Coconut Ritual with Hammam

From Santa Marta – The easiest way is by shared minibus (“colectivo”) from the small bus stop on Carrera 9 and Calle 12 near the Central Market. They run between 6 am and 6 pm, depart when full and cost around 10 000 COP per person[1]. The ride takes 45 minutes to one hour. It’s an authentic local experience but can be cramped; keep an eye on your belongings[1]. A more comfortable option is a taxi or private transfer, which takes about 45 minutes and costs 100 000–120 000 COP. If you’re coming from Santa Marta’s Simón Bolívar Airport the drive is roughly one hour. Taxis are a good choice if you’re travelling with luggage or at night, and we can help coordinate reliable transport via WhatsApp (+57 314 5386652).

From Cartagena – First, travel to Santa Marta. Buses operated by Berlinastur leave every 15–20 minutes from their terminal in Cartagena (reached by taxi for about 20 000 COP) and cost around 80 000 COP per person[2]. The journey takes roughly five hours and includes a short break in Barranquilla. Private shuttles like Marsol are also available but take longer and are more expensive (about 120 000 COP and must be booked in advance). Once in Santa Marta, you can take a taxi to the public market (about 15 000 COP) and hop on a colectivo or hire a taxi directly to Minca for 100 000–120 000 COP.

From Barranquilla – Take a bus from the Terminal Metropolitana to Santa Marta; buses depart hourly and cost roughly 50 000 COP. From Santa Marta, hop on a colectivo or hire a taxi to Minca as described above. If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car is another option (the road distance is about 114 km)[4], and we offer free parking for our guests.

Minca enjoys warm temperatures year‑round (27–28 °C), but rainfall varies. The dry season runs from December through April, with January–March bringing the least rainfall and the sunniest days[5]. December and April also offer pleasant weather ideal for hiking and swimming. May through November sees more frequent showers – often just for a few hours each day – when the landscape turns lush green. If you don’t mind a bit of rain and prefer fewer crowds, May and October can be rewarding. Overall, December–April is considered the best period for good weather and minimal rain[6]. Always pack a light rain jacket.

Safety

Travellers consistently describe Minca as one of the safest places in Colombia[7]. You’ll notice digital nomads, couples and families enjoying the town at all hours. Still, common sense applies: don’t flaunt valuables and keep your bag closed. Avoid walking alone on deserted trails – particularly where your phone may not have signal – and use taxis or moto‑taxis if you need to travel; they’re safe and know the way. Always confirm that a taxi or transport service is official and agree on the fare beforehand, as taxis on the Caribbean coast don’t use meters[8]. There are no ATMs in Minca, so withdraw enough cash in Santa Marta to cover your expenses – local cash services charge higher fees[9]. Women travelling alone have reported feeling safe[7].

What to pack

Pack light but be prepared for both sun and rain. Essentials include a lightweight rain jacket[10]; sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, sandals or water shoes for the river and flip‑flops for comfort[11]; quick‑dry clothing such as moisture‑wicking shirts and lightweight convertible pants; a long‑sleeved shirt to protect against mosquitoes; a hat and sunglasses[12]; biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent; a swimsuit; and a reusable water bottle. There are no ATMs in Minca[9], so bring enough cash. We have water filters on‑site so you can refill your bottle. It’s also wise to pack a small first‑aid kit, a quick‑dry towel and a waterproof bag or dry pouch to protect your electronics near the river or waterfalls. If you plan on longer hikes, consider a headlamp, trekking poles and a more robust rain shell. We provide yoga mats for our classes, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.