Imagine the sound of cascading waterfalls, the earthy scent of lush vegetation, and a peaceful mist rising from the valley in the early morning. Welcome to Minca, a tropical paradise nestled in Colombia’s verdant Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range.
This quaint mountain village enchants travelers with its relaxed pace, inspiring community, and stunning natural surroundings, making it an ideal place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life.
As a favored ecotourism destination and birdwatching haven, Minca offers a fantastic blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Minca’s waterfalls and hiking trails promise an unforgettable journey. Plus, you can wake up to the most amazing views!
The hikes in this mini-guide take you through Minca’s lush green mountains to three incredible waterfalls, with amazing views at every step. The first part follows an easy trail to the secluded, magical Oído del Mundo waterfall and continues to the stunning Marinka falls.
As you ascend further to the breathtaking Los Pinos viewpoint, the hike becomes more challenging, but you’ll be rewarded with extraordinary panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
On your way back, you can venture into the heart of this nature paradise as you follow the trail into the jungle to the various Pozo Azul waterfalls.
Insider Tip: Before starting your hike, treat yourself to a delicious breakfast at the French bakery La Miga Panadería (Google Maps).
Photo by Travelhapp, road to the waterfalls from Minca
From the village of Minca, it’s quick and easy to reach the Oído del Mundo waterfall while walking at a relaxed pace. First, head towards the soccer field and follow the road into the forest.
After about 20 minutes, you’ll come across a weathered wooden sign, barely legible and tucked into a curve along the path. From there, it’s just a short hike down to the hidden Oído del Mundo waterfall. As you descend along the narrow forest trail, the rustling leaves and the alluring sound of rushing water create a tranquil symphony. Suddenly, the hidden cascade reveals itself, its crystal-clear water tumbling over massive rocks and inviting you for a refreshing swim. Jump in and enjoy the magical scenery! (View Oído del Mundo on Google Maps)
Insider Tip: If you’re up for an experiment, you can apply a little mud to your skin for a free, natural beauty boost.
Photo by Travelhapp, Oído del Mundo Waterfall Minca Colombia
Photo by Cristian Ríos, Road from Oído del Mundo to the Marinka Waterfalls
Photo by Travelhapp, Second Marinka Waterfall, Minca
From the Oído del Mundo waterfall it’s about 45 min more to the Marinka waterfalls (Google Maps). There is a small entrance fee.
While it is possible to swim in the first Marinka waterfall, I think Oído del Mundo is a nicer option. Don’t miss relaxing in the huge hammock in front of Marinka, though!
During my visit at Marinka, the water had a “café au lait” hue from the recent rainfall, but lying in the hammock and savoring the beautiful, pristine surroundings was still incredible.
More hike information: View/Download hike from Minca to Marinka on WikiLoc
Photo by Travelhapp, Marinka Waterfall entrance Minca Colombia
Photo by Travelhapp, Hammock at Marinka Waterfalls Minca
If you are up for 2 more hours of hiking and ascending to a height of 1265 meters (4150 feet), the views from Hostel and Mirador Los Pinos (Google Maps) are priceless. Locals often come here by motorbike to enjoy the amazing sunsets.
Photo by Travelhapp, Sunset at Los Pinos, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
From Los Pinos you have the opportunity to continue your trekking adventure up to Cerro Kennedy after spending the night in a nearby hostel (see below). Cerro Kennedy, for me, is an absolutely unique place full of magic and peace, offering the most incredible sunrise views. Read more about the amazing Cerro Kennedy hike.
Alternatively you can hike back to Minca from Los Pinos taking the trail via the famous Pozo Azul waterfalls. These are several falls with the one closest to Minca being the most crowded. The more you venture into the jungle the more idyllic it gets (and the more challenging the hike).
More hike information: View/Download round walk Pozo Azul – Los Pinos – Marinka on WikiLoc
Photo by Travelhapp, Pozo Azul Waterfalls in Minca Colombia
One of the best things about Minca is the views! Take the opportunity to stay in an accommodation where you can wake up to them – Minca offers everything from lively hostels to tranquil eco-lodge retreats and luxurious glamping sites. The more remote places are easy to reach with the frequent moto-taxis from the center of Minca. Here’s my selection!
Photo by Travelhapp: Views in Minca, Colombia
Minca’s hostel scene is full of surprises: Within the same beautiful structure and setting, you can find cheap dorms starting at around $15 USD, as well as much higher-priced upscale private rooms.
Private rooms with a view range between 35 USD and 70 USD per room and night, depending on the season.
If you dream of a tranquil upscale nature retreat in Minca’s remote mountains, there are some amazing options waiting for you starting at around 100 USD per night.
Photo by Travelhapp, Hike to Finca San Rafael, Minca
Minca is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle—and the heat—of Santa Marta, allowing you to reconnect with nature and yourself while enjoying pleasant mountain temperatures. I recommend spending a few days in the village since there are so many things to do. To give you an idea:
Here are some great cacao and/or coffee focused tours starting in Minca. They are offered by passionate local tour operators and guides through my affiliate partner GetYourGuide. (If any of these experiences resonate with you and you choose to book through my links, you’ll be supporting my work on Travelhapp at no extra charge.)
While Minca used to be a no-go area during the peak of the Armed Conflict between the guerrilla and paramilitaries in Colombia, nowadays it’s considered safe. (Also have a look at my Colombia Safety Tips.)
Tip: To learn more about the history of Minca and the resilience of the locals during the Armed Conflict, visit the website of the Minca Museum. (The physical museum unfortunately had to close because of the pandemic).
You will usually see other people and motorbikes on the short hiking trail from Minca to the Oído del Mundo waterfall.
If you plan to go all the way to Marinka, or further to Los Pinos, you may want to look for company since it’s a longer hike which can feel isolated at times. You can quite easily meet other travelers to team up with at the local hostels. If you are a woman traveling alone, you may want to have a look at our Colombia Solo Female Travelers Facebook Group to look for companions.
For an all day hike, consider hiring a local guide. Local tour guides offer really good value for money in Colombia, and are very passionate and knowledgeable. Hiring a guide is also a great way to support the local economy.
In order to get to Minca from Santa Marta, just take a small bus at the central market in Santa Marta or get a mototaxi. The ride takes about 45 min and is enjoyably scenic!
Lace up your hiking boots and discover the magic waiting for you in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta!
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Last Update: June 3, 2025
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