Hotel Jasayma Tayrona

I usually don’t leave bad reviews, but I feel I have to warn other travelers. Our stay was really upsetting, especially when we faced a serious situation involving rabies. The staff did nothing to help or give information, showed no sense of responsibility, and even laughed at us. When we later tried to give feedback, their reaction was strange and inappropriate. That response felt dangerously negligent, and along with the poor service and lack of hospitality, it makes me strongly advise people to avoid this place. There are much better options in the park. At first, the accommodation seemed fine. The tents were decent, but unbearably hot even at night. The shower was cold, which we didn’t mind much in the heat, and the drinks were very overpriced. The staff were far from friendly, despite what many reviews say. They played TikTok loudly on their phones, disturbing the peace, and kept both hammocks for themselves, so guests couldn’t use them. They spoke no English and made no effort to slow down their Spanish or use a translation app so we could understand.

Dinner was delicious and reasonably priced, and getting here by local bus from Santa Marta (Mercato) was easy. Buses are frequent, start around 6 am, and you don’t need to buy a ticket ahead of time. You can take one back from the park entrance too. I stayed three nights. Everything was clean, the bed was comfortable, and the hotel is a 15-minute walk to the ENTRANCE. The actual trail starts about 35-40 minutes away on foot, or you can catch the minibus to the trek right in front of the hotel for 5k Pesos. Breakfast starts at 7:30, so you can’t set off before the parque opens, but starting any time before 9 helps avoid the crowds.

The rooms get boiling hot because there are no fans, and the staff weren’t friendly or willing to explain anything. We didn’t feel like guests. They also had no drinking water while we were there, so we had to buy some in advance at the trail. The place is almost at the park entry, but that still leaves you with an hour’s walk to the start of the trails, or you have to take the bus each time. I wouldn’t recommend it or stay again. The camps at the beaches are cheaper and much nicer.

Nore and the staff were incredibly kind and attentive when I got sick while traveling alone. They went above and beyond to look after me and make me feel at home, even bringing me tea and soup. I loved the vibe of this jungle refuge inside a national park. They take great care to respect the wildlife and existing habitat, the food is great, and it’s affordable and easy to reach the coveted Tayrona Park beaches.