La Piscina Tayrona
La Piscina in Parque Tayrona offers a tranquil, rock-sheltered bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling after a scenic rainforest hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
La Piscina Tayrona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
La Piscina in Parque Tayrona offers a tranquil, rock-sheltered bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling after a scenic rainforest hike.
"This place is heavenly paradise. You hike from the park entrance several kilometers through the rainforest and it was totally worth it. "
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike is long! Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for the rainforest trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water or buy it along the trail, as it gets hot and humid.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
La Piscina Natural
Parque Tayrona
A serene, calm bay protected by rocks, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. A true natural paradise.
The Rainforest Hike
Parque Tayrona Entrance to La Piscina
An immersive trek through lush jungle, rewarding you with stunning natural beauty and wildlife sightings.
Cabo San Juan Beach
Parque Tayrona
Iconic beach with unique rock formations and a picturesque viewpoint. A must-see in Tayrona.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Worm
Budgeting for Your Tayrona Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike is long! Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for the rainforest trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water or buy it along the trail, as it gets hot and humid.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Reapply often, even on cloudy days!
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring masks and snorkels to explore the underwater world at La Piscina.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike is long! Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for the rainforest trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water or buy it along the trail, as it gets hot and humid.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Reapply often, even on cloudy days!
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring masks and snorkels to explore the underwater world at La Piscina.
💰 Cash for Small Purchases
While park fees are card-friendly, smaller vendors and insurance might require cash.
🐴 Horseback Riding Option
Consider renting a horse for part of the journey if you want to save energy, especially with kids.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise La Piscina as a heavenly paradise with a beautiful, swim-friendly beach thanks to its protective rocks. The hike through the rainforest is considered a worthwhile adventure, leading to a rewarding swim. Some find it less crowded than other popular spots, and the on-site restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices.
"This place is heavenly paradise. You hike from the park entrance several kilometres through the rainforest and it was totally worth it. Such a great hike ending in a beautiful swim. Recommend the Pan au chocolate at Panederia Bere. The ladies who served us were lovely. Lots of interesting characters on that hike! We had so much fun."
Margaret Hudson
"The beach is much more relaxing and swim able because of the rocks that break the waves before coming in, great place to eat right at the front small seating but great priced food, water was calm, not much seating under shade so on a hot day I’d bring a tent, lots of sunscreen we had a mix of overcast and sun so it was fine. The walk from the other beach main one was I’d say 20 minutes each way worth the the walk over"
ladda south
"Super nice! The beach is beautiful, not really big, is the first one where you can swim starting from El Zaino point. Not really easy to find, always ask to people where to go just to be sure.
At the beach there are Deck chairs and umbrellas belonging to an hotel close by, they have also a small kiosk where you can by food and sit to eat, a fancy one 😉 not just sandwiches or similar but meat, fish, rice and so on."
Anastasia Zarina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Santa Marta's public market, take a bus or colectivo (minivan) to the El Zaino entrance of Parque Tayrona. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Yes, there is parking available at the El Zaino entrance for those arriving by private vehicle.
Taxis are available from Santa Marta, but colectivos are generally more budget-friendly and a common way to travel.
The hike from the El Zaino entrance to La Piscina is approximately 5.25 km and can take around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and breaks.
Yes, you can take a colectivo from the entrance to the trailhead to save energy for the main hike. Horses are also available for rent for parts of the journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park entrance fee is COP 73,500 per person, and they accept VISA. You'll also need to pay COP 7,000 cash for insurance. Keep your receipts!
The park typically opens at 8 AM, but it's advisable to arrive by 7:30 AM to get in line, especially during peak season.
While some sources suggest online booking, it's often recommended to purchase tickets directly at the park entrance. Check official park websites for the most current information.
Parque Tayrona sometimes implements visitor limits to protect the environment. It's best to arrive early to ensure entry.
The insurance fee covers basic medical assistance in case of accidents within the park. It's a mandatory cash payment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
La Piscina is a beautiful, calm natural pool formed by rocks, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It's less wavy than other beaches in Tayrona.
Absolutely! La Piscina is one of the best spots in Tayrona for swimming due to its calm, protected waters.
Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and relaxing are the main activities. You can also enjoy the scenic views and the surrounding rainforest.
Basic facilities are usually available near the beaches, but they can be rudimentary. It's wise to be prepared.
It can get crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday can help.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food stalls and restaurants near the beaches selling water, snacks, and meals. Prices are higher than outside the park.
You can find options like sandwiches, fish, rice dishes, and drinks. There's a restaurant with seating available.
Bringing some snacks and water is a good idea, especially if you're on a budget or have specific dietary needs.
Options might be limited, so it's best to inquire at the food stalls or bring your own food if you have strict dietary requirements.
Expect prices to be about double what you'd pay outside the park. A meal can range from COP 20,000 to COP 50,000 or more.
📸 📸 Photography
La Piscina's calm waters, the iconic rock formations at Cabo San Juan, and the lush rainforest trails offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, leading to more serene and picturesque shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the environment. Check park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a waterproof camera or phone case is useful for beach shots.
The viewpoint overlooking Cabo San Juan beach is particularly famous for its panoramic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Active Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Hike to La Piscina
La Piscina: A Swimmer's Paradise
The calm, clear waters allow you to easily spot marine life closer to the shore, and some visitors have even reported seeing rays and fish. 
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