Into the Finca: Six Days in the Sierra Nevada's Hidden Jungle
Six days of jungle trails, waterfall swims, and village life on Colombia's coastal mountains
Day one begins with the kind of humidity that clings to your shirt and your attention. A battered four-wheel drive drops you at a dirt lane, and the finca—whitewashed, verandah-rimmed, a scattering of coffee plants and papaya trees—waits like an invitation. Your guides, a Colombian landowner with roots in these slopes and a bilingual Canadian who knows the trail languages of comfort and safety, hand you a thick mug of coffee. The smell is immediate: roasted, tangy, the sort of fuel a jungle will ask for.
Trail Wisdom
Start early each day
Morning starts avoid mid-day heat and increase wildlife sightings; be on the trail by first light when possible.
Bring water treatment
Filtered water or tablets make river refills safe and save weight from carrying all your water at once.
Wear grippy, broken-in boots
Trails are often muddy and rocky; ankle support and traction reduce slips and blisters.
Respect village customs
Ask before photographing people and follow your guide's lead when visiting indigenous settlements.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A midday waterfall pool on day three that locals use for cooling off
- •Small coffee-processing demonstrations at participating fincas
Wildlife
Toucans, Colorful butterfly species including Blue Morphos
Conservation Note
Tours support local landowners and community guides—stick to trails, avoid single-use plastics, and follow guides' instructions to minimize impact.
The Sierra Nevada has long been home to indigenous groups such as the Arhuaco and Kogi, who maintain cultural practices tied to mountain stewardship.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Birdwatching, Waterfall flow, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Intermittent rain showers, Slippery trails
Spring brings frequent afternoon rains that swell waterfalls but make some trails muddy; mornings are usually clear and productive for wildlife.
summer
Best for: Dry trail conditions, Beach option, Longer daylight
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Possible afternoon storms in some years
Summer often overlaps the region's drier windows, offering more stable hiking days and a better chance for the optional beach day.
fall
Best for: Lush vegetation, Butterfly activity, Quieter trails
Challenges: Bimodal rains can return, River crossings higher after storms
Autumn keeps the jungle green and lively but can bring increased rain during peak wet months; prepare for wet gear.
winter
Best for: Clear mountain views, Dry trails in early winter, Comfortable nights
Challenges: Cooler nights at elevation, Possible rain in late winter months
Early winter months often have clearer skies and stable hiking, but pack a warm layer for cooler high-elevation evenings.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Grip and ankle support are important on muddy, rooty jungle trails.
Breathable rain jacketEssential
Lightweight protection keeps you dry during sudden tropical showers.
Hydration system with filter or tabletsEssential
Allows safe refills from mountain streams and reduces carried weight.
Insect repellent with DEET or PMDEssential
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common in lowland and river areas.
Common Questions
What level of hiking fitness do I need?
You should be comfortable hiking multi-hour days on uneven terrain; regular cardio and several long training hikes beforehand are recommended.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes; the tour accommodates solo travelers and includes local guides who manage logistics and safety.
What accommodations are like?
Accommodations are a mix of family-run finca rooms and simple camp setups or hammocks; expect rustic but safe and clean options.
Is the optional beach day included?
The beach visit is offered as an optional excursion—check the itinerary for that departure and any extra fees or transport time.
Will I have cell service?
Cell service is intermittent to non-existent on much of the trail; plan to be offline for extended stretches.
Are meals included?
Local meals are typically included; expect hearty home-cooked Colombian fare focused on rice, beans, plantains, and fresh produce.
What to Pack
Hiking boots (support on muddy trails), rain jacket (sudden showers), water filter/tablets (safe refills), insect repellent (mosquito protection)
Did You Know
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is the highest coastal mountain range in the world, rising from sea level to nearly 5,800 meters within a short distance.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Simón Bolívar Airport (SMR); bring Colombian pesos for small purchases; start hikes early to avoid heat; confirm dietary needs ahead of time
Local Flavor
After a day on the trail, head to a small eatery in Minca or Santa Marta for fresh seafood, arepas, and locally roasted coffee; many fincas will serve cacao-based drinks and freshly prepared meals—accepting these invitations supports local families and deepens the cultural exchange.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Simón Bolívar International Airport (Santa Marta, SMR). Typical drive to finca/mountain trailhead: 45–90 minutes from Santa Marta, depending on road and finca location. Cell service: intermittent to none on trail. Permits: No public permits required; tour includes private-access permissions.
Sustainability Note
This tour runs on private finca access and local guides—pack out trash, avoid single-use plastics, and follow local guidelines to protect waterways and agricultural plots.