How to Explore the Tayrona National Park in Colombia

With its dreamy beaches the Tayrona National Park is one of the most beautiful destinations in Colombia. During my time Backpacking in Colombia I have stayed about one week inside this national park along the Caribbean Coast. In this guide I tell you my personal tips in order to explore the Tayrona National Park in the best way possible (Last update: 2025).

If you ask Colombians about the most impressive places to visit in their country, 99% of the time they will answer “El Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona”. The park's popularity is second to none resulting in high demand because of its diverse fauna, flora and picture perfect beaches.

Therefore it is important to plan your stay well in order to avoid the crowds and still see the most beautiful corners of the park. In this post, I'll tell you how to do it.

1) Best Time to Visit

When planning a visit to the Tayrona National Park in Colombia you should consider four things: the rush on public holidays, the local holiday season, closure times of the park as well as the seasonal weather differences. I was exploring the park at the beginning of June. At that time we had good weather and little crowds, especially since our accommodation within the limits of the park allowed us to be on the beaches of the Tayrona National Park before the day visitors.

In terms of crowds you should definitely avoid the peak season. The peak season lasts from mid-December to mid-January, mid-June to mid-July, Easter and on public holidays in general. In terms of weather, May, September and October are considered the worst months. This results in the months of March, April, the beginning of June, as well as the beginning of December and the end of January as the best time to visit the Tayrona National Park. Since the park is extremely popular with locals try to avoid the weekends in general.

Opening Hours (main entrance “Zaino”):

• peak season: daily from 07:00 am till 06:00 p.m., last entry at 03:00 pm.
  (I recommend being at the entrance before 7:00 am)
• low season: daily from 08:00 am till 05:00 pm, last entry at 03:00 pm.
• Swimming is permitted until 6:00 p.m.
• Each February, June, October and November (2 weeks each) the entire park is temporarily closed, so you should look for an alternative for these periods (see number 5 below). The closure of the park is intended to give the indigenous people and nature time to breathe.

Use the following overview to plan your visit to the Tayrona National Park Beaches:

2) Map & Routes

In order to properly explore the Tayrona National Park and its incredible nature you need a certain level of fitness as the beaches can only be reached via hiking trails. Only the first section from the main entrance to the EcoHabs/Car Park is connected by road. In total, you should estimate around 2-3 hours of hiking for the route from the parking lot to Cabo San Juan (the postcard motif). Since the hike there and back alone takes up to 6 hours, I advise against a day trip.

With a longer stay in the park you can enjoy the most beautiful corners and the diversity of the flora and fauna before the day tourists. This way you have enough time to explore the lesser-known spots and enjoy some quiet time in the nature. We used the chance and started slow on the first day by swimming in the sea at “La Piscinita” and went on a small hike to the viewpoint of Playa Canaveral. The spots that are a little off from Cabo San Juan are much less frequented and therefore more idyllic.

Since I'm more the visual type, I made my own map in which I marked the most important hiking trails and sights. The numbers on the map correspond to the sights and Tayrona National Park Beaches featured in the next section:

3) Sights & Best Beaches

Picture perfect beaches combined with a jungle scenery is what draws most visitors to the park. However, the reality is a little different: the beach of Cabo San Juan has now become the go-to Instagram hotspot in the country and triggered a real boom. As beautiful as this beach is, the crowds here are reminiscent of tourist hotspots such as Barcelona or Rome. Not really ideal to enjoy the nature if you are surrounded by mass tourism.

However, don't get me wrong: Tayrona National Park is incredibly impressive and the beaches are gorgeous. As in Europe you should concentrate on the spots located a bit off the beaten path. This way you will still find the idyllic natural beauty the Tayrona National Park is famous for. Make sure to treat nature and the locals with respect: keep your footprint as small as possible, observe the park rules and do your part to preserve this beautiful park with all its species.

If you stay overnight you can enjoy the nature with fewer people. Due to our accommodation inside the park limits we were able to go on the hike right after sunrise and explore all the beaches almost by ourselves. Even at Cabo San Juan there were still relatively little crowds when we arrived.

Please note: due to dangerous currents, swimming at most Tayrona National Park beaches is life-threatening and has claimed hundreds of lives. If you want to swim in the sea, please only do so in the areas explicitly designated for this!

a) Playa Arrecifes

This long beach is the first one you come across on your hike starting from the main entrance after about 1 hour. At the beginning of Arrecifes is also the first large, well-equipped campsite. As beautiful as this wide beach may be, swimming in the sea is prohibited here. The same goes for the fresh water ponds as they are home to Caymans (close relatives of crocodiles).

Approximately in the middle of the beach a small river flows into the sea which has formed a small, idyllic lagoon. If you are lucky, you can see caymans here which also means that you should be cautious in this area!

b) La Piscina (swimming allowed)

In my opinion La Piscina is the best choice among the well-known beaches along the way to Cabo San Juan if you want to swim & relax. La Piscina is located only one bay after Arrecifes – in between is Playa Arenilla where swimming is also forbidden.

Due to its distance to Cabo San Juan the general vibe is relatively relaxed here, with a much smaller crowd. Not to be confused with ‘La Piscinita' (see below).

c) Cabo San Juan (swimming allowed)

As previously mentioned this is the center of interest and by far the most popular of all Tayrona National Park beaches. Thank you Instagram. Truth is: the scenery is really fantastic due to the fact that two beautiful bays with crystal clear water and white sandy beaches meet here…and swimming in the sea is allowed.

From midday onwards, however, it gets quite crowded here in the popular months. Reason being is the tourist infrastructure (restaurant, campsite) and a direct boat transfer from Santa Marta. On the vantage point you not only have a fantastic view of the bay, you can also spend the night in hammocks (which we used for a little nap during the day).

My recommendation: if you want to escape the crowds, you should come as early as possible, take some nice photos and then focus on the quieter corners of the park.

d) Playa Nudista

Punta Piedra and Playa Nudista are located only about 10-15 minutes walk from Cabo San Juan. As the name suggests this is a nudist beach. But that shouldn't put you off: naturism isn't compulsory, most visitors don't do it and just enjoy the peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle.

e) La Piscinita (swimming allowed)

This small stretch of beach is located directly below the EcoHabs at the beginning of the park and thus a little off the main path. Usually it only gets busier in the afternoon.

We relaxed and swam here for a few hours on our arrival day before we went on a little sunset hike.

f) Playa Canaveral

The previously mentioned sunset hike took us along the wide Canaveral beach, which, apart from the previously described bay (La Piscinita), is not suitable for swimming. We were completely alone in this section of the park and were able to fully enjoy the wild beach in combination with the sunset mood.

g) Mirador (viewpoint)

Another insider tip that we had completely to ourselves after the walk along Playa Canaveral was the vantage point that is part of the “Nueve Piedras” mini circular hike. The Mirador is located above the beach and offers a fantastic view over the entire beach section including the jungle landscape behind it. From here you can also often spot several species of birds (especially frigatebirds).

If you stay in a Hotel inside the Parque Tayrona (see below) like we did, you can watch the sunset from here. If not, keep an eye on the time to catch the last shuttle. The walk from the viewpoint back to the shuttle bus parking lot takes about 20-30 minutes. For the “Nueve Piedras” circular hike, which is marked on site, you should calculate about 1 hour.

4) Camping & Hotels

To get the most out of your visit to Tayrona National Park I recommend spending 1-2 nights in the park. This is the only way to enjoy the most popular Tayrona National Parke beaches in the morning and evening in peace (day visitors must leave the park by 5pm). You have the choice of camping, bungalows or small hotels.

Camping

The cheapest way to stay is, unsurprisingly, in a tent or hammock at one of the designated campsites (wild camping is strictly prohibited!). You can even reserve some of them online. Due to the high demand, I recommend being at the main entrance as early as possible to make a reservation for the camps that don't offer a booking system:

• Camping Castilletes – is a bit off the beaten path, halfway between the park entrance and the shuttle bus parking lot. Hammock from €8, tent from €10 p.P.
• Camping Arrecifes – located right next to the beach of the same name, it made the best impression of all the camps. The large complex is well maintained and much more recommendable than the surrounding campsites in the area. Hammock (with mosquito net) from €10, tent from €15 p.P.
• Camping San Juan – by far the most popular and crowded of all campsites, especially in the high season I would avoid this campsite. Hammock from €10 or €14 (at the viewpoint), tent from €11 p.P.

Bungalows

There are also a limited number of bungalows/cabanas at the campsites, but these are relatively expensive. Make sure to book in advance!

• Camping Castilletes – Besides Camping this property also offers bungalows. The rooms look basic but decent and each have their own bathroom. Double from €40, 4-bed room from €55. After a change of management this property has changed for the better lately.
• Cabanas Arrecifes – as mentioned this complex makes the best impression and offers the fairest prices, the bungalows are quite large and can be booked from €20. Therefore this spot is my personal tip for bungalows in the Tayrona National Park.
• Camping San Juan – offers very simple huts for the exorbitant price of 55 €. Rather not recommended.

Hotels

Contrary to many websites and advertisements on the relevant booking platforms, there are only a handful of hotels within the park. Below I list the best options directly in the park and I strongly advise you to book in advance because of demand. If you reserve via Booking you often even get better prices with early bird and Genius discounts.

• Hotel Jasayma Parque Tayrona (my choice) – this hotel was our pick for a total of 2 nights and is one of the cheapest Tayrona National Park Hotels located within the limits of the park. The house is a few minutes' walk behind the park entrance; if necessary, the shuttle buses will make a short stop here. The manager & staff are very accommodating and will help you get the most out of your stay at the park (there is even a map of the park with places of interest painted on the house wall!). The dishes prepared here are very tasty and a good opportunity to meet other travelers while sipping cocktails to the sounds of the jungle. The rooms are on the 1st floor of the building, which is open to one side (there are mosquito nets). The bathrooms are in the garden. Altogether a great option to stay in the middle of the jungle (it's best to book 2-3 nights!). Payment only in cash on site, so take enough cash with you. Overnight stay in a double room including breakfast for 2 people from €49.
• Hostal Zirumake (opened in 2023) – This hostel is located near the Jasayma Hotel and is now in its second year. The value for money is unbeatable, you can choose from a handful of small bungalows, breakfast is included in the price, too. A stay in a double room (shared bathroom) including breakfast for 2 people from €26.
• Ecohotel Yachay Tayrona – Located more or less across from Hotel Jasayma, this Tayrona National Park Hotel is slightly more luxurious (most rooms are ensuite) and offers a beautiful garden. In terms of price, however, the Ecohotel Yachay cannot compete with the Jasayma. A stay in a double room including breakfast for 2 people from €89.
• Ecohabs Bamboo Tayrona (opened in 2023) – a fairly new addition to the Tayrona National Park Hotels within the park limits. It is located in the same area of the ​​Tayrona National Park as the previous tips. However, the bungalows are a bit more upscale (air conditioning), especially regarding the bathrooms (whirlpool). An night in a double room including breakfast for 2 people starts at €100.
• Ecohabs Tequendama Playa Cañaveral (Luxury) – if you are looking for something very special, the EcoHabs are the right pick. As previously mentioned, these are right at the start of the hiking trail that leads to all the Tayrona National Park beaches. The location and luxury of the Ecohabs is unique in the park and guarantees an unforgettable time. The rates for a double room including breakfast for 2 people starts at €160 (early bird discount via Booking).

Accommodation at the entrance

There is a larger selection of accommodation around the main entrance than in the national park. This means you can be the first to arrive at the park entrance in the morning. The main reason to stay here is the fact that the rates are much better compared to the hotels inside the park limits:

• The Valley Jungle Hostel – This “Jungle Hostel” is one of the best options in the area around the entrance of the Tayrona National Park. As the name suggests, this is a very special hostel, with a pool, a large common area and a breathtaking view in the middle of the jungle. Besides budget friendly dorms, you can also book private and “deluxe” rooms with private bathrooms.
• Quetzal Dorado Eco-Lodge – This eco-lodge features a pool and is also located in the middle of the jungle with a great view. However, here you can enjoy a certain comfort, more peace and the breakfast is included in the rates. The staff is also super friendly and helpful. On top of that a restaurant is also part of this property.
• Senda Koguiwa – If you are keen to spend a few memorable days in a relaxed atmosphere, this small resort is just the right place for you. The beautiful complex offers modern bungalows in the middle of the jungle. A pool with sun loungers and its own restaurant are also part of the complex. A good breakfast is included in the rates. The perfect getaway to charge up after sightseeing in the park!

5) Costeño Beach

One of my tips for the date the Tayrona National Park is closed or to crowded is to head over to Costeño Beach. This beautiful beach is only 10 minutes from the park and has a small number of hostels and small resorts. In contrast to the Tayrona National Park, things are still very tranquil and relaxed here, but the scenery is quite similar.

Especially when the park is closed, it is advisable to spend 1-2 days here for pure relaxation and to spot some of the unique species who call this park their home. Otherwise, you can also combine your visit to the park with a stay here, since the main entrance can be reached easily by moto taxi.

We stayed at Tayrona Tented Lodge (Costeno Beach) and I can highly recommend it. The accommodation is a little more comfortable than the surrounding hostels. The bungalows are large enough for 2-3 people, have their own bathroom and include full board. The staff is friendly and the location is fantastic (right by the beach, also there's a cool bar next door – see below). The package makes it a great deal. Highly recommended!

Right next door you can find Masaya Tayrona, with a bit more comfort, a highly recommended bar and its own restaurant. Just a short walk away you will find Bohemia Beach, the third accommodation I can highly recommend in this area. Bohemia beach even features a pool and offers various activities such as yoga, massages and beach volleyball.

6) Tours

Colombia offers a rich variety of sights that are difficult to see if you are short on time. If you want to see as much as possible or if it's your first trip to this part of the world and you have some doubts, a guided tour might be the right pick for you.

a) Day Tours

If you want to avoid all the hassle of getting to the Tayrona National Park and back as well as navigating on site, you can simply book day trips from Santa Marta:

b) Full Colombia Tours

Having worked with G Adventures in Peru, Costa Rica, and Cuba, I highly recommend the small-group tours. Particularly because of the focus on sustainable, responsible travel. The philosophy of focusing primarily on small local businesses aligns perfectly with my travel philosophy. The following packages include a visit to the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona as part of a full Colombia Tour:

• Caribbean Colombia Express(8 days) This tour focuses on the highlights of the Caribbean coast with Cartagena, Santa Marta, Minca and Tayrona NP. Hotels, meals, transfers, admission to Tayrona, guided hikes and guides are all included.
• Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City (22 days): This is a big tour of Colombia that includes the capital Bogota, the coffee region, Salento, Medellin, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Minca and the Tayrona National Park, as well as the multi-day trek to the Ciudad Perdida! The tour price includes transfers, domestic flights, hotels, camps (hike), meals, entrance fees, guided hikes and guides.
• Colombia's Caribbean Coast & Lost City (14 days): This is a combination of the following destinations: Cartagena, Santa Marta, Minca, the Tayrona National Park, as well as the multi-day trek to Ciudad Perdida! The tour price includes transfers, hotels, camps (hike), meals, entrance fees, guided hikes and guides.

7) Transport & Prices

The Tayrona National Park is located on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia right next to Santa Marta. Form the city center it's only an hour's drive to the park's entrance. You can use Santa Marta as your starting point in the region, since there are other beautiful spots to visit (e.g. Minca or Palomino).

From the airport in Santa Marta – it is best to take a taxi to the corner of Calle 11 & Carrera 11 in Santa Marta, from there there you can use a regular bus service to the main entrance of Tayrona National Park (El Zaino). Look for the sign in the front of the bus, it should say “Parque Tayrona” or something similar. The journey costs the equivalent of 2€.

From Santa Marta – it is best to walk to the corner of Calle 11 & Carrera 11 and take the bus as described above.

Private Transfer – if you want to be independent and more comfortable you can also take a taxi from Santa Marta. A ride to the park entrance is around 15€.

Transport inside the Park – from the main entrance to the start of the main trail you can either take a shuttle (1€) or walk the 4 km on the road. We did both and saw monkeys in the trees on our way back (there are three species of monkeys inside the park), otherwise not too much to see on this section.

Admission: There is a fee of €18 (adult, low season) or €21 (adult high season) for foreign tourists.

8) My Video

During my time in Colombia I produced a video documentary which also features my time exploring the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona. In addition to the sights mentioned here, I also explore other highlights in the region around Santa Marta in this video:

More tips regarding the Tayrona National Park Beaches?

Have you been to Colombia yourself? What other recommendations & tips for the Tayrona National Park can you contribute? If you have any recommendations that definitely belong here: let me know!

Disclosure: This Guide to the Tayrona National Park Beaches is filled with helpful tips but also contains Affiliate Links for services and products I’m using on my travels. Therefore I can highly recommend them. By using these links you won’t pay any additional fees. All recommendations, tips, opinions, and ironic remarks are, as always, my own.