Sierra Minca Day Tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start your adventure in Minca with fresh local coffee and homemade chocolate bread before exploring the region’s highlights in one unforgettable day. Unlike shorter tours, this experience combines the refreshing Marinka Waterfalls with the panoramic views of Sierra Minca, the famous eco-lodge perched 1,000 meters above sea level. Relax in giant hammocks, capture photos at the “big hands” and “big heart,” and enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by mountain scenery. For the adventurous, add an optional zipline ride over the jungle canopy. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, this tour offers the most complete way to discover Minca in comfort and style.
Available options
Sierra Minca Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch
Snacks
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Your adventure begins in the mountain village of Minca, the gateway to the Sierra Nevada. Here you’ll be welcomed with a cup of freshly brewed local coffee and a slice of homemade chocolate bread. It’s the perfect introduction to the region’s flavors and a chance to experience the relaxed charm of this small but vibrant town before heading deeper into the mountains.
2
Marinka is one of Minca’s most famous natural attractions—a spectacular two-tiered waterfall hidden in the forest. The upper cascade offers breathtaking photo opportunities, while the lower pool is perfect for swimming and cooling off. Surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of tropical birds, it’s the ideal place to relax and connect with nature. You’ll also find hammocks nearby, where you can unwind and take in the scenery before continuing your adventure.
3
Perched 1,000 meters above sea level, Sierra Minca is a mountaintop eco-lodge offering panoramic views of Santa Marta Bay and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Here, you can relax in giant hammocks, capture unforgettable photos at creative spots like the “big hands” and “big heart,” and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it the perfect place to recharge before heading back. For those seeking more adventure, Sierra Minca also offers an optional zipline ride through the jungle canopy (extra cost).
Available languages
Guide guide
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Santa Marta
Santa Marta is a vibrant coastal city in Colombia, known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and as the gateway to the iconic Tayrona National Park. This city offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination on the Caribbean coast.
Top Attractions
Tayrona National Park
A stunning national park with beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and diverse wildlife. Perfect for hiking, camping, and relaxing.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Moderate (Entry fee around $10-15 USD)
Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
A historic hacienda and museum dedicated to the life of Simón Bolívar, Colombia's legendary liberator.
Historical
2-3 hours
Budget (Entry fee around $2-5 USD)
Taganga
A charming fishing village with a laid-back vibe, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Beach
Half day or full day
Budget to Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter with rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, plantain, avocado, and arepa.
Lunch
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Arepas
Cornmeal cakes, often stuffed with cheese, meat, or vegetables.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
Appetizer
Contains seafood
Popular Activities
Hiking in Tayrona National Park
Trek to Ciudad Perdida
Surfing in Palomino
Beach relaxation in El Rodadero
Spa treatments
Coffee tasting in Minca
Visiting Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
Exploring Centro Histórico
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the dry season, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
26°C to 32°C
79°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Santa Marta is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and avoid walking alone at night in certain areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in certain areas
- • Use licensed taxis or app-based services
Getting there
By air
- Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport • 20 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte de Santa Marta
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely used, but can be crowded and slow.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
El Rodadero
Centro Histórico
Gairiga
Day trips
Minca
40 km • Full day or overnight
A picturesque mountain town known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and eco-lodges.
Palomino
80 km • Full day or overnight
A laid-back beach town with beautiful white sand beaches and a relaxed vibe.
Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)
40 km • Multi-day trek (4-5 days)
A challenging trek through the jungle to an ancient ruins site, older than Machu Picchu.
Festivals
Festival de la Autenticidad • January
Carnaval de Santa Marta • February/March (before Lent)
Feria de las Flores • July
Pro tips
- Visit Tayrona National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take a boat tour to the nearby islands for a unique experience
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and souvenirs
- Try the local coffee and seafood dishes
- Be cautious of pickpockets and avoid walking alone at night in certain areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
