Parque Nacional Manglares de Old Point

Amidst the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea lies an amazing natural oasis — Old Point Mangrove National Park. Located on the picturesque island of San Andrés, this reserve is a vital ecosystem for Colombia, serving as a natural shield for the land, protecting it from the whims of the open ocean.

Old Point Mangrove National Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

In an area of about 3.6 hectares, an incredible biological diversity is concentrated. Here, you can see three species of mangrove trees, whose intricately intertwined roots create real aquatic labyrinths. The magical atmosphere of Old Point Park makes it a wonderful alternative to a traditional beach holiday, offering guests seclusion among lush greenery and calm bays.

The reserve is famous for its inhabitants: exotic birds and lizards live in the shade of the branches, while crabs and starfish scurry in the water beneath the roots. Thanks to its high rating among travelers, this place is considered a must-visit for those who want to see the "other," pristine side of the island and enjoy the serenity of the tropical forest.

To plan your visit to Old Point Mangrove National Park, it is helpful to know its exact location on the island. Below is the official address of the site.

In the park, guests can enjoy a relaxing stroll along long wooden boardwalks that stretch right through the dense mangrove thickets. This is an ideal opportunity to observe fauna in its natural habitat: you are sure to spot bright seabirds, iguanas, and amusing crabs. The thick shade from the trees provides long-awaited coolness even on the hottest afternoon.

For those who prefer active experiences, the park offers exciting tours in clear kayaks. Gliding across the water's surface through narrow "mangrove tunnels" is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to see life in detail both above and below the water. Pontoon boat trips are also popular, often including snorkeling stops where you can see sea cucumbers and jellyfish.

After a busy walk, you can relax while enjoying the silence and views of Hooker Bight. When heading to the park, don't forget to bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to stay until evening, and sunscreen for water excursions.

The park is conveniently located near the central part of the island, so getting there is quite easy. The simplest and fastest way is to use a taxi or take a local bus. A ride on a rented bicycle or scooter will take about 30 minutes along a flat road, which is a pleasant mini-journey in itself.

A landmark to look for is a house with a sign on the right side as you leave the town — most local taxi drivers know this place well. Some areas of the reserve are only accessible from the water, so many tourists prefer to arrive as part of organized groups on boats or pontoons.

Entry to the territory usually costs a nominal fee (around 3 USD), making the park accessible to all travelers. The best time to arrive is early morning, when nature is just waking up, it's not too hot, and the chances of seeing rare birds are at their highest.

Its status as a regional natural park highlights the special significance of this place for the region's ecology. Old Point Mangrove National Park was established to protect the island's fragile biodiversity and preserve the unique wetland ecosystems located between Hooker Bight and the coastline.

Historically, mangrove forests played a critical role in the island's survival, acting as a natural barrier that held back soil erosion and the destructive force of storm surges during hurricane seasons. Without these resilient trees, the landscape of this part of the coast might look very different.

Today, the park functions as a successful example of ecotourism, where nature conservation efforts are harmoniously combined with educational programs for guests. It is an untouched corner of wilderness that serves as a living reminder of the importance of maintaining a balance between human development and environmental protection.

You should set aside 1 to 3 hours for a visit to the park, depending on your chosen activities. If you only plan a short walk along the established wooden boardwalks, 20–30 minutes will be enough to appreciate the beauty of the mangroves and take some striking photos.

For a full immersion in the atmosphere, including a kayak tour or snorkeling in the channels, you will need about 2 hours. However, if your visit to Old Point is part of a larger boat excursion of the surrounding attractions, be prepared to spend nearly the entire day on the water.

The current operating hours of Old Point Mangrove National Park may change depending on the season and current weather conditions. To ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible, it is recommended to check the hours in advance on the park's official website or with local tour guides before setting off.

Exploring the surroundings of Old Point Park will allow you to get a full impression of the island's natural and cultural flavor. There are many interesting locations nearby — from picturesque hills to cozy beaches and historical monuments.

Combine your visit to the mangrove forests with a stroll through the city center or a break on the coast to make your day on the island as rich and varied as possible.