How To Get To Tayrona National Park (Parque Tayrona)

Wondering how to get to Tayrona National Park?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through all your transport options, from Santa Marta, Cartagena, or Palomino.

With pristine white-sand beaches, lush jungle trails, and unrivaled biodiversity, Tayrona National Park is a must-visit jewel in Colombia’s crown.

Having lived in northern Colombia for two months, I’ve been lucky enough to visit Tayrona twice – once from Santa Marta and once from Palomino.

The public transport in this part of the country is surprisingly efficient, and no matter where you’re coming from, getting to Tayrona is far easier than it seems.

Keep reading as in this guide I’ll break down all transport options from all popular destinations, to make your journey to Tayrona simple and stress-free.

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How To Get To Tayrona: Overview

If you don’t have time to read the whole travel guide, below is a quick summary.

Note: I lived and worked in this part of Colombia for two months. There is a public bus that covers the route from Santa Marta to Palomino (and vice versa) – it stops anywhere along this road and comes every 20 minutes

Calabazo or El Zaino Entrance?

There are two main entrances to Tayrona National Park.

The one you choose depends on the kind of experience you’re after – knowing this beforehand is crucial.

I have visited Tayrona twice, and have used both entrances.

I would recommend entering through Calabazo, but exiting through El Zaino – this way you are not retracing your steps and get to see more of the park.

Calabazo (recommended) –

• Least popular entrance – no queues
• Minimal tourists + facilities on this route – better chance to see wildlife
• Hike is longer (by 1 hour) and slightly more strenuous to reach Cabo San Juan
• Chance to visit Playa Nudista or Playa Brava (if staying overnight)
• More expensive – additional 5k fee + 22k mototaxi to start of trail (or 2 hour walk)

El Zaino

• Most popular entrance – arrive early or book in advance to avoid long queues
• More tourists + facilities on this route – can get congested
• Shorter hike to reach Cabo San Juan + well-maintained footpath
• Having reached Cabo San Juan, you will have to walk back the same way you came
• 5k bus to the start of the trail (or 1-hour walk)

How To Get To From Santa Marta to Tayrona: 4 Ways

There are 4 main ways to reach Tayrona from Santa Marta, depending on your budget and the level of comfort you’re after.

By public bus (recommended)

This is the most affordable way to reach Tayrona from Santa Marta.

As a budget backpacker, this is the way I would recommend. It is very cheap and straightforward.

You can take a bus to Tayrona from either the Mercado Publico or the Santa Marta Bus Terminal.

From the Mercado Publico

If you’re staying in the center of Santa Marta, this is most likely where you’ll take the bus from.

There is no specific bus stop. Instead, the buses depart from Carrer 9, located between Calle 11 and Calle 12 – you can find the exact location here.

This is where all the buses, including to Minca and Palomino, depart from.

From the Santa Marta Bus Terminal

The Santa Marta Bus Terminal is located just out of the center of Santa Marta – check the location here.

If you have arrived on a bus from Cartagena or another destination in Colombia, going from this terminal is most convenient as it saves you heading into the city center.

By boat (from Taganga)

If you’re not a fan of hiking and want to skip straight to Tayrona’s beaches, then a boat from Taganga to Tayrona (Cabo San Juan) is your best bet.

This is the most expensive option.

You will first have to take a bus or taxi from Santa Marta to Taganga (roughly 15 minutes).

The boats depart from Playa Taganga around 10:00 AM, so arrive a little before this to secure your spot – there are many tour operators that vary in price.

The return boat from Cabo San Juan to Taganga departs at 4:00 PM.

However, this is not an option for the faint-hearted. The boat ride can be rough and bumpy, especially in the windy season from December – March.

By private transfer or taxi

A private transfer or taxi from Santa Marta to Tayrona National Park is the best option for travelers looking for convenience, and who don’t mind paying more.

This option is great for small groups or families who are happy to split the cost.

You will also be picked up directly from your hotel or hostel.

Below are your options –

• Book a private transfer in advance (like this one) (or this one)
• Hail a yellow taxi from the street (cheaper but could get ripped off)
• Ask your accommodation to book a taxi for you

With an organized tour

If you’re short on time, or simply prefer a stress-free experience with everything done for you, then it’s worth considering an organized tour.

These organized tours also come with round-trip transportation from Santa Marta, a delicious lunch, and a knowledgeable guide.

This is an excellent option for travelers who want to deepen their understanding of the area while enjoying a hassle-free experience.

Below are the best day trips to Tayrona National Park that I would recommend –

Tayrona Sailing Boat Tour (for those who don’t want to hike)

Don’t fancy hiking? This is the tour for you.

• Explore 3 different beaches (Bahia Cinto, Playa Cristal, Bahia Concha)
• Snorkel equipment included
• Extraordinary views from sailboat – round-trip transport from Santa Marta
• Delicious lunch on Playa Cristal
• Entrance fee to Tayrona National Park included

Prices from $100 (entrance fee included).

Tayrona National Park Guided Tour

If you’re up for hiking Tayrona National Park but want to save yourself the hassle of round-trip transportation, this is a great option.

• Guided walk from El Zaino entrance to Cabo San Juan with a knowledgeable guide
• Time to relax on the beach at Cabo San Juan
• Round-trip transport from Santa Marta
• Entrance to Tayrona National Park included

Prices from $60.

How To Get From Cartagena to Tayrona: 3 Ways

If you’re exploring the beauty of Colombia’s northern coast, Tayrona National Park is likely your next stop after visiting Cartagena.

Getting from Cartagena to Tayrona is relatively straightforward and affordable.

There is no direct bus – you will have to change in Santa Marta.

By public bus

There are many buses from Cartagena to Santa Marta all day every day – some are direct services, but some may stop in Barranquilla.

As this is a long journey, I would recommend leaving as early as possible.

If you are staying in a hostel near the entrance to Tayrona National Park, you can head straight there at whatever time you arrive.

If not, I’d recommend staying a night in Santa Marta before heading to Tayrona the next day.

Step 1: Bus from Cartagena to Santa Marta

When traveling from Cartagena to Santa Marta, you have two options –

• Turn up at the Cartagena Bus Terminal and book your tickets directly
• Book your ticket in advance using Bookaway or Busbud (recommended)

The most reputable companies that operate the Cartagena to Santa Marta route are –

• Marsol – book with Bookaway
• Berlinas – book directly at the terminal
• Expreso Brasilia – book with Busbud

Step 2: Bus from Santa Marta to Tayrona

Once you have reached the Santa Marta Bus Terminal, you can take a bus directly to Tayrona National Park.

However, it is worth noting that the buses from Santa Marta to Tayrona (and the nearby hostels) only run until about 7:00 PM.

If you are arriving after this time, I would recommend taking a taxi or staying a night in Santa Marta.

By private transfer

Taking a private transfer from Cartagena to Tayrona National Park is expensive, but a great option if you’re looking for convenience and comfort.

If you’re traveling as a family or group, this will bring the price down as you split the costs.

Due to the distance, taking a regular taxi will not be possible. It will have to be a private transfer booked in advance.

Here are the best companies to book with based on reviews –

• Viator (book here)
• Get Your Guide (book here)
• Day Trip (book here)

With an organized tour

If you’re short on time and don’t fancy stopping in Santa Marta, but still want to appreciate the beauty of Tayrona National Park, then perhaps a day trip from Cartagena is best for you.

However, it is worth bearing in mind that this is a long day trip.

You will leave Cartagena at 4:00 AM and not get back till about 10:00 PM.

• Round-trip transport from Cartagena (4 hours each way)
• Entrance fee to Tayrona Park included
• 2-hour guided hike to Cabo San Juan
• 1 hour relaxing on beach with lunch included

Prices from $115 (entrance fee included).

How To Get From Palomino to Tayrona

Getting from Palomino to Tayrona National Park is very easy and affordable.

There is essentially one bus route along the northern coast, with the buses starting in Santa Marta and ending at Palomino (and vice versa).

The public bus will stop anywhere along this route, including both entrances to Tayrona and any other hostel you might be staying at nearby.

By public bus

If you’re staying in Palomino, you’ll likely be staying near the beach.

To take the bus to Tayrona, you’ll first need to walk up to the main road – there is not a specific bus stop, but they stop along this main road near this garage.

Then, simply take the public bus heading to Santa Marta, and ask to stop at either Calabazo or El Zaino.

Where to stay in Tayrona

When visiting Tayrona National Park, you have the option of staying inside the park itself or nearby.

I was lucky to live near Tayrona for 2 months and explored many of the popular hostels in the area – they are some of the most incredible in the world.

I’ve also stayed inside the park, camping in a hammock on Cabo San Juan beach, which is a unique and unforgettable experience.

If you benefit from time, I’d suggest spending the night before/after the hike in a nearby hostel, and a night in the park itself – this way you get the best of both worlds.

Near Tayrona National Park

If you’re short on time, I’d recommend staying as near as possible to the national park and visiting on a day trip.

Even if you decide to stay in the park overnight, I’d recommend staying nearby the night before/after to cut down on traveling time.

Note: most hostels near Tayrona allow you to store your bags for free while hiking/staying in the park

Valley Hostel (my pick)

Valley is one of my favorite hostels in the entire world.

I stayed here on two occasions: once in a shared dorm and once in their best private room with views overlooking the valley.

Here’s what I love about it –

• Located just 5 minutes from the entrance to Tayrona
• Incredible views of the valley & wildlife – jungle swimming pool & giant hammocks
• Open-air private rooms & dorms

Shared dorms from $16 & private rooms from $38.

The Journey Hostel

If you’ve heard of Tayrona, then you’ve probably heard of The Journey Hostel.

Simply put, it is a must-visit if you’re in the area. The views are absolutely stunning and it is the best place to meet other travelers.

The highlights for me were –

• Only 5 minutes from the entrance to Tayrona
• Infinity pool & deck area with amazing views (sunset views too)
• Incredibly social – many activities, family dinners, monkey walks

Shared dorms from $18 & private rooms from $77.

Inside Tayrona National Park

If you benefit from time, I would totally recommend staying a night in the national park.

Camping in the jungle and waking up to the sound of howler monkeys and crashing waves is a truly unique experience.

Staying a night also allows you to beat the crowds and experience the beauty of the park without heaps of tourists.

Staying inside Tayrona National Park certainly isn’t cheap, and I’d recommend bringing a packed lunch, snacks, and plenty of water to avoid the high restaurant prices too.

Camping (cheapest)

Camping is the most affordable and adventurous option – you have a choice between tents or hammocks.

When I visited, I camped overnight at Cabo San Juan and slept in a hammock – I personally think this is the most beautiful place to camp, but the busiest too.

Note: you do not need to book this online. I’d recommend booking your camping at the entrance

Some of the best places to camp are –

• Cabo San Juan – most scenic & popular, hammocks overlooking the ocean (El Mirador)
• Arrecifes (cheapest option)
• Playa Brava (for Calabazo entrance)

Generally, you can expect to pay about 50,000 COP ($11.50) for a hammock & about 100,000 COP ($23) for a shared tent.

Ecohabs Tayrona (luxury)

Ecohabs Tayrona is the place to stay if you want to be in the park, but do not want to compromise on comfort.

It is a great option for couples or small groups who want to wake up surrounded by nature (but not eaten alive by mosquitos).

The highlights of the Ecohabs are –

• Located within the park near Playa Arrecifes – not a long walk to reach
• Luxurious private cabins with amazing amenities – jacuzzi bath, aircon, wifi, free breakfast
• Beautiful views of the ocean & jungle

Private cabins start from $175 per night.

FAQs

Is Tayrona National Park worth visiting?

Tayrona National Park is absolutely worth it!

Tayrona National Park is the jewel in Colombia’s crown and is one of the only places in the world where snow-capped mountains meet the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Think of pristine white-sand beaches, lush jungle trails, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural history.

Whether you’re hoping for a multi-day hike and exploration or simply prefer to relax in the sun, you cannot miss Tayrona when visiting Colombia.

How much is a taxi from Santa Marta to Tayrona National Park?

The price of a taxi from Santa Marta to Tayrona National Park depends on where you book and your haggling skills.

• A taxi can cost anywhere between 60k – 100k ($15 – $25)
• A private transfer can cost anywhere between 100k – 200k ($25 – $50)

What is the closest airport to Tayrona National Park?

The closest airport to Tayrona National Park is Simon Bolivar International Airport – located in Santa Marta.

Where to stop between Cartagena and Santa Marta?

The journey from Cartagena to Santa Marta takes roughly 5 hours. Many companies stop in Barranquilla to break the journey up.

How do I get from Minca to Tayrona?

If you’re traveling from Minca to Tayrona, you’ll be pleased to hear that there is no need to return back to Santa Marta city center.

First, you will take the bus from Minca to Santa Marta – but ask to get off at the Mamatoco Bus Stop just outside of the center.

From this bus stop, you can take the public bus to Tayrona National Park.

I’ve written a full post with step-by-step instructions which you can check out here.

Full Post: How To Get From Minca to Tayrona National Park: Step-By-Step

Where is the entrance to Tayrona National Park?

There are two main entrances to Tayrona National Park – Calabazo and El Zaino.

I have visited Tayrona twice and have used both of these entrances.

• Calabazo – slightly longer hike, significantly fewer tourists, explore more beaches (recommended)
• El Zaino – most popular entrance, gets busy, arrive early to avoid queues, easier hike

Are there jaguars in Tayrona?

Yes, there are jaguars in Tayrona National Park, but sightings are extremely rare.

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How long should you spend in Santa Marta?

How long you spend in Santa Marta entirely depends on the type of traveler you are and the experience you want.

If you’re short on time, skip it. The city is hot, busy, and borderline chaotic.

However, there are some great museums and the nightlife scene is absolutely buzzing. It’s worth spending a night there if you benefit from time.

How To Get To Parque Tayrona: Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it! This post has covered the best ways to get to Tayrona National Park, depending on your budget and level of comfort you’re after.

The public transport along this part of Colombia’s northern coast is great, which makes this journey straightforward and (mostly) stress-free whether you’re coming from Santa Marta, Cartagena, or Palomino.

If you have made the journey to Tayrona, I would love to hear from you – reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!