Amazing full day tour to Minca with a private guide

A full-day tour to Minca from Santa Marta offers a well-rounded taste of Colombia’s highland treasures. For $178 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately 10 hours of exploring coffee farms, swimming at Marinka Waterfalls, and discovering local culinary delights. The trip is designed for those who love nature, good stories, and a little adventure — whether that’s hiking through lush greenery or riding comfortably in air-conditioned vehicles.

What we especially like about this experience? First, the private guide makes a huge difference, allowing for personalized attention and flexible pacing. Second, the choice between hiking or taking a 4×4 ride up to the waterfalls caters to different energy levels and interests. A minor consideration: the full-day nature of the tour means it’s best suited for active travelers with a full day to spare.

This tour fits travelers who want to see Colombia’s countryside beyond the beaches, love authentic local experiences like visiting a historic coffee farm, and enjoy scenic swimming spots. It’s great for curious travelers eager to learn about coffee production, food lovers, and those who appreciate a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Enjoy a tailored experience with your own guide and transportation.
• Authentic Coffee Experience: Visit one of Colombia’s oldest coffee farms and learn the from-seed-to-cup process.
• Versatile Waterfall Trip: Choose between a scenic hike or a comfortable 4×4 ride to Marinka Waterfalls for a refreshing swim.
• Local Culinary Delights: Sample organic chocolate bread and gelato at La Miga Panadería.
• Biodiversity and Nature: Minca sits on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, offering lush scenery and abundant wildlife.
• Full Day of Exploration: From early morning pickup to late afternoon return, see a variety of sights and enjoy a relaxed pace.

An In-Depth Look at the Minca Full-Day Tour

Starting Point: Santa Marta and Early Pickup

The adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Santa Marta, whether it’s a hotel or Airbnb. The tour covers key neighborhoods like Rodadero, Pozos Colorados, Bello Horizonte, Playa Dormida, or Taganga. The comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle helps you start the day relaxed and ready for a full day ahead.

Traveling in a private vehicle adds a layer of convenience and flexibility, allowing your guide to customize certain parts of the day. The group size is small, which enhances the sense of intimacy and allows for more meaningful conversations with your guide, who speaks both English and Spanish.

First Stop: Minca Village and the Surrounding Hills

After about 45 minutes, you’ll arrive in Minca, a charming small town perched on the hills on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This area is renowned for its biodiversity and cooler mountain air, offering a welcome escape from the coastal heat. The village is a hub for nature lovers, with scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush greenery all around.

Minca itself is a cozy spot with a laid-back vibe, perfect for soaking in local culture and appreciating the natural beauty. The tour’s emphasis on nature and biodiversity makes it ideal for travelers wanting a break from city life while still enjoying guided insights into the local environment.

Marinka Waterfalls: A Refreshing Natural Wonder

The highlight for many is the stop at Cascadas de Marinka. Here, you’ll either hike or take a 4×4, depending on your selected option. The hike lasts about an hour, winding through verdant scenery. If you opt for the 4×4, the ride takes approximately 25 minutes, making the journey more comfortable if you prefer not to hike.

Once at the waterfalls, you’ll find a delightful spot to swim and relax. The waterfalls are set against stunning scenery, and the outdoor restaurant nearby offers a chance to enjoy the view while taking a break. One review notes the waterfalls as a “lovely spot to swim and chill,” and the inclusion of admission fees is seamless, included in the tour price.

Expect a relaxed afternoon with plenty of time to enjoy the cool waters and admire the natural surroundings. Many visitors comment on how refreshing and invigorating this stop is, especially after a morning of traveling.

Local Culinary Experience at La Miga Panadería

After a splash in the waterfalls, your guide will take you to La Miga French Bakery, where you can indulge in one of the best chocolate breads around. The bread is described as soft, with rich organic chocolate — a perfect treat after some outdoor activity. Not a fan of bread? No worries — you can also sample delicious gelato.

This stop offers a taste of local flavors and artisan baking, adding a culinary layer to your trip. It also provides a brief moment to relax, chat with locals, and enjoy a sweet or savory snack.

Coffee and Chocolate at La Candelaria Cocoa Farm (Optional)

Depending on your chosen tour option, you may visit La Candelaria Cocoa Farm, an organic farm that offers an interactive from-seed-to-cup chocolate experience. Here, you’ll learn how chocolate is made and sample fresh products, making it a hit for kids and adults alike.

This stop is especially meaningful for those interested in Colombian coffee and chocolate traditions. Since it’s included only in certain options, check your booking to confirm if it’s part of your itinerary.

The Historic Finca La Victoria Coffee Farm

The tour’s highlight might be the visit to Finca La Victoria, one of Colombia’s oldest coffee farms, dating back to 1892. Perched at around 2600 ft above sea level, this farm has preserved traditional machinery and processes, providing a fascinating glimpse into historic coffee production.

Your guide will walk you through the entire process — from picking to processing, all using machinery that’s over a century old. The farm’s commitment to organic, first-class beans is evident, and the journey through the coffee production is both educational and inspiring.

Visitors often appreciate the aerial view of the farm’s operation, supported by gravity-fed pipelines and pipelines. It’s a rare chance to see such preservation of traditional methods in action.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The cost reflects excellent value, considering the inclusion of multiple carefully curated stops, private transportation, and guiding services.
• The timing is well-paced, giving you plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed.
• Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial given the long hours.
• The guide’s knowledge and language skills help deepen your understanding of local culture and history.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

According to reviews, guides like Hugo make a significant difference, with travelers feeling safe and well cared for. One guest described the tour as “fascinating, well-guided, and full of marvelous places,” emphasizing the value of local, knowledgeable guides.

Several reviews highlight stunning views and delicious food, making every moment memorable. The waterfalls receive particular praise as a refreshing and beautiful natural highlight. The inclusion of food stops like La Miga Panadería adds personal touches that elevate the experience from merely sightseeing to tasting Colombia’s local flavors.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This full-day experience suits travelers who want to see some of Colombia’s lesser-known natural and cultural highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history, nature, and food in a relaxed, private setting. If you enjoy guided insights and want a flexible itinerary that adapts to your pace, this trip promises a memorable day.

It’s also great for families (including children) and groups who want a customizable adventure in the mountains. Just be prepared for a full day, and ensure you have suitable clothing and swimwear for the waterfalls.

Final Thoughts

In sum, this private Minca tour is a well-balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor. It offers genuine value through personalized guiding, authentic stops, and scenic beauty. The flexibility of hiking or riding, combined with the chance to visit a historic coffee farm and swim at Marinka Waterfalls, makes it a compelling choice for active and curious travelers.

If you’re seeking a deeper connection with Colombia’s biodiversity, culture, and culinary traditions, this tour will check those boxes and more. It’s best suited for those who want an authentic, guided experience that combines adventure with comfort — a true highlight of a trip to Santa Marta.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and offers stops that children can enjoy, especially the waterfalls and the chocolate farm. Just consider the full day and prepare accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, waterproof shoes for the waterfalls, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Bottled water is provided, but bringing extra hydration is wise.

Can I choose between hiking and riding to the waterfalls?
Yes, you can select either a scenic hike or a 4×4 ride, depending on your preference and fitness level.

Is the tour private or can I join a group?
This experience is exclusively private for your group, ensuring a personalized and flexible pace.

How much time is spent at each stop?
Expect around 45 minutes at Santa Marta, 1.5 hours at the waterfalls, 15 minutes at La Miga Panadería, and 1.5 hours at each of the farms, with some variation based on your choices.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a risk-free option.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll be able to enjoy local snacks and treats at La Miga Panadería and the waterfall restaurant.

Are there any physical demands?
The tour involves some walking and hiking, but you can opt for the 4×4 ride to minimize physical effort.

How early does the tour start?
Pick-up begins at 8:00 am, so be ready for an early start that maximizes your day.

This detailed look at the Minca full-day tour highlights its value for anyone eager to explore Colombia’s highland charm, blend adventure with learning, and enjoy authentic local flavors. It’s a carefully curated experience that balances activity with comfort, perfect for curious travelers ready to step beyond the beaches into Colombia’s lush mountain landscape.