta was $36.
Can I rent a car from Simon Bolivar Airport (SMR)?
Avis is a quick commute from the terminal and the only car rental outlet. Lock in your set of wheels as soon as you can to avoid missing out.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Marta car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours in advance of picking up the car, the majority of reservations offer a total refund. However, not all are eligible for this, so it's important to read the policy. Look over your booking for the specifics or go to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Marta?
There are many exciting adventures to be had in Santa Marta, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Organize a set of wheels and you can cruise around the surrounding area at your own speed. Add these fantastic destinations to your travel plan:

  • You'll discover San Felipe de Barajas Castle and loads of other amazing sights in Cartagena. From Santa Marta, it's around 110 miles away.
  • Situated 45 miles away, Barranquilla is also popular with travelers. Be sure to get to Venezuela Park while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love visiting this colorful city.
  • Get out into the outdoors and inhale the fresh air at Isla Grande Beach. It's 130 miles from Santa Marta.

How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Marta with Expedia?
Check out customer ratings and reviews, choose your car class and compare offers from top providers. Expedia makes it easy to track down the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your Santa Marta car rental with hotel or flight bookings and start your road trip with even greater savings.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Marta?
The main things are your driver's license and a credit card in the same name. Car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may be asked to provide proof of alternative coverage if you choose to opt out. We recommend checking your policy requirements to avoid any problems.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Marta?
Santa Marta has had some happy rental car drivers lately. Daily prices within the past seven days dropped as low as $36 and $37. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Marta?
You can rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Marta, so don't hestitate to extend that vacation! Simply enter your trip details into our long-term car rental deals page and reserve your ideal ride.
Where can I find a Santa Marta car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a young driver looking to rent a car in Santa Marta, we suggest reading the policies of the various car rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under the age of 25, some may not. There may be extra fees if you're aged between 21 and 24. To escape any unwanted surprises at the rental counter, make sure you know what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Marta?
A comprehensive insurance policy is a smart idea for your upcoming Santa Marta adventure. That's why we recommend choosing collision protection while reserving your rental car with Expedia. This covers your vehicle from theft, vandalism and collision damage. Some destinations may require a minimum level of liability insurance. It's possible that this is included in your rental cost or your own auto insurance, so check what you're covered for and if you need it.
Can I drive in Santa Marta with my current driver's license?
If you don't hold a driver's license issued in Colombia, then you'll likely need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be able to rent a car. It's also important to note that if an IDP is required, it has no validity on its own. You'll be asked to show your driver's license from your home country your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some additional requirements for international car rentals are:

  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be at least 25 in most countries to rent a car. If you're younger, it might still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before getting behind the wheel. With rental cars, you usually can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on certain types of rugged terrain with a rental vehicle.

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