Colombia Complete Travel Guide
When visiting Santa Marta, making a trip to Tayrona National Park is an absolute must! At least if you’re into gorgeous beaches, a bit of jungle and not be discouraged by a good hike.
How to get to Tayrona NP from Santa Marta?
Immediately after arriving at Santa Marta Mercado Público, I hopped onto the next bus to Tayrona, which departs every half hour or so. The attendant placed my backpack in the back of the bus and I paid 9.000 COP on the bus. About an hour later I arrived at the El Zaino entrance of Tayrona NP, where I had booked my hotel for the night.
Tayrona National Park
The park opens at 8 AM. Since my hotel was just across from the entrance, I made sure to be there at 7:30 AM to be first in line. Before buying a ticket, a mandatory insurance bracelet had to be bought for 6.000 COP at a different booth. The entrance to the park is 73.500 COP and the bus transfer to the first part of the trail is another 5.000 COP.
Being one of the first in the park, I was able to walk the trail without any crowds. Luckily there was plenty of shade in the jungle, as it was extremely hot and the trail full of obstacles. The trail takes you across board walks, climbing over rocks, and tip-toeing through muddy paths.
Cabo Beach
The highlight of Tayrona NP is the beach Cabo San Juan del Guia. To get here it takes a 2.5 hour walk along the said trail. Before getting to Cabo beach, I passed other gorgeous viewpoints and beaches. Arrecifes Beach is also definitely worth the stop.
Cabo Beach
Arrecifes Beach
As I arrive at Cabo, it’s still nice and quiet. I’m able to take my picture-perfect photos, as it truly is a picture-perfect beach! I’m not easily impressed, but the place is gorgeous. After the long hike I get into my swimsuit and take a dip in the crystal clear blue water.
Cabo Beach
Stay the night or visit for one day?
Most people advise staying the night at Cabo. To do this, you must immediately reserve a tent or hammock at the entrance of the park. I personally think that one day is more than enough! After staying at Cabo Beach for 2 hours, I had my beach-fix and headed back. Spending the whole day and night there would be way too long for me, plus I love the comfort of a decent accommodation.
Palm tree
Viewpoint along the trail
Related posts
Prachtige stranden