Senda Watapuy

Location & Natural Setting: The hotel is situated near Tayrona National Park and features a serene, jungle-like environment with river views, birdwatching opportunities, and proximity to hiking trails.

The private pool overlooking the river was outstanding. We had some relaxing nights' sleeps and enjoyed hiking the grounds. The food was fantastic, and the staff was very helpful. We saw many different bird species and the elusive cotton-topped tamarins.

This was my second visit to the Senda Hotels in El Zaino, the first was years ago at Senda Koguiwa a few years ago. These are two different hotels, both five star hotels from my perspective for different reasons. Senda Watapuy was perfect for just doing nothing. My mother and I stayed for four nights as a break from a month in Medellin working remotely, and visiting with my brother who moved there some years ago. We had a delightful time at Watapuy From the airport pick-up to the departure, the staff was truly amazing, and very forgiving of the little bit of Spanish I know. Upon arrival, after a one hour taxi ride from the airport we were greeted with a snack and a refreshing beverage. Cabana: Our cabana was great - spotless, cozy and equipped with a fridge stocked with a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. The patio outside provided enough space as well a privacy to lay in the sun, or dip into the cooling pool (this pool has jets, but only expels cold water because it gets very hot and allows you to cool down - it is not warm water jacuzzi). Meals: The meals and meal service was truly delightful. The dinner menu changed slightly each night. Everything was fresh and local. My favorite was the chicken caesar salad for lunch each day, and dinner was a different seafood pasta. Spa: My mother and I enjoyed the spa services a few days of our trip. The spa is located along a babbling river, and made the spa experience even more relaxing. Everything was peaceful and serene. It was the mini-vacation I needed after a month of work. I travel to Medellin at least twice each year now, and this place will be my vacation spot for at least one of my trips going forward. Staff: Our visit was at the end of rainy season, and there was one incredible storm that caused the power to go out for less than a minute during dinner. The back-up generator kicked in immediately, the staff didn't skip a beat, and everyone was able to continue enjoying dinner. A special shout out to some of the incredible staff - Nidian at reception, Lida and another young man's name who I'm so sorry I forgot, but he taught me some important phrases in Spanish, Humberto at the bar, who kept the pina coladas coming, and the two masseuses who were so amazing at the spa. I can't say enough great things about this place. Pro-Tips: 1. As you depart, grab a bag or two of the divine locally grown coffee. I still have some and I can't wait to get back to purchase more. It's too expensive to export to the US. 2. For those who do not speak Spanish - While some staff speak English, you are visiting a Spanish-speaking place, so no on is ever obliged to speak to you in English (or any other language). Learn some important Spanish phrases or use Google Translate. The staff is also eager to practice other languages so conversations with staff can be quite pleasant and meaningful if approached with an open mind and heart. 3. This is a quiet place for rest and respite. Eve