Hiking To Minca

Posted By : gregkT6918IC
Got off to a bit of a bumpy start with some miscommunication on pickup logistics, but that was soon forgotten. Once we took a car up to the hiking start, we met Leo, who is just as knowledgeable and friendly as the other reviews say. He was very supportive throughout the hike, answered our questions, and took the time to point out interesting plants, insects, and birds. Sadly, we did not get lucky with any monkey or other animal sightings. Mostly, this is a proper hike and plenty challenging. We departed the drop-off point just before 7:30am and arrived in Minca at 2pm, covering 11 miles and 1000 meters of vertical gain. There was about 3-4 miles of gradual uphill walking on a dirt road, then 3 miles of trail hiking that was often very steep (especially approaching the summit), then a couple of miles descent down to Minca. We are a pretty fit group in our 30s and this was definitely on the high end of challenging. Additionally, December is at the end of the wet season, so there were some water crossings at the waterfall that were quite the adventure. However, it was still exhilarating to complete the uphill climb. While the summit itself does not reward with magnificent views, there were many great views going up. The big reward was on the descent to Minca, as shown in my picture, where you could see back all the way to Santa Marta and the water. There were a lot of very cool plants/insects/birds to see along the way as well. Minca was also a lovely destination and we enjoyed lunch with Leo. Would definitely recommend packing some comfier shoes (e.g., walking shoes) for the descent, since it is mostly roads. The hiking boot blister energy was felt by all in that stretch
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Posted On : 2022-12-08

Posted By : Edward0485
A perfect hike for those looking for a bit of real adventure. Leo was very knowledgeable about the local plants, insects and animals and we hiked a route you’d never find on your own. We avoided the tourists and we were able to find some real treasures in the jungle. We found the hike to be a perfect level of effort for a vacation and the lunch was very rewarding. I wouldn’t hesitate to do this again. Thanks Leo!
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Posted On : 2022-09-01

Posted By : GraceElizabeth1993
We had a great day out with Leo! The hike was the perfect balance of challenging but achievable and the views and rainforest were magnificent! Leo was very knowledgeable about all the flora and fauna and his passion for nature was obvious. We didn't see a single other hiker on the trail and it was so special to feel like we had the rainforest to ourselves! Wonderful and filling lunch at a local farm and a nice easy return to Minca. Thank you Leo!
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Posted On : 2022-09-01

Posted By : T45KRdennisn
Wow! What a cool experience hiking with Leo from near Santa Marta all the way to Minca. I really enjoyed our stop at the waterfall along the way and above all, learning from Leo's deep knowledge about the flora and fauna of the SM / Sierra Nevada region. To be sure, you need to be in decent shape and willing to get a little outside your comfort zone as this trek involves 20 km of walking in a day along with stream crossings and traversal of occasionally dense rainforest. I did the bonus option which involved a stay at a lovely eco-hostel with a wealth of hummingbirds and another hike to a Mirador above Minca the next morning. I can honestly say I've never had a guide before who's provided as much information as Leo did about the wildlife we saw - really inspiring!
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Posted On : 2022-08-11

Posted By : mezadaniel
I had the chance to go on a 1-day trekk with Leo to Minca It was spectacular. He was so knowledgeable of the landscape, the birds, the animals, the trees - I had never been exposed or had any previous knowledge of any of these and he explained them to me in such a great manner. Leo is funny and he will go at your pace. Lunch was amazing! the views spectacular. And when I felt like I couldn't go any longer - Leo encouraged me and took his time with me. I'd truly recommend this trek. Wish I'd have more time and could do more. I did this tour in Spanish as Spanish is my 1st language, but wanted to share my experience with all :)
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Posted On : 2020-03-25

Posted By : Toeme
We hiked with Leo in two days from Santa Marta to Minca. It was a great, tough hike with lot's of birds, lush vegetation, and even some unexpected pre-columbian ruins to discover. Leo is very knowledgeable, a gentle guide, who made us feel comfortable and safe throughout the journey. Highly recommended!
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Posted On : 2020-02-03