13 Unmissable Activities & Things To Do in Minca, Colombia

Planning a trip to Minca?

In this guide, I’ll walk you thing 13 incredible things to do in Minca to make your trip truly unforgettable.

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

Having visited Minca twice, I’ve experienced its unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation firsthand.

While Minca may be small, this charming town is an absolute gem for those looking to immerse themselves in lush jungles, stunning waterfalls, and authentic local culture.

However, with so many amazing activities, and most travelers only benefiting from a few days, knowing what to do in Minca based on the type of traveler you are is crucial.

Keep reading as I share the 13 best things to do in Minca and the experiences this charming town has to offer.

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13 Best Things To Do in Minca

Minca offers the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation.

Surrounded by lush jungle, incredible mountain views, and an abundance of wildlife, Minca is the perfect destination for those tired of beach bumming and city life.

While it’s easy to unwind and bask in the tranquility, there are also many amazing Minca activities for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and culture seekers.

From jungle hikes and hidden waterfalls to coffee plantations and jaw-dropping vistas, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences. Let’s get to it!

Pozo Azul

As Minca’s most popular natural attraction, Pozo Azul is an unmissable spot.

This series of crystal-clear cascading falls and refreshing swimming holes, set amid lush greenery, offers the perfect retreat in the heart of nature.

The lower basin is the busiest, while the upper basin provides a more tranquil experience. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy a few cliff-jumping spots for an added adrenaline rush.

Easily accessible via a short walk from town, there is no excuse not to add this spot to your Minca itinerary.

However, as one of the most popular things to do in Minca and a frequent spot for tour groups, Pozo Azul can get busy.

Check out my Pozo Azul guide for tips on avoiding the crowds, as well as prices and directions.

Full Post: Pozo Azul: A Complete Guide To Minca’s Most Popular Waterfall

Coffee Tour

Minca’s high altitude in the Sierra Nevada mountains and lush soil means it is home to some of the best coffee in Colombia.

Exploring one of the area’s many coffee farms (fincas) therefore has to be high on your list of the best things to do in Minca.

A coffee tour in Minca is more than just a tasting – it is an immersive experience that shows the entire process from bean to cup.

Local farmers take pride in their traditional, sustainable methods, many passed down through the generations.

A tour not only supports these farmers but also offers a peaceful retreat into nature as you stroll through the plantations, deepening your appreciation for the craft.

And, of course, you’ll finish with a freshly brewed cup of organic coffee – who can say no to that?

Check out some of the best places for coffee tours below –

• La Victoria (oldest in the region with traditional methods from the 1800s)
• Finca La Candelaria
• Finca San Pedro
• Mundo Nuevo

Cascada Escondida

As the name suggests, Cascada Escondida is a true hidden gem in Minca.

Perfect for off-the-beaten-path travelers wondering what to do in Minca, this untouched waterfall offers an authentic experience far from the crowds.

Unlike other waterfalls in Minca, it hasn’t been commercialized—it remains raw, secluded, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Nestled deep in the jungle, its remote location means you’ll likely have it all to yourself—exactly like I did.

For step-by-step directions on how to find this secret waterfall, check out my full Cascada Escondida Guide.

Full Post: Cascada Escondida: A Complete Guide To Minca’s Hidden Waterfall

Los Pinos Hike

Los Pinos hike is one of the most rewarding treks and things to do in Minca.

Though challenging, the hike is well worth it—along the way, you’ll pass through dense jungle, coffee plantations, and small streams before reaching the summit.

At the top, you are welcomed by breathtaking panoramic views of Minca, the lush surrounding jungle, and the distant Caribbean coastline.

Tip: Minca has some of the most incredible biodiversity in the world. Keep an eye out for wildlife and exotic birds on your way

The hike takes about 2 hours in each direction so I’d suggest starting as early to avoid the harsh midday sun.

The Los Pinos Viewpoint hike is a great way to experience Minca’s natural beauty and get a little off the beaten path.

Marinka Waterfalls

With multiple tiers of cascading water surrounded by vibrant jungle greenery, it’s no wonder why Marinka Falls is one of Minca’s most popular natural attractions.

Unlike other waterfalls in Minca, Marinka Falls is a little more developed and is much more geared towards tourism – there is a small restaurant, giant hammocks, and top-notch facilities.

However, this doesn’t detract from its natural beauty; if anything, it enhances the experience.

Instead of a quick stop, a visit to Marinka becomes a mini day trip – especially rewarding if you’ve decided to do the 1-hour trek up from Minca town.

It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours – cool off in the water, snap photos, and relax in hammocks, all while enjoying the soothing sounds of the jungle and cascading falls.

Full Post: Ultimate Guide To Marinka Waterfalls in Minca

Cacaco tour

Chocolate lovers – this one’s for you!

Just like with coffee, Minca’s ideal climate makes the region perfect for growing cacao and produces some of the finest single-origin chocolate in the country.

Taking a cacao tour in Minca, offers the chance to indulge in some of the freshest, most flavorful chocolate you’ll ever taste while learning more about the traditional methods used.

From planting the cacao trees to harvesting and fermenting the beans, many tours also include a hands-on experience where you can taste the raw cacao, grind the beans, and even make your own chocolate.

A cacao tour is not only a sweet treat but also a chance to connect with Minca’s agricultural heritage. It is truly one of the best things to do in Minca.

We took our cacao tour with Finca San Rafael, but you can also check out the following –

• Finca la Candelaria
• Mundo Nuevo
• Museo del Cacao

Cerro Kennedy Hike

The Cerro Kennedy is one of the most iconic hikes in the Sierra Nevada and one the best things to do in Minca for hikers and adventure enthusiasts.

The hike is strenuous, with a 5-hour uphill climb through dense jungle.

Many hikers opt to stay overnight, either camping or in a nearby finca. This allows you to truly immerse yourself in nature and make the most of this unforgettable experience.

Spending the night also allows you to catch a jaw-dropping sunrise over the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains, before descending the next day.

Though challenging, the unparalleled views and the connection with nature make this trek a rewarding adventure.

Suggested: Where To Stay in Minca: Top 10 Best Hostels & Hotels

Watch the sunset

Minca offers some of the best sunsets in Colombia – watching the sun dip below the horizon, surrounded by lush greenery, is nothing short of magical.

Whether you’re looking to relax after an adventurous day or simply want to kick back with a beer and new-found friends, watching the sunset in Minca is such a special experience.

The higher you venture, the more beautiful the views will be (you can always take a moto-taxi). However, there are also many amazing hostels & viewpoints not far from Minca town.

Here are some of the best sunset spots in Minca –

• Casa Loma – 10 minutes from Minca town (sunset bar, veggie restaurant, social vibe)
• Los Pinos – 2 hour hike
• Sierra Minca – 2.5 hike (Instagram-worthy viewpoints, zipline, giant hammocks)
• Jungle Joe – 15 minutes from Minca town (hammocks, great pizza)

Stay in a mountain-view accommodation or finca

While there are many amazing Minca activities, and your days can easily be action-packed from start to finish, it is also a haven for relaxation and taking things slow.

With many mountain-view accommodations, isolated from the outside world, it is the perfect nature for unwinding and soaking up nature’s tranquility.

These eco-lodges and fincas offer rustic charm with modern comforts.

Spend your mornings enjoying a freshly brewed cup of local coffee, appreciating the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, or even learning more about organic farming.

Recommended: Where To Stay in Minca: 10 Best Hostels & Hotels

Birdwatching

With such rich biodiversity, Minca is an absolute paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers.

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, the region’s diverse ecosystems—ranging from lush jungle to cloud forests—make it one of the best places in Colombia for spotting exotic birds.

With over 300 species of birds, including toucans, hummingbirds, and the famous blue-bearded helmetcrest, birdwatching is one of the best things to do in Minca.

While you can simply along one of Minca’s jungle trails at dawn and keep an eye out, I’d highly recommend a guided tour with a local expert to help you identify rare species.

Learn more about Indigenous culture

Minca is not just about hiking and coffee—it is also a gateway to understanding the rich Indigenous heritage of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

This mountain range is home to several Indigenous communities, including the Arhuaco, Kogi, Wiwa, and Kankuamo peoples.

These indigenous groups have lived here for centuries, maintaining deep spiritual and ecological connections to the land.

It is a great place to learn more about ancestral traditions, medicinal plants, and sustainable ways of living. These insights add a deeper layer to your visit.

For an immersive experience, Mundo Nuevo offers guided visits to a nearby Wiwa Indigenous village.

This is a great way to learn more about their culture, traditions, and harmony with the natural world.

When browsing the shops and markets, keep an eye out for handcrafted goods, such as woven bags, handmade jewelry, and other artisanal crafts – these souvenirs are a great way to support the local community.

Cascada Oido del Mundo

Tucked away in the lush jungle, Cascada Oido del Mundo is another one of Minca’s lesser-known waterfalls.

This hidden gem offers a peaceful escape in nature perfect for those looking to cool off from the heat in refreshing pools of water without the crowds.

Located just 15 minutes from Minca town, Cascada Oido del Mundo is a great place for a short but scenic hike, or even as a stop-off on a longer trek to Marinka Waterfalls.

I didn’t get a chance to visit this waterfall myself but this is a great spot for off-the-beaten-path travelers wondering what to do in Minca.

Explore Minca town

While Minca is all about coffee farms, waterfalls, and jungle hikes, be sure to leave yourself time to explore Minca town.

With its laid-back vibe, eco-conscious community, and stunning mountain backdrop, wandering around the quaint streets is an experience in itself.

There are many amazing paintings and murals scattered around Minca town, depicting the culture of the Indigenous peoples native to the land.

There are many delicious restaurants and cafes worth trying, as well as spots to sit and unwind by the river that runs through the center of town.

After a busy morning of hiking and adventure, there’s no better way to spend the afternoon than coffee shop hopping, browsing locally-made handicrafts, and soaking up the town’s relaxed energy.

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.

Hostel Las Mariposas

Hostel Las Mariposas is one of the most affordable places to stay in Minca. It is a great option for budget backpackers.

Located in the town center itself, this hostel is located just a 5-minute walk from the bus stop. It is a great base to explore the town and surrounding natural attractions.

There is a choice of private rooms or shared dorms. There is a shared kitchen, as well as communal seating areas next to the river.

It’s rustic and basic but you cannot beat it for the price and location.

Shared dorms start from 25,000 COP ($6) per night.

Jungle Joe’s

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).

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

Where to eat in Minca

Despite its remote location, Minca is home to some of the most vibrant and diverse restaurants in Colombia.

From hearty Colombian classics and flaky French pastries to Middle Eastern flare and bold Mexican spices, there is something for every type of craving.

There is also a strong emphasis on fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients, making it perfect for eco-conscious travelers and plant-based foodies alike.

As Minca is known for its delicious coffee and cacao, you will also find many cozy cafes serving drinks, sweet treats, and brunch.

In short, Minca is a foodie’s paradise. Here are the 5 spots you cannot miss –

• La Miga Panaderia – artisan French bakery & delicious coffee
• Lazy Cat – diverse local & international cuisine (my favorite restaurant)
• Casa Loma – veggie restaurant with stunning views
• Arabesca – authentic Middle-Eastern cuisine
• Duni Cafe – plant-based goodness

For 5 more amazing restaurants: Where To Eat in Minca: Top 10 Best Restaurants & Cafes

FAQs

Is Minca worth visiting?

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.

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.

Can you do a day trip to Minca from Santa Marta?

Minca’s proximity to Santa Marta (a 45-minute bus ride) means that it can be easily visited on a day trip from Santa Marta.

You can either do this yourself (my How To Get To Minca Guide might help) or take an organized day trip – I would recommend this one.

Minca’s beauty and accessibility mean that there is no excuse not to add it to your Colombia itinerary.

Full Post: How To Get From Santa Marta to Minca: Step-By-Step Guide

What is Minca Colombia known for?

Minca is known for its stunning natural beauty, eco-tourism, and relaxed vibe, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Here are some reasons people visit Minca, Colombia –

• Extraordinary sunsets
• Slow pace & cooler climate compared to the Caribbean coast
• Coffee & cacao farms
• Waterfalls, birdwatching & Indigenous culture
• Sustainability & eco-tourism

Minca is also becoming increasingly known for its diverse and evolving food scene. It is home to many amazing restaurants, including plant-based goodness and cuisines from all over the globe.

Are there monkeys in Minca?

Absolutely! Minca is so rich in biodiversity and is home to many different species of monkeys.

You may spot howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys while hiking through the jungle or relaxing in your eco-lodge.

Birdwatching and wildlife tours in Minca also offer opportunities to spot these playful creatures, especially if you’re venturing into the deeper, more secluded parts of the jungle.

What is the altitude of Minca Colombia?

Minca is located at an altitude of approximately 660 meters (2,165 feet) above sea level.

This elevation contributes to its cooler climate compared to nearby Santa Marta.

It is therefore a breath of fresh air for travelers looking to escape the stifling heat of the Caribbean coast and enjoy lush surroundings.

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Can you drink the tap water in Minca?

In short, absolutely not.

I have heard some stories of other travelers drinking the tap water, or what they believed was filtered water, and ending up very sick.

This stands for Northern Colombia generally too. You can only drink tap water in big cities such as Medellin or Cali, but even then be sure to ask your accommodation if it’s safe.

Many accommodations and restaurants offer free filtered water or stick to bottled water. Either way, always check the water quality with the staff first.

What to do in Minca: Final thoughts

Well, there you have it! As I have explored in this post, Minca’s charm lies in its perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure.

Whether you’re hiking to panoramic viewpoints, enjoying a coffee or cacao tour, or simply soaking in the beauty of its waterfalls and wildlife, Minca offers something for every type of traveler.

If you have visited Minca and have something to add, I would love to hear from you – reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how you found it!