Tayrona Park is one of those places you must visit once, and how you prepare can make all the difference. Knowing what to pack for Tayrona National Park will help you make the most of your trip. Here are some essentials:
Essential Documents for Entry
Before arriving at Tayrona, ensure you carry all necessary documents, including your passport or valid ID (A photo or copy of your ID is also accepted), along with your entrance ticket. Tickets can be purchased at the park’s entry points: Palangana, El Zaino (Cañaveral), and El Calabazo. Likewise, visitors must have an all-risk insurance policy to access the park.
Pro Tip: Make sure to arrive at the park early as ticket availability is limited. While Tayrona Park opens at 8 AM, lines often form in advance, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Proper Clothing and Footwear for Hiking
Tayrona’s weather typically ranges from 81 ° F to 95 °F (27 °C to 35 °C), and is very hot and humid. Sudden rain showers are common due to the tropical climate. So, keep in mind to pack accordingly:
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Comfortable hiking shoes and flip-flops or water-resistant sandals
Swimwear for the beaches
Warm clothes if staying overnight
Long-sleeved shirts and hats for sun protection
Sunglasses
Personal Items
Since Tayrona is a remote area with limited access to supplies, we strongly suggest creating a checklist before arriving at the park:
Insect repellent
Toothpaste and toothbrush
Towel
Sunscreen
First aid kit
Essential medication (pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal, antacids, etc.)
Food and Drink Recommendations
As for the food, you are not allowed to bring prepared food: in its place, you can carry non-perishable snacks or a prep-packed meal. Be sure to get plenty of water in reusable containers. Remember that you’ll be carrying everything you pack, so be practical and choose lightweight options.
Journey Hostel Tayrona
At the Journey Hostel Tayrona, we offer a delicious Journey To-Go meal before you head to the park. Enjoy a wrap with roast chicken or sautéed mushrooms with quinoa, stuffed with cheese, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and balsamic reduction. It comes with juice, seasonal fruit, and our famous banana bread!
Book in advance, here.
Tech and Accessories
Since charging spots are limited inside the park, we recommend bringing a power bank to keep your devices charged. A flashlight is also useful at night or in dark spaces and helps preserve your cellphone’s battery. Consider using dry bags or waterproof pouches, to protect your devices and valuables.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tayrona National Park
Tayrona Park is more than just a mere tourist destination; it’s home to four different Indigenous tribes (Kankuamo, Kogui, Wiwa, and Arhuaco) and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Follow these guidelines to enjoy this adventure, while respecting the park:
Insurance costs between COP 5,000 and 8,000 (USD 1-2) per day.
Check which beaches allow swimming.
Hiking routes are recommended for children over 12.
Entrance hours vary by location.
Certain areas are sacred and off-limits.
Swimming on the beaches is only allowed until 6 PM.
Pets aren’t allowed.
Drone usage is restricted without a special permit.
No drugs or alcohol are allowed.
Single-use plastics are prohibited.
There are designated food stands within the park.
Yellow fever vaccine is recommended but not mandatory.
Parking spaces are limited.
Tayrona Park normally closes its gates at sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions About Packing for Tayrona National Park
Do You Need Cash Inside the Park?
While you can pay the entrance fee with cash or credit card, there are no ATMs inside Tayrona Park. So, carrying enough Colombian pesos for your entire stay is advisable.
When is the Best Time to Visit Tayrona Park?
Tayrona's weather has changed tremendously over the past few years. Consider these factors when planning your visit:
The rainy season typically falls between May–July and September–October.
The park closes three times a year: February 1–15, June 1–15, and October 19–November 2.
The low season (September to November) is the best time to avoid crowds.
Why Does Tayrona National Park Close Three Times a Year?
These closures, requested by the Indigenous communities, allow nature to regenerate:
The Kugkui Shikasa period takes place from February 1 to 15, a time dedicated to spiritual cleansing when nature renews its energy in the "Dunas".
From June 1 to 15, the second annual closure occurs, during the Saka Kuso period, a sacred time when the Earth undergoes purification and renewal.
Final closure takes place from October 19 to November 2, during Nabbatashi, also a sacred period in which nature releases negativity, balances what has been consumed, and clears the paths for the spirits of the departed, allowing a cycle of life to continue.
Where to Stay Inside Tayrona Park?
One of the great things about Tayrona Park is the wide variety of accommodation options to fit every budget and preference. Whether you prefer camping inside the park, staying in eco-lodges, or spending the night at a nearby hostel, each option offers a unique way to connect with Tayrona’s natural beauty.
CTA: If you are looking for an unforgettable experience just outside Tayrona Park, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Which Entrances to Tayrona Park Are Authorized?
Tayrona’s Park has four official entrances: El Zaino, Calabazo, Palangana (Neguanje), and Bahía Concha. The most popular are:
El Zaino
The closest entrance to The Journey Hostel Tayrona, is just a 20-minute walk away. You can also take the bus, which takes only 2 minutes. Before entering, grab snacks nearby to avoid paying for overpriced products inside the park. From the entrance, save time by taking a shuttle bus to the start of the scenic trail.
Once inside, you'll finally have access to Cabo San Juan and La Piscina, two of the park’s most stunning beaches.
Calabazo
To reach this entrance, take a white and blue colectivo (shared bus) from outside The Journey Hostel Tayrona heading to Santa Marta. Ask the driver to drop you off at Calabazo, then take a bike to the entrance. This is a quieter router that offers picturesque views and more chances of spotting wildlife. You'll pass Pueblito, an ancient village, before reaching Playa Brava. Once there, you can continue to Cabo San Juan, visiting all the major beaches before exiting through the El Zaino entrance.
Prop Tip: The first 1.5 hours involve challenging uphill-bring plenty of water and snacks.
Where to Camp Inside the Tayrona Park?
To reserve accommodations in the park, visit the information points located near El Zaino. There, you can book a hammock or tent at different campsites throughout the park. These options include:
Camping Don Pedro is set in the mountains with great facilities.
Playa Arrecifes is a quieter beachside campsite with a restaurant.
Cabo San Juan is the most famous spot with hammocks over the water.
Playa Brava is a remote but peaceful area.
Which are the most beautiful beaches in the Tayrona Park?
Tayrona’s crystal-clear waters and golden sands make it a beach paradise. If your time is limited, these are the most-go beaches:
Cabo San Juan [Sector: El Zaino]: Undoubtedly the most popular and crowded beach in the park- and for a good reason. It boasts golden sands, clear waters, and a picturesque view.
La Piscina [Sector: El Zaino]: A stunning beach best known for its tranquil, warm waters. It's a great sport for snorkeling and marine life appreciation.
Playa Brava [Sector: Calabazo]: A remote and peaceful beach that offers extraordinary viewpoints. A hidden gem, immersed in natural beauty.
Playa Cristal [Sector: Palangana (Neguanje)]: A breathtaking beach where you can admire vibrant coral reefs.
Tayrona National Park offers a unique experience for adventure seekers. By choosing what to pack for the park, you ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
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