Minca is a small, eco-tourism-oriented town nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, located about 9 miles from the coastal city of Santa Marta. Positioned at an elevation of approximately 2,000 feet, Minca enjoys a cooler and more temperate climate than the lowland Caribbean coast, making it a refreshing escape for domestic travelers.
Once a quiet coffee-producing village, Minca has gained popularity in recent years as a gateway to nature, hiking, waterfalls, and birdwatching. The area is rich in biodiversity, with over 300 bird species. The surrounding Sierra Nevada is the highest coastal mountain range in the world, and its slopes are dotted with coffee farms, cloud forests, bamboo groves, and tropical rivers. One of the most visited natural attractions near Minca is Pozo Azul, a series of small waterfalls and natural swimming pools with clear, cool mountain water. It's located about 45 minutes on foot from the center of Minca. Pozo Azul can get crowded on weekends and holidays. The pools are surrounded by smooth rock formations.
Another popular attraction is the Marinka Waterfall (Cascada Marinka), located roughly 1.5 miles from Minca. This waterfall is more tranquil and spacious compared to Pozo Azul and features two large waterfalls cascading into natural swimming basins. The site is privately managed and has a small entrance fee. Minca also offers eco-lodges, hostels, and boutique hotels with views overlooking Santa Marta and the Caribbean coast. Many accommodations are located in the surrounding hills and include permaculture gardens, yoga decks, and guided nature walks. Popular activities in the area include visiting organic coffee and cacao farms, hiking to Cerro Kennedy for panoramic views, and motorbike tours through rural mountain trails.