14 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Santa Marta

The stunning mountains around Santa Marta, Colombia pack a punch for hikers of all abilities. Minca’s trails wind through coffee farms and pristine waterfalls, perfect for day-trippers who want a taste of local culture. The real showstopper is the Lost City Trek – a challenging but rewarding 4-6 day adventure to an ancient archaeological site that predates Machu Picchu. For beach lovers, guided hikes in Tayrona National Park lead to the postcard-perfect Cabo San Juan, while the laid-back Palomino River tubing offers a gentle adventure through the jungle.

I especially love the Lost City Trek for its mix of history and raw nature, while the Minca trails earn points for accessibility and culture.

Let’s explore the best hiking options Santa Marta has to offer.

Key Points

• Minca Tour offers a moderate hike through forest and jungle, featuring coffee and cocoa workshops, sacred waterfalls, and a chicken curry lunch.
• Lost City Trek is a 4- to 6-day guided adventure through the Sierra Nevada to an 8th-century archaeological site, suitable for physically fit travelers.
• Cabo San Juan Hike is a private tour with stunning landscape photography opportunities, though with mixed reviews on guide quality.
• Tayrona National Park offers private hikes and beach days with skip-the-line access, knowledgeable guides, and flexible cancellation policies.
• Palomino River Tubing is a 5-star rated activity that includes tubing equipment and a nature trail hike, priced at $35 per person.

Full-Day Hiking Tour in Minca With Coffee & Cocoa Workshop

This full-day hiking tour in Minca offers travelers an immersive experience, blending the region’s natural beauty with insights into local coffee and chocolate production.

With over 120 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, the tour is a popular choice among adventurous travelers. It includes visits to a coffee farm, a sacred waterfall, and a chocolate-making session, along with a hearty chicken curry lunch.

The moderate hike through the forest and jungle allows participants to learn about the local biodiversity.

While the tour generally receives positive feedback, some travelers note organizational issues and mixed reviews on certain activities.

Read our full review: Full-Day Hiking Tour in Minca With Coffee & Cocoa Workshop Review
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Santa Marta: Multi-Day Trek to The Lost City

For adventurous travelers seeking to uncover the mysteries of Santa Marta’s past, the multi-day trek to the Lost City stands out as a must-do experience.

This challenging 4- to 6-day journey takes hikers through the Sierra Nevada, culminating in the discovery of an ancient archaeological site dating back to the 8th century.

Along the way, trekkers will traverse dense jungle, climb over 1,200 stone steps, and learn about the indigenous Kogui culture.

With meals, accommodation, and transportation included, this small-group tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for ₹50,763 per person.

While the trek requires a good level of fitness, the breathtaking vistas and the chance to explore this remarkable historical site make it a truly unforgettable adventure.

Read our full review: Santa Marta: Multi-Day Trek to The Lost City Review
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Tayrona Park Hike & Beach Day With Private Guide

Exploring the stunning landscapes and pristine beaches of Tayrona National Park is a must-do activity for visitors to Santa Marta.

The Tayrona Park Hike & Beach Day with Private Guide offers an excellent opportunity to experience the park’s natural wonders. Rated 100% by travelers, this tour provides skip-the-line access, a knowledgeable private guide, and convenient transportation.

Guests can expect a moderate hike through the jungle, leading to picturesque beaches. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner, as well as the park admission fee and compulsory health insurance.

With free cancellation and rescheduling, this experience is both flexible and well-organized, making it a popular choice among visitors to the Santa Marta region.

Read our full review: Tayrona Park Hike & Beach Day With Private Guide Review
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Santa Marta: Tayrona Park Private Hike to Cabo San Juan

Visitors to Santa Marta can embark on an exhilarating private hike through Tayrona National Natural Park, culminating at the stunning Cabo San Juan beach.

This full-day tour offers the chance to swim in clear waters, explore lush forests, and enjoy a traditional Caribbean meal. Priced from $165.80 per person, the hike includes a guide, park entry, and insurance.

Highlights include pausing at Playa Arrecife, experiencing La Piscina, and relaxing at the park’s main attraction, Playa Cabo de San Juan.

With an overall rating of 4.7/5 and excellent reviews for the guide and value, this private hike provides an immersive, personalized experience in the beautiful Tayrona Park.

Read our full review: Santa Marta: Tayrona Park Private Hike to Cabo San Juan Review
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Tayrona Park Private Hike Tour to Cabo San Juan

The Tayrona Park Private Hike Tour to Cabo San Juan offers an exhilarating exploration of Tayrona National Natural Park, culminating at the stunning Cabo San Juan beach.

With a 93% traveler recommendation, this private tour provides a badge of excellence and the opportunity to discover the park’s beautiful beaches accompanied by a licensed guide.

The tour includes hotel pickup, park entry, insurance, and lunch.

While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate hike through the forest to Arrecifes beach and Cabo San Juan allows for swimming, relaxation, and stunning landscape photography.

Reviews highlight both positive and negative experiences with guides, but the company remains committed to addressing any issues and delivering quality service.

Read our full review: Tayrona Park Private Hike Tour to Cabo San Juan Review
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From Santa Marta: Ciudad Perdida 4-day Trek

Set out on a captivating 4-day trek to the legendary Ciudad Perdida, or “Lost City,” nestled deep within Colombia’s lush jungle.

This excursion, priced from €690.60 per person, takes you on a guided adventure through the wilderness, with a knowledgeable bilingual guide leading the way.

Hike through scenic trails, visit an indigenous village, and marvel at the impressive 1,200 stone steps leading to the ancient ruins.

Enjoy comfortable campsites, delicious local meals, and round-trip hotel transfers.

With a maximum group size of 8 participants, this trek offers an intimate and immersive experience.

Prepare for unforgettable memories and a true connection with Colombia’s captivating natural heritage.

Read our full review: From Santa Marta: Ciudad Perdida 4-day Trek Review
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Guided Hiking Through Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan

For those seeking an immersive outdoor adventure near Santa Marta, the guided hiking tour through Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan offers an exceptional opportunity. This 90% recommended tour provides 60 reviews and starts from $38 per person.

Hikers can expect an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, and tourist insurance, though additional costs apply for foreign tax and a bilingual guide. The tour includes pickup from traveler accommodations, but not in Taganga or after the park.

While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate hike is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with certain health conditions. The tour earns a 4.5-star rating, with positive feedback on the beautiful landscapes and professional crew, though some issues with guide communication and safety have been noted.

Read our full review: Guided Hiking Through Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan Review
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Trekking Cerro Kennedy 2 Days

Trekking Cerro Kennedy, a 2-day excursion, offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore Santa Marta’s stunning natural landscapes.

Operated by Wi Make Tours, this tour takes hikers on a challenging trek to the summit of Cerro Kennedy. The price starts at $298.11 per person and includes meals, accommodation, and private transportation.

With a 95% traveler recommendation rate and an average 5.0 rating from 41 reviews, this tour is a popular choice.

However, it’s not suitable for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, and a strong fitness level is required.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

Read our full review: Trekking Cerro Kennedy 2 Days Review
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Trek to Ciudad Perdida: 5 Days From Santa Marta

Adventurous travelers seeking an immersive jungle experience can embark on a 4- or 5-day trek to the fabled Ciudad Perdida, or “Lost City,” nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Colombia.

This 29-mile journey through the lush Colombian wilderness offers the opportunity to visit indigenous villages, swim in natural pools, and explore the archaeological site of the ancient city.

With a small group size, bilingual guides, and all meals and accommodations included, this trek is suitable for moderately fit individuals, though those with medical conditions or back problems should avoid it.

Proper gear and preparation are essential for a safe and unforgettable adventure.

Read our full review: Trek to Ciudad Perdida: 5 Days From Santa Marta Review
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Palomino River Tubing With Nature Trail Hike

Travelers seeking a more leisurely outdoor excursion in the Santa Marta region can enjoy the Palomino River Tubing with Nature Trail Hike.

This 5-star rated activity includes private transportation, tubing equipment, and a guided nature trail hike. Conveniently starting at 7 AM, the tour departs from Palomino or a nearby location and concludes at the meeting point.

The all-inclusive price of $35 per person offers excellent value, and the tour can be booked with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

With its stunning natural setting and positive traveler reviews, this adventure is an ideal choice for those looking to experience the beauty of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

Read our full review: Palomino River Tubing With Nature Trail Hike Review
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Lost City Trek 4 Days – 3 Nights

Venturing into the lush, verdant landscapes of Santa Marta, the Lost City Trek offers an unparalleled 4-day, 3-night adventure.

This tour, rated 5.0 by Viator and Tripadvisor, takes travelers on a captivating journey to the famed Lost City. With a maximum of 8 participants, the trek includes hearty meals, travel insurance, and mule support for luggage transport.

However, it’s not for everyone, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness and isn’t recommended for those with specific health conditions.

Booking can be made with a 24-hour free cancellation policy, and the tour starts at 8 am with pickup from select locations. Prices start from €722.23 per person.

Read our full review: Lost City Trek 4 Days – 3 Nights Review
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Hiking To Minca

This hiking tour to Minca from Santa Marta takes adventurers on a captivating journey through the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park.

Trekkers will explore rainforests and coffee/cocoa plantations, culminating in a visit to the stunning Pozo Azul waterfall and panoramic mountain views.

With a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, this private tour offers a high-quality experience for those with a high level of physical fitness.

Inclusions like lunch, breakfast, and dinner ensure a seamless adventure, while private transportation from Santa Marta and bottled water make the tour comfortable and convenient.

Though not suitable for those with serious health conditions, this hiking experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in Colombia’s natural beauty.

Read our full review: Hiking To Minca Review
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Tayrona Park Private Day Tour to Cabo San Juan, Hike and Beach

Set out on a captivating private day tour to Tayrona Park, culminating in a hike to the stunning Cabo San Juan and a relaxing day at the beach.

This 5-star rated experience offers private transportation, a private guide, and skip-the-line access. Enjoy a delicious lunch and bottled water while taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery.

However, this tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or limited mobility. Priced from €168.52 per person, it offers flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Explore the natural beauty of Colombia’s Tayrona Park on this unforgettable private adventure.

Read our full review: Tayrona Park Private Day Tour to Cabo San Juan, Hike and Beach Review
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Lost City Trek [Ciudad Perdida Tour] From Santa Marta & Taganga

Travelers seeking to uncover the mystical ruins of the ancient Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida, can embark on a captivating trek from Santa Marta or Taganga.

The Lost City Trek offers a comprehensive experience, including hotel pickup, 4×4 transfers, lodging, and entrance fees to the Lost City and indigenous community. Guided by professionals, the moderate to difficult trek involves an average of 6 hours of walking per day through the jungle.

With a maximum group size of 8, the tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner, though alcoholic beverages aren’t included.

While not wheelchair accessible, the trek is suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels, though certain medical conditions may warrant caution.

Read our full review: Lost City Trek [Ciudad Perdida Tour] From Santa Marta & Taganga Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Pack for a Multi-Day Trek in Santa Marta?

When packing for a multi-day trek in Santa Marta, it’s important to bring essentials like comfortable hiking shoes, a lightweight backpack, layers of clothing, rain gear, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget to pack any necessary medications and personal items as well.

How Do I Obtain a Permit to Enter Tayrona National Park?

To enter Tayrona National Park, you’ll need to obtain a permit. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the park entrance. Make sure to have your permit ready before arriving to avoid delays or issues accessing the park.

Can I Bring My Children on the Hiking Tours in Santa Marta?

Yes, you can typically bring your children on hiking tours in Santa Marta. Many tour operators offer family-friendly options with shorter, easier trails suitable for kids. Just be sure to check the specific requirements and difficulty level of each tour before booking.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Santa Marta for Hiking?

The best time to visit Santa Marta for hiking is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. Temperatures are more moderate, and there’s less chance of rain disrupting outdoor activities.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Weight I Can Carry on the Treks?

Most hiking tours in Santa Marta don’t have strict weight restrictions, but it’s best to pack light. Porters can carry larger bags for an additional fee. Consulting the tour operator is recommended to understand any specific weight limits or gear requirements.

The Sum Up

Santa Marta offers a wealth of hiking opportunities, from the lush forests of Minca to the stunning coastal trails of Tayrona Park. Whether you’re looking for a challenging multi-day trek to the Lost City or a relaxed day hike to Cabo San Juan, there’s an adventure to suit every skill level. With a range of guided tours available, visitors can experience the natural beauty of this region with ease and confidence.