1 Go river tubing

River tubing is the main activity in Palomino. You’ll take a moto taxi up to the river, hike a short distance, then float down on an inflatable tube through the jungle until you reach the ocean. It’s a bit unorganized, but that’s part of the experience.

• duration: ~2-3 hours

• cost: affordable

• difficulty: easy

The first part of the river is calm and surrounded by jungle, and toward the end you’ll start to see the mountains open up as you approach the coast.

Tip: go earlier in the day to avoid crowds and strong sun.

2 Relax on the beach

Palomino’s beach is long, wide, and mostly undeveloped, which gives it a much more raw and natural feel compared to places like Cartagena. It’s perfect for long walks, sunset views and relaxing with a book. However, the sea here can be rough, so swimming is not always ideal. Always check conditions before going in.

Tip: If you want a more comfortable beach setup, head toward beach clubs or hostels like Primaluna Beach Hostel, where you can grab a drink or food and use their facilities.

2 Visit Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park is one of the highlights of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, and it’s very easy to combine with Palomino. Whether you visit as a day trip or stay overnight, it’s a natural next stop on any itinerary through this region. That said, Tayrona doesn’t always live up to the overly polished Instagram expectations. It can be hot, crowded, and more physically demanding than people expect. But if you go in with realistic expectations, it’s still absolutely worth visiting for the combination of jungle hiking and wild beaches.

I cover everything in detail here: Tayrona National Park travel guide

How to get to Tayrona from Palomino

Getting from Palomino to Tayrona is simple and cheap. All you need to do is catch a local bus heading toward Santa Marta from the main road (the Troncal del Caribe highway). Best spot to wait: Corner of Carrera 6a and 7a in Palomino (near the main junction). Buses run frequently throughout the day, no booking needed. Just flag one down and tell the driver “Tayrona”. Price: ~8,000–10,000 COP. Duration: ~40–50 minutes. The El Zaino entrance (main entrance) will be on the right-hand side. The driver will usually call it out, but it’s always worth confirming when you get on.

Getting back to Palomino

To return, simply stand outside the Tayrona entrance and flag down any bus heading toward Palomino or Riohacha. Buses come regularly and seats usually free after people get off at the park, so no need to plan ahead

When to go (important)

If you’re visiting Tayrona as a day trip, timing makes a big difference. Aim to leave Palomino early and arrive at the entrance before 8am. This helps you to avoid crowds from Santa Marta, hike in cooler temperatures and enjoy the beaches before peak hours.

4 Try surfing in Palomino

Palomino isn’t a classic surf destination, but you can surf here under the right conditions – especially if you’re a beginner looking to try it for the first time. The beach is fully exposed to the open sea, which means currents can be strong and conditions change quickly. Because of this, surfing here is very weather-dependent and not something you should plan your entire trip around. That said, on calmer days, it’s a fun and easy place to take a first lesson in the whitewater.

What to expect

• best conditions: early morning (before the wind picks up)

• wave type: mostly whitewater, not clean rolling waves

• level: beginner-friendly only

You’ll find a few informal surf instructors operating along the beach, especially on the right-hand side near places like Dreamer Hostel. Lessons are typically: arranged locally (not online), organized on short notice depending on conditions and are very casual and flexible. Lesson price: ~120,000–160,000 COP (€25–35) (includes board + instruction). Board rentals may be available, but not guaranteed, and depend on the day. The easiest way to book is to ask your accommodation or walk along the beach, check conditions and talk directly to instructors. Don’t book in advance – just decide based on the weather.

5 Take a day trip to Los Flamencos Natural Park

One of the best things to do near Palomino is visiting Los Flamencos Natural Park, located near Camarones, about 1–1.5 hours away. This protected area is known for its pink flamingos, coastal lagoons, and desert-like landscapes – a completely different environment from Palomino’s setting. This is one of the most unique day trips in the region and often overlooked. You can visit on a guided tour, which usually includes:

• transport

• a boat trip across the lagoon

• flamingo spotting

• sometimes a local lunch

6 Eat

Food in Palomino is surprisingly good for such a small place, with a mix of local and international options.

Casa Cocotte (must-visit) | One of the best restaurants in Palomino. A bit more upscale than average, with excellent food and a relaxed atmosphere. Great for a proper dinner after a day at the beach. Best for: high-quality meals and a nicer dining experience

Primaluna Beach Hostel (pizza + beach vibe) | A great spot right on the beach with surprisingly good pizza and a relaxed setting. Perfect for lunch or sunset drinks by the sea. Best for: casual food with a beach view

Local restaurants | You’ll also find many small local spots serving the usual – fresh fish, rice and coconut dishes, arepas…These are usually the cheapest options and worth trying for a more local experience.

7 Enjoy the slow vibe (this is the real reason to come)

Palomino is one of those places where the best thing to do is… not much.

• hang out in cafés

• watch the sunset

• read a book

• take it slow

If you’ve just come from Tayrona or a busy city, this is the perfect place to reset. If you do want a little bit more action, you can also explore the jungle and surroundings. Palomino sits right at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, so you’re never far from nature. You can take short jungle walks, visit nearby rivers and explore waterfalls in the area. It’s not as developed as Minca, but that’s part of the charm.

How much time you need

1-2 Days | This is enough to relax, do river tubing and enjoy the beach. Staying longer is only worth it if you really want to slow down, plan on taking beginner surf classes here or plan to visit Tayrona several times and are using Palomino as a base.

How to get to Palomino

Getting to Palomino is relatively straightforward, but it’s not a place you can fly to directly. Almost everyone arrives via Santa Marta, which is the closest airport and main transport hub on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Here are all your options – from budget backpacker to comfortable traveler:

Step 1 – By Plane | Fly to Santa Marta (or Cartagena). The closest airport to Palomino is Santa Marta (SMR), about 1.5–2 hours away. There are frequent domestic flights from Medellín and Bogotá. Browse flights on Skyscanner to compare prices.

By Local Bus | The best budget option – cheap, easy, and surprisingly efficient. Go to Santa Marta Public Market (Mercado Público) OR Santa Marta Bus Terminal. Look for buses heading to: Riohacha / La Guajira / Palomino. Tell the driver: “Palomino”. You don’t need to pre-book,  just show up. Key details:

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours

• Price: ~10,000–15,000 COP (€2–4)

• Frequency: every 15–30 minutes (6am–6pm)

• Drop-off: main road in Palomino (you walk into town). Buses literally stop anywhere along the highway, including Palomino.

By Shuttle or shared transport | The best for comfort vs price. If you don’t want to deal with local buses (especially with luggage), this is a great middle ground. Companies like Marsol run door-to-door shuttles along the coast. These are easy to book via Bookaway, your hotel and WhatsApp local operators. Key details:

• Duration: ~1.5–2 hours

• Price: ~40,000–70,000 COP (€10–15)

• Pickup: your hotel

• Good for: luggage, comfort, ease

By Taxi or private transfer | The best for convenience. This is the easiest but most expensive option. Worth it if you’re in a group, arriving or traveling at night or want zero hassle. Key details:

• Duration: ~1.5 hours

• Price: ~120,000–150,000 COP (€30–40)

• Door-to-door service

By Car | Renting a car is technically possible, but not ideal. Pros: Flexibility (you can can combine with Tayrona, Minca, etc.). Cons: roads are simple (just one coastal highway), there is no need for a car in Palomino itself, parking is limited and driving in Colombia can be pretty chaotic.

Getting Around Palomino

Palomino is small and easy to navigate.

• walking is enough for most things

• moto taxis are available for longer distances

• no need to rent a car

One of the best things about traveling in Colombia in general is how easy it is to move between destinations, despite the country’s size and varied geography. Domestic flights connect major cities, while long-distance buses reach smaller towns and more remote areas. In cities, ride-hailing apps make getting around simple and affordable. You generally don’t need to rent a car, even as a solo traveler, as transport is widely available and commonly used by locals.

I explain exactly which transport to use (and when), how to book tickets, and common mistakes travelers make in my complete guide: How to Get Around in Colombia: Flights, Buses & Transport Tips

Where to stay in Palomino

Palomino has a good mix of hostels, boutique hotels, and eco-stays, mostly spread along the main road and toward the beach.

Casa del Pavo Real (boutique jungle stay) | A beautiful eco-lodge surrounded by jungle, slightly outside the main town. It feels peaceful and remote, with a pool and well-designed rooms. Best for: couples or travelers who want a quiet, nature-focused stay

Dreamer Palomino (social hostel) | A popular hostel with a pool, bar, and social atmosphere. It’s well-organized and a good place to meet other travelers. Best for: solo travelers and a social vibe

Aite Eco Resort (mid-range beachfront) | Located directly on the beach, this is one of the more comfortable options in Palomino. It combines a great location with more privacy and comfort. Best for: beach lovers who want a bit more comfort

Palomino Travel Tips

• bring cash (ATMs are limited)

• don’t expect luxury – it’s still quite rustic

• the sea can be rough, so be cautious when swimming

• book accommodation in advance during peak season

Colombia in general is one of the easiest countries in South America to travel independently, but a few local quirks can catch first-time visitors off guard – from regional safety differences and cash usage to transport logistics and the way the climate changes depending on altitude.

Understanding these small details ahead of time will make your trip much smoother and help you travel more confidently, especially if you’re visiting multiple regions or traveling solo. Before your trip, I recommend reading:

Essential Colombia Travel Tips (What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting)
Is Colombia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

FAQ: Palomino, Colombia

Is Palomino worth visiting?
Yes, if you’re looking for a relaxed beach destination in Colombia with fewer crowds than Cartagena. It’s best for slowing down rather than sightseeing.

What is Palomino known for?
Palomino is known for river tubing, its laid-back vibe, and its location where jungle meets the Caribbean coast.

Can you swim in Palomino?
You can swim, but the sea can be rough. Always check conditions before entering the water.

How many days do you need in Palomino?
1 to 2 days is enough for most travelers. It’s mainly a relaxing stop rather than a sightseeing destination.