Trip Information
Pick-up
Your driver will meet you at your address in Cartagena.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
Trip
You’ll travel in comfort for 5 hours.
- Optional sight-seeing
- Clean, comfortable car
- Professional driver
- Bottled water
- Child seats
- Prepared for handicapped
- Smoke-free
- Pet friendly
Drop-off
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Parque Tayrona.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
- 261 km
- 5 hours
Overview: car trip from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
Take a thrilling car drive from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona. Covering 162 miles (261 km), this trip is full of beautiful views and culture. You can make this journey about the adventure rather than just the distance you travel. Every mile you go through Colombia's breathtaking scenery gets you closer to Parque Tayrona's immaculate beaches and rich jungles. The Cartagena to Parque Tayrona transfer guarantees an amazing journey regardless of your type of travel—intrepid or leisurely.
![Driver Daytrip][https://daytrip2.imgix.net/site/landing/general-driver.jpg)
With Daytrip, you can sit back and relax as your professional driver takes the wheel. During this 5-hour drive. Why not enhance your journey by adding optional sightseeing stops along the way? Discover the soothing El Totumo Mud Volcano or sink into the vibrant atmosphere of Barranquilla. These deviations not only split the journey up but also enhance your travel experience with unique local highlights.
About Parque Tayrona
Parque Tayrona is a natural wonderland where the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta meets the Caribbean Sea. Renowned for its biodiversity and amazing beauty, this national park provides an unmatched getaway into nature. Imagine yourself sunbathing on breathtaking beaches like Cabo San Juan, exploring ancient Tayrona civilization ruins, or trekking over dense jungles.
Parque Tayrona is a refuge for those who enjoy wildlife. It boasts over 300 different kinds of birds, howler monkeys, and even elusive jaguars. Parque Tayrona has all you would want, whether your interests are in climbing to Pueblito, an archeological site reflecting the rich history of the area, or snorkeling in glistening, clear seas.
The park is also quite suitable for those who value a quiet and pristine environment. The absence of crowds allows you to have a closer connection with your surroundings. Whether you stay in eco-lodges or beneath the stars, the experience is immersive and revitalizing. Meditating, yoga, or just enjoying the natural beauty of the park would all be ideal in its calm setting.
Parque Tayrona provides diving trips for adventure enthusiasts so you can see vivid coral reefs bursting with marine life. From coastal lagoons to rich rainforests, the many habitats of the park present many opportunities for learning and discovery. Parque Tayrona should, therefore, be first at the top of your travel agenda if you want to reconnect with nature and see some of Colombia's most beautiful scenery.
From Cartagena to Parque Tayrona: travel tips
About 162 miles (261 km) long, this picturesque route is bursting with adventure. These are some key tips to maximize your Cartagena to Parque Tayrona transfer.
Stop to see the sights
If driving or taking a private car transfer, be sure to add some sightseeing spots like Cienaga's Old structures and busy markets, which perfectly capture Colombian life. Take Minca in Santa Marta's Sierra Nevada, which is great for hiking, birdwatching, coffee farms, and waterfalls. It is also perfect for drinking local coffee and gazing at the mountains.
Packing essentials for the journey
Traveling comfortably means bringing the right items. Water, sunscreen, and snacks are necessary for this 5-hour journey. Cash is needed since not all places accept cards. Download maps and information before traveling to areas with poor connectivity. Parque Tayrona's lush environment is home to numerous insects, so bring repellent. Some simple preparation enhances the trip's appeal and adventure.
Stay safe when traveling
Even if Colombia has made great progress in increasing safety, you should always be alert. Stay at well-known tourist destinations, steer clear of showing valuables, and use caution late at night. Use reputable transportation services like Daytrip for safer and more reliable travel.
How to get from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
Find out the best way of getting from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona, regardless of budget and preferences, to maximize your Colombian visit.
Private car transfer from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
Choose Daytrip's private car transfer service for the best mix of convenience and comfort. This door-to-door service takes you from your Cartagena accommodation straight to Parque Tayrona. The trip is not only seamless but also customizable, allowing you to add optional sightseeing stops at interesting sites. Perfect for families or groups looking for a hassle-free transfer.
- Price: from $65 per seat
- Duration: 5 hours
Bus from from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
If you prefer public transport, buses run regularly from Cartagena to Santa Marta, where you can switch to a local bus heading towards Parque Tayrona. The entire trip might take about 6 to 7 hours, considering transfers and stops. It’s a budget-friendly option but less comfortable compared to a direct car transfer. Look up timetables for when you are traveling for accurate schedules.
- Price: $21 to $39
- Duration: 6-7 hours
Boat from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
If you want to take a boat ride to Parque Tayrona, you'll have to get to Santa Marta. Public buses from Cartagena to Santa Marta run frequently, with several departures each hour. The bus station is about 8 miles from the city center, so arrange a private transfer to reach it. The bus ride takes around six hours. Once at Santa Marta, head to the pier for a 40-minute boat ride straight into Parque Tayrona, providing a picturesque and unique means of transport.
Things to do when you get to Parque Tayrona
The journey begins once you reach the stunning Parque Tayrona. This natural wonderland has activities to suit everyone. No matter your interests—nature, history, or just leisure—Parque Tayrona has something to offer.
Hiking and exploring
Hikers will discover a slice of heaven in Parque Tayrona. For instance, the trail to Pueblito meanders through forests and ruins and presents breathtaking vistas of the coastline. Another shorter hike leads to one of the park's best beaches, Cabo San Juan. From leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, the diverse network of pathways offers something for everyone.
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Enjoy the beaches
Speaking of beaches, Parque Tayrona boasts some of Colombia’s finest. There is a beach for every kind of visitor, from the remote Playa Cristal to the popular Cabo San Juan. Perfect for leisure or snorkeling experiences, the turquoise seas and golden beaches create a perfect environment. Don't miss the opportunity to simply lounge in the sun with a book or explore the vivid aquatic life.
Immerse yourself in the culture
See Indigenous communities and learn about their customs and way of life to really engage in the rich cultural legacy of the area. The indigenous people Kankuamo, Kogui, Wiwa, and Arhuaco communities inhabit ancestral territories in Tayrona Park. Providing a unique window into a way of life that has essentially been unaltered for centuries. It's a humbling and enriching experience that adds depth to your visit.
Wildlife watching
Parque Tayrona is a refuge for those who enjoy wildlife. Experience spotting howler monkeys swinging through the trees, vibrant toucans swooping overhead, and even a lethargic iguana basking on a rock. It is recommended that you plan your activities when wildlife is more active: early morning and early evening.
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When is the best time to visit Parque Tayrona
The best time to visit Parque Tayrona will depend on your desired experience. From perfect hiking conditions to fewer crowds, every season has special benefits. This is a guide on what to expect from every season to enable you to arrange your ideal travel time.
Dry season in Parque Tayrona (December to March)
To take advantage of beach activities and hiking, think about planning your Parque Tayrona visit for the dry season. This time is ideal for these activities so you may enjoy the amazing beauty of the park without worrying about bad weather.
- Average temperatures: 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C)
- Weather: warm, sunny, and dry with clear skies
Shoulder season in Parque Tayrona (April and November)
If you prefer fewer crowds, Visiting Parque Tayrona during the shoulder seasons of April and November could be an option. These times are less busy, allowing for a tranquil experience despite rain showers and generally pleasant temperatures.
- Average temperatures: 75° F to 84° F (24° C to 29° C)
- Weather: warm with occasional rain showers, fewer tourists
Rainy season in Parque Tayrona (May to October)
Heavy rain and increasing humidity levels throughout the rainy season could cause muddy, impassable routes. On the other hand, if you are okay with the rain, you will discover peaceful surroundings and rich scenery.
- Average temperatures: 74°F to 83° F (23° C to 28° C)
- Weather: humid with frequent rain showers, lush scenery, and fewer tourists.
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
Visit these sights on the way
El Totumo Mud Volcano
The naturally-heated and mineral-rich mud in this volcano makes for a unique spa day. Hot, Dirty Sweats
Barranquilla
Every year the streets of Gabriel Garcia Marquez' former hangout are filled with hundreds of thousands of revellers for a UNESCO-listed carnival. The Party Port
Cienaga
This port city’s banana industry inspired Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and bestowed it with some beautiful belle poque bananera buildings. The Banana Belle
Minca
Surrounded by a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this little village is the place to go to immerse yourself in Colombian ecology. The Birds and the Beans
Santa Marta
The colonial buildings of Colombia’s oldest city are colorfully lived in, with the white-washed customs house now housing a gold-filled museum. Old Gold
Vehicle options for this trip
The Daytrip driver advantage
Local knowledge about the route from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
Including available sights:English speaking*
All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.
Safety first!
We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.
World-class customer support
- Available 24/7
- Close relationship with drivers
- Experts on the route from Cartagena to Parque Tayrona
Flexible cancellation policy
- Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
- Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!
Good to know
Tips
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Luggage
- Big luggage
- 29x21x11 inches
- 74x53x28 cm
- Small luggage
- 22x14x9 inches
- 56x36x23 cm
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
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