Jardin Secreto Tayrona

Jardín Secreto Tayrona is not your typical volunteer spot. This is an off-grid, interactive permaculture homestay and co-living hostel nestled in the lush jungle just outside Tayrona National Park. Here, you don’t just lend a hand—you leave your mark. Volunteers are fully integrated into daily life and our long-term vision: regenerating land, developing eco-infrastructure, and creating a space where travelers and change-makers grow together.

You’ll wake up to the sounds of monkeys, cook alongside new friends in our communal jungle kitchen, and gain real experience in areas like carpentry, plumbing, natural building, hospitality, social media, or event coordination. Whether you're learning to install a solar system or helping with our rainwater collection setup, your time here matters.

Best of all? It feels remote and wild while being incredibly accessible—just an hour by public bus from Santa Marta and walking distance to the Calabazo Tayrona entrance.

You’re a collaborator, not just a helper. You’ll be part of the daily operations, creative problem-solving, and long-term vision of a place designed to inspire. Your impact helps improve our systems, sustainability, and guest experience.

Whether you're contributing 20 hours a week in exchange for your stay, or going above and beyond because you’re genuinely passionate, you'll leave with new skills, friends, memories, and the feeling of having made a difference.

This is the perfect spot for travelers who are:

Passionate about sustainability and climate action

Excited by hands-on work and outdoor projects

Curious about permaculture, natural building, or community living

Comfortable with rustic jungle life and limited connectivity

Looking for genuine human connection and cultural exchange

Please note: Our space is intentionally off-grid and low-tech. We have limited WiFi (via Starlink) for basic use, but minimal cell signal. We see this as a feature—it helps guests disconnect, recharge, and experience the jungle more fully. For those who need intensive online workspaces, there are plenty of co-working options in nearby Santa Marta and Minca.

We’re a couple of friendly, hands-on expats from the U.S. who gave up city life to build something better: a regenerative lifestyle rooted in nature, hospitality, and impact. Our combined experience spans construction, hospitality, event planning, education, marketing, photography, and more. We’re practical, upbeat, and passionate about doing work that matters—whether that means fixing a leaky pipe, cooking a shared dinner, or planting trees that will grow for generations. Our team currently includes: 2 full-time construction crew members Local part-time help for cleaning and support A rotating crew of awesome volunteers and guests We’re building on 5 acres of productive land, surrounded by jungle and wildlife. Our property is just a short hike off the main road, yet feels worlds away. From natural pools to hammocks under the trees, there’s something for every type of traveler. Our vibe is collaborative, kind, and high-energy. We love projects, ideas, music, laughter, and creating a culture of participation. If you’re curious, creative, and motivated—we’ll get along great. We believe in sharing knowledge, tools, meals, and stories. We welcome travelers, creators, dreamers, and doers. Whether you're staying for a week or a season, you're part of the family while you're here.