Is Santa Marta Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Santa Marta, Colombia, often faces quality issues due to aging infrastructure and contamination risks. It is generally not recommended for direct consumption.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Local authorities advise using bottled or properly filtered water for drinking and cooking to avoid waterborne diseases. Boiling water is another common safety measure.

Tourists and residents typically rely on bottled water to ensure safety. For updated information, consult Colombia's water quality reports or local health agencies.

Last checked: 2026-01-12

Colombia is ranked as number 76 globally with a score of 60.6% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Santa Marta, Colombia

Santa Marta's tap water primarily comes from the Manzanares River, which is the main surface water source for the city’s water supply system.

Additional water sources include groundwater from local wells, supplementing the surface water to meet the city's demand.

Water is treated at local plants before distribution, but contamination risks remain due to infrastructure challenges and environmental factors.

Santa Marta Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Santa Marta often have uncertain water quality due to potential contamination and maintenance issues, making them generally unsafe for direct drinking.

Local health authorities recommend avoiding public fountains for drinking and instead suggest using bottled or filtered water to reduce health risks.

If necessary, water from public fountains should be boiled or properly treated before consumption to ensure safety.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Santa Marta. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Santa Marta is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.