Are you ready for an adventure? If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature, Minca is the perfect destination for you. This charming town located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains in northern Colombia is filled with breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, waterfalls, and coffee farms. In this article, we will explore all the fun things to do in Minca and provide directions on how to get there by taxi from Ciénaga.
Getting to Minca from Ciénaga
Before we dive into the fun activities in Minca, let’s first discuss how to get there. The most common way to get to Minca from Ciénaga is by taxi. Taxis are readily available in Ciénaga, and the ride to Minca takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The cost of the taxi ride should be around 60,000-80,000 Colombian pesos (about 16-22 USD).
Fun Things to Do in Minca
- Visit the Pozo Azul Waterfalls
One of the top attractions in Minca is the Pozo Azul waterfalls, which consists of several natural swimming pools surrounded by lush vegetation. The water is crystal clear and refreshing, perfect for a dip on a hot day. The waterfalls are located about 20-30 minutes from the center of town, and the trail to get there is relatively easy to navigate.
- Take a Coffee Farm Tour
Minca is known for its high-quality coffee, and taking a coffee farm tour is a must-do activity for coffee lovers. You will get to see the entire process of coffee production, from picking the coffee cherries to roasting the beans. There are several coffee farms in Minca that offer tours, including La Victoria, La Candelaria, and Finca San Rafael.
- Hike to the Cerro Kennedy Peak
If you’re up for a challenging hike, the Cerro Kennedy peak is a great option. It’s the highest peak in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, standing at an elevation of 3,100 meters (10,170 feet). The hike takes about 5-6 hours round trip, and the views from the top are breathtaking.
- Birdwatching
Minca is home to over 300 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Some of the most common birds that you can spot in Minca include toucans, parrots, and hummingbirds. The best time for birdwatching is in the early morning, so be sure to bring your binoculars and camera.
- Visit the Marinka Waterfalls
The Marinka waterfalls are another stunning natural attraction in Minca. It consists of a series of waterfalls, and the largest one is about 30 meters (98 feet) high. The waterfalls are located about a 30-minute hike from the center of town, and the trail can be a bit steep and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
- Explore the Santa Marta Butterfly Farm
If you’re traveling with kids or just love butterflies, the Santa Marta Butterfly Farm is a great place to visit. The farm is home to over 1,200 butterflies from over 50 species. You will get to see the entire lifecycle of butterflies, from eggs to caterpillars to cocoons to adult butterflies.
- Relax in a Hammock
One of the best things to do in Minca is to simply relax in a hammock and take in the stunning scenery. Many of the coffee farms and guesthouses in Minca offer hammocks with a view, where you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and lush greenery.
In conclusion, Minca is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. From stunning waterfalls and coffee farms to challenging hikes and birdwatching, there’s something for everyone in Minca. And with a short taxi ride from Ciénaga, it’s easy to get there and start exploring. So pack your bags, book your taxi, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget. Minca is waiting for you!