The weather is the same year-round (tropical heat), but each plan calls for its own gear: El Rodadero is not the Sierra. This list, aligned with our Practical Guide, covers all fronts.

The basics

  • Light cotton or linen clothes, light colors.
  • Two swimsuits to rotate.
  • Hat and sunglasses.
  • A light jacket for breezy nights (and for Minca).

Beach & Tayrona

  • Biodegradable sunscreen: protected beaches require it and they check at the Tayrona entrance.
  • Water shoes or grippy sandals for trails and pools.
  • Thermos and reusable bag: single-use plastic is forbidden in the park.
  • Mosquito repellent, especially at sunset and in Minca.

Money & documents

  • Cash in small bills: on beaches, in towns and informal transport cards don’t work.
  • Digital copies of your documents and bookings.
  • Local SIM or downloaded offline maps: signal fails in Tayrona and Minca.
Key fact: If you only do city and beach, a carry-on suffices. If you add Tayrona or the Lost City, add a trekking backpack, flashlight and dry change in a dry bag.