Visit Tayrona Park: Best Entrances, Beaches and Itineraries
Editeur
Update
I have visited Tayrona Park many times for its paradise beaches and jungle hikes, and I’ve seen its popularity grow rapidly over the years. Today, due to the influx of tourists, good organization is necessary to enjoy it fully. By the way, are you really interested in visiting Tayrona Park?
That’s what we’ll see in this travel guide.
Edit 06/2024: We completely revised this article.
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KEY INFORMATION ABOUT TAYRONA PARK, COLOMBIA
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GENERAL OVERVIEW
A prodigious natural site with multiple facets.
Tayrona National Natural Park is a protected reserve located in the eastern Caribbean region of Colombia, in the department of Magdalena. The park covers a land area of 150 km² and a marine area of 30 km² (12,692.2 hectares). It is one of Colombia’s 60 national parks and is the second most visited park in the country, following the San Bernardo and Rosario Corals National Natural Park.
Tayrona boasts a rich biodiversity and a wide variety of ecosystems, including thorny scrublands, the best-preserved dry tropical forest in the country, and high-altitude humid and cloud forests. Along the coast, you will find beach ecosystems, lagoons, mangrove stands, and rocky shores.
The marine area of the park is equally diverse, featuring coral formations, sedimentary terrains, seagrass beds, and algae populations.
The park is home to a diverse fauna, including some endemic species. Tayrona plays a crucial role in conserving the flora and fauna of the region.
Tayrona National Park is located 1 hour from Santa Marta, 3 hours from Barranquilla, and 5 hours from Cartagena.
Before the Conquest, the region was inhabited by the Tairona tribes, whose culture goes back at least to the 1st century AD. Evidence of their civilization, like the famous Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), attests to an advanced society in agriculture, architecture, and commerce.
The Tairona people were likely decimated with the arrival of the colonists. Their direct descendants are the Kogi, Wiwa, Arhuacos, and Kankuamo, four indigenous peoples still living in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta overlooking the park. The park houses many sanctuaries, ancient cemeteries, and ritual sites still used by indigenous communities during ceremonies.
Tayrona Park also aims to preserve the archaeological and sacred sites of the Tairona descendants, who consider the park their territory.
Tayrona National Natural Park was created in 1969.
Tayrona will be your paradise if you love nature. You’ll find stunning flora, and with an early rise and patience, you’ll spot animals you’ve never seen before.
Hiking enthusiasts will relish the numerous (more or less) well-marked trails throughout the park. Some are easy, while others are more challenging.
If you love sunbathing on beautiful beaches, swimming, or just taking in the scenery, you’ll be in heaven. The park has true gems, some more frequented than others, some easy to access, others that require effort.
Adventurous souls will love spending one or two nights in the park. It’s not luxurious, but it’s perfect for early-morning explorations.
Tayrona is in a tropical humid climate zone. The average maximum temperature during the day is 29°C, and the average minimum temperature is around 25°C. Humidity is close to 100% year-round, except in January and February, when it slightly drops. So you’ll be hot and sweaty.
The rainiest months on the Caribbean coast are from April to May and September to November.
The best times to visit the park, in my opinion, are outside of peak periods and holidays to avoid crowds. Specifically, avoid weekends, Easter, Christmas, June school holidays, and all Colombian holidays if you want a more tranquil experience.
Also, note that the park typically closes three times a year to honor the traditions of Indigenous communities and for environmental preservation:
- 01/02-15/02; 01/06-15/06; 19/10-02/11
Some travelers only spend a day here, entering via the El Zaino entrance and making the round trip to Cabo San Juan, the most famous beach in the park. This is doable (a 4-hour hike), but you’ll be following all the other tourists like a sheep.
Personally, when I come to Tayrona, I like to stay overnight to enjoy the peace at sunrise, and I love doing the loop “Calabazo – Playa Brava – Cabo San Juan – Zaino.” It’s best to stay for 1 or 2 nights.
© Tomplanmytrip
the El Zaino entrance of TAYRONA
El Zaino is the main entrance of Tayrona Park.
- It’s the shortest route to the most famous beaches, like Cabo San Juan. If you only have one day and want to enjoy a beautiful beach, it’s the best option.
- You’re not a big walker. The path is relatively flat and easy.
- You want a horseback ride. If you love animals, forget it.
- You want to avoid the crowd at Cabo San Juan: If you start early enough and walk at a good pace, you’ll reach the beach in about 2 hours, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the place before it gets too crowded.
It’s quite simple.
- First, you need to get to Santa Marta by bus from the main cities of the country or by direct flight. Santa Marta has an airport (Simón Bolivar Airport).
- Once in Santa Marta, take a COTRAORIENTE bus from the public market (here) or a taxi to El Zaino. Buses leave every 15 minutes, and it will take about an hour to reach the park entrance.
- If you are coming from Palomino or Riohacha, regular buses make the trip. It takes about 1 hour from Palomino and 2 hours from Riohacha.
Entering Tayrona Park requires completing certain formalities.
You will need to:
- Present a photocopy of your passport.
- Watch an introductory video.
- Show the contents of your bag (no alcohol, etc.).
- Pay the entrance fee (in cash or by credit card).
I find the entrance fee to be relatively high, which is why it’s advantageous to spend at least one night in the park. You only pay the entrance fee once, regardless of how long you stay. However, you will also need to pay for daily insurance.
Once past the entrance, you’ll have to walk 5 km to reach the trailhead (which starts just after the Cañaveral parking lot). To save time, I recommend taking the shuttle.
Tayrona Park’s opening hours are from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, though they often don’t open until 8:00 AM. I still advise arriving at 7:00 AM. If it’s not open, have breakfast and be ready to queue as soon as possible.
Even though you’re not far from Santa Marta, I recommend staying near Tayrona Park. It’s more pleasant, there are great hotels, and you can start your exploration earlier.
My favorite hotels are:
- Lodge Cacao Tayrona, a 15-minute walk from the entrance, perfectly combines comfort and nature. With tastefully decorated rooms open to the jungle and attentive staff, it’s a charming place for a Robinson Crusoe experience. The price is reasonable.
- For a similar price, Hotel Quetzal Dorado, a 25-minute walk from the entrance, offers the best value for money in the area. With stunning views, lovely rooms, and delicious cuisine, it’s perfect if you’re looking for a mix of tranquility and comfort in nature.
- Senda Koguiwa, a 15-minute walk from the entrance, perfectly blends elegant design, comfort, and a beautiful setting. It’s an excellent option for a peaceful and comfortable family stay by the river.
- For a luxurious and intimate stay, Villa Playa Tayrona, a 5-minute drive from the entrance, emphasizes elegance and refinement, even in its cuisine. The view over the river and sea is breathtaking, and the setting is magnificent.
The trail from El Zaino is well-marked and well-maintained, so you’re likely to encounter many tourists.
You’ll leave El Zaino on foot or by shuttle along a rather unremarkable path until Cañaveral (5 km). The actual trail starts here after the parking lot. You’ll walk for about an hour through the lush forest, where you can spot birds and possibly monkeys, before reaching the wild ambiance of Arrecifes Beach. 20 minutes further, you can take a swimming break at La Piscina. The trail continues to the famous Cabo San Juan del Guia Beach (30 minutes).
It’s a two-hour walk one way. If you’re up for it, you can continue for another 15 minutes to reach Playa Nudista.
An alternative is to take the “9 Piedras Trail” shortly after Cañaveral, a loop of less than 2 km through the jungle with stunning ocean views. This trail is named after the enormous stones along the path, which have holes made by indigenous people to observe astronomical changes throughout the year. You’ll then return to the main trail to Arrecifes Beach.
Some parts of the path can be muddy due to horse traffic.
© Tomplanmytrip
the CALABAZO entrance of TAYRONA
The best way to avoid the crowd—my favorite entrance to Tayrona.
- You hate crowds. The path is less frequented than El Zaino.
- Wildlife observation is on your list of things to do. The less frequented trails increase your chances of encountering the park’s wildlife.
- Hiking is your thing. The Calabazo trails give your legs more of a workout.
- You seek the tranquility of a less crowded beach. Calabazo is the gateway to Playa Brava.
- You want a multi-day hike. Calabazo is the perfect starting point for exploring Tayrona’s hidden corners over several days.
- The park entry formalities are quick. With fewer visitors and no video to watch, you’re on your way in no time.
Follow the same instructions as for El Zaino. Coming from Santa Marta, Calabazo is located 10 km before the El Zaino entrance. You’ll need to ask the bus driver to drop you off at Calabazo (and remind them as you get close).
The park’s entry procedure is less formal and faster than at El Zaino. The prices are the same, I recommend bringing cash.
The entry hours through Calabazo are from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
My favorite hotels are:
- Portales del Tayrona is an 8-minute walk from Calabazo. With its beautiful tropical garden full of birds and its lovely pool, it’s a small oasis of comfort. The rooms are very clean and comfortable, though a bit sparse. There are family rooms, and the food is good. In the evening, there may be some noise from nearby establishments.
- La Casablanca Tayrona House, a 10-minute walk from Calabazo. It is a delightful surprise with its two pools, magnificent garden, tastefully furnished comfortable rooms, and top-notch service. It is excellent value for money.
Believe me, you’ll love it if you’re a hiking enthusiast. There are two possible routes.
From Calabazo, take the trail to Playa Brava for a 3.5-hour hike that will test your endurance while offering incredible views. You can then continue to Cabo San Juan (2 hours).
If you’re even more adventurous, you can choose to go to Playa Nudista via El Pueblito (closed to the public), a solid four-hour hike, and then continue to Cabo San Juan.
If you’re short on time or don’t want to do the whole hike, there is a motorcycle service from Calabazo that takes you further into the park—saving you about an hour.
© Tomplanmytrip
THE PALANGANA ENTRANCE OF TAYRONA
You won’t be able to hike in Tayrona Park via Palangana.
- If you just intend to drive to a beautiful, less crowded beach and relax, you’ve come to the correct entrance!
You have several options.
- You can take a public bus from the city market heading to El Zaino and ask the driver to drop you off at Palangana. However, this isn’t the best option because from there, you’ll need to take another form of transport, like a motorcycle taxi, to Neguanje Beach (45 minutes).
- You can rent a car to drive to Neguanje Beach; the road from Palangana is not in the best condition, but it’s a relatively simple option.
- Another good option is to take a day tour from Santa Marta or Taganga. You can go by road or by boat.
- I don’t recommend walking from Palangana; you might feel a bit isolated, the path is not well-traveled, and it gets very hot.
The entrance fees are the same as for El Zaino and Calabazo. I find it a bit expensive, considering you can neither hike in the park nor stay overnight.
The entrance at Palangana is open from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and exits are allowed until 5:00 PM.
The beaches accessible from Palangana are Gairaca, Playa de Amor, 7 Olas, Neguanje, and the beautiful Playa Cristal.
Boats shuttle between Playa Neguanje, Playa Cristal, and Playa Cinto. The classic itinerary is to spend the morning at Playa Cinto, take a boat to Playa Cristal for lunch, and then get picked up to be taken back to Playa Neguanje.
You can arrange the schedule with the boat captain and, if possible, share the costs with others.
© Tomplanmytrip
the bAHIA CONCHA entrance of TAYRONA
It’s the closest entrance to Santa Marta.
Choosing to enter Tayrona through Bahia Concha is a bit like playing poker. You win, or you lose. The beach can be very pleasant, but after heavy rains, the nearby river can bring quite a lot of debris to its shores.
I don’t recommend this option unless you plan to stay in Santa Marta for a long time or if you want to go on a sailing tour.
This entrance only gives access to one beach, Bahia Concha, the closest park beach to Santa Marta. It’s best to take a taxi from Santa Marta, which will drop you off at the Bahia Concha entrance. From there, you’ll need to walk 20 minutes to the beach or take a motorcycle taxi.
A pro tip: When you arrive at the beach, go to the right. There will be fewer people, and you’ll avoid the street vendors.
To return to Santa Marta, it’s best to arrange a pick-up time with the taxi (without paying in advance), as there is no phone signal.
You will have to pay entrance fees, which I find a bit high considering what you’ll get in return.
Access to Tayrona Park via Bahia Concha is possible between 7 AM and 2 PM.
© Tomplanmytrip
THE BEACHES OF Tayrona PARK
A wide selection of beaches, from the most popular to the most peaceful.
Ordered from the closest to the farthest from the entrance :
Playa Castillete: A peaceful and less crowded beach. Swimming is prohibited due to strong waves. You can eat at the finca. 3 km from the entrance.
Playa Cañaveral: It is quiet and has stunning views. Swimming is generally dangerous, except at La Piscinita, where you can have lunch. It is 5 km from the entrance.
Playa Arrecifes: Known for its breathtaking landscapes, but dangerous currents prevent swimming. You can have lunch there—a 50-minute walk from Cañaveral.
Playa Arenilla: A beautiful beach with tranquil palm-lined shores, but it requires caution for swimming. No infrastructure. A 15-minute walk from Arrecifes.
La Piscina: A small lagoon protected by a coral reef. As the name suggests, its clear waters are calm. It’s ideal for swimming and some snorkeling. There are small snacks and fruit juice shacks—a 15-minute walk from Arenilla.
Cabo San Juan: The most popular beach in Tayrona for its beauty. These two small bays, bordered by coconut trees and separated by a promontory, are absolutely stunning. You can swim as long as you don’t go beyond the promontory. It’s too crowded for my taste. There is a restaurant and fruit juice shacks. A 30-minute walk from La Piscina. Keep an eye on your belongings.
Playa Nudista: This beach offers a quiet and welcoming environment for nudists. It is less frequented, and swimming is not recommended. There is no tourist infrastructure—a 20-minute walk from Cabo San Juan.
It’s the fastest way to get to Playa Brava.
If you enjoy walking and are seeking tranquility, this beautiful, secluded beach with a lovely coconut grove is an ideal spot. Swimming is dangerous due to strong currents, but you can eat and sleep there.
3 to 5 hours of walking from Calabazo.
For snorkeling enthusiasts
Playa Cristal: One of the most beautiful beaches in Tayrona. With white sand, clear turquoise calm waters, and great snorkeling spots, it’s a little paradise, but it’s too crowded for my taste, even though the number of visitors is limited to preserve it. It’s accessible only by boat (45 min) from Neguanje Beach (via Palangana), Taganga, or Santa Marta. Restaurants are nearby.
Playa Neguanje: A beautiful white sand beach where you can swim, and it’s a base for diving and snorkeling. It’s also an excellent spot to reach nearby beaches by a short boat trip, such as Playa Cristal or Bahia Cinto.
Playa Gairaca: Although not very crowded, it’s a lovely, peaceful beach and safer for swimming. There are great diving and snorkeling spots. Trails from the beach lead to small hidden beaches like Playa del Amor.
Playa Cinto: Isolated with golden sand and a superb view of the horizon, it’s one of the most beautiful and tranquil beaches in Tayrona Park. Accessible only by boat, it’s known for its diving and snorkeling spots. There are no tourist infrastructures, so you need to bring water and food. It’s my favorite beach. 1 hour from Santa Marta. You can go with this expert.
This entrance only gives access to Bahia Concha. It’s the easiest beach to reach from Santa Marta, by car or by boat. This large beach is great for swimming, but it gets very crowded on weekends. You’ll find many tourist facilities such as restaurants, plastic chairs, and tents for sheltering from the sun.
Tayrona Park has 34 magnificent beaches, but you can only swim at 7 of them: Cabo San Juan, La Piscina, Playa Cristal, Playa Neguanje, Playa Gairaca, Playa Cinto, and Bahia Concha.
© Tomplanmytrip
WHERE TO STAY IN Tayrona
Waking up inside the park to enjoy it before the crowds. The accommodations are basic.
Cabo San Juan camping offers tents and hammocks with mosquito nets. There are a few lockers to store your belongings, but you can’t cook on-site. There’s a nearby restaurant, but the quality isn’t excellent.
Prices are high, and it’s very popular, so I recommend booking in advance. Despite being in a beautiful environment, in my opinion, it’s not the best option for a wilderness experience.
The hammocks set up in the kiosk atop the rock offer an incredible view, but it’s windy at night.
Imagine falling asleep to the sound of waves in a stilted hut facing the sea, far from everything.
It’s my favorite spot because I find Ecolodge Playa Brava Teyumakke well-managed, and its beach is peaceful since it’s rarely crowded. The accommodations are simple but clean, with options ranging from tents and hammocks to bungalows, some with private bathrooms. There are family bungalows (up to 6 people). Breakfast is included, and you can have lunch and dinner on-site, although the prices are relatively high.
EcoCamping LUI offers accommodations in cabins, tents, and hammocks, and you can also pitch your own tent there. They have cold-water showers and a cooking area with some utensils over a wood fire, all at a reasonable price, making it a more attractive option than Cabo San Juan. They also provide a decent breakfast service.
You can also head to Panaderia Bere nearby for breakfast, which is renowned for its chocolate croissants.
Playa Cañaveral is the only beach in Tayrona Park with an eco-lodge, Eco Habs Tequendama.
Easily accessible from the El Zaino entrance, the eco-lodge offers charming bungalows with palm-thatched roofs. The spacious and comfortable rooms, each with a terrace and private bathroom, accommodate up to 4 people. The environment is peaceful, with stunning views, and the eco-lodge features a spa and wellness center.
For swimming, a short 5-minute walk takes you to La Piscinita—a small, tranquil spot.
There are several accommodation options between the El Zaino entrance and Playa Cañaveral—however, remember you won’t be close to the beach.
I like Ecohabs Bamboo Tayrona for its enchanting setting, spacious and comfortable bungalows with air conditioning, and tasteful decor. There’s a restaurant and a wellness center. However, the prices are pretty high.
For a good value option, Tiny Houses Unique Tayrona offers charming cottages with large windows opening to beautiful vegetation. They are new and well-equipped with kitchenettes and air conditioning. Breakfast included in the price is served at the neighboring hotel’s restaurant, where you can also use the pool.
EATING AND DRINKING IN Tayrona
You won’t go hungry or thirsty—but it’s not the best value for your money.
In the park, you’ll find small stands selling food and drinks. Remember, you’re not allowed to bring any alcoholic beverages into the park. Bottled water is not cheap, so remember to bring cash.
To refresh yourself, you can also buy coconuts along the way.
If you’re a fan of the traditional ham and butter sandwich, you’ll be disappointed. You won’t find “baguettes” or deli meats in Colombia. Personally, I tried packing a taco in my backpack, but trust me, it wasn’t a good idea—it ended up soggy in its tomato juice. Sandwiches in the heat aren’t the best idea.
Your last option is to eat at the restaurant at your campsite, which is my favorite choice—although it’s expensive. The restaurant at Playa Brava is quite good.
© Tomplanmytrip
Tips & Information
Here are a few essential things to know before venturing into Tayrona Park.
Start by leaving your large bag at your hotel or in the lockers provided at the El Zaino entrance, and only bring the essentials in a small backpack.
Don’t forget your passport or a photocopy for entry. You’re also supposed to present your yellow fever vaccination certificate, though it’s unlikely you’ll be asked for it. I still recommend getting vaccinated.
Bring enough cash, as there are no ATMs nearby.
For internet access, consider buying a Claro SIM card, as they have the best coverage in Colombia.
Pack water, snacks, a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and comfortable walking shoes instead of flip-flops for the trails.
Don’t forget to bring insect repellent for mosquitoes and sand flies, a garbage bag for your trash, a blanket for cooler nights if camping, a sweater and socks to avoid sand flies, a flashlight, toilet paper, and a padlock for securing your belongings in a locker.
If you enjoy snorkeling, bring your own gear.
Tayrona is generally safe for visitors. The trails are well-marked, so you shouldn’t get lost. There’s little risk of encountering dangerous wild animals like jaguars.
Regarding swimming, always respect authorized areas—stay out if there’s a red flag. Strong currents have tragically drowned many swimmers in the past. Stick to the 7 beaches I mentioned earlier for swimming.
If you plan to take a boat from Taganga to any of Tayrona’s beaches, be aware that the sea can be rough from December to April. Always check the sea conditions before boarding to avoid any surprises if you’re not accustomed to rough waters.
Due to the high traffic, it’s best not to leave your belongings unattended. Someone stole Claire’s hiking shoes at Cabo San Juan.
Adapt your itinerary to your desires and the time you have available.
- One day at the beach
Enter through El Zaino and make the round trip to Cabo San Juan (total 5 hours of walking). Along the way, you’ll get a glimpse of the park’s beauty. Be prepared for crowds, though. If you’re only here for the beach, consider entering through Palangana or, even better, go to Playa Cinto.
- Two days of hiking and relaxation
The adventure starts to get interesting. Enter through Calabazo and spend the night at Playa Brava. Early the next morning, head to Cabo San Juan to enjoy the fantastic scenery before the crowds arrive. Then swim at La Piscina. Exit the park through El Zaino.
- Three days for a deeper exploration
Start gently by entering through Calabazo and spend the first night at Playa Brava. The following day, hike to Cabo San Juan and spend the second night at the Arrecifes campground, where it’s usually less crowded. On the third day, early in the morning, return to Cabo San Juan to enjoy the beach in peacefulness. After lunch, exit Tayrona through El Zaino.
Tayrona Park boasts astonishing biodiversity, actively preserved through conservation programs. It is home to numerous animal species, some endemic to Colombia, such as the White-footed Tamarin monkey and the endangered Blue-throated Curassow. Jaguars are much more elusive.
I highly recommend hiking early in the morning or at dusk to get the best chance to observe a variety of animal species.
The park’s flora is equally exceptional, showcasing diverse habitats from dry tropical scrub to sub-Andean moist forest, dry forest, mangroves, and tropical rainforest.
In short, Tayrona is a paradise for naturalists.
You don’t need a guide; the trails are well-marked, especially those leading to Cabo San Juan. Finding your way to Playa Brava might be a bit more confusing, but it’s entirely manageable on your own. To reassure yourself, you can download the Maps.me app.
At the El Zaino entrance, you can take a horseback ride through the park. Avoid doing this, as the horses are mistreated.
Walking the trails in Tayrona can be very hot and humid, which can be challenging if you’re not used to it. Take breaks and remember to drink plenty of water.
© Tomplanmytrip
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Tom the amount of work and time that went into this is absolutely incredible! We were in Tayrona National Park almost 2 years ago and find all of your information to be 100% spot on. The one thing that stands out in our minds about the experience was the fact that we stayed in a tree house suite just outside the park. Were some of the best mornings we’ve ever had waking up to a perfect temperature and breeze up in the trees!
Thanks, Jim and Steph! I agree it’s a lovely place 🙂 – Your tree house suite seems a peaceful place! Do you remember the name?
Hola, thanks heaps for the info, it really made our trip easy to navigate our way round. We stayed at Yuluka Hostel the night before – what a place!
I just wanted to update some information as we followed your plan and got to Cabo around 11 for them to say all the VIP hammocks were sold out at 9am! Bugger. There was a booth at the entrance which allows you to reserve your spot before walking in so in hindsight we should have done that. We managed to get a normal hammock which was still cool though! Also the prices have changed. 40000COP for normal, 50000COP for VIP.
Cheers!
Hey Jeremy!
I’m glad to hear it and thanks a lot for sharing the new info about Tayrona. I will update my article. The prices increased a LOT since last year. It’s crazy. 40 000 COP for a simple hammock in Cabo? And it’s not even the tourist season.
(O-0)!
Although you have advised not to I am very limited in time and may have to do Tayrona in only a day – I would like to take the Calabazo entrance however and then leave via El Zaino – do you think this will be possible? I will be staying near the park so easier to have an early start in the morning – by my calculations its a lot of hiking but I could still fit in 3 hours at Cabo San Juan?
Hi Erika!
It will be a long hike, but yes it’s doable ;). Try to start early – Around 7 am – and don’t go to Playa Brava. It should be Calabazo – El Pueblo – Cabo San Juan – El Zaino.
And yes, you should be able to stay 2-3 hours in Cabo San Juan.
Enjoy the National park!
wow you seem to have covered a lot of info in your blog of this park. What i also liked was that you mentioned the public holidays so that people can plan their trip there accordingly. Very informative blog
Phew! What a great guide. We have a trip planned for February and this will come in handy. Thank you!
Woww! Thx you Tiffany! I’m sure you will have loads of fun! 🙂
Hey Tom! Greetings from Argentina!! I was looking for some info about Tayrona when y found your blog. I really want to ask you about the backpack situation. I have plans to stay in Tayrona for 3 days, and im kind of worry where should I leave my backpack, do you know any hostel that can keep my thinks in Santa Marta? And what is the cost?
Thank you so much for all this information that Yo already post 🙂
Hi Silvina.
Sorry to answer you so late!!!
You can let your big bag in your hostel or the reception at the Zaino Entrance (Main Entrance). I don’t know the cost though. Maybe it’s free 🙂
Wow, one of the best articles I’ve read in my research for our Colombia trip – thank you, this is super useful! Quick (maybe random?) question – would you recommend rabies shots for the hikes? We’ve done Sri Lanka without them but seems like in Tayrona the wild life is a bit closer to the trails?
Thank you for the compliments Aline 🙂 – In my opinion, you don’t need it. I never heard about animals jumping on visitors in Tayrona ^^
Hey! I am going to Tayrona via Santa Marta Jan 21 – 27. I was hoping to do Costeno Beach Camp, then Minca and maybe one more place? Do you have a suggested way to connect these places? Are there busses that connect all these places? Thanks if you can help!
Hey Alessandra!
Yes, it’s super easy. All these places are connected by the same road.
From Santa Marta, Go to Minca.
When you go down from Minca, tell it to the driver. He will drop you at la Bomba – It’s a Gaz station. Then wave at the bus going to Tayrona, it will stop to pick you up.
Costeno beach is located after Tayrona. Once again, wait on the side of the road and stop the next bus!
Then, you can go to Palomino – a bit further on the road – if you still have a few days left 😉
Hey Tom,
Thanks for the guide, we used it a couple of days ago to do Tayrona. Everything was spot on except the prices have increased dramatically in a small amount of time which sucked, but oh well.
We caught the boat from Taganga and I was hoping you could add a warning in your post for the next person who thinks of doing this. Depending on the time of year, the ride will be smooth or choppy. We went obviously late January, and it was incredibly dangerous. We were expecting it to be rough, but not expecting to almost capsize, twice, with 30 people on board. Almost all of us came out with bruises, one girl’s shins got cut, and the boat almost crushed a guy when he fell (because of the waves) trying to get off the boat. Those who had booked and paid for return trips, forfeited the ticket cost and caught the bus back.
I’m not certain of when this weather starts, so I can’t give a clear time frame, but it is not safe in choppy weather and I am surprised someone hasn’t died yet.
We read only your blog as it was so comprehensive, but after googling other people’s experiences of the boat ride upon our return, many others had a similar experience and also thought it could have ended in a death.
Could you please put a warning in that section of your blog. Also the price of the boat is now 50,000 per way.
Thanks.
Hey Liam,
Thanks for the inputs.
The sea can be extremely rough from the end of November to end of March, more or less. I agree it’s dangerous if they start driving fast with too many people on their boat.
I gonna add your recommendation in my article asap.
I hope you still had a great time. Also, could you tell me which other prices have changed?
Hi Tom,
I think im going to take the Calabazo entrance and hike to Playa Brava. Stay one night there, and then visit Playa Cristal.
I wanna know if there is a way to go there from Playa Brava. I’ve heard that there are boats from Neguanje but dont know how to get there anyway.
Hope you can help me! Thanks!
Hi Lucia! Sorry for the late answer, we were in the Amazonas.
I don’t think there is a boat from Playa Brava to Playa Cristal. But you can still send an email to the hostel in Playa Brava. I’m sure they will know!
Hi!
There is some unclear information on the internet, but the loop is still possible and the Calabazo entrance is open! We hiked from Calabazo to Zaino two days ago. Pueblito is indeed closed to the public, but you can still pass. There is also a new (shorter) route from Playa Brava to Cabo San Juan which takes 2,5 hours. This route is stunning – just like the other one – and also quite steep. There are some signs along the way and it’s visible on maps.me, so you won’t get lost. The beginning takes you through a dry riverbed, so I can imagine it can get wet during rainy season.
Other up-to-date info:
– The entrance fee is now $53.500 ($63.500 during high season including ‘puentes’) plus an obligate insurance costing you $2.500 per day.
– Hammocks in Playa Brava cost $30.000 and include a mosquito net and blanket. You can have lunch or dinner here for $30.000 (including a juice). Breakfast is $20.000. Big plus: people were very friendly, showers were clean, and they let us refill our water bottles with filtered water for free.
– Food options from Cabo San Juan and further on are in the range of $15.000 to $40.000, and there is bread (‘pan relleno’), lots of bread. Water is $5.000 a liter, a beer around $5.000 as well.
We really loved the hike from Calabazo and Playa Brava, all alone surrounded by nature before plunging into the craziness and beauty of Cabo San Juan. Hágalo!
Whaououououu Serena!
Thanks a lot for the updates! You did an amazing job <3
Hi Tom,
I recently found your blog on my searches of Tayrona, thank you for the great information it is very appreciated. I know you said you went in May in one of your trips to Tayrona. Would you recommend it? What can I expect weather wise, tourist wise, etc.? I was planning to go at the end of May and just wanted to plan my trip accordingly. Do you think I should save it for July? Thanks for any info. you can provide me with.
Hi All,
I have 2 questions regarding 1 day trip to Tayrona Park:
– is it possible to Start in Calabazo early morning at 7am, pass through Pueblito to Cabo San Juan and finish at 5pm in Zaino, so 10h stay in the park (including some bath)?
– is yellow fever vaccine really needed and checked at the entrance? Thank you.
Michal
Hi Michal,
First thing first, you should check which days Tayrona park is opened. It changes frequently because of COVID19.
1) Pueblito is close to the public, but (from what I know) you can still pass on the side. Double-check at the Calabazo entrance. Calabazo – Cabo San Juan – Zaino is a 6-7h hike so yes it’s doable.
2) I’ve heard it’s needed but, in my case, they’ve never checked at the entrances (I went 3 times).
Hello! Thank you for the wonderful tips! How do you know that the park is closed June 1-15, 2021? Those are the dates we were booked to go!
Hi Shy! This was decreed by the government and the indigenous communities of the Sierra Nevada. It’s true that things keep changing because of Covid. These are the official closing dates of the Tayrona park.
Hi,
Can you give us a current update on the Calabazo to Cabo San Juan hike. It’s unclear if that is allowed or if passing through Pueblito is off limits? I’m hearing mixed responses.
Thank you
Hello Scott, the last time we did it (in 2019), you could hike from Playa Brava to Cabo San Juan (you’ll arrive in Playa Nudista first). At one point, you’ll see an intersection where you can go to Pueblieto (but it’s closed) or head to Cabo San Juan. It’s not very well indicated but I don’t think you can be lost. Use Maps.me. You’ll find the trails I’m speaking about.
Hello Tom, thank you for your blog with very good information 👍
I didn’t found out how long it takes to walk from the Playa Brava to el Cabo San Juan?
Hola Susanne! Count 2-3 hours!
Hi Tom, your blog is simply amazing!! We loved it & used it a lot so far (and are still using it for the rest of our journey; Minca is nexr). A 1000 thanks!
We went today to Tayrona for the day. Quick updates: Price was 57,500 COP + 5000 COP mandatory insurance (1 day). The bus after the Zaino entrance was 5000 COP to get to the start of the (nature) path (it leaves when it’s full). On my Garmin watch, it was 6.25 KM to get to Cabo.
Regarding Covid: Visitors must now (only) wear a mask + disinfection of hands. 2M distance is indicated (but not respected). No check on yellow fever vaccin on my end.
Regarding drinks/food on the way to Cabo: we saw at least 4 stops where u can buy drinks (including beers)/ice creams/juice. Thanks again for your amazing job!
Hola Thomas!
Thanks a lot for your nice comment and for the info. I will update the Tayrona post right now. Enjoy Colombia!
Hi Tom
I have a question in regards to tickets into Tayrona. I will be going in June and I hear rumors you need to reserve and buy tickets online. However, I do see any sites on where to make reservations. Please advise?
Thanks in advance love your site.
Hola Manuel!
The park tried a few years ago to sell the ticket online but it didn’t work and the site isn’t online anymore. June is low season so you shouldn’t have any issues entering. Just show up at one of the two park entrances. You can double-check this information with Playa Brava Teyumakke (it’s a hotel inside the park). Here is the WhatsApp number: +57 315 2300818.
Enjoy Colombia!
Hi Tom
I’m travelling solo in Colombia. I just wanted to check that it is relatively safe once I’m inside the park.
From reading your description and the comments, I believe that the places for hammocks are the green triangle on your map and that you can buy food there also. When I arrive at Playa Brave do I need to reserve a hammock immediately or do I just chill on the beach and roll up later.
Thanks Tom
Hola David,
Yes, Tayrona is a safe place to visit. Just be careful in the sea and look at the signs. You’ll find various places with hammocks, and there are restaurants too.
If you head to Playa Brava, confirm with the hotel that you wanna sleep in a hammock and then enjoy the beach.
Have fun in Tayrona!
Hi Tom,
Thank you very much for sharing all this useful information in a very organized way.
However, I am confused by the meaning of “Horario de Salida”, as it is called on the Tayrona National Park website. For example, is it not possible to leave the park from El Zaino before 14:00? Because of any of the following reasons: the gate is closed, or there is no shuttle from Cañaveral to El Zaino or buses to Santa Marta before 14:00? I would like to leave from El Zaino around 12:00 or even a bit earlier, after spending two nights in the park. I understand a strict time window for the entrance, but one should be free to leave earlier in the day. If the gate is closed or not staffed between 12:00 and 14:00, maybe I could be there before 12?
I will stay in Arrecife, so I suppose I could instead hike five hours to El Calabazo, where the exit opens at 13:00 and catch the bus to Santa Marta from there. Does the bus always stop there?
Thanks again,
Paul
Hi Paul,
I don’t understand the time of exit either. There’s no gate and I’ve already been out around 3-4pm. It is just better to avoid walking when it is dark.
Hello,
Are you aware if there are any sailing trips that depart from Los Naranjos or Palomino area that visit the park? I saw ones that depart from Taganga but we are staying near the park entrance for a few days then Minca for a few days and don’t want to go back to Santa Marta for a boat tour. Also, if we hike in, can we catch a horse ride back? We are just planning a one-day excursion as we are with 2 16-year olds who will not want to camp on the beach.
Hi Samara,
From what I know, boats only leave from Taganga or Santa Marta to get to Cabo San Juan Beach (Tayrona). Also, I recently read that horse rides were now prohibited in Tayrona. Still, I’m not sure 100% if it’s true.
Hi Tom. We went to Santa Marta last year mid January and the park was closed for the month for restoration. Do you know of a place we can get updated information on the park closures, their website is not updated. I will be in the area mid-February this year. Your website is very information. Thank you
Hola Melissa,
The closing days of Tayrona Park are always decided at the last moment around January-February ( welcome to Colombia ^^). But in general, these are the dates we post in the article. You can search in Spanish on Google “cierre Tayrona 2023” to try to get an “official” answer
ayrona park and stayed in a hotel in the mountains. Staying away from the crowds as we went during the weekday. We hiked through calabazo and of course everyone wants their cut of the pie so it cost 5000 for entrance to use the road then 85000 for the park fee (around 25 bucks cdn). The trail went on and on till we got to a lookout where we bought some great starfruit drinks (some place have some great fresh fruit drinks, but the food isn’t as good as mexico… mexican food is superb! so too are the beaches in mexico). We then went down and down. And, reached the beach, but its impossible to swim on most as the current is much too strong. Then we finally gave in and got a horse which was fantastic. Then we caught the bus back. A good 10 hours in the park for they day. The next day off to a chocolate “farm” in the mountains. We climbed and climbed and climbed at the top (around 4000ft) a spectacular view of pico colon as the cloud cleared a bit. Amazing! a view of it all! We may do minca next, but I heard the bugs were bad. We went to palamino and went to camarones to see the flamingos…lots to see and do here if you stay away from the crowds (weekends). The traffic is horrible in spots, use the bus system its fantastic! and cheap!
Hey Jeff. Thanks a lot for your input! Do you remember the name of the chocolate farm?
Hi Tom
Just about to go but only have a day and it’s a Sunday!
This info is so useful thank you for all the work to share it!
Good to get to the gates at 7am then?
What do you recommend food wise when there?
And might have missed it but is the bus from the main entrance to the real entrance included automatically?
Thank you
Laura from the UK
Hi Laura, Thanks!
Always double-check the opening hours as they might change suddenly. It will be a lot easier to buy food inside the park. And nope, you’ll have to pay a few extra cops to get to the “real” entrance.
Hey Tom,
Great website! I’m planning on going to Tayrona in the middle of March and was wondering if the following trip is doable:
– day 1: travel from Santa Marta to Yuluka Eco lodge and spend the night there.
– day 2: next day enter through Calabazo and hike to Playa Brava Teyumakke and spend the night ther
– day 3: hike from Playa Brava to the El Zaino exit and catch a bus back to Santa Marta.
Is day 3 possible? Or is it not doable to reach El Zaino form Playa Brava in time for a bus back? Thanks for helping out!
Hola Arno,
Yes, it’s doable. Wake up early and be ready to hike for 5-6 hours on your day 3. There are buses until 5-6 pm.
Hi Tom,
thank you very much for all the tips in this blog entry.
We went today from Santa Marta for a daytrip. A quick update on the facts:
– The insurance is now 6.000 COP; entry was still 62k
– With a collectivo we only paid 8.000 COP, going from Santa Marta Mercado to El Zaino entrance
– We arrived at 7:40 am – but the gates were closed. They opened at 8 am.
Best regards
Tim
Hi Tom,
I’ve been going through a big chunk of the website to plan our upcoming coastal Colombia trip (Cartagena-Rosario Islands-Santa Marta-Baranquilla) and I just realized that Tayrona National Park will be closed throughout our trip… Any suggestions? We’re landing in Cartagena around the 20th of October and leave about 10 days later. Really wanted to unwind on beaches.
Was thinking of going to Palomino/Dibulla, or if possible to stay at hotels that are near the Park, by the seaside?
I do want to comment you on the website; I love it! It looks incredible and everyone can tell how much work has been put into it, good job and keep it up 🙂
Hi Astra! We just launched the new version of the site, so it’s great to hear that you like it! 🙂
As for beaches, I really like the area between Tayrona and Buritaca. You won’t be able to swim much because of the currents, but the beaches are beautiful and the hotels are excellent.
Another option is to go to Rincón del Mar (a very pretty beach!), and you could even choose to spend two nights on the San Bernardo Islands.
As for Palomino, I’m not a fan of the beach—it’s almost disappeared due to erosion. Dibulla is cool, but it’s very laid-back with fewer activities and less accommodation options (though that might have changed since I was last there).
When you have time, don’t hesitate to let a review here (it helps a lot!)