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Tayrona National Natural Park: Where Jungle Meets the Sea

Discover Tayrona National Park: A Caribbean paradise where pristine beaches meet lush rainforest and ancient history.

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Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is a stunning protected area on Colombia's Caribbean coast, known for its diverse ecosystems, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and the towering Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. Visitors can explore the park's natural beauty through hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and observing the local wildlife.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Local tips

  • Book accommodations and park entry in advance, especially during peak season, as daily visitor capacity is limited.
  • Bring comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, light clothing, and insect repellent to fully enjoy the park's trails and beaches.
  • Stay hydrated and carry snacks, as food options within the park can be limited and more expensive.
  • Be aware of strong riptides at some beaches; only swim in designated safe areas.
  • Respect the local indigenous cultures and sacred sites within the park; access to these areas is prohibited.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Santa Marta, take a bus from the bus terminal or behind the central market towards Tayrona. Look for the white, blue, and green Cootransoriente buses. The journey to the El Zaíno entrance takes 45 minutes to an hour. The bus fare is approximately 9,000 COP. From the El Zaíno entrance, you can walk or take a shuttle bus further into the park.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Santa Marta to the El Zaíno entrance of Tayrona National Park costs around 80,000 COP and takes approximately 45 minutes. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. From the entrance, you can walk or take a shuttle bus further into the park.

  • Boat

    From Taganga, a fishing village near Santa Marta, boats depart daily to Cabo San Juan. The boat trip takes approximately 45-50 minutes and costs around 50,000-60,000 COP per person for a round trip. Upon arrival at Cabo San Juan, you will need to pay the park entrance fee.

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Discover more about Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, established in 1964, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Situated on Colombia's Caribbean coast near Santa Marta, the park encompasses approximately 30 square kilometers of maritime area and 150 square kilometers of land. Here, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world's highest coastal mountain range, creates a dramatic backdrop for golden beaches, coconut palms, and dense rainforest. The park's diverse ecosystems host a wide array of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for red howler and titi monkeys, red woodpeckers, iguanas, and a variety of lizards. Over 400 species of birds also call Tayrona home. The park also holds archaeological significance, with ruins of the ancient Tayrona people, who inhabited the area from 100 AD to 1600 AD. Their descendants, including the Koguis, still live in the area and maintain many of their traditions. Popular activities in Tayrona include hiking to beaches like Cabo San Juan, known for its iconic double bay and panoramic views. Other must-see spots include Playa Cristal, Pueblito (an archaeological site), and the serene beaches of La Piscina and La Arenilla. Tayrona's beauty and biodiversity make it a unique destination for nature lovers and those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.

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