Hospital Serena del Mar – Carlos Haime – is the most modern high-complexity medical center in Colombia’s Caribbean region. Located just 15 minutes from Cartagena’s historic center and operated by the Santa Fe de Bogotá Foundation, one of Latin America’s most respected healthcare institutions, the hospital delivers comprehensive care guided by the values of respect, commitment, honesty, excellence, responsibility, and character.
Hospital Serena del Mar was created to transform healthcare in Cartagena and the Caribbean region, offering high-complexity services within a modern, healing environment. With 50,000 square meters of built space, the hospital brings together state-of-the-art technology, multidisciplinary medical teams, and a person-centered care model operated by the renowned Santa Fe de Bogotá Foundation, one of Latin America’s leading healthcare institutions.
Its architectural design, created by Moshe Safdie, maximizes natural light, green views, and open spaces to create a therapeutic atmosphere that supports both physical recovery and emotional well-being for patients and their families.
Backed by national and international certifications, strategic collaborations, and a clear international vision, Hospital Serena del Mar offers an excellent option for patients seeking high-quality treatment in Cartagena at competitive prices compared with North America and Europe.
Hospital Serena del Mar offers more than 60 medical specialties and subspecialties supported by advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Key areas include:
Orthopedics & Joint Replacement (supported by the HSS collaboration)
Cardiovascular Surgery & Cardiology
Neurosurgery & Neurology
Oncology & Hematology
Minimally Invasive & Laparoscopic Surgery
Trauma & Emergency Medicine
Gastroenterology & Digestive Health
Pulmonology & Respiratory Care
Urology & Andrology
Endocrinology & Diabetes Care
Nephrology
Critical Care & Intensive Care Units
Advanced Diagnostic Imaging – including the only PET-CT scanner in Cartagena
The hospital’s multidisciplinary teams include physicians trained locally and abroad, supported by nursing and technical staff committed to evidence-based practice and humanized care.
Hospital Serena del Mar has obtained internationally recognized certifications and partnerships that reinforce its commitment to safe, high-quality, humanized healthcare:
The story of Hospital Serena del Mar is rooted in the vision of Colombian businessman and philanthropist Carlos Haime, who imagined a master-planned “dream city” that integrated health, nature, and well-being.
In 1968, he acquired the land that would one day become Serena del Mar, designed to elevate quality of life through access to top services, green spaces, and economic opportunity. Today, his son Daniel Haime leads the project, turning that dream into reality with world-class institutions like Hospital Serena del Mar.
Located only 15 minutes from Cartagena’s historic center, the hospital sits within a modern, safe, and thoughtfully designed community focused on wellness and healing.
Facilities & Patient Comfort – A Healing Environment
• Spacious, modern inpatient rooms with natural light and privacy
• Advanced operating rooms for high-complexity surgery
• Dedicated ICU, NICU, and specialized monitoring units
• Calming waiting and family areas integrated with natural surroundings
• Design centered on therapeutic views, gardens, and open spaces
Hospital Serena del Mar’s care model is guided by values of humanism, scientific rigor, and safety, supported by the Santa Fe de Bogotá Foundation’s recognized leadership in ethical and high-quality healthcare.
Its mission is to provide health services with the highest standards of quality and safety, contributing to the well-being of individuals and communities.
Its vision is to be recognized nationally and internationally as a benchmark in comprehensive, high-quality healthcare and knowledge generation.
Institutional principles:
• Respect
• Responsibility
• Creativity
• Commitment
Core values:
• Honesty
• Excellence
• Character
With cutting-edge technology, international certifications, and strategic alliances such as the partnership with HSS, Hospital Serena del Mar continues to strengthen its position as a high-complexity reference center for Colombia and Latin America.
The International Office at Hospital Serena del Mar provides personalized assistance for patients traveling from abroad, ensuring a safe, organized, and supportive experience throughout their medical journey.
Before Your Stay:
• Scheduling and coordination of medical appointments
• Support planning accommodations in Cartagena
• Partnerships with nearby hotels for convenience
• Pre-authorization assistance with international insurance companies
During Your Care:
• In-hospital accompaniment
• Coordination and communication with insurance providers
• 24/7 assistance for patient and family needs
Returning Home:
• Medical reports in Spanish or English
• Support in arranging follow-up appointments
• Communication with treating physicians abroad
After Your Stay:
• Ongoing support for questions, documentation, and continued communication with medical teams
The International Office offers:
Many international travelers — including those from North America, Europe, and several Latin American countries — can enter Colombia visa-free for short stays. Others may require a visa or electronic travel authorization depending on nationality. Entry requirements may vary, so patients should always confirm the latest regulations with the nearest Colombian consulate or official government sources.
Passports should generally be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the date of arrival.
Carrying printed or digital confirmation of appointments at Hospital Serena del Mar can help streamline immigration procedures.
Travel Tips:
Behind Hospital Serena del Mar’s reputation stands a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals who share a unified philosophy: combining scientific rigor with empathy, respect, and human warmth. More than 60 medical specialties and subspecialties work together to deliver world-class healthcare to Cartagena, the Caribbean region, and international patients.
Hospital Serena del Mar’s medical teams are supported by continuous education programs, evidence-based protocols, and the leadership of the Santa Fe de Bogotá Foundation, one of Latin America’s most respected healthcare institutions. Their collaborative approach ensures safe, precise, and compassionate care in every stage of the patient journey.
When I seriously injured my knee in Cartagena, the taxi driver said that he would take me to the best hospital. He was correct, my experience here was excellent. Not only was the entire hospital modern and new, but everyone was so helpful and friendly. Extra thanks to the front desk for working directly with my travel insurance company. And I can't say enough about the excellent care provided by Dra. Diana López Hoyos - Muchas gracias!
Visit date: May 18, 2024 Reason for visit: I am visiting from the US and wanted to get some screening tests. I cannot say enough about how great my visit was to Hospital Serena Del Mar! Everything from the confidential customer service offered via WhatsApp to my actual appointment, and finally getting results was professional, efficient, and kind. I tried an urgent care before reaching out to Del Mar. It was a disaster; I actually left the waiting room after an hour of waiting. I finally googled other clinics and I’m so glad I did! Do not delay if you are a tourist who needs healthcare. Hospital Serena Del Mar ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ all around! -The chat function for the International Office was quick and easy. I was able to get my questions answered (in English) and feel confident about coming in for services. -The hospital is beautiful! It is huge, spacious, extremely clean, and I felt relief as soon as I walked in. -The International Office staff wasn’t there when I first arrived so other staff took time away from their busy schedules to help me. I felt so supported! -Once my International Office rep did arrive, he was patient and helpful. -The admission paperwork was easy to complete and my tests were all done in under 15 minutes. -NOTE: I paid directly so I can’t comment on using insurance. -Afterward, I grabbed breakfast in the Tostado on the first floor, and two hours later had all of my results in my email inbox! It was so much better than ANY healthcare service I’ve received in the States or Colombia and I am so grateful. Keep up the great work!
We were referred to this private hospital by a smaller clinic for a rabies vaccination, but unfortunately the vaccine was not available on site. This led to unnecessary delays and confusion. One staff member was helpful and informed us that rabies vaccines are usually only available at local vaccination centers – this is very important information that should be communicated more clearly in advance. Also, only a few staff members spoke English, which made communication a bit difficult. Tip for others: if you need a specific vaccine, especially rabies, go directly to a local vaccination center.
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