Old Point Mangrove Regional Park
Discover the serene beauty of San Andres' vital mangrove ecosystem through transparent kayaking and guided nature walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calm waters, abundant wildlife
Old Point Mangrove Regional Park
Best Time
Calm waters, abundant wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene beauty of San Andres' vital mangrove ecosystem through transparent kayaking and guided nature walks.
"A magical experience, gliding through mangrove tunnels and connecting with nature."
Kayak for Two
Transparent kayaks are perfect for couples or friends. Enjoy the peaceful water and unique views together.
Protect Your Skin
Wear a rash guard or long-sleeved shirt under your life vest to prevent rubbing burns. Sunscreen is essential!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Transparent Kayaking
Mangrove channels
Glide through serene mangrove tunnels in a clear kayak, spotting birds and unique flora. A truly immersive nature experience.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the park
Observe diverse bird species, marine life like starfish and jellyfish, and the intricate mangrove ecosystem.
Guided Nature Walks
Park trails
Learn about the vital mangrove ecosystem from knowledgeable guides, offering a peaceful alternative to beach activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mangroves
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak for Two
Transparent kayaks are perfect for couples or friends. Enjoy the peaceful water and unique views together.
Protect Your Skin
Wear a rash guard or long-sleeved shirt under your life vest to prevent rubbing burns. Sunscreen is essential!
Respect the Ecosystem
Avoid littering and follow guide instructions to protect the delicate mangrove environment.
Budget-Friendly Fun
Park entry is very affordable, making it a great option for budget travelers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak for Two
Transparent kayaks are perfect for couples or friends. Enjoy the peaceful water and unique views together.
Protect Your Skin
Wear a rash guard or long-sleeved shirt under your life vest to prevent rubbing burns. Sunscreen is essential!
Respect the Ecosystem
Avoid littering and follow guide instructions to protect the delicate mangrove environment.
Budget-Friendly Fun
Park entry is very affordable, making it a great option for budget travelers.
Listen to the Birds
The park is a haven for birdwatchers. Take a moment to simply listen to the natural symphony.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the unique and peaceful experience of kayaking through the mangroves, highlighting the beauty of the ecosystem and the chance to see wildlife. While some note the park's infrastructure could be better maintained, the overall sentiment is positive, with many finding it a refreshing alternative to typical beach activities.
"My partner and I went to try the transparent kayaks and it was such a beautiful experience. It started off windy, but soon the water became completely flat and we could just relax, listening to the birds and soaking in the nature all around us. Some parts of the route took us right into tree covered paths that felt like little caves, which made it even more special compared to kayaking in the open sea.
We stopped to snorkel and the guides shared interesting facts about the local marine life like shells, jellyfish, sea cucumbers and starfish before we explored the shallow waters. There weren’t many fish but I enjoyed the peaceful floating with a life vest. (Tip: wear a rashie or shirt underneath your vest to avoid any rubbing burns.)
Afterwards, we headed back and were treated to food and drinks much more than I expected! Overall, it was a wonderful and pleasantly surprising experience."
Florie Lafon
"Enjoy something different than beaches, swimming and sun! This was a nice alternative to being in the sun. Got pretty sunburnt the day before so getting a nice walk in and for the most part it’s quiet. Can still hear the party boats but regardless it’s worth it. Cost is 12,000 pesos (around $3) and it’s a nice walk with shade. Can be 20-30 minutes or a few hours. Go for it if you have time!"
Nate Eckhart
"It’s beautiful the ecosystem, but the space is not well taken care of.
The signs are broken or blurred, and the wood floor is getting damaged.
There’s no signs or verbal notification about not throwing garbage! No garbage bins!!
There’s garbage all over the place!
The money should have a purpose, more than charging and to pay to some people"
Camilo Andres Arrieta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Old Point Mangrove Regional Park by taxi or by renting a 'mulita' (golf cart) for a scenic island tour. Many island tours include a stop at the park. +1
The park is located on the eastern side of San Andres island, often visited as part of a 'round the island' tour. Look for signs indicating the 'Old Point Regional Mangrove Park'.
While driving is possible, renting a golf cart or taking a guided tour is a more popular and enjoyable way to explore the island and reach the park.
Many visitors opt for guided tours that include kayaking or walking through the mangroves, offering a deeper understanding of the ecosystem. +1
Public transport directly to the park is limited. Taxis and organized tours are the most convenient ways to access it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park is very affordable, often around 12,000 Colombian pesos (approximately $3 USD).
Yes, activities like transparent kayaking or guided tours usually have separate fees in addition to the park entrance. Expect tours to cost around 60,000 pesos per person.
It's advisable to book transparent kayak tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
The park is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check with local tour operators for specific timings, especially if you plan to kayak.
Yes, upon arrival in San Andres, you'll need to pay a tourist card fee, which is separate from park entrance fees. This was around 137,000 pesos.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy guided nature walks, explore the mangrove tunnels via transparent kayaks, and observe the local wildlife. +1
It's recommended to enter if tour guides are present, as some areas can be tricky. Guides can also share valuable information about the ecosystem.
The park is home to various bird species, and you might spot marine life like starfish, jellyfish, and sea cucumbers in the shallow waters. 
Some visitors have noted a lack of readily available trash bins and that the park's infrastructure could be better maintained.
Light, comfortable clothing is recommended. If kayaking, wear swimwear and bring a change of clothes. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique mangrove tunnels from your kayak, the diverse birdlife, and the serene water reflections. The clear kayaks offer a unique perspective.
Absolutely! The rich biodiversity and unique landscape make it a fantastic spot for nature photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mangrove scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. Waterproof protection is a good idea.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the park.
The kayak routes themselves offer the best vantage points. Keep an eye out for clearings that provide scenic vistas of the mangroves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Guided nature walks are also excellent for kids, as they can learn about the unique plants and animals in a hands-on way. It's a great opportunity to spark their curiosity about nature and conservation. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider a visit during the cooler parts of the day.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Eco-Tourists
Opting for a guided tour will significantly enhance your experience, providing in-depth knowledge about the mangrove ecosystem and its inhabitants. This is a chance to appreciate the quieter, more introspective side of San Andres, focusing on conservation and natural wonders.
💰 Budget Travelers
This offers a fantastic way to enjoy a unique aspect of San Andres without breaking the bank, providing a memorable experience that contrasts with more expensive island activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Mangrove Kayaking
Guides often share fascinating insights into the mangrove's role as a nursery for marine life and a habitat for diverse bird species. Some tours even include opportunities for snorkeling in the calm, shallow waters, where you might spot shells, starfish, and other fascinating creatures. Remember to wear a rash guard to protect your skin from the sun and any potential chafing from the life vest.
This activity provides a peaceful and educational counterpoint to the island's more energetic attractions. It's a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level and appreciate the vital ecological importance of these coastal wetlands.
Wildlife Encounters in the Park
+1Beyond the avian residents, the park's waters teem with smaller marine life. During guided tours or snorkeling excursions, you might encounter fascinating creatures like starfish, sea cucumbers, and various types of shells. While large fish might be less common in the shallower mangrove areas, the sheer diversity of the ecosystem is captivating.
It's important to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat. The guides are excellent resources for learning about the species you encounter and understanding their behavior within this unique environment.
+1Understanding the Mangrove Ecosystem
These wetlands also serve as nurseries for many fish and shellfish species, supporting local fisheries and the broader marine food web. The water clarity within the mangroves can vary, but the ecosystem itself is a testament to nature's resilience and interconnectedness.
Visiting the park offers a unique opportunity to learn about the ecological significance of mangroves and the importance of their conservation. Understanding their role can deepen your appreciation for this natural wonder and inspire responsible tourism practices.
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