A Complete Guide To Cascada Escondida in Minca

Tired of crowded, tourist-filled waterfalls? Looking for a hidden gem?

This guide unlocks everything you need to know about Cascada Escondida Minca—a secluded waterfall that rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Tucked away in the lush mountains of Northern Colombia, Minca offers a peaceful retreat for natural lovers seeking tranquility and breathtaking views.

You’ve no doubt heard of Minca’s most popular waterfalls – Marinka Falls or Pozo Azul.

While beautiful, the amount of tourists can make it hard to fully appreciate your surroundings.

If you’re after a waterfall experience that feels intimate and untouched, Cascada Escondida is your spot.

True to its name, this hidden waterfall isn’t easy to find – but nothing good comes easy right?

When visiting Minca, I was determined to find Cascada Escondida. I took a couple of wrong turns and ended up covered in mud, all so you don’t have to.

Read on to discover everything I learned and exactly how to find Cascada Escondida Minca.

*This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through a link on my site, I earn a small commission. Don’t worry, this is at no extra cost to you – check my full Privacy Policy here.

How to get to Cascada Escondida Minca

Cascada Escondida is a true hidden gem in Minca.

I can confirm that the Google Maps location is correct. Although, it shows as “Cascada Perdida” on maps.

Even though there is a Google Maps location, finding it was not as easy as I’d hoped – it is a makeshift trail and not clearly signposted.

Tip: Pozo Azul is on the same road about 15 minutes further. As Pozo Azul gets busier, I would head there first and swing by Cascada Escondida on your way back.

It takes roughly 30 minutes to walk there from town.

If you do not fancy walking, then you can take a moto-taxi for roughly 10,000 COP ($2.30).

However, bear in mind that the moto-taxi can only go as far as the road. Either way, you will have to venture the last 10 minutes down a muddy jungle path.

It seems that there are two routes to reach Cascada Escondida. The map below shows the two possible trails you can take –

Trail 1 (recommended)

This is the trail I took and the way I would recommend.

After about 20 minutes on the main road from Minca, I reached the first turn-off for Cascada Escondida.

There are no signs for the waterfall on the main road. I walked under the entrance that said “La Veranda”, following Google Maps.

There was lots of construction going on, so I asked whether I was in the right place. They advised me to keep walking for 2 minutes and then take a right.

Having just passed the La Veranda Hotel on my left, there is a small trail on the right-hand side.

Take this and you will notice a small sign in the bushes with “Cascada Escondida” written on it.

Then, follow the muddy path down about 10 minutes. It is steep and very overgrown, I also had to climb over slippery rocks at points.

Tip: I was wearing sandals (I have a rule that if I cannot wear my Birkenstocks, I’m not going). Be smarter than me and wear hiking boots if you have them.

I arrived at the river and could hear the waterfall, but frustratingly could not see it. It seemed I had walked too far.

I went back a little and retraced my steps. I climbed over some slippery rocks and accessed the river a little higher up. From here, I could see the waterfall perfectly.

Trail 2

When researching how to get to Cascada Escondida, this is the route that I saw other travelers take online.

There is a small opening between ‘Hostal Montes de Beraka’ and “Panaderia del Bosque Minca” that will lead you to the waterfall (check the map above).

Again, there is another 10-minute walk down through the jungle.

Across Every Border wrote a great post that details how to reach this waterfall with the second trail. However, unfortunately, they could not find it.

This is why I would recommend the first trail I took.

How to get around Minca

The best way to get around Minca is simply by walking.

Minca town itself is tiny and you can reach most natural attractions on foot within about an hour.

The trails are not too strenuous and the scenery is absolutely beautiful. Walking also allows you to find hidden cafes or viewpoints you might otherwise have missed.

If you don’t fancy walking, then moto-taxi is the most popular mode of transport – no journey should cost you much more than 20,000 COP ($4.50).

If you would prefer to hire your own motorbike, you can do so from Mincabikes for 160,000 COP ($36) per day.

What to expect

Hidden in the jungle and surrounded by lush greenery, Cascada Escondida is a real sight to behold.

Cascada Escondida is a real off-the-beaten-path waterfall in Minca.

There are no facilities nearby and it has not yet been turned into a “tourist attraction” – totally different from the popular Marinka Falls.

It is totally secluded deep in the jungle, adding to the waterfall’s raw beauty and allowing you to truly connect with nature.

The difficulty in reaching it means that it is unlikely that you will have to share it with other tourists – I was the only person there!

The cascade plummets down into one pool on a higher level, before gracefully descending into the river.

Unfortunately, when I visited, the river’s flow was way too strong and, therefore, unsuitable for paddling. I would say this is more of an admiring waterfall than a paddling one.

However, just as I was leaving, I noticed a couple appear on the plateau above. They were much closer than I was and could bathe in the small swimming hole.

I have no idea how they reached it. It would require crossing the river – perhaps the second trail leads you to this higher area of the waterfall.

While you are closer to the waterfall on this upper level, you would not be able to appreciate it in all its glory. Viewing it from below allows you to marvel at the entire cascade.

Other waterfalls in Minca

If you’re a fan of jungle waterfalls, then you’ll be in your element in Minca.

There are many beautiful waterfalls in Minca, some more popular and some lesser known to tourists.

The best Minca waterfalls I would recommend adding to your itinerary are –

• Pozo Azul – most popular and visited by tour groups. On the same road as Cascada Escondida.
• Cascada Oido del Mundo – another lesser-known waterfall. On the same road as Marinka.
• Marinka – my favourite waterfall, despite being touristy. Huge (totally Instagrammable) hammocks.

Tip: I would recommend hiking to visit these waterfalls and grouping them together. Pozo Azul & Cascada Escondida together, and Marinka & Cascada Oido del Mundo together.

Where to stay in Minca

When staying in Minca, you need to decide if you want to stay in the town itself, or up in the mountains.

Typically, the most beautiful accommodations are further up into the mountains. These accommodations offer a peaceful atmosphere and extraordinary views.

However, you will have to factor in reaching your accommodation. You will most likely need to take a moto-taxi or hike a little, which isn’t always convenient.

If you choose to stay in the main town, you are within walking distance of all the main restaurants and shops. It is also a great base for activities and hikes.

For all your accommodation options: Where to Stay in Minca: Top 10 Best Hostels & Hotels

Jungle Joe’s (my top pick)

Jungle Joe’s is where I would recommend staying in Minca.

If you want breathtaking views but still want to be close enough to the center of Minca, then Jungle Joe’s offers the best of both worlds.

Jungle Joe’s is located a 15-minute walk up into the mountains from the town. It is a total oasis of tranquility with extraordinary vistas of the mountains and coast.

It is kitted out with hammocks, a delicious restaurant, and a choice of private rooms or shared dorms. They also offer amazing nature walks and birdwatching tours.

Shared dorms start from 45,000 COP ($10) per night.

Masaya Casa Viejas

Masaya is the best place to stay in Minca for those looking to truly connect with nature.

Located 30 minutes into the mountains, on the grounds of the iconic La Victoria Finca (coffee farm), Masaya is a secluded slice of paradise.

There is a stunning infinity pool and terrace with incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

If you’re looking for convenience and easy access to activities and restaurants, then perhaps this is not the hostel for you. You can only access Masaya by 4×4 or moto-taxi.

But, if you’re looking for a few days of pure relaxation in the heart of nature, you cannot miss it. It is a great jump-off point for nearby hikes and there are many amazing tours on offer.

Choose between dorms or private rooms starting from 100,000 COP ($23).

Selva Minca

Selva Minca is the best option for couples or luxury travelers.

These private treehouses offer 360 panoramic views and provide an intimate, retreat-like atmosphere.

Selva Minca offers daily yoga, spa treatments, heart vegetarian meals, as well as a wide range of activities & nearby hiking trails.

Located just 30 minutes from Minca town, this is a great option for those looking to disconnect without feeling too remote.

Treehouses start from $200 per night.

How to get to Minca

Getting to Minca is very straightforward and affordable.

Wherever you’re coming from, you will first have to reach Santa Marta (Simon Bolivar Airport). Santa Marta is the gateway to Minca and the entire northern coast.

From Santa Marta, it only takes about 45 minutes to reach Minca by car.

You have two options depending on your budget –

• Private transfer (book in advance to save) – roughly 50,000 COP ($10)
• Public bus – 10,000 COP ($2)

For full details: How To Get From Santa Marta to Minca: A Step-By-Step Guide

FAQs

Is Minca Colombia worth it?

Minca is well worth visiting and is one of my favorite destinations in Colombia.

Located further up into the mountains, Minca is a refreshing escape from the stifling heat of the Caribbean coast.

It is the perfect destination for nature lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and those seeking a peaceful escape.

As the world’s highest coastal range, the landscapes and views are absolutely breathtaking – think hiking, beautiful sunsets, coffee/cacao tours, and waterfalls.

Despite its small size, Minca also offers some pretty amazing cafes and restaurants.

As it is fairly straightforward to reach from Santa Marta, and can even be visited on a day trip, there is no excuse not to add Minca to your Colombia itinerary.

Full Post: Where To Eat in Minca: Top 10 Best Restaurants & Cafes

How many days do you need in Minca?

I would recommend a minimum of two days in Minca.

There are many amazing things to do in Minca, and fortunately, the town is quite small.

Most of the main natural attractions are close to each other, so you can combine them on your trip. For example, I visited Cascada Escondida and Pozo Azul on the same morning.

As well as exploring the amazing things to do, be sure to allow yourself time to enjoy the tranquility, relax on hammocks, and appreciate beautiful sunsets.

If you’re into hiking, I would suggest staying a little longer. The long hikes, such as Cerro Kenedy, will require the whole day.

If you’re short on time, Minca’s proximity to Santa Marta means you could even visit on a day trip.

I would recommend this one for the main Minca highlights.

Recommended: 13 Incredible Things To Do in Minca: Ultimate Travel Guide

Are there mosquitos in Minca?

Yes, there are lots of mosquitos in Minca.

Unfortunately, the northern coast of Colombia is an absolute haven for mosquitos. I lived there for two months and actually got dengue fever.

Wearing insect repellent is therefore crucial, all day every day – you are in the jungle after all!

I found that the insect repellent that I brought from home didn’t work very well. However, there is one that they sell in all shops in Colombia that works a treat.

It is called Nopikex and is in a black and white bottle. Instead of a spray, it is a soap that you rub it.

It costs roughly $5 but is the only one I found that worked.

Can you drink the water in Minca?

You cannot drink the water in Minca.

The water is safe to drink in some of Colombia’s big cities, such as Medellin and Cali. However, the same cannot be said for the more rural areas.

As a rule of thumb, do not drink the water anywhere on the northern Caribbean coast.

Need travel insurance? Small Girl Big Backpack readers get 5% off Heymondo Insurance when booking through this link. With 24/7 worldwide assistance, this is the best insurance for travelers.

What is Minca known for?

Minca is known as a nature lover’s paradise.

Located high up in the mountains, Minca is notably cooler than the rest of the Caribbean coast.

It is known for its amazing hiking trails, lush greenery, breathtaking sunsets, jungle waterfalls, coffee and cacao farms, and birdwatching.

In more recent years as Minca has grown as a popular tourist destination, it has become increasingly known for its eco-conscious accommodations and plant-based restaurants.

Full Post: Where To Stay in Minca: 10 Best Hostels, Hotels & Fincas

How do I get to Tayrona from Minca?

Tayrona National Park is the gem in Colombia’s crown and is the next stop on many backpackers’ travel itineraries.

Getting to Tayrona from Minca is very straightforward – you can check out my full post here.

You’ll be pleased to hear that you do not have to go all the way back into the center of Santa Marta.

Instead, take the public bus from Minca and tell the driver you want to get off at ‘Mamatoco‘ (the stop before Santa Marta center). The buses pass here on their way to Tayrona.

From the Mamatoco bus stop, the journey is roughly an hour to Tayrona National Park.

Must Read: How To Get From Minca to Tayrona (or Vice Versa): Step-By-Step Guide

Cascada Escondida Minca: Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an authentic, tourist-free waterfall experience in Minca, Cascada Escondida is worth every muddy step.

Skip the packed hotspots and discover the raw beauty of this hidden gem for a truly peaceful escape into nature.

If you have visited Cascada Escondida yourself, I would love to hear about your experience – reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!