Tayrona National Park is one of the most popular and enchanting national parks in Colombia. The park is located on the Caribbean coast, about 34 kilometers north of the city of Santa Marta. With the beautiful landscapes of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, dense jungle and imposing mountains, Tayrona attracts thousands of visitors every year. With the rental car you drive via Santa Marta to the park. Here you can park the car before entering the park. It is not allowed to enter the park with a car. You can also enter the park from Santa Marta with a boat or a bus that will take you directly to the Tayrona National Park.
Natural beauty
The park is home to a unique combination of ecosystems, making it a paradise for nature lovers. It has lush tropical rainforests, rich in biodiversity. You can encounter various animals, such as howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, sloths, deer and numerous birds, including toucans and hummingbirds. The seas around the park are home to several species of sea turtles, including the endangered leatherback turtle.
Beaches
Tayrona is known for its beautiful beaches, surrounded by the dense jungle. Some of the most famous beaches are Playa Cristal, La Piscina, Arrecifes and Cabo San Juan. These beaches provide the ideal setting to relax, swim in the calm sea and enjoy the breathtaking view.
Pueblito Chairama
One of the highlights of Tayrona is Pueblito Chairama, also known as Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City). This is an ancient archaeological site, similar to the famous Inca city of Machu Picchu in Peru. Once inhabited by the Tayrona culture, it is now a fascinating trek that takes several days and takes you through dense forests and past spectacular views.
Ecotourism and sustainability
Tayrona National Park is an example of sustainable tourism. The management of the park is aimed at minimizing the impact of tourism on the environment and local communities. There are limited accommodations in the park, mainly basic lodges and camping spots, to protect the natural environment.
Precautionary measures
It is important to know that Tayrona National Park carries some risks, such as wildlife and dangerous currents on some beaches. The park has certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of visitors, such as keeping a safe distance from wildlife and swimming at designated beaches.
If you wish to visit Tayrona National Park, it is recommended that you explore the park using the designated walking or horse trails and use the available local transport services. This way you can fully enjoy the beautiful natural environment and contribute to the preservation of this valuable ecosystem. In addition, buses and shared taxis are available from nearby towns such as Santa Marta and Taganga, which can take you to the park entrance.
