Beaches and mountains: beautiful national parks in Colombia

When you think of Colombia, you may not conjure up images of a country brimming with unexplored national parks, each with its own distinct landscapes and biodiversity. But with 59 protected areas and national parks in Colombia, a whopping one-sixth of the nation’s landmass is covered by protected nature reserves  – equating to around 77,220 sq miles. Largely untouched by travellers, the unparalleled variety of its natural landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the tropical jungles of the Amazon Basin and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean coast, makes this country a haven for adventurers. In this article, we’ve rounded up our favourites, highlighting some of the best national parks in Colombia.

Best national parks in Colombia

Amacayacu National Natural Park: amazing Amazon adventures

Colombia’s position as a megadiverse country is cemented by the high number of both endemic and cosmopolitan species which can be found within its borders. As the second most biodiverse country on the planet, it’s a haven for wildlife and many of the national parks within the country offer great opportunities to catch a glimpse of the elusive animals and striking plant life which reside there.

If it’s wildlife you’re after, then the Amacayacu National Natural Park located deep in the Amazon Rainforest is a must-visit! Covering an area of approximately 293,000 hectares (724,000 acres), travellers have the opportunity to experience incredible biodiversity through guided wildlife tours, hikes, boat trips and other ecotourism activities! From animals such as pumas, jaguars, and several species of monkeys, both the canopy floor and treetops are alive with sounds and sights.

Serranía de La Macarena: rainbow waters and wild swimming

This biodiverse national park lies in eastern Colombia and encompasses a variety of terrain, from highland savannah to vibrant rainforest. But what makes it really unique is its dazzling network of pristine rivers, waterfalls and streams, known as the Caño Cristales. This pattern of waterways has created an environment of lush beauty with sculptural rock formations and enticing natural swimming holes. The presence of an unusual aquatic plant that blooms a deep magenta red adds to the magic of the river. The colours under the crystal-clear waters are so striking that they are often referred to as liquid rainbows. The plant blooms from around July to November, so this is the best time to visit the region.

Sierra Nevada del Cocuy: high-altitude hiking and breathtaking vistas

Situated in the north-eastern reaches of Colombia, the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy National Natural Park stands as a testament to the majesty and resilience of the Andean mountains. Containing 15 peaks of 5,000m or taller, with Ritacuba Blanco standing at 5,330m hiding atop its final summit, it’s the best national park in Columbia for intrepid hikers. The most famous hike, ‘the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy trek’, is a gruelling six-day hike described as world-class for those that complete it. This region of extreme beauty is filled with waterfalls, clear blue glacier-fed lakes, and incredible views. It’s certainly a must-visit national park in Colombia!

Tayrona National Park: sublime white-sand beaches

Tayrona National Park encompasses the quintessentially varied landscapes of Colombia; sandy beaches, dense jungle, and the second-highest coastal mountain range, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. We recommend spending your day here lounging on one of the many beaches including the well-known Cabo San Juan. Sometimes referred to as the ‘mirrored beach’, Cabo San Juan is made up of two beaches that back onto one another, meaning there is plenty of space to catch some sun.

Many beaches in Tayrona National Park don’t allow visitors to swim as there are strong currents along the park’s coastline, however, Cabo San Juan and the aptly named La Piscina Beach do allow swimming. La Piscina is protected from the currents due to the natural barrier created by a large semi-circle of rocks midway out to sea, and the still waters also make for a great place to snorkel.

Bahia Malaga National Park: whale watching and coastal hikes

Halfway down the Pacific Coast in eastern Colombia, the Bahia Malaga National Park is one of the newest protected reserves in the country (established in 2010). The area is a prime ecotourism destination with just a handful of small villages and communities dotting a pristine environment. This is the best national park in Colombia for whale watching, with humpback whales using the sheltered waters of Malaga Bay as a mating ground and nursery for raising their calves. Whale watching season runs from around June to October when boat trips head out into the bay, captained by specially licenced guides.

Though whale watching is the main draw of the park, there’s more to see on land. The coastline here is largely untouched with excellent hiking trails leading through coastal rainforest, along empty beaches and lush mangroves. The animal and plant species here are rich and diverse with hundreds of birds flitting through the canopy and an abundance of fish. The bay and estuaries are dotted with islands, making the area excellent for kayaking excursions on calm days.

Islas del Rosario: aquatic adventures (by day and by night!)

Made up of 27 islands and located just 100km off the coast of Cartagena, this archipelago is a natural paradise! This tranquil oasis was declared a national park to protect the beautiful coral reef which surrounds the islands. This vibrant coral reef makes the Rosario Islands the ideal destination for snorkelling, with brightly coloured fish darting from rock to rock and the occasional inquisitive turtle gliding through the shallows. If you want to explore the deeper waters surrounding the islands then it’s also possible to go diving, and there are options to complete your PADI certification here if you have never dived before. 

We recommend organising a trip to the Laguna Encantada, a secluded lagoon hidden away in the mangroves and only accessible by canoe. This lagoon is particularly special due to the presence of bioluminescent plankton, and at night-time any movement in the water causes an almost electric blue glow to appear, lighting up the pool and creating a thoroughly magical atmosphere! 

Whether exploring its colourful underwater ecosystems, lounging on secluded beaches fringed by swaying palm trees, or indulging in fresh seafood delicacies, Islas del Rosario invites travellers to unwind and immerse themselves in the idyllic charm of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: best for exploring ancient forest paths

This isolated mountain range rises abruptly from the coastal plains, reaching heights of over 5,700m (18,700ft) above sea level, it’s considered one of the world’s highest coastal mountain ranges and is often referred to as the “Heart of the World” by the indigenous peoples who inhabit the region. The mountain range is inhabited by several indigenous communities, including the Kogi, Wiwa, Arhuaco, and Kankuamo peoples. These indigenous groups have lived in the region for thousands of years and consider the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to be a sacred and spiritually significant place.

The forest here is home to the mysterious Lost City, the remnants of which lie hidden amongst thick vegetation. A hike to the Lost City can take three to four days, following forest trails and sleeping in hammocks at designated camps.

For travellers visiting the national park, support conservation efforts in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta by participating in eco-friendly tours and activities that promote sustainable tourism practices. This includes supporting local indigenous communities, practicing responsible wildlife viewing, and minimising environmental impact while exploring the region.

Make it happen

If you’ve been inspired to explore the best national parks in Colombia, whether it’s the pristine waters of the Rosario Islands or the mountaintops of the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, then get in touch with our local experts and get ready to start your next adventure!