Where is Palomino?
Palomino is a small town in La Guajira, on Colombia's Caribbean coast, on the road that links Santa Marta and Riohacha. The road is paved all the way.
Step by step
From the city to the hammock.
How do I get to Palomino from Santa Marta?
Take a bus heading to Palomino, Riohacha or Maicao. They leave from Santa Marta's bus terminal and also pick up passengers near the public market. The trip takes between an hour and a half and two hours, with frequent departures during the day. Ask the driver to drop you in Palomino.
How do I get to Palomino from Riohacha?
Buses from Riohacha to Santa Marta pass through Palomino. The ride takes around an hour and a half.
How do I get there from Cartagena or Barranquilla?
Travel to Santa Marta first, by bus or door-to-door shuttle, and take the Palomino bus from there. From Cartagena, leave early so you arrive in daylight.
Which is the nearest airport?
Santa Marta's airport (Simón Bolívar) is the one most travellers use. Riohacha also has an airport. From either one you continue by road.
Can I combine Palomino with Tayrona Park?
Yes. The main entrance to Tayrona Park is on the same road, between Santa Marta and Palomino, about an hour from Palomino. The same bus takes you there and back.
How do I get from the bus to the hostel?
The bus drops you on the main road. Hilltop Palomino is at Calle 2 #8-40, behind the school, about 700 metres from the beach. You can walk or take a mototaxi. Message us on WhatsApp and we will send exact directions.
How does tubing on the Palomino river work?
A mototaxi takes you up to the start of the trail, you walk a stretch carrying the tube, and then you float down the river to where it meets the sea. Allow about three hours in total. Bring sunscreen, water and something to protect your phone.
Can I swim in the sea?
The beach is about 700 metres from the hostel. The sea at Palomino can have strong currents: ask at the hostel where it is safe to swim that day.
What if I arrive late?
Buses pass less often once it gets dark. If you will arrive at night, confirm your transport before you set off and send us your arrival time on WhatsApp.
Coming to Palomino?
Send us your arrival time and we will send the final directions within town. Hilltop Palomino is the quiet hostel, with a garden, pool and hammocks, about 700 metres from the beach.