Tayrona National Park is probably the most visited across Colombia's impressive park network. A day spent wandering the jungle trails and rugged picture-postcard shorelines while leaving sandy footprints along the palm-fringed beaches is one of the pleasures of the Caribbean region. Located east of Santa Marta, the park covers a vast swath of protected land and marine reserve. Elevations range from sea level through into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range; the highest coastal mountain range in the world, and whose lofty peaks tower over the park below. Tayrona has a predominantly year-round hot and humid climate, which has created along its coastal flanks a lush tropical forest ecosystem. From the main entrance, the road continues 10 minutes to the trailhead, from where the walking begins. Walks can be tailored to individual requirements and it's possible to flop down and relax on the first beach, Playa Cañaveral, or continue to the primary goal of Cabo de San Juan beach, a total round trip of almost 15 kilometers (roughly 9.5 miles). The full walk takes 4 to 6 hours depending on scenery breaks and meanderings, perhaps to see the beautiful beaches of Arricifes and La Piscina, for example. The scenery of huge white rocks, smoothed by wind and waves, and the turquoise water lapping at the white sands is blissful. Apart from the spectacular scenery, there are opportunities for wildlife viewing including iguanas, monkeys, macaws and even toucans. It's also possible to see the often-recluse members of local indigenous communities like the Kogi people, known for their distinctive white traditional woven clothing. The return trip is via the same trails, but for those looking for an easier option, horses can be rented for a more sedate experience.