Tayrona National Park Travel Guide: Recommendations and Tips

The Tayrona National Natural Park, located in Santa Marta, Colombia, is an exceptional destination. It offers a diversity of ecosystems, from tropical jungles to beaches bathed by crystal clear waters. You will be able to follow trails that will take you to discover spectacular panoramas with abundant fauna and flora.

Some of the most popular beaches are Cañaveral, Arrecifes, la Piscina and Cabo San Juan. These natural gems will give you the opportunity to relax, snorkel or simply enjoy the views. You can also explore routes to emblematic places such as Cabo San Juan, with impressive panoramic views.

This guide will provide you with detailed information about rates, schedules, available services and recommendations to make the most of your visit to Tayrona Park. Get ready to immerse yourself in Caribbean authenticity and create lasting memories in this natural paradise.

Geography and Biodiversity

Tayrona Park stretches from the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea to the heights of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, reaching up to 900 meters above sea level. Its extensive coastline of around 150 square kilometers is home to paradisiacal beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands, while inland, the dense tropical jungle shelters a lush biodiversity, with species such as monkeys, toucans, jaguars, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians.

Tayrona Park has four main entrances:

• El Zaino, the most popular entrance among tourists.

• Calabazo, known as a "secret" entrance leading to Playa Brava.

• Palangana, ideal for those looking to reach beautiful beaches directly without the need for hikes.

• Bahía Concha, a more economical option close to Santa Marta, offering direct access to a beach.

Hours and Temporary Closures:

The park is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, but it is important to consider temporary closure periods for ecological restoration, respecting agreements with indigenous communities of the Sierra Nevada.

These closures typically occur from:

• February 1st to 15th

• June 1st to 15th

• October 19th to November 2nd

Tayrona National Park rates for 2024

Entrance fees to Tayrona National Park vary depending on the type of vehicle and visitor profile:

• Automobile: $19,000

• Collective transport: $48,500

• Buses and minibuses: $102,500

• Motorcycles: $13,500

For national tourists and foreign residents in Colombia or CAN member countries:

• Under 25 years old: $24,500 in low season and $27,500 in high season.

• Over 25 years old: $33,000 in low season and $39,000 in high season.

Non-resident foreigners:

• $73,500 in low season and $87,000 in high season.

Samarios (residents of Santa Marta):

• Under 25 years old: $12,500 in low season and $27,500 in high season.

• Over 25 years old: $16,500 in low season and $39,000 in high season.

4 unmissable beaches in Tayrona National Park

1. Arrecifes Beach:

Spacious and surrounded by tropical vegetation, it offers accommodation and restaurant services. Although not suitable for swimming due to strong currents, it is a perfect place to admire nature.

2. La Piscina:

Ideal for swimming and snorkeling, this tranquil and picturesque beach offers crystalclear and calm waters, with natural rocks forming a protective barrier.

3. Cabo San Juan Tayrona:

This area is very popular and considered one of the best in the park. Located about 9 kilometers from the "El Zaino" entrance, it offers camping or hammock accommodation options. It is a perfect place to enjoy a unique experience, with recommendations to bring hydration, sunscreen, and insect repellent for a comfortable visit.

4. Playa Cristal:

A lesser-known gem, this beach is noted for its extensive coral reef, making it the ideal location for those interested in snorkeling or diving. The diversity of marine life here is simply astonishing, offering visitors the opportunity to explore an underwater world full of colors and shapes.

After discovering everything that the Tayrona National Natural Park has to offer, from its stunning landscapes to the rich biodiversity it houses, you may be wondering how you can start planning your adventure in this natural paradise.

Do not look any further! At Tumap.travel, we have a variety of tour options designed for you to explore the best of Tayrona.

If you are interested in unique and memorable experiences, consider joining our specially selected tours, such as the Tayrona Park Tour that will take you to explore some of the most beautiful and less crowded beaches in the park.