Visit Tayrona National Park

At the fringes of Tayrona National Park lies a chain of heavenly Caribbean beaches, untouched by modern development and hidden from the outside world by a smothering blanket of lush jungle. Walking between palm-shaded coves, each more idyllic than the last, you'll feel a million miles away from the daily grind.

It's possible to visit Tayrona on a day trip from Santa Marta, with time to hike to the wild, unspoilt beaches of Arrecifes and swim in their invitingly warm waters, or you can stay in the national park itself, sleeping under star-studded skies. With longer to explore you can follow an ancient stairway through the forest to arrive at the fascinating archaeological site of Pueblito, reminiscent of the better known Ciudad Perdida.