Hammocks & Hiking at Minca, Colombia
Nestled in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Minca is a small village with big appeal for those who love nature and a hint of adventure. We arrived after a bumpy bus ride from Santa Marta, trading the city for a slower, greener pace. Our destination: Casa Loma, a hostel perched on a hilltop that offers panoramic views of Minca’s stunning landscapes. At Casa Loma, we swapped the usual hostel experience for something more adventurous—sleeping in hammocks. The climb up endless stairs to reach the hostel was worth it for the view alone. From our hammocks, we could see Minca’s jungle-clad hills, with the mosquito net wrapped around us for protection. Every night, we fell asleep to the sounds of the forest, feeling completely immersed in nature.
Hiking & ‘Minca Legs’
Minca is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that wind through thick tropical forests and past hidden waterfalls. Each day, we set off on foot to explore, with the Pozo Azul waterfalls being one of the highlights. The cold plunge into its clear waters was exactly what we needed after hours of hiking through the heat—and an ice-cold Club Colombia to top it off was the perfect refreshment.
But Minca has its quirks. One thing we kept hearing in every town before arriving was the phrase Minca legs—which we soon learned refers to the inevitable mosquito bites that cover you after a day of hiking. We used plenty of mosquito spray and even slept in long pajamas, despite the warmth, to protect ourselves from the bites. In the end, it worked, leaving us with a visual that was far less dramatic than true Minca legs.
Coffee & Cacao Tours
One of the highlights of our time in Minca was hiking to La Candelaria Coffee Farm B&B for a local coffee tour that offered a fascinating glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage. The trek to the farm was a rewarding journey, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature.
Once at La Candelaria, we explored the vibrant coffee fields, where our guide explained the meticulous process of cultivating coffee. We learned about the different varieties of coffee beans grown in the region, witnessing the stages of harvesting from the bright red cherries to the intricate process of drying and roasting them. Tasting the freshly brewed coffee was a highlight, with its rich and aromatic flavor perfectly capturing the essence of Minca’s high-altitude terrain.
While I had previously done a cacao tour, I focused solely on the coffee this time, but I can attest that the cacao process is incredible. Watching how the beans are harvested and fermented, and tasting cacao straight from the pod, is an experience worth savoring. Learning how local artisans craft exquisite chocolate deepened my appreciation for these beloved beverages and confections, making it clear why Minca is known as a hub for both coffee and cacao lovers.
Minca is a place where you slow down and reconnect with nature. From sleeping in hammocks to hiking through the mountains, it’s the kind of destination that stays with you long after you’ve left—mosquito bites and all. After soaking in all the beauty and adventure Minca had to offer, we made our way to El Rio Hostel in Buritaca, known for its lively parties and vibrant atmosphere. It was the perfect way to transition from the tranquil hills of Minca to the fun and social energy of the coast.
