Trek to Cabo San Juan: Day Hike Through Tayrona National Park
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours (approx.)
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level; you'll handle several short steep sections and uneven terrain.
Overview
A single-day trek into Tayrona National Park leads from humid jungle to the turquoise sweep of Cabo San Juan. This practical guide explains what to expect on the trail, how to prepare, and how to make the most of one of Colombia’s most dramatic coastal hikes.
Trek to Cabo San Juan: Day Hike Through Tayrona National Park
Select participants and date
The day begins before sunrise when a shuttle peels away from Santa Marta and the coastline slides into a slow, humid silhouette. On the trail into Tayrona National Park the jungle presses close—vines tug at sleeves, the air smells of wet earth and salt—and every step alternates between leaf-strewn boardwalks and packed dirt that can turn slick after a downpour. By midmorning the canopy breaks and the sea arrives, sudden and loud: a bay the color of oxidized copper that transitions in seconds to Caribbean turquoise at Cabo San Juan.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start at first light
Begin early to avoid midday heat, afternoon storms, and the largest crowds at Cabo San Juan.
Bring 2+ liters of water
Hydration matters on humid climbs; refill opportunities are limited—carry a filter or extra bottles if you plan to extend the day.
Wear grippy hiking shoes
Trails include wet roots and rocky shoreline scrambles—sturdy shoes with traction are safer than sandals.
Carry ID and entry proof
Bring your passport and a photo of your immigration stamp if you want the tourist VAT exemption for park fees.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Howler monkeys
- Iguanas and shore crabs
History
Tayrona was inhabited by pre‑Colombian communities whose descendants—the Kogi, Arhuaco and others—still maintain cultural ties to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Conservation
The park limits visitors in sensitive zones and enforces carry‑in/carry‑out rules; avoid single‑use plastics and stay on trails to protect nesting beaches and archaeological sites.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Santa Marta
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Essential for traction on muddy trails, roots, and rocky shorelines.
Daypack (20–30L)
Holds water, snacks, sunscreen, rain jacket and your ID for park entry.
Reusable water bottle or bladder (2L+)
Hydration for the whole day; refill options inside the park are limited.
Light rain jacket
Quick, warm showers are common—stay dry and avoid chafing on the return hike.