Colombia's beach escapes and popular destinations
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Loading... - Hugo Martin
- 09 Sep 2022
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With endless coastline split between the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean sea, Colombia is a privileged beach country. We have windswept archipelagos near Cartagena, empty coves of Tayrona National Park, and the pristine islands of San Andrés, Santa Catalina and Providencia.
What more could one ask for when looking for that beach escape? The diversity of sands – from powdery white to volcanic grey – give us a wondrous vantage point from which to appreciate the ever-changing sunsets of this unique land. And this is where we begin our quest for the most beautiful beaches this side of paradise.
Cabo de la Vela
A challenge to reach for those unfamiliar with sand dunes and adventure driving, Cabo de la Vela lies four hours outside of Riohacha, the capital of the La Guajira department. Cabo de la Vela is a destination for eco savvy tourists and blessed by a 5 kilometer-long stretch of golden sand.
There are no palms in Cabo or five-star resorts serving margaritas. Instead, find a shack and hang your hammock. When the stars do sparkle, explore the lunar landscape nearby and hike to Colombia’s most picture-perfect lighthouse. Lodging is charmingly basic with the option of sleeping under the stars or camping out in the empty desert.
From Cabo de la Vela, travel along the Guajira coastline to the southwest until entering the foothills of the Sierra Nevada National Park, the highest coastal mountain range in the world and home to the ancient Kogi and Arhuaco peoples.
Tayrona National Park
Bordering the Sierra Nevada and hidden behind lush jungles, the pristine beaches of Cañaveral, Arrecifes and Playa Cristal in the Tayrona National Park are an easy day trip from the colonial city of Santa Marta. Cold mountain streams flowing from the summit meet the turquoise sea making Parque Tayrona one of Colombia’s most beautiful natural areas. Enjoy snorkeling in Arrecifes, near the sea-sculpted boulders that form tranquil bays and natural reefs. But beware the strong currents, as the sea in Tayrona can be treacherous.
A network of pre-Columbian footpaths connects the palm-lined beaches of Tayrona, and buses can’t travel right up to the beach, so be prepared to walk under the scorching sun and travel light. Budget conscious traveler can take advantage of limited camping areas within the National Park. For more exclusive accommodations, head for the Ecohabs built into the jungle’s hillside, offering stunning views from thatched balconies. Read More...
