bird watching tour minca

Bird Watching Tour

Bird watching, minca and tagua, description of the experience.

Discover the impressive diversity of birds in Minca, a privileged destination for birdwatchers in Santa Marta.

This tour takes you through the lush landscapes of the Sierra Nevada, home to a wide variety of bird species. Accompanied by local guides, you will have the opportunity to observe and photograph exotic birds in their natural habitat.

Ideal for beginners and experienced birders, the tour offers an educational and exciting experience in one of the best birding locations in Colombia. Prepare to be amazed by the colors and songs of the birds in this unique natural environment.

How to get there

To get to Minca, a small town in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Santa Marta, Colombia, you can follow several methods depending on your starting point. Here is a basic guide:

From Simon Bolivar International Airport (Santa Marta):

If you arrive by plane, you will land at the Simón Bolívar International Airport, located about 30 minutes from Santa Marta. From the airport, you can take a cab or private transport service directly to Minca.

From Santa Marta:

If you are already in Santa Marta, you have several options to get to Minca:

Cab: You can take a cab from anywhere in Santa Marta. It is a convenient and direct option, but more expensive.

Public transportation: Minibuses or “colectivos” to Minca leave regularly from the “Mercado Público” in Santa Marta. They are an economical and popular choice among travelers.

Organized tours: Many travel agencies in Santa Marta offer tours to Minca that include round trip transportation.

From other cities in Colombia:

If you are traveling from another Colombian city, you must first arrive in Santa Marta, either by air or by land (bus). Once in Santa Marta, follow the instructions above to get to Minca.

Itinerary of the experience

• Prepare your birding equipment (binoculars, camera, bird guide, snacks, water).
• Dress appropriately for hiking and variable weather conditions.
• Arrive in Minca, ideally by pre-arranged transportation.
• Meet with your local guide and receive a brief orientation on local bird species and sighting routes.
• Start your tour through the trails of Minca, observing and photographing birds.
• Take advantage of the guide’s expertise to learn about local species and their habitats.
• Take a short break to hydrate and have a snack.
• Continue with the second sighting session in a different location, looking for species that were not seen in the first session.
• Conclude the tour and return to the starting point.
• Share experiences and photos with the guide and other participants.
• Return to your lodging or departure point in Santa Marta.

What is included

• Local guide
• Information material.
• Daily insurance

Recommendations

The best dates to do a bird watching tour in Minca, near Santa Marta, depend mainly on the weather and migratory bird seasons. Here are some considerations:

Minca has a tropical mountain climate, with cooler temperatures and a more humid environment than on the coast. The dry season, which generally runs from December to March, is ideal for bird watching, as there is less rain and roads are more accessible.

Migratory bird season:

Between September and November, as well as from March to May, migratory birds can be observed along with local species. These periods are especially exciting for birders.

Tourist season:

High season in and around Santa Marta is from December to March. During these months, the area can be busier, but also offers drier and sunnier weather. The low season, which runs from April to November, offers fewer crowds and can be a good option if you prefer a quieter experience, although with a higher probability of rain.

What to bring

• Appropriate clothing.
• Water bottle.
• Hydration and food.
• Sun protection.
• Insect repellent.

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Exploring Minca – Top Spot for Birding in Colombia

Minca is undoubtedly one of the best spots for birding in Colombia. So when I was chalking out my rough Colombia itinerary, I knew I simply HAD to check out this wonderful mountain town surrounded by lush green forests of Sierra Nevada.

After visiting the northernmost tip of South America – Punta Gallinas , which simply took my breath away, I was raring to add more jewels to my Colombian escapade. I lucked out again with this Minca bird watching trip as it turned out to be an absolutely amazing addition to my 3 weeks Colombia tour.

Quick Plan Your Trip to Minca Colombia

Are you planning at the very last minute or have only a couple of days before your trip? Here are some tours and hotels that will help plan your Minca itinerary in a jiffy. I have selected them based on personal experiences and traveler ratings.

Best tours in Minca – For Birding and other Adventures

Birdwatching Minca tour 3 hours 2 Day Minca Tour + Birding from Santa Marta (All logistics included) Other must try tours in Minca (non birding) – Minca Coffee and Cocoa tour , Minca Quadbike adventure tour and Minca extreme adventure (highly recommended for adrenaline junkies ).

Best Hotels in Minca

Finca Carpe Diem EcoLodge – Where I personally stayed and enjoyed the nature, infinity pool and serenity. Costeno River Minca Rio Elemento

Bird Watching Minca – What to Expect

Colombia is the number one country in the world based on bird diversity with over 1900 species. In Sierra Nevada region itself, there are over 345 species, out of which over 190 can be spotted in Minca! The region also boasts of cute birding and jungle lodges. 

I heard excellent things about Jungle Joe’s birding tours throughout my travels across Colombia so I knew beforehand that I would be using his services for my only chance at spotting birds of Colombia. This was told to me to be one of the best bird watching tours Colombia and rightly so, as I soon found out.

30 mins into the tour we saw 4 Aracari’s and a Keel-billed Toucan – I was convinced I made the right decision.

I felt bad for leaving my zoom canon powershot camera back home in India – such a shame else I would’ve got some stunning shots. From my phone, all I could get was a silhouette.

Joe knows the area inside out. He is highly skilled about bird sounds, habitat and knows exactly the best spots and vantage points around for best birding options. You simply cannot go wrong by choosing him.

Birds of Minca Colombia – Checklist from our Tour

As an avid birder, I always jot down and make a checklist of birds spotted in every area/ tour – especially if its a new country where all birds could be lifers.

If you are wondering “ Are there Toucans in Colombia ” then you must try this birding tour in Colombia to see them yourself and be convinced. 

Here’s a checklist of birds I spotted in just one birding tour of Minca with Jungle Joe – Pale-breasted thrush, Orange-chinned parakeet, White-headed wren, Blue-gray tanager, Thick-billed euphonia, Palm tanager, Rufous-capped Warbler, Red-crowned woodpecker, Keel-billed toucan, Aracari,Groove-billed ani, Ruddy ground dove, Golden-winged sparrow, Steely-vented Hummingbird, Broad-billed flycatcher, Yellow warbler, Whooping motmot,Crimson-backed tanager, Long-billed starthroat, Southern beardless tyrannulet, Scaled pigeon, Rufous-breasted wren and Barred antshrike.

I am sure I missed a few and we surely saw over 10 different types of hummingbirds which I simply couldn’t keep track of.

What Else to Expect on the Tour?

Apart from a lovely nature walk, you will also see various flora and fauna and Joe will be happy to help you with names if you are keen. You can also spot a few butterflies and if you are lucky, like us, the most venomous snake in South America – eeks !

Our snake story is quite interesting actually. So while looking up at treetops, we obviously didn’t spot a well-camouflaged snake in our path. There were two hikers coming from the other side and one of them spotted it, shrugged it off as dead after gawking for a minute and walked off.

When we reached the spot to see what they were looking at – lo behold, as Joe confirmed, it was a Mapana snake (local name for the lethal snake Bothrops Atrox ) whose venom is extremely potent. This Mapana looked tiny and well pretty harmless and as the other hikers gauged, very much dead!

With my years of experience in jungle walks and hikes, I was 100% sure the snake was dead and was ready to move on after one look. However, Joe informed us the snake was just playing dead and can be extremely dangerous.

He had to move the snake from the middle of the path to keep other hikers and birders safe. When he used a stick to move it, the snake suddenly jumped to life and wrigged away in the undergrowth.

All of us stared in complete shock !!! So it was indeed just playing dead. We would’ve never figured it out. Another good reason for taking a guided tour especially in dense South American jungles – it only makes sense to be safe.

Since our adrenaline pumping snake encounter, most of us started looking down at the path instead of for birds perched on treetops – Wise decision, I would say 🙂

By the time our tour ended, I had already made several friends and we ended up chatting for a few hours about birdwatching and wildlife experiences across the world, over a scrumptious coffee and breakfast.

How to Book your Birding Tour in Minca

Jungle Joe Minca is undoubtedly your man for this tour! There are several other cheaper options around but I would recommend spending a few bucks more and going with the best.

I had been hearing great things about Joe throughout my trip from other travellers so I knew I made the right choice and can safely recommend him further.

You can contact him through his website here or simply drop him an email at – [email protected] . The cost is 40,000 pesos (Approx $12) for this educational 3-hour tour. If you want them to include transportation from Santa Marta, you can add 40,000 pesos per way. I would recommend taking it to reach Minca at least (if you are not staying there already) as the tour starts very early in the morning (0530 hrs) and public transport is not available then.

Various other Colombia birding tours I found were expensive but Jungle Joe tours are cost-effective. Joe himself is a very friendly, fun and knowledgeable guy so I have no hesitation in recommending him.

This tour is apt for beginners as well as advanced birders. They also give out binoculars so you don’t have to carry your own. 

However, it is advised to pack – Trekking shoes, insect repellent, drinking water and maybe some nuts/snacks.

A hat, good sunscreen and a nice pair of sunglasses can help in the summer sun. Payment is made in cash before the tour so ensure you have enough on you.

Jungle Joe Minca i-center also offers other tours around Minca which you can check out here if interested. I haven’t tried them out personally but I am sure they will be just as great.

Where to stay in Minca

While booking my Minca hotel, I didn’t realize how huge Minca is. With rough terrain and jungles, it makes it harder to use shortcuts and there are no roads tying the ends.

I made a mistake of booking a hostel in “Finca” instead of “Minca” though it turned out to be an amazing adventure. My hostel was Finca carpe diem and it was the perfect choice to unwind in nature. 

With two different pools overlooking stunning mountain forests, tons of amazing waterfalls and hikes nearby, there was no dearth of outdoorsy things to do here. Just sitting by the pool reading a book or playing drinking games with hostel mates every night was a great experience.

All in all, I simply LOVED it!

However, that meant I had to go back to Santa Marta and revisit Minca for this tour with Jungle Joe.

Totally worth it, but if your prime focus is birding in Minca then I would recommend booking a hotel in the city center of Minca, near the police station so that you can embark on guided birding tours in Minca easily.

Since all birds of South America were new for me and I have never tried birdwatching in Colombia, taking a guided tour was literally the only way to spot and identify new species.

Here are some good options for accommodation in Minca center –

Hostal Rio Elemento – One of the best hostels in Minca, hands down. This one boasts of the giant hammocks overlooking the valley.

Hostal Cocobomgo – Small basic hostel, half km from the city center of Minca – One of the best rated on hostels in Minca.

Finca Hostel Bolivar – Right by the stream for a dip any time of the day amidst lush jungles of Minca is this next top rated stay in Minca.

Minca Birding FAQ’s

Where can i see toucan minca.

Either in Tayrona national park or around this Sierra Nevada mountains.

Where can I see Birds in Minca?

The route to Campano - San Lorenzo is sought after by avid birders for excellent birding opportunities. When you go in a guided tour you dont have to worry about finding the best routes or spots.

Which are the Top Birds to Spot in Minca?

Popular among birders are the Caribbean Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus), the beautiful Rufous-tailed Jacamar (Galbula Ruficauda), and several species of hummingbird.

Is Minca Colombia Worth Visiting?

YES! If you love nature and outdoors. It is perfect place for jungle waterfall treks, coffee plantations, birding, and a relaxed backpacker vibe.

All in all, I absolutely loved my time in Minca and my non sponsored tour with Jungle Joe (This post and recommendation comes straight from the heart). If you happen to be birding in Colombia – don’t miss this excellent tour for your Minca birding trip.

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2 Day Minca Tour with Bird Watching

• Private transportation
• Entry/Admission - Minca
• Cra. 5ª #261, Minca, Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia Diagonal a la iglesia, en Embassy Bank Center
• Marina Santa Marta, Cl. 23, Comuna 2, Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Museo del Cacao de Minca

Similar experiences

• 118lauraannem 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Wasn’t a fan Wouldn’t bother. Total chaos getting picked up and then on the way back driver wouldn’t drop us off where agreed because couldn’t be bothered. V unprofessional. We were getting picked up by Mototaxi and the Joe driver pretended to be helpful by calling out Moto driver bit really just gave them wrong info to suit him and that ended up costing us more to get to the hostel. If staying in Santa Marta maybe tour makes sense but not from bonda. Waterfall was tiny and the hike was just a quick walk. Lunch not served until we’ll past 2pm which was annoying for a 8am pick up Read more Written April 4, 2024
• grahamgD8003LI 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day trip Great day trip - the coffee tour was interesting, the waterfall was beautiful, the lunch was great, and the chocolate making experience was informative and surprisingly delicious. Read more Written March 10, 2024
• I1380SQchuckm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Mini Jungle Experience Minca is great. Wear pants and long sleved tops, there are small flies that bite in addtion to the mosquitos. The waterfalls are great. You don't actually walk a full day however. The session at the end explaining cocoa and other aspects of the area was interesting. Read more Written March 1, 2024
• Ana C 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great hike, worth it! Check transportation. The overall experience was great. We learned so much about the mega-diversity of Colombia and the zone. We had stops during the hikes to learn about the Bamboo, and some of the Indigenous rituals. Arriving and being able yo enjoy the refreshing waters of the Cascada Oido del Mundo made the whole excursion rewarding. During the visit to the mini coffee farm we got to see a Toucan, parrots and great plants. We learned about the coffee process and the owner faces us a moka-made coffee. The hike to the lunch area was a bit tough under the heat and sun but also the Bamboo place where they hosted us was rewarding: great lunch, Biodiversity talk and learning about the Cacao process making our own little chocolate bar. The small & unique hotel made from Bamboo was quaint and with great views. Our guide Gustavo was great & knowledgeable, as they were the other 2 guides who gave the biodiversity & cacao talks. Their English command was excellent as it was their ability to provide all the facts switching back & forth between both languages… My comment for improvement is the transportation: they should make it very clear to the guests about the taxi pick up: they use the yellow ones which are very small for 2 couples: especially at the return when everyone is sweaty, tired etc. This tour should offer the option of a taxi per couple- I’m sure the couple would pay the extra for the additional comfort and not feeling like in a can of sardines during the trip to & from Minca back to Santa Marta. Read more Written February 21, 2024
• Iván Felipe B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beyond expectations! Excellent attention, very cultural, the coolest connection with nature, local culture, having the opportunity to taste the best chocolate on planet earth! Read more Written February 5, 2024
• O7324OYharryb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unfortunately event but Well this review is not the usual. One person in our party fell and hurt her wrist. The response from the tour team was tremendous!!. The arranged medical care etc. We can't thank them enough.!!! We were not able to see the water fall or the coffee plantation. But they arranged for us the have lunch and see the cacoa presentation then arranged for our taxi for a special pick so our friend did not have to walk to far. Thanks again Read more Written February 5, 2024
• Roam00881034971 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Minca Coffee and Cocoa Tour I was very impressed with this tour. It by far exceeded my expectations. The hike, stop by the water falls/spring, local coffee farm tour, lunch, cocoa workshop and very interesting talks about Columbia’s biodiversity really made this a unique and memorable experience. For the lunch, I was offered the option of a vegetarian meal which I really appreciated and could say it was one of my best meals in Columbia so far. We also had a really lovely and international tour group, which we enjoyed getting to know. My only suggestion for improving the experience is for trip advisor to confirm pick up time and location in the confirmation email and provide a direct contact to reach the organizer. Given my short notice booking, my husband and I were missed in the morning pick up. I had to find jungle Joe’s contact through google pages unrelated to tripadvisor and just hoped I found the right person when I realized nobody was coming to get us. Fortunately, Jungle Joe’s team responded rapidly and arranged for our pick up, but I was disappointed in not being able to reach tripadvisor directly and could not seem to connect to their 1800 line from my hotel. Overall, the tour was very thoughtful and well done. I would highly recommend it and also thought the price was very reasonable considering everything that was included. Read more Written January 27, 2024
• manupO1695SK 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Pick up worked great, driver messaged me to confirm address and told when he arrives. Tour guide we had was amazing and told a lot of stuff nature. And people who was with me on tour were really nice. So I have no reason to give anything else than 5 stars. Read more Written January 20, 2024
• JFK_x2003 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Picturesque and Informative. A good excursion from Santa Marta. Knowledgeable guide that provided useful descriptions of the biodiversity of the area, and the roles and impact of coffee and cocoa farming. Read more Written January 7, 2024
• ariane_normon 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great trip The views were awesome. The stories and explanations of the guides were extraordinary. I expected more from the coffee workshop. The cacao workshop was very interesting and entertaining. There was a miscommunication from tripadvisor about the pick-up point. Tripadvisor gave us an address and time we would be picked up, so we walked for half an hour to the meeting point, made it on time, finally get a WhatsApp message from the organisation to give our hotel details so they could pick us up. All went well at the end but the communication was totally wrong. Read more Written December 24, 2023
• Laura S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous. Exceeded expectation. This was a fabulous tour. Tony was so knowledgeable and informative. We leaearned a lot and enjoyed coffee, lunch and cocoa. It far exceeded our expectations and was worth ever dollar or peso. Read more Written December 11, 2023
• Keith H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bird watching with Jungle Joe You may not be an avid bird watcher, ( like myself ) but if you enjoy nature and wildlife in general this is a great option. We were supplied with binoculars, and from the very start the education of what was around us started. Our guide Gustaavo obviously has a great deal of knowledge which he conveyed in a friendly and enthusiastic way. He was a really good host. I got to see a Toucan amongst a variety of other exciting birds I didn’t know existed. Be aware that you will be walking for three hours with some gradients are involved , but it’s not excessively challenging. I would do this tour again. Read more Written December 3, 2023
• angela H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Must do in Santa Marta! Great experience! The guides were very knowledgeable and inviting to better understand the biodiversity of Colombia and also the process of coffee and chocolate. Highly recomend and prepare for a 360 experience in the Santa Marta mountains. Read more Written November 13, 2023
• Tyler M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Incredible day trip experience in Minca This is an incredible experience that I highly recommend to other travelers. Transportation was provided from my hostel in Centro Santa Marta to Minca (by private taxi with other travelers in the group). The tour starts with a hike to the waterfall, bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim and not be wet. Next was a walk to the artisinal coffee farm, very interesting, and informative discussion on coffee production and we tried some excellent coffee. Next a long walk back through Minca to Jungle Joe Hostel for lunch. Lunch was very tasty. We took a short break at the hostel which had a great view and some hammocks to relax in. A short nature talk about Colombia with Tony was next, really cool for any animal and nature lover. And last was the cacao workshop. It was amazing to see the cacao process from fruit, which we tasted, to a little chocolate bar we each made ourselves. Lastly, we walked back to town, then taxis took us back to our hostels in Santa Marta. I very highly recommend this experience. I also want to mention Tony specifically who was my group’s guide. He is kind, very knowledgeable, interesting to speak with, and made this experience very special. Thanks Tony! Read more Written November 9, 2023
• selwyne2017 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent day trip experience! Joes Jungle experience is a must do while in Santa Marta Tony our guide for the day was awesome very informative on whole range of topics regarding Colombia the jungle, birds, ecosystem, coffee and about chocolate. Learnt a lot and was great walking through the jungle seeing how the coffee is made from start to finish product, stopped for swim at the water full which was great then onto Joes Juggle bamboo stay for a amazing lunch this place is a must see! Beautiful place to stay & Joel is a great Guy he will show you around his amazing place! Thanks Joel never got to thank you. Then after lunch Tony talked about birds and other animals of Colombian bush land, then finished off with the chocolate experience which was great. So many thanks to Tony & Joe & the Team at Juggle Joes 😊👍 Read more Written September 30, 2023

More to explore in Minca

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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BIRD WATCHING IN MINCA – PRIVATE TOUR

Minca is a small coffee town located in the lower part of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where we can see different tributaries and lush vegetation that make this place a unique and special paradise, this tour is ideal for people who want to immerse themselves in virgin nature and seek to discover endemic species in exotic landscapes.

With points of high density of birds, the route to Campano – San Lorenzo is an excellent route for this activity with a high average of observation of different species, including the amazing Caribbean Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus) , the beautiful Rufous-tailed Jacamar (Galbula ruficauda) , plus many species of hummingbird.

The tour begins at 6:30 in the morning, at the end of the sighting we will visit the La Victoria coffee farm where we will take the coffee tour, in this place you can consume delicious homemade cakes at a comfortable price and consume the coffee that you want totally free.

PROGRAM DETAILS

• Daily departure.
• 8 hours long
• Specialized Guide.
• Entrance to Victory.
• Land transportation.

Does not include:

• Food and drinks.
• Unspecified services.

RECOMMENDED POINTS:

• Walking shoes.
• Insect repellent.
• Identification document.
• Sunglasses.
• Get the yellow fever vaccine.
• Binoculars.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• In the confirmation bonus, You will find general information about the payment made and information about your operator.
• The itinerary of the excursions, as well as the day of execution, they may undergo variations if weather conditions require it.
• Guaranteed departures: The circuits will operate with a minimum of 2 people. There is the possibility of confirming circuit departures with a single person. Consult supplement.

Complete the following information

Cartagena Explorer

Practical Guide to the Lush Mountain Town of Minca, Colombia

Minca is a small town in the mountains above santa marta.  sporting picturesque scenery with a lush forest, stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and several waterfalls, minca is well worth a stop during a visit to colombia’s caribbean coast.  read on for a complete travel guide to minca, colombia, including why you should visit, where to stay in minca, what to do in minca, how to get there, and travel and packing tips for when you do visit..

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I am a member of Amazon Associates, LLC and other affiliate programs and earn from qualifying purchases made after clicking those links. There is never any additional cost to you. To learn more please consult our Disclosure Policy.

Travel Guide to Minca, Colombia – Contents

• Intro – Is Minca worth visiting?
• Best Things to Do in Minca
• Where to Stay in Minca
• Packing List

How to Get to Minca

Is minca safe, where to eat in minca.

• Other Practical Tips for Minca

Intoduction – Is Minca, Colombia worth visting?

Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting! You may have heard Minca mentioned as one of the best hidden gems in Colombia or perhaps as a great off the beaten path in Colombia destination. That was true for a long time, as this small town was mostly just a stop for backpackers and avid hikers.

However, the secret has certainly gotten out, and Minca has become one of the top ecotourism destinations in Colombia and is very much on the mainstream travel map . I would go so far as even naming it one of the must sees in Colombia, especially on a visit to Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Waterfalls, hiking, birdwatching, great cafes, locally grown coffee, and even a local brewery, this little town has it all.

I first visited Minca during my first year in Colombia in 2011.  I just went up for a day and explored while staying in Santa Marta.  My wife and I returned to visit in May 2018, and the tourist scene has grown quite a bit, but is not overrun and still feels like a quiet little town in the mountains .

If you want to make your planning hassle free, you might also consider booking your Colombia trip with BnB Colombia . They offer a convenient 5 day tour that includes Santa Marta, Minca, and Tayrona. Use the discount code ExploreColombia10 to get 10% off!

Where is Minca, Colombia?

Minca is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains above Santa Marta, about 650 m above sea level. Its jungle covered mountains are a nice break from the more beach centric destinations of the coast like Palomino, Tayrona , and the San Bernardo Islands , as well as from the cities of Cartagena and Santa Marta.

It also makes for a great stopover before or after doing the Ciudad Perdida trek . Its higher elevation makes it a tad cooler than the blistering heat of the rest of the coast too, which can be a welcome break!

There has been a proliferation of small hostels and eco-hotels around the town offering easy access to the surrounding nature, and there are also some good little restaurants that have opened up in town catering to the tourist crowd, but still at very reasonable prices, especially when compared to Cartagena.

If you’re looking to see a couple beautiful waterfalls, do some hiking, or just relax in the peace and quiet of nature , you should consider spending some time in Minca . If I’ve convinced you to visit Minca, Colombia yourself, then read on.  In this travel guide to Minca, you will learn what to do in Minca, where to stay in Minca, how to get to Minca, and practical tips for Minca, including a packing list.

Things to Do in Minca , Colombia

If you’re wondering what to do in Minca, Colombia, you might be asking if there is really all that much to do in a little mountain town. Actually, there are quite a bit of things to do in Minca! From multi-day hikes to easier, short ones ending with a dip in a swimming hole, from a coffee farm to a cacao farm, from early morning bird watching to friendly, little cafes with nice happy hours, Minca has something for everyone . Read on to learn about the best things to do and see in Minca, Colombia.

Visit the Marinka Waterfall

The falls at Marinka were by far the highlight of our visit to Minca , and are one of the can’t miss Minca things to do and at the top of our list of what to see in Minca.  Sporting two falls and a nice little swimming hole, we found it much more impressive than the better known and more frequented (and therefore more crowded) Pozo Azul.

You can get to the Marinka Waterfall by following the main road to the right from the bridge at the center of town.   The hike there is mostly pleasant along the little road out of town, with the last leg being a bit taxing uphill (we were out of breath when we arrived). The hike to Marinka waterfall should take about 90 minutes depending on your pace. Don’t worry if you sweat a bit, the refreshing mountain water of the falls are perfect for cooling off!

Keep your eyes peeled for birds and butterflies along the way.  Do also watch out for motos and trucks coming around the bends on the road.  You could also opt to take a moto-taxi from town if you’re pressed for time or not up for the walk .

Once there, there is a small entrance fee of 5,000 pesos a person .  However, it is worth it as the owners have put in the time to make it a nice place to visit.  There’s a little cafe on site as well as bathrooms and changing rooms.  Also, they have some of the big hammocks overlooking the falls, a great spot for a picture (the picture at the top of the post was taken here).

Be sure to hike up to the upper falls as well, as they are a bit taller.  Although the water isn’t deep enough to swim here, you can still stand under the falls and get a refreshing blast of icy cold water or be like Susana and do some supermodel poses for photos.  After seeing them, head down to the lower falls, where the water is about waist deep and you can go for a little swim.

If you’re looking for something extreme to include on your list of things to do in Minca, you can even rappel down the waterfall (this wasn’t there last time we were in town, but it looks like fun!)

I’d recommend heading to Marinka early in the day to beat the crowds and not feel rushed given the hike back to town.  We went in the morning and then stopped in town for lunch before going to Pozo Azul in the afternoon. Regardless of when you go, you’ll want to include Marinka amongs your things to see in Minca, Colombia!

Pozo Azul is another, smaller falls and watering hole just outside of Minca . It’s easy to reach and one of the most commonly visited places to see in Minca.  It’s about a 45 minute walk heading straight up the road from the bridge in the center of town .  Again, you can also take moto-taxis if you’re pressed for time or not up for walking uphill.  There’s no entrance fee for Pozo Azul in Minca.

The “blue well” was not really all that blue when we went as it had been raining a lot.  In fact, shortly after we got there, the water rose quickly as it was raining father up the mountain.

If you are short on time and can only do one of the falls, do Marinka, as it is more impressive .  However, if you have the time Pozo Azul is still definitely worth including in your plans for what to do in Minca spending some time splashing around.  Hopefully, you’ll have better luck than us and don’t have to hightail it out of there a few minutes after arriving.

If you able to enjoy it, there are 3 falls in total. You can find the path up to the others on the left hand side of the swimming hole at the first falls. You will likely find smaller crowds at the higher falls if you’re looking to hang out and do some swimming for a bit. Do note that during tourist high seasons around Christmas and New Years, Pozo Azul can get quite crowded as it is one of the most popular things to see in Minca.

Tour La Victoria Coffee Farm

I highly recommend including a visit to La Victoria in your plans for what to see in Minca.  They still use machinery imported into Colombia in the early 1900s .  Even more impressive is the whole process uses water, not only to hydraulically power the machinery, but to move the coffee beans from one step in the process to the next.

We were there during the offseason, but our tour guide still walked us through each step of the process, explaining how the machinery works.   I imagine it would be a real treat to be there during the harvest and actually see it all in action. I’ve done several coffee tours during my time in Colombia, so I had a handle on the plant to cup process, but I learned a lot during the tour .

In fact, I would probably say that this is tied with the tour we did outside Salento for the best coffee farm tour I have ever done.  In particular, I learned more about how the industry works and the different grades of coffee.  Of course, the highest quality beans are reserved for export, but they do keep some on hand that you can buy at the end of the tour and take home to enjoy later (also highly recommended!).

The tour takes about 45 minutes, and you get a cup of coffee before and after .  Even if like me, you’ve done the coffee plantation tour before, it’s still worth including Victoria as one of your places to visit in Minca to see the machinery and gleam some nuggets of extra wisdom.

The craft brewery Cervecería Nevada is also on-site, and while they weren’t offering tours of the brewery while we were there, you could sample the beers.  For a coffee and beer lover like me, Marinka and La Victoria are the two can’t miss places to see in Minca, Colombia if you have limited time.

You can get to Victoria along the same road straight out the back of town from the bridge that brings you to Pozo Azul . The walk should take around 2 hours and while mostly easy going, it is uphill. You can also get a mototaxi from town .

If you’d like to do a tour that includes La Victoria and Marinka, you can check out this tour (via Viator), which is on the pricey side but does include all admission costs and private air conditioned transportation.  You could also check out this one (via GetYourGuide) that is very similar but also includes lunch.

Visit a Cacao Farm

There are several cacao farms outside Minca as well. In fact, there are several that produce both coffee and cacao. We have not done this, but it sounds pretty interesting.

If you’re not a coffee fan or are planning on doing coffee tours elsewhere in Colombia, perhaps doing the cacao farm and learning the chocolate from bean to bar or cup process works is a good alternative to La Victoria.

Of course, doing both is also an if you have the time option since La Victoria’s machinery is so unique and the tour so good! You can book a day tour that includes hiking as well as both coffee and cacao explanations via GetYourGuide.

Visit the Memorial Center of the Sierra Nevada

Minca was once a flashpoint of Colombia’s internal conflict as the FARC rebels controlled the town and the area around it before paramilitaries started a campaign against them in the mid-90s, one that saw many civilians brutally caught in the cross fire.

The Memorial Center of the Sierra Nevada tells that story as well as the history of the 4 indigenous groups that are represented in Minca’s local population.   It was not open the last time we were in Minca, but it looks to be very well done, and we will definitely have to visit it when we return to Minca. It’s easy to forget the long internal conflict of Colombia that so severely affected civilian populations and made many beautiful places like Minca no go zones for tourists for so long.

Supporting places like this helps to make sure that story is told as well as give you a deeper understanding and appreciation for Colombia and its people. The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9-11 am and 1-4 pm .  It also offers language exchanges in the morning hours.  Learn more at its website or you can book a tour ahead of time (via Viator).

Visit Casa Elemento (*closed)

You’ll find Casa Elemento listed on most things to do in Minca and best hostels in Minca lists. It was a nice hostel located up in the mountains above town, most famous for its giant hammocks. Many considered it at the top Minca hostel, and you’ve likely seen the pictures there of someone standing on a huge hammock overlooking a stunning mountain view.

Unfortunately, in December 2019, Casa Elemento was closed , apparently due to a dispute between the landowner and hostel manager. There’s not a lot of clear information online, and there was originally reports it would reopen in early 2020. Well, the rest of 2020 happened, and they have not posted anything to social media since December 2019, so I think it is unlikely they reopen at this point .

If something changes, I will try to update, but for the time being, you’ll have to cross Casa Elemento off your list of Minca places to see.

Bird Watching

If you’re willing to get up very early and can fit it into your schedule, there are bird watching tours in Minca .  We didn’t do one since we didn’t have the time over our two days.  However, everyone I’ve talked to who has done it has said it was well worth it. Any of the hotels or hostels in Minca should be able to set up a bird watching tour, and I’ve also heard good things about Jungle Joe .

Go on a Longer Hike to Cerro Kennedy or Los Pinos

Cerro kennedy 2 day hike.

Cerro Kennedy sits up higher in the mountains and offers some terrific views of the highest point in Colombia, the snow covered Pico Colón and its twin Pico Simón Bolívar, only a few feet shorter.

Getting to the peak takes around 8 hours from town , so you will have to do this over two days round trip, including taking a tent (you will also need warmer clothing for the cold night higher up). For those that don’t have the time to do the Lost City trek , this is a good, shorter hike.

We have not done this hike but have heard it is not too difficult if you are in decent shape. It is possible to hire a guide or go with a group tour or do on your own. You can see a write up on doing it yourself here if you’d like to learn more about it.

Los Pinos Full Day Hike

Los Pinos is a lower look out point that can be hiked round trip in a day. The total round trip hike takes 7-8 hours and is also of moderate difficulty, so make sure you leave early to give yourself the full day and plenty of sunlight.

We have not done this hike either, but we took mototaxis up to it after Casa Elemento, since it wasn’t too much further and allowed us to do a loop and stop at La Victoria on the way back down. In fact, if you’re pressed for time, hiring motos for the day to have you do a loop that includes Marinka, Los Pinos, La Victoria, and Pozo Azul would be a great way to maximize what you see in one day in Minca.

Unfortunately, the clouds made the view not so good the day we went, but on a clear day, you should be able to get a great view of Santa Marta and the Caribbean below. Los Pinos also be reached on mountain bike, and if you find yourself running short on time, you may be able to hitch a ride on a moto on the way back. There’s a good write up of the hike (which has a clearly marked path) at this Medium post from The Stella Way .

Enjoy the Peace and Quiet of Nature

If you’re pressed for time and want to fit in as much as possible, you can do moto-taxis to just about all of the things to do in Minca.  However, you came to Minca to enjoy the fresh mountain air, so make a point to at least hike to one of the things to see in Minca.  It’s well worth it to enjoy the natural surroundings.  And don’t forget to be on the lookout for butterflies and toucans!

Where to Stay in Minca, Colombia

Can you do a day trip to minca.

Yes, you can certainly do a day trip to Minca from Santa Marta.  Especially if you’re willing to take moto taxis around, you can easily do the waterfalls and Victoria in a day on your own.

If you’d prefer to do a day trip to Minca as part of an organized tour, you can check out this day tour from BnB Colombia (use the code ExploreColombia10 for 10% off) and this tour (via GetYourGuide with stops at La Victoria and Marinka). For a creative way to do a day trip to Minca, you can do an E-Bike Tour of Minca out of Santa Marta (via Viator).

However, I’d really recommend staying a few nights in Minca .  It will let you not have to feel like you’re rushing through any of the things to see in Minca, and trust me, the cooler air in the evening is a nice break from the heat of the coast.

You’ll also be able to enjoy the little cafes and happy hours in town mentioned in the where to eat section below and feel like you’re away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a bit.  Plus, you can still easily go into Santa Marta for the day and see the sights there.

In fact, unless you just really feel like you have to experience the nightlife in Santa Marta, I’d actually suggest staying in Minca and doing a day trip to Santa Marta over vice versa .  Speaking of touring Santa Marta, check out this list of things to do in Santa Marta , or if you want a unique tour of Santa Marta, check out this audio tour with the voice of famous Colombian singer and Santa Marta native Carlos Vives.

If you’re wondering where can I sleep in Minca, there are a ton of options for places to stay in Minca, ranging from hostels, small hotels in town, or eco-hotels in the surrounding area.

How many days in Minca, Colombia do you recommend?

I think for most visitors, 2-3 nights will be the sweet spot . Two full days will let you see most of the best things to see in Minca if you are are on the go or willing to do motos for some of them. A third day will let you also get in a bird watching tour or let you hike to all the highlights.

For those planning the hike to Los Pinos or Cerro Kennedy or just wanting a day to two of rest and relaxation in the mountains planning on 4 or 5 nights might be best. Personally, next time we go back, I’d like to spend a week or more just to fully enjoy being away from it all! Here are some recommendations for the best places to stay in Minca:

Minca Glamping   – Where We Stayed and Highly Recommended

When Susana and I visited, we stayed at  Minca Glamping .  The property was fairly new, just opening in early 2018 and  run by a lovely couple .  About 20 minutes outside of town, it’s aptly named as you feel like you are really in the forest, but you can still get to town easily. 

There are only  a couple small, lovely cabins, each sporting a little porch with a hammock, electricity, running water, and even a coffee maker .  While we were on the go during most of the two days we stayed, it was  super relaxing  in the evening, and  we saw lots of birds and butterflies around the property.

The included breakfast was also great as were the dinners we had both nights. We also thought this was a good bank for your peso type of value and a good option for couples or a family.

Sierra Alta Finca Boutique  – Best Luxury Mountain Lodge

Far removed from town along the road past La Victoria, Sierra Alta Finca Boutique is one of the best high end properties outside of Minca. For those looking for a secluded guest house experience while still being comfortable (there’s even a hot tub), this is tough to beat for the best place to stay in Minca.

Casa Loma Minca – Best Minca Hostel

Casa Loma was one of the first hostels in Minca and it definitely remains among the best hostels in Minca. It is located atop a hill above town, and has spectacular views. I actually hiked up here one day for a cup of coffee, not realizing it is a decent little hike up a hill not far from the center of town. This should be the top choice for those looking for a hostel in Minca, backpackers, and solo travelers.

Hostal Sierra Minca – Neat Minca Hostel in the Mountains

If you’re looking for where to stay in Minca that is similar to what Casa Elemento used to be, check out Hostal Sierra Minca . They are located pretty far up in the hills above town, they have big hammocks, and they have these cool hands you can stand on looking out over the mountains as well as a swing. You may have seen these be a hit on Instagram recently. There is a private bungalow here as well as dorms. For those looking for the hostel experience away from town with amazing views and/or looking for an alternative to Casa Elemento, this is a terrific option.

Casas Viejas – Fun Lodges at La Victoria

Casas Viejas offers a nice medium for those looking for an atmosphere where you can meet other travelers but wanting more comfortable accommodations than one of the backpacker hostels in Minca. The cabins here are very nice and there are activities offered. Plus you know you’ll have great coffee and craft beer made right on site!

Sol de Minca – Another Great Eco-Lodge Closer to Town

Sol de Minca is another good choice for an eco-lodge outside of town. It is also closer than most of the other eco-lodges, located just a little bit before town on the road from Santa Marta. The rooms are rustic and pretty and have amazing views.

Minca Ecohabs – Another Great Option for Cabins in Minca

Minca Ecohabs is one of the best known and established places to stay in Minca. They are just outside of town and would be a great choice for those who want to have the gorgeous views of the mountains and feel immersed in the nature of Minca but not feel removed from civilization in the middle of the jungle.

Hotel Minca La Casona – Place to Stay in Minca Proper

All the places on this list of where to stay in Minca so far are a bit out of town. Hotel Minca by La Casona is smack dab in the middle of town. If you’d prefer to have options for dinner or enjoy some drinks in the evening in town, this might be a good option for all or part of your time in Minca. If you want something a bit nicer in town, you might also consider Hotel On the Rock .

Packing List – What to Pack for Minca, Colombia

What to wear in minca.

While it’s cooler than at sea level along the coast, it’s still a mostly humid, tropical climate. You’ll also likely be doing plenty of walking and paths can get muddy after rain, so wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. Having along something in case it gets chilly in the evening after it rains or if you plan on staying a bit higher up at one of lodges or hostels outside of town is also a good idea.

Recommendations for What to Wear in Minca for Her

• These tank tops would be great for hiking around Minca.  They could also be easily worn over a bathing suit for taking dips in the waterfalls.
• So could these button up outdoor shirts .
• These Columbia capris  are light and dry quickly, making them perfect for Minca or traveling anywhere.
• Susana loves wearing leggings like these when we are hiking too.
• This halter top bikini  is not only cute and sporty but the leaf print is perfect for the lush forests and waterfalls of Minca.
• Chaco’s ZX2 Sandals  are comfortable for long walks and you won’t have to worry about putting shoes back on after a dip in the falls.
• This cute leaf print drawstring bag  is a handy thing to stow your camera, a bottle of water, and whatever else you need as you explore around Minca, Colombia.
• Finally, a little pull over like this one works while hiking or if it gets chilly in the evening.

Recommendations for What to Wear in Minca for Him:

• Columbia’s Thistletown Tees  are light, comfortable, and wick moisture away, perfect for exploring Minca, Colombia.
• Their Polos are as well.
• For a button up, check out  Columbia’s Blood and Guts shirts .  Made for fishing, they would also hold up well hiking around Minca.
• These quick dry shorts are good for hiking around Minca as well.
• And for my last Columbia shout out, their  Silver Ridge cargo pants  are light and dry quick as well.
• You guys will also want to take a dip in the refreshing water of the falls, so don’t forget your trunks.   These palm print board shorts from APTRO  would serve you well.
• Keen sandal sneakers would also be great and comfortable hiking and waterfall hopping.

Travel Gear to Pack for Minca

• Susana and I both have Osprey Porter 46L bags and love them. They pack a lot, can be carried as a backpack or duffle, and work as a carryon. If you’re looking for a day pack, I also love my Roam backpack (see my review here ). It packs down to a little, easy to pack pouch and expands.
• If you’re staying in a hostel (or even if you’re not), a good lock for your bags and/or a locker is nice to have. If you want even more security, consider taking along a Pacsafe portable safe .
• A good quick dry towel is also good to have for travel, especially for the waterfalls.
• A good dry bag would also be helpful for the waterfalls and the frequent rains in Minca. This one comes along with a waterproof phone case, perfect for getting some great photos in the falls.
• The water in Minca is not drinkable, meaning you can save some pesos if you bring along a Lifestraw Filtering Bottle or a Steripen .
• If you are staying at one of the fincas, lodges, or hostels out of town, a good little flashlight will come in handy in the evenings, especially if you are hiking back a bit after dark.
• Finally, you’ll be glad to have bug spray for the mosquitos in Minca!

You will need to get to Santa Marta first (more on getting to Santa Marta from different places below).

How to Get to Minca from Santa Marta

For the most comfortable and convenient transportation , consider booking private transportation from Santa Marta to Minca with our partners BnB Colombia (use the discount code ExploreColombia10 for 10% off).

The cheapest option to get to Minca from Santa Marta is to catch colectivos from the market . Look for the company CootransMinca by the corner of Calle 11 y Carrera 10 .   The cost is $8,000 pesos a person (last confirmed August 2021).  It used to be you could catch them as well from the gas station in Mamatoco, near Dreamer Hostel , but that is no longer the case, as we learned the hard way when we could only find normal private taxis and moto taxis there.

You can also get private taxis from just about anywhere in Santa Marta to take you to Minca.   Prices may vary depending on where in the city you are coming from, but expect to spend approximately $40-50,000.  The mototaxis from Mamatoco should cost around $10,000 pesos.

How to Get to Minca from Cartagena

Again for the most comfortable and convenient is with private transportation from our partners BnB Colombia (again, don’t forget to use the discount code ExploreColombia10 for 10% off).

You can travel between Cartagena and Santa Marta on buses from the main bus terminal, Berlinas, or Marsol .   Usually, you will make a pit stop where you can use the bathroom and buy snacks just before or after Barranquilla.

Buses from the Terminal

Prices for buses to Santa Marta at the terminal may vary depending on company and time but should be between 30,000-50,000 depending on company and times.  Do note that the terminal is far away from the main tourist areas of Cartagena and can be a costly taxi ride.

You can see some (although not exhaustive) options from the terminal for buses to Santa Marta from Cartagena at BusBud .

Berlinas (recommended for budget travelers)

Berlinas operates vans and buses with transportation from Cartagena to Santa Marta.  Their office is located in Marbella, about a 25 minute walk or 5 minute, $8,000 peso taxi ride from Centro.  This is my recommended way of travel.  

They have buses departing everyday from 6 am to 3 pm. They make a stop in Barranquilla and the trip takes between 4 and 5 hours (sometimes traffic in Barranquilla can make it take longer). The cost is $60,000 pesos a person (last confirmed August 2021) and I’d recommend reserving ahead of time. See their Facebook for contact information.

Marsol operates vans like Berlinas but offers an optional pick up service (for an extra surcharge).  They have buses between Santa Marta and Cartagena that leave Cartagena every 2 hours from 6 am to 4 pm.  Their office is in Cabrero, about a 10-15 minute walk from Centro or 3 minute and $8,000 peso taxi ride from Centro.   

Return trips from Santa Marta to Cartagena leave at 5:30 am, 7:30 am, 9:00 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm.   The routes both way stop to drop off and pick up passengers in Barranquilla so expect a short delay there, so expect again a 4-5 hour trip . Marsol charges *$70,000 pesos.  (Price last confirmed August 2021).

You can make reservations using the contact info on Marsol’s Facebook Page (they are pretty good about responding, although you’ll want to ask in Spanish).

How to Get to Minca from Elsewhere

You’ll pretty much have to arrive to Santa Marta first to get to Minca from anywhere else . It is possible to fly into Santa Marta, and if you’re trying to get to Minca from Bogotá or travel to Minca from Medellín or other cities and do not want to stop in Cartagena first, that might be a good option.

Although, of course, I’d recommend you fly into Cartagena and spend some time there first (see this website’s name!). Or, you can compare your options to both Cartagena and Santa Marta which you can do on Colombia’s flagship Avianca airline , look for a package deal at Expedia.com , look for a steal at CheapOair.com  or  Kiwi.com , or compare prices across different airlines at Jet Radar .

If you’re planning to bus to Minca from Bogotá, it’s worth considering stops at Villa de Leyva , Barichara , and/or Mompox along the way. While if you plan to bus to Minca from Medellín, consider a stop at the San Bernardo Islands . Either route can also include a stop in Cartagena.

Here are a few other notes on how to get to Minca from a few other nearby spots along the coast.

How to Get to Minca from Tayrona

For comfort and convenience, again choose our partners BnB Colombia for private transportation (get 10% off this one too with that code ExploreColombia10).

The easiest and cheapest option for how to get to Minca from Tayrona is to take the bus that goes by the main entrance of the park back to the market in Santa Marta and then follow the instructions above.  The bus from outside Tayrona should cost around 7,000 pesos.

How to Get to Minca from Palomino

Most comfortable option is again our partners BnB Colombia for private transportation (don’t forget the discount code).

The easiest and cheapest option for transportation from Palomino to Minca is the same bus that passes by Tayrona (it starts its route farther north).  The price from Palomino to Santa Marta was 10,000 pesos in mid-2019 and shouldn’t have changed much if at all.

Yes.  Minca is very safe for travel. It is very much on the tourist map in Colombia, and not just for backpackers but for families as well as more upscale travelers as well.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Minca was a flashpoint in conflict between now demobilized guerilla group FARC and paramilitaries. However since at least 2010, there has been no major conflict in the area and like much of small town Colombia, crime is uncommon .

Still, I would ad vise following general tips for safety in Minca, such as not being out on the roads and trails to the waterfall or the hotels out of town after dark and definitely not late, being aware of who is around you, and not flashing cash or jewelry.

If you follow those basic Minca safety tips, you should be just fine.

There are a number of nice little cafes and restaurants in Minca, including several of which offer good vegetarian options.   If you’ve been traveling in Colombia for a while, Minca is also a great place to get some more international inspired fare or a good steak at much more reasonable prices than you’ll find in Cartagena or elsewhere on the coast.

The Lazy Cat – Coolest Restaurant in Minca

Our favorite place to eat in Minca was the Lazy Cat .  We both got burgers for lunch one day, and enjoyed a great quesadilla as a late afternoon snack the next.  They also had a great looking Wok option that can be ordered with your choice of meat or vegetarian.  With  2 for 1 cocktails during a late afternoon to early evening happy hour  and a little deck outback, its a nice place to grab a drink as well.

Lazy Cat also has the  locally brewed craft beers from Cervecería Nevada  on tap.   I recommend the Happy Tucan, a red ale or Happy Coca, a pale ale brewed with coca leaves, although the Happy Nebbi, a Pilsner, is a good option if you’re looking for something lighter .  If not on tap, most places in Minca should have them bottled, and you should definitely do yourself the favor of taking a break from Aguila and Club Colombia and enjoying one….or four.

Other Places to Eat in Minca

• Casa Cristi –  We wanted to check out  Casa Cristi , which is really more like  3 restaurants in one, sporting vegetarian, burger, and grilled fare .  Unfortunately, we missed lunch time our second day. 
• El Bistro at La Victoria –  We did enjoy some great coffee cake at  El Bistro at La Victoria , while waiting to do the coffee tour.   Their sandwiches also looked delicious , but they had run out by the late afternoon when we were there.
• Santisabella –  They have rave reviews for their Italian food
• Casa Antonio  – friends recommended  Casa Antonio  for their big, juicy, and reasonably priced steaks. 

Needless to say, there’s no shortage of good options for restaurants in Minca.

Practical Tips on a Visit to Minca, Colombia

• There’s no ATM in Minca , although there is a place that would do cash-back for a small percentage fee if you’re desperate.  It can be found in the tourist shops to the right by the bridge if you have your back to town.  However, you’re better off hitting an ATM in Cartagena or Santa Marta.  Some of the restaurants in town may accept cards, but you should definitely bring cash.
• You will beat the crowds if you get to the waterfalls (particularly Pozo Azul) early.
• Minca is a quiet little mountain town, while some of the hostels outside of town may have a bit of a party atmosphere, don’t expect to go out clubbing in town.
• Also, remember the indigenous peoples consider the Sierra Nevada mountains sacred. But even if they didn’t, you should still take care of them. Pack in and pack out when hiking to the waterfalls and elsewhere, leaving these natural areas beautiful for others.
• Do keep an eye out for snakes when hiking along the trails. They aren’t super common, but it is a forest.
• During the rainy seasons from October-December and April-May, the roads and trails will likely get muddy, and the evenings could be chilly.
• The tap water is not drinkable in Minca. Tree cover may make it less noticeable than the blazing sun of Cartagena and Santa Marta, but it is still tropical. Stay hydrated!

Ready to plan your trip to Minca, Colombia?

In conclusion, Minca is well worth a couple nights or more during a tour of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.   You should absolutely try to fit in at least a night or two here, and if you’re really looking to escape it all, then stay even more!

There you have it, a complete guide to a visit to beautiful Minca, Colombia.   If you do decide to go, I hope you find this guide useful in planning your trip.  I’d also love to hear about your trip in the comments below!

Cheers and Happy Exploring!

Did you like this post?

Check out these others you might like:

Practical Guide to Tayrona Practical Guide to Palomino Practical Guide to Costeño Beach Practical Guide to Cabo de la Vela Practical Guide to Punta Gallinas

Planning your trip to explore Cartagena?

Check out the following posts to help plan: Insider’s Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Cartagena Complete Packing List for Cartagena Top Things to Do in Cartagena

2 thoughts on “Practical Guide to the Lush Mountain Town of Minca, Colombia”

Hi Adam, I’m Graham Binns a retired Honorary British Consul living on a small farm in Turbana just south of Cartagena. Three years ago twelve small local farmers and I iniciated a proyect in orden to form an oasis in the middle of a proposed open cast limestone mining concession, save the área from the desert it was destined to become and create an alternative “country life” tourist destination. We now have the properties more than half way into the transformatión between being just farms and becoming an alternative getaway. After having seen your article “Minca” I’d like to try and do something similar here and wondered if you’d be prepared to visit us and consider the possibilities.

Hi Graham. That’s great. Sounds like a very interesting project. Of course I would be interested in learning more and seeing it. Send me an email at [email protected] .

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TOUR MINCA – BIRD WATCHING

Minca is a Little town on 650 meter over the sea level, very near from Santa Marta. In Minca you can see some of the 162 species of birds of the place such as tucanes, guacamayos, colibrís, sparrows and many others.

The trip can be adapted to beginners, middle or advanced as you wish.

Itinerary :  6:00 a.m. Depart from Tayrona by 4×4 car 7:00 a.m. Bird watching tour about 2-3 hours with a guide in the Minca surroundings. 9:30 a.m. Breakfast in a restaurant with views (also good for bird watching) 11.00 a.m. Walk of aobut 30 minutes, visiting cascades and taking a bath in the river. 13:00  Return to the Tayrona sector where we will dring a very cold beer or refreshment and take a bath in the sea. 16:00  Return to the hotel.

Includes : Breakfast, wáter, local guide, binoculars, beer or refreshments, daily insurance, round trip from/to the hotel.

PRICE: 300.000 P/P minimum 2 PERSONS

250.000 p/p minimum 3 person.

Georgie’s Wanderlust

Bird watching in minca – colombia.

Minca is the perfect place for bird watchers. Colombia has over 1900 species of birds, the most out of any country in the world!

In Minca alone there are approximately 360 species of birds, so you’re very likely to see a few of them! There are toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers, motmots, parakeets and parrots, just to name a few.

During my time in Minca I stayed at J ungle Joe’s Eco Hostel , and Casa Loma Minca . Both are fantastic hostels tucked high up in the jungle with gorgeous views.

Jungle Joe’s Eco Hostel runs one of the best bird watching tours in town. It costs 50,000 Colombian Pesos . They leave everyday at 6am and get back to town just after 9am. Jungle Joe’s Eco Hostel is a fifteen minute walk from the town centre. The town centre is where the tour leaves from. So make sure you book in advance and arrive to their office at 6am, and not stay up at the hostel.

They provide binoculars for everyone, and a passionate biologist will lead you through the town and up into the jungle. We saw so many birds along the way, the guide has absolute hawk eyes for spotting them. I had my canon dslr with 100-400mm lens, perfect for capturing all of the birds.

There is a house at the top of the hill that the tour stops at to have a locally grown coffee for 5,000 pesos. Lots of birds are in this area and make for a great stop.

I have been using the Merlin ID app for a while now and it is the best I have found for identifying birds by song and photo! My guide for the bird watching tour in Minca also uses Merlin, and I have in Canada, Peru and Ecuador also.

Thanks for reading and I hope you get the chance to see all of the birds in Minca! It is a really special place tucked in from the Caribbean coast of Colombia. If you liked this post you might be interested to read about my time in the Tatacoa Desert in central Colombia!

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Minca Bird Watching Amateurs

Enjoy the adventure.

On this tour, we will take a small mini course on how to learn to observe birds and identify them, such as Gray-headed Tanager, white-lined Tanager, crimson-backed tanager, blue-gray tanager, black-headed tanager, palm tanager, bay-headed tanager, swallow tanage, gartered trogon, rufous-tailed jacamar, whooping motmot, collared aracari, keet-billed toucan, lineate woodpecker and 20 more species. After this you will enter the bird-watching world and enjoy your field trips more.

If you have a list of special birds to find sendalia in the reservation form.

Included / Excluded

To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.

• Professional tour guide
• Transportation
• Refreshments
• Custom itinerary

We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you’ll attend an orientation meeting to go over the itinerary and meet your fellow travelers.

Today, we’ll embark on a guided city tour, exploring the historical and cultural highlights of the city. We’ll visit famous landmarks and attractions, and learn about the local culture and history.

Today, we’ll take a cooking class with a local chef, learning how to make traditional dishes using local ingredients. After the class, we’ll enjoy a delicious meal together.

Today, you’ll have the day to explore the city at your own pace. Your guide will provide recommendations for activities and sights to see.

• Enquiry Form

What day do you want to book? Do they come with children? Yes No

• 2 Days - 1 Night

Cerro Kennedy Route: Professional Tour

• Cerro Kennedy

Experience the pinnacle of birdwatching with our "Cerro Kennedy Route: Professional Tour." Crafted for seasoned birders...

Route el Campano: Semi-Professionals

Embark on the "El Campano Route - Semi-professionals" tour, tailored for birdwatching enthusiasts seeking to elevate their skills.

Specialized tour for Photographers

Capture perfection with our specialized tour designed for photographers. Every moment contains a masterpiece worthy of framing for bird lovers.

Tour Camarones

The "Camarones" Birdwatching Tour is not just a tour; it's a chance to forge a deeper connection with the natural world, to experience the thrill of spotting...

• 4 Days - 2 Night

Tour Perijá

Professional bird watching and photography tour.

The best place to watch birds

Birdwatching Minca Birding

• Cra 1 vía rural minca in front of the main square.

Santa Marta, Magdalena.

+57 321 589 3678

+57 313 560 5428.

• Bird Watching

The best place to watch birds in Colombia

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Indiana Dunes National Park The drive: 1 hour

Indiana Dunes National Park is a Rust Belt kind of wild space: understated but beautiful, a lonely stretch of delicately brown, grassy sand dunes that overlook a lakefront distant from the Chicago skyline visible, in miniature, across the way. But that’s not what pulls me there. Behind those dunes is one of the best spots for birdwatching anywhere in the Midwest: forests and wetlands that play host to hundreds of migratory birds in the spring and fall.

I started going to the dunes regularly after I began birding in 2019 — and after I learned it was a hub for migrant birds. It’s where I once spotted — at least I’m pretty sure I did — the only orchard oriole I’ve ever seen. Loons, hawks, and warblers of all colors and kinds, to name just a few, stay over at the dunes during their travels, drawing birders of every feather to see them. At last year’s Indiana Dunes Birding Festival (this year’s runs from May 16 to 19), birders logged more than 200 species, including 20 to 30 kinds of colorful warblers a day — one of the real treasures of migration birding in the Midwest. 

For me, Indiana Dunes National Park is more than sand hills on a lake. It’s a place where birds and birders gather, away from the welter of the city across the water. On one of my first visits, I sought out songbirds sheltering on the foresty edges, then wading birds and waterfowl in the marshy open spaces. And there they were, all around, living their best avian lives in their dunes sanctuary.

Local Knowledge From Brad Bumgardner, executive director of the Indiana Audubon Society

“ George’s Gyros Spot in nearby Chesterton is a local favorite. You’ll find something there you can take with you to eat out in the field. But I also really like their lemon rice soup. My wife likes the baklava.”

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