How to get to Tayrona National Park

Visiting Tayrona National Natural Park is an unforgettable experience, and getting there is easier than it seems. Here we explain the different options so you can plan your trip efficiently and make the most of this natural paradise.

By Bus

One of the most economical and popular ways to reach Tayrona is by bus. From Santa Marta, you just need to head to the market and take a bus heading to Palomino. This bus will drop you off at the main entrances to the park, such as El Zaino, which is the most accessible. The trip costs around 7,000 COP and takes approximately one hour. It’s a convenient and direct option that allows you to enjoy the Caribbean landscape along the way.

From El Zaino

Once you arrive at the El Zaino entrance, you'll need to purchase your entry ticket and venture into the jungle. The official path into the park begins 5 kilometers from this entrance. To make this initial journey easier, you can take a van that will bring you to the Cañaveral Parking for 5,000 COP. This small van ride will help you save energy for the rest of the day, as you still have a hike ahead to reach the park’s beaches.

From the Cañaveral Parking, the walk to Cabo San Juan, one of Tayrona’s most famous beaches, is approximately two and a half hours on foot, depending on your pace. This journey allows you to enjoy the park’s lush vegetation and breathtaking landscapes.

By Boat from Taganga

If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can reach Tayrona by boat from the beach in Taganga, a charming village just 5 kilometers from Santa Marta. The boat trip costs between 75,000 and 100,000 COP round trip per person and takes about 50 minutes. The boat will drop you off directly at Cabo San Juan. Keep in mind that the sea can be a bit rough, so it’s advisable to take precautions if you’re sensitive to motion.

In addition to Cabo San Juan, from Taganga you can also take boats to other beaches in the park, such as Playa Chengue and Playa Cristal, each with its own charm and natural beauty.

Organized Tours

For those with limited time or who prefer a more structured experience, we offer organized tours from Santa Marta. These tours usually include pickup at your hotel or from ours, transfers to the most popular entrance (El Zaino), specialized guides, and the park entrance fee. Once inside, you’ll have free time to explore and enjoy at your own pace. Tours are an excellent option to maximize your time and ensure you don’t miss any important details of the park.

We look forward to welcoming you to discover this incredible destination!