Cabo San Juan del Guía
A breathtaking paradise in Parque Tayrona, known for its iconic rock formations, twin beaches, and lush jungle surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Cabo San Juan del Guía
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking paradise in Parque Tayrona, known for its iconic rock formations, twin beaches, and lush jungle surroundings.
"It was one of the most beautiful beaches I have been to. It's a 'must-see'."
🎒 Pack Light & Smart
Bring essentials: water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a dry bag. Cash is useful for vendors.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Rock Formation
Cabo San Juan Beach
The famous rock formation overlooking the turquoise waters is a postcard-perfect symbol of Tayrona. Climb it for breathtaking panoramic views.
Twin Beaches
Cabo San Juan Beach
This unique spot features two distinct beaches separated by a small hill, offering different vibes and swimming conditions.
Wildlife Encounters
Parque Tayrona trails
Keep an eye out for monkeys, birds, and other tropical creatures as you trek through the lush jungle to reach the beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Entry & Transport Early
Embrace the Hike or Boat Ride
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Light & Smart
Bring essentials: water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a dry bag. Cash is useful for vendors.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals are a must.
🚤 Boat vs. Hike Decision
Boats are faster but pricier ($150,000 COP round trip). Hiking offers nature immersion but takes longer.
🏕️ Camping for the Full Experience
Consider camping overnight to truly soak in the paradise vibes and enjoy the beach after day-trippers leave.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Light & Smart
Bring essentials: water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a dry bag. Cash is useful for vendors.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals are a must.
🚤 Boat vs. Hike Decision
Boats are faster but pricier ($150,000 COP round trip). Hiking offers nature immersion but takes longer.
🏕️ Camping for the Full Experience
Consider camping overnight to truly soak in the paradise vibes and enjoy the beach after day-trippers leave.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets hot and humid! Carry plenty of water, as options inside the park can be limited and more expensive.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about Cabo San Juan del Guía, calling it one of the most beautiful beaches they've ever seen and a true paradise. The stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and opportunities for wildlife sightings are major highlights. Some find the journey challenging, but most agree the destination is well worth the effort.
"It was one of the most beautiful beaches I have been to. It is surrounded by beautiful forests. It's a 'must-see'. I actually took a boat from the marina rather than do the trail. But I would do the trail next time. I would also camp there as you can rent tents. Paradise."
Dan Barnard
"It is amazing, beautiful place to visit with many landscapes. On the way, it is possible see wildlife with large trees. I loved it every moment in this place."
Juan Manuel Carmona Moreno
"It is beautiful place .you can take a boat that will take you directly to Cabo San Juan."
Tariq aziz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Santa Marta's public market to the park entrance (Zaino or Cañaveral sector). From there, it's a hike or you can arrange boat transport. Taxis from Santa Marta to the park entrance are also an option, costing around $110,000 COP.
Yes, you can take a boat from Taganga or the Santa Marta marina. Boats from Taganga typically leave at 10 am and return at 4 pm, costing around $150,000 COP for a round trip.
Hiking allows you to experience the park's nature and see other beaches, but it's a longer journey. Boats are faster and more direct, ideal if you're short on time.
While direct public transport from Palomino to Cabo San Juan might be limited, you can likely arrange private transport or combine bus and boat options. It's advisable to check locally for the most current routes.
The hike from the Zaino entrance can take about 2 hours, depending on your pace and stops. Boat trips are significantly shorter, usually under an hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees for Parque Tayrona vary for Colombians and foreigners. It's recommended to check the official park website or local tourism offices for the most up-to-date pricing.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your park entrance tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as there are daily visitor limits.
Parque Tayrona typically opens its gates around 8:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM. However, it's always best to confirm these hours before your visit.
Yes, there are camping facilities available at Cabo San Juan del Guía, allowing you to extend your stay and experience the park more fully. You can rent tents.
Discounts may be available for children, students, and seniors, or for Colombian nationals. Check the official park regulations for eligibility.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic rock formation overlooking the beach is a must-capture. The twin beaches offer diverse angles, and the jungle trails provide opportunities for wildlife shots.
Weekdays and early mornings are best to avoid the biggest crowds and get clearer shots. Be patient and explore different vantage points.
Drone usage might be restricted within national parks to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Always check park regulations before flying.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the landscape.
Capture the unique rock formation, the contrast between the two beaches, and the lush greenery of the surrounding jungle. Sunset views from the hill are spectacular.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually small kiosks or restaurants near the beach offering basic food and drinks. However, options can be limited and prices higher than in town.
It's highly recommended to bring your own snacks and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike. This saves money and ensures you have what you need. +1
Expect typical beach fare like seafood, empanadas, and refreshing drinks. The selection might be limited, so packing some of your own provisions is wise.
Bringing alcohol into national parks is often restricted to preserve the natural environment and ensure visitor safety. Check the park's specific rules.
Options might be limited. It's best to inquire at the kiosks or bring your own vegetarian/vegan-friendly snacks and meals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection, as amenities are limited. Look for accommodations that offer family-friendly camping or cabanas if you plan to stay overnight.
+1 Ensure children have comfortable walking shoes if you decide to hike. The opportunity to see wildlife can be a huge hit with kids, making the journey an exciting part of the adventure. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1Look for deals on accommodation in Santa Marta or Taganga if you're not camping.
Traveling during the shoulder season might also offer slightly lower prices for transport and lodging outside the park. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for weekday mornings to capture the scenery with fewer people, allowing for unobstructed shots. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for stunning images. Don't forget to explore the jungle trails for opportunities to photograph the local wildlife, such as monkeys and colorful birds.
Be mindful of the park's regulations regarding drone usage. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Paradise: Transport Options
+1For those seeking efficiency, boat transport is available from nearby coastal towns like Taganga or directly from the Santa Marta marina. These boat trips offer a scenic coastal perspective and significantly reduce travel time compared to hiking. However, they come at a higher cost, often around $150,000 COP for a round trip.
The hike itself is a rewarding experience, taking approximately two hours from the Zaino entrance. Along the way, you'll pass other beautiful beaches like Arrecifes and La Piscina, offering opportunities to rest, swim, and observe the park's diverse flora and fauna.
This option is ideal for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Parque Tayrona. The Cabo San Juan Experience: Beyond the Beach
+1The beach itself is divided into two sections by a small hill, each with its own charm. One side might be calmer for swimming, while the other could have more waves. This duality adds to the beach's appeal. Beyond the immediate shoreline, the surrounding jungle teems with life. Visitors often report sightings of monkeys, diverse bird species, and other tropical wildlife, making the journey to the beach an adventure in itself.
For those who wish to extend their stay and truly absorb the tranquility, camping at Cabo San Juan is a popular option. This allows you to witness the beach at different times of day, enjoy the starlit sky, and experience the park after the day-trippers have departed.
+1 Many visitors express a desire to return or to spend more time soaking in the 'paradise' atmosphere. +1Budgeting for Your Tayrona Adventure
Transportation options significantly impact your budget. While buses from Santa Marta are the most economical way to reach the park entrance, boat trips from Taganga or Santa Marta are considerably more expensive, often around $150,000 COP for a round trip.
Food and drink expenses can also add up. While there are kiosks and small restaurants within the park, prices are typically higher than in town. Bringing your own snacks and water is a cost-effective strategy, especially for hikers.
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