The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park is one of the most popular sites in Colombia. It is known for its biodiversity and the unique features of the landscape.
Location and How to Get to This Specific Site
The park is situated to the north of Colombia, by the Caribbean coast. There are several buses that can bring you to the site directly. Your tour operator can arrange the transportation for you.
What to See There
120 animal species dominate the park. These include red howler monkeys, red crested tree rats and white-lipped peccaries. The white-bellied spider monkeys and the giant anteaters are also in abundance. If you are lucky, you might see the little spotted cat, puma or the jaguar.
The park has 46 types of reptiles and amphibians. These include species that thrive at 9,900 feet (3,000 meters). These animals cannot be found elsewhere. Various types of mammals 
History
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park covers an area of almost 1 million acres. It is the source of thirty five watersheds. It is currently supplying water to more than a million people. It is also used in the farming plains close by. The site is also characterized by cacti, palms and dry forest at the northern end.
Extensive research has been done on the area. Studies show that all Colombian biomes are represented. It may actually be used to represent tropical American fauna and flora. Research has also shown that the site is favorable for birds migrating from South America to the Canada and the US.
Cost
The cost of travelling to the site will depend how far off you are. Even so, it is unlikely for the bus fare to exceed 6 USD. If you are on a tour bus, however, the fares will be different.
Other Info
There are 628 species of birds in the park. This is equal to the number of bird species in Canada and the US combined. Species like the White-lored Warbler, Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant, Rusty-headed Spinetail and the Santa Marta Antpitta are only found in the area. Other bird species you will see are the white-tipped quetzal, raptors, passerines, parrots and macaws.
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park is not just another tourist destination. It is also the place where Colombian flora and fauna can be preserved and studied.
