⚠️ Temporary closures of Tayrona Park in 2026
Tayrona National Natural Park will be temporarily closed during the following dates: February 1–15, June 1–15, and October 19–November 2.
For those who choose the Cabo San Juan del Guía tour, the experience unfolds among unforgettable landscapes, lush trails, walks along the Caribbean Sea, and restful breaks in one of Colombia’s most photographed natural parks.
For many travelers, Cabo San Juan del Guía is the most beautiful beach in Tayrona National Natural Park—a setting where the tropical jungle meets the sand and the water contrasts a palette of blues that changes with the daylight. The double bay, the natural viewpoint over the cape, and the feeling of refuge among the low hills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta create a postcard-perfect scene.
Those who trek through Tayrona toward Cabo San Juan beach on marked trails from the El Zaino entrance find a perfect balance of adventure, nature, and comfort, with shaded forest sections, designated rest areas, and a wide beach protected by rock formations that invites you to make time stand still.
It’s not just a pretty beach; it’s a place that transmits calm, belonging, and a positive energy that many visitors describe as “magical.” That’s why it consistently appears on lists of Colombia’s best beaches and is frequently among the most recommended beaches in Santa Marta.
6:00 am: Departure from Santa Marta to El Zaino entrance
The group departs in an air-conditioned vehicle for Tayrona National Natural Park. The road trip takes approximately 1 hour to reach the El Zaino sector, the main entrance.
The guide manages tourist entries and provides orientation on basic Tayrona Park rules before continuing in the vehicle to the Cañaveral parking lot, the official start point of the hike.
7:30 am: Start of the ecological trek from Cañaveral to Arrecifes
An ecological trek through natural tropical forest trails begins from Cañaveral. During this first stretch (approx. 1 hour), the group treks along marked trails with the chance to observe Tayrona's native flora and fauna. The guide makes stops for environmental interpretation and hydration. At the end of the stretch, you reach Arrecifes, famous for its majestic landscape of rocky cliffs.
Note: Swimming is usually not recommended in Arrecifes due to strong waves; the guide will advise you.
8:30 am: Arrecifes → La Piscina Natural → Playa Arenilla
The hike continues along the coast to La Piscina Natural and Playa Arenilla (approx. 30 minutes). These clear, calmer water beaches are often chosen for a short break when conditions allow. The guide coordinates stops for photos and energy recovery before the final push.
9:00 am: Final stretch: Playa Arenilla → Cabo San Juan del Guía
The last segment, about 20 minutes long, leads to the double bay of Cabo San Juan del Guía. The landscape combines huge vegetation-covered rocks, clear sand, and a sea of multiple blue tones, making it one of Santa Marta's most photographed beaches.
9:30 am: Free time at Cabo San Juan
At Cabo San Juan, the group has free time to rest on the beach and swim in designated areas. The guide provides safety recommendations, shade areas, and the best panoramic spots for photos.
12:30 pm: Lunch at Cabo San Juan
At noon, the guide gathers the group at the restaurant to enjoy lunch (organized by the operator or at the traveler's expense, depending on the plan) in front of the beautiful beaches of Cabo San Juan. It's the perfect time to recharge, relax with the sea breeze, and get ready to keep enjoying Tayrona Park.
After lunch, the group has ideal time to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings of Cabo San Juan. Travelers can rest on the soft white sand, swim in areas authorized by the guide, or simply contemplate the landscape from the natural viewpoints surrounding the beach. This free time allows you to connect with the tranquility of the Caribbean Sea, take memorable photos, and experience one of Santa Marta's best beaches.
3:00 pm: Return via the same trail → Arrecifes → Cañaveral → Santa Marta
At the time indicated by the guide, the return walk begins along the same trail to the Cañaveral parking lot, where the return transport awaits to take the group back to Santa Marta. Arrival is usually around 6:00 pm, depending on walking pace, weather, and traffic.
