From the Sea to the Mountains

Language Eng & Spa
Duration 2d/1n Physicality Active Private Trip
Language Spanish & English
Duration 2d/1n
Physicality Active
Private Trip

$579 USD p/p*

Overview: Explore with us the south of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, The highest coastal mountains in the world, and discover one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia, see colorful fish, coral reef, experience the rain forest in the mountains with birds, streams, waterfalls, bamboo forest, beautiful views and learn about the organic coffee process.

Download Trip

Itinerary:

Day 1: At 5:15 a.m. we drive out of Cartagena towards Tayrona National Park to enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia where we can swim and do snorkeling. At 1:00 p.m. approx., we have a typical lunch. At 3:30 p.m. we leave the beach to go towards  Minca, in this town we enjoy the views of Santa Marta city and its bay. The evening time is free time, we can explore Minca, have dinner out or just relax at our accommodation.

Approximate driving time: 5 hours. Approximate boat ride time: 15 minutes.

 

Day 2: At 7:15 a.m. we leave our accommodation to visit a Coffee and Cacao farm where we learn everything about the Coffee and Cacao process in a tour, after this, we visit some waterfalls from the Sierra Nevada. At 12:30 p.m. we have lunch. At 1:30 p.m. we head to Cartagena.

Approximate driving time: 5 hours. Approximate hike time: 3 hours

Geographic Description

The Sierra Nevada f Santa Marta is a group of mountains separated of the Andes, with their snowy peaks, Colón and Bolívar, which are the highest in Colombia (5.775 m) situated just 42 km from the coast. The Sierra Nevada is the highest sea coast mountain chain in the world. These mountains slopes offer a diverse and complex ecosystem and an unique ecological niche on the planet.

 

The steep slopes of Santa Marta Sierra Nevada plunges into the sea like the fingers of a gigantic hand, between which there are bays and estuaries of singular beauty: Chengue, Gayraca, Cinto, Neguanje, Concha, and Guachaquita all with golden sandy beaches bordered by rocky atolls, mangroves, thickets and forests are bathed by the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean.

 

At the present, nearly 30,000 members from the Kogui, Arhuaco, Kakuamo and Wiwa (Arsarios) cultures live there. They are descendants of the Tayrona culture, a complex and interesting indigenous societies of pre-Hispanic America. They have a special connection with the Sierra Nevada.

Map

Highlights:

  • Explore the Tayrona and Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta Natural Parks.
  • Discover one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia.
  • Hike to Discover natural treasures in the highest coastal mountains of the world.
  • Explore a coffee farm and discover the organic coffee process.

*Prices:

  • 579 USD per person.

Details:

  • Departure from Cartagena: 5:15 a.m.
  • Duration of the tour: Two days and one night.
  • Private trip.
  • Departures: On request.
  • Language: Spanish, English.

Includes:

  • Private transportation
  • Trip leader.
  • Two breakfasts.
  • Two lunches
  • Accommodation for 1 night.
  • Snorkeling equipment.
  • Coffee-making process tour.

Does not include:

  • Hydrating beverages.
  • Dinners.
  • Services not specified in the plan and personal expenses.

Physical requirements & restrictions:

These trips involve hiking or walking for up to three hours (4 miles approx.) a day at a slow pace on undulating terrain. The itinerary takes place in remote areas (with basic facilities), involve various types of transport and rough roads. To enjoy these adventures we suggest reasonable fitness and health, a moderately active lifestyle and have a positive attitude. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions (Rain).

 

Due to the nature of the activities undertaken in this tour, pregnant women, children under 8 years old and minors unaccompanied by their parents or legal guardians are not allowed.

What to Bring::

  • Bring water.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat.
  • Bring a day pack to carry personal items.
  • Bring comfortable clothes and swimwear.
  • Pack your clothes in a small bag as space is limited in the vehicle.
  • Bring only what is necessary to avoid carrying too much weight.
  • Bring clothes for 23 °C approx. in the night.
  • Bring a towel.
  • Bring comfortable clothes (shoes, flip-flops, long pants and t-shirts).
  • Bring a light rain jacket.
  • Bring insect repellent.
  • Bring a flashlight
  • Health and vaccination: see, the www.colombia.travel website.
  • Jacklyn Neborak - Canada

    "From the Sea to the Mountains Tour Santa Marta"


    My boyfriend and I took the 2 day tour that goes from Cartagena to Santa Marta (From the Sea to the Mountains). We absolutely loved this tour and it was one of the most memorable parts of our visit to Colombia.

    I can't recommend this tour enough if you are staying in Cartagena for several days and are looking for memorable activities beyond hoping on a crowded tour bus and just taking photos. Instead, this tour offers a private, authentic experience that will show you locations you otherwise wouldn't see, while also getting in some good physical activity. Furthermore, Olinto is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about providing a high quality tour to offer an authentic experience of Colombia. From the initial tour inquiry to the end of our tour, Olinto was extremely helpful and went out of his way to make sure that we were informed and happy with our experience. Not only did we love the tour, but we have made a wonderful friend, Olinto.

    The locations on the tour were absolutely breath taking as promised by the pictures and were authentic locations not crammed with other tourists, which was nice. The tour offers locations you can't see anywhere else.

    On the first day of the tour, we went to a beautiful beach in Tayrona National Park where we snorkelled and had a yummy fresh fish lunch.The snorkelling was fantastic, beautiful coral reefs with lots of bright colored fish, it was like something out of a movie. We then went to Minca to watch the sunset.The eco hab we stayed at in Minca offered a beautiful sunset view of the city of Santa Marta as well as amazing bird watching. It was extremely peaceful, our only regret is that we were only at the eco hab for 1 night.

    The next day, we went for a hike through the rainforest in the mountains which offered stunning views, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and a variety of wildlife. We then visited a coffee plantation from the 1890s, which also is home to a fantastic local micro brewery. After, we enjoyed a local meal for lunch prepared at a local home in the rainforest.

    If you love adventure, stunning views, exposure to local life, and wildlife this tour is an absolute must!

     

    Jacklyn Neborak - Canada

Overview: Explore with us the south of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, The highest coastal mountains in the world, and discover one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia, see colorful fish, coral reef, experience the rain forest in the mountains with birds, streams, waterfalls, bamboo forest, beautiful views and learn about the organic coffee process.

Download Trip

Itinerary:

Day 1: At 5:15 a.m. we drive out of Cartagena towards Tayrona National Park to enjoy  one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia where we can swim and do snorkeling. At 1:00 p.m. approx., we have a typical lunch. At 3:30 p.m. we leave the beach to go towards  Minca, in this town we enjoy the views of Santa Marta city and its bay. The evening time is free time, we can explore Minca, have dinner out or just relax at our accommodation.

Approximate driving time: 5 hours. Approximate boat time: 10 minutes.

 

Day 2: At 7:15 a.m. we leave our accommodation to visit a Coffee and Cacao farm where we learn everything about the Coffee and Cacao process in a tour, after this, we visit some waterfalls from the Sierra Nevada. At 12:30 p.m. we have lunch. At 2:00 p.m. we head to Cartagena.

Approximate driving time: 5 hours. Approximate hike time: 2,5 hours

Geographic Description

The Sierra Nevada f Santa Marta is a group of mountains separated of the Andes, with their snowy peaks, Colón and Bolívar, which are the highest in Colombia (5.775 m) situated just 42 km from the coast. The Sierra Nevada is the highest sea coast mountain chain in the world. These mountains slopes offer a diverse and complex ecosystem and an unique ecological niche on the planet.

 

The steep slopes of Santa Marta Sierra Nevada plunges into the sea like the fingers of a gigantic hand, between which there are bays and estuaries of singular beauty: Chengue, Gayraca, Cinto, Neguanje, Concha, and Guachaquita all with golden sandy beaches bordered by rocky atolls, mangroves, thickets and forests are bathed by the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean.

 

At the present, nearly 30,000 members from the Kogui, Arhuaco, Kakuamo and Wiwa (Arsarios) cultures live there. They are descendants of the Tayrona culture, a complex and interesting indigenous societies of pre-Hispanic America. They have a special connection with the Sierra Nevada.

Map

Highlights:

  • Explore the Tayrona and Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta Natural Parks.
  • Discover one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia.
  • Hike to Discover natural treasures in the highest coastal mountains of the world.
  • Explore a coffee farm and discover the organic coffee process.

*Prices:

  • 579 per person

Details:

  • Departure from Cartagena: 5:15 a.m.
  • Duration of the tour: Two days and one night.
  • Private trip.
  • Departures: On request.
  • Language: Spanish, English.

Includes:

    • Private transportation
    • Trip leader.
    • Two breakfasts.
    • Two lunches
    • Accommodation for 1 night.
    • Snorkeling equipment.
    • Coffee-making process tour.

Does not include:

  • Hydrating beverages.
  • Dinners.
  • Services not specified in the plan and personal expenses.

Physical requirements & restrictions:

An average level of fitness and mobility is required to take this trip. Travelers must be able to walk without the aid of another person.

Due to the nature of the activities undertaken in this tour, pregnant women, children under 10 years old and minors unaccompanied by their parents or legal guardians are not allowed.

What to Bring::

  • Take your personal medication.
  • Bring water.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat.
  • Bring a day pack to carry personal items.
  • Bring comfortable clothes and swimwear.
  • Pack your clothes in a small bag as space is limited in the vehicle.
  • Bring only what is necessary to avoid carrying too much weight.
  • Bring clothes for 23 °C approx. in the night.
  • Llevar zapatos cómodos para caminar y chanclas.
  • Bring a towel.
  • Bring comfortable clothes (shoes, flip-flops, long pants and t-shirts).
  • Bring a light rain jacket.
  • Bring insect repellent.
  • Bring a flashlight
  • Health and vaccination: see, the www.colombia.travel website.
  • Jacklyn Neborak - Canada

    "From the Sea to the Mountains Tour Santa Marta"


    My boyfriend and I took the 2 day tour that goes from Cartagena to Santa Marta (From the Sea to the Mountains). We absolutely loved this tour and it was one of the most memorable parts of our visit to Colombia.

    I can't recommend this tour enough if you are staying in Cartagena for several days and are looking for memorable activities beyond hoping on a crowded tour bus and just taking photos. Instead, this tour offers a private, authentic experience that will show you locations you otherwise wouldn't see, while also getting in some good physical activity. Furthermore, Olinto is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about providing a high quality tour to offer an authentic experience of Colombia. From the initial tour inquiry to the end of our tour, Olinto was extremely helpful and went out of his way to make sure that we were informed and happy with our experience. Not only did we love the tour, but we have made a wonderful friend, Olinto.

    The locations on the tour were absolutely breath taking as promised by the pictures and were authentic locations not crammed with other tourists, which was nice. The tour offers locations you can't see anywhere else.

    On the first day of the tour, we went to a beautiful beach in Tayrona National Park where we snorkelled and had a yummy fresh fish lunch.The snorkelling was fantastic, beautiful coral reefs with lots of bright colored fish, it was like something out of a movie. We then went to Minca to watch the sunset.The eco hab we stayed at in Minca offered a beautiful sunset view of the city of Santa Marta as well as amazing bird watching. It was extremely peaceful, our only regret is that we were only at the eco hab for 1 night.

    The next day, we went for a hike through the rainforest in the mountains which offered stunning views, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and a variety of wildlife. We then visited a coffee plantation from the 1890s, which also is home to a fantastic local micro brewery. After, we enjoyed a local meal for lunch prepared at a local home in the rainforest.

    If you love adventure, stunning views, exposure to local life, and wildlife this tour is an absolute must!

     

    Jacklyn Neborak - Canada

TRIP GALLERY

 

THIS IS WHY WE LOVE WHAT WE DO

 

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Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
WIBadgers53 profile picture
WIBadgers53
6 January 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
3 amazing days: Tayrona, Santa Marta, Minca This trip was everything it advertised and more. The hiking was great, the experiences were spot on (boating, eating fresh fish on the beach, bird watching, coffee and cocoa plantation tour, hanging out in the waterfalls, visiting Minca, watching the sunset from the beach) and there is no way we could have arranged all of these details ourselves. We were exhausted after our 3 days, but that is because we saw and did so many things. It was absolutely incredible. Olinto, the guide, attends to every detail and is very easy to communicate with. I really can't recommend him and this tour highly enough! We traveled with our young adult children and the trip was enjoyed by all of us! We would do it again in a heartbeat!
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Guillaume S profile picture
Guillaume S
26 June 2023
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Excellente excursions au parc Tayrona et Minca. Excellente expérience avec Oli ! Une découverte incroyable de la zone du Tayrona et de Minca. Merci encore à Oli pour les excursions. De la mer à la montagne les paysages sont époustouflants. Vraiment y le meilleur moment de notre séjour en Colombie. Nous recommandons absolument pour les voyageurs présents a Carthagene.
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Ashley R profile picture
Ashley R
5 June 2022
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
A can't miss experience - From Sea to Mountains Sierra Nevada 2 day Tour If you are crunched for time, and want to see everything the Sierra Nevada mountain range has to offer, literally from the sea all the way up into the mountains, then you can't pass up this 2 day tour! My sister and I were accompanied by wonderful tour guides, Olinto and Marina on a fun-filled journey through the Sierra Nevada. We covered so much ground and by the end, felt like we had seen it all and hadn't missed out on anything. On day one we took motor bikes to crystal blue and turquoise waters in Tayrona National Park, enjoyed the beach, had lunch, took a boat ride, and went snorkeling and saw a garden of fish and coral. The views of the highest coastal mountains in the world was absolutely breathtaking. We then saw some waterfalls (although it rained a bit, it was still peaceful and beautiful) and headed to Sweet Harmony for the night, a cute and tranquil boutique in the middle of of the mountains. On Day 2 we took a tour of an organic coffee and cacao farm and learned so many interesting things about how those two crops are grown and harvested. There were even some fun surprises afterwards and we got to sample the coffee and cacao. The drive is long, but it was well worth the trip. The time went by fast because you got to see more of Colombia outside your window on the drive. Olinto and Marina made this tour extra special. They are so kind, were extremely accommodating, and by the end felt more like friends than our tour guides. I HIGHLY recommend this tour.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
rebecca p profile picture
rebecca p
27 April 2022
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Amazing experience "From the sea to the mountains" Our family (parents and 17 yo daughter) had the pleasure of of going on this 36 hour adventure with Taroa. Our guides were Olinta and Marina, and they were great company. They picked us up promptly for our early morning drive out of Cartagena to Tayrona park, and had some delicious arepas con huevos to feed us breakfast along the way. We really enjoyed seeing the sites of Colombia along the way, and Olinta and Marina kept us entertained with good music and interesting facts about the areas. We stopped along the way at a fruit stand, and I had the best mango I have ever eaten. Tayrona was beautiful. We enjoyed the beautiful remote beach, saw a big pufferfish while snorkeling, and had a delicious lunch of local fried fish on the beach. After a windy and picturesque drive to Minca, we settled into the Sweet Harmony guest house where we had a patio overlooking the river. We used a flashlight for the 10-15 minute walk to town (Olinta offered to drive us but we felt like walking) and ate at one of the local restaurants. We really liked Minca and would have been happy to spend more time there. The next morning we took a scenic hike to a local coffee and cacao farm and we all loved the tour (and the coffee). We ate lunch back in Minca at a friend of Olinta's restaurant where we enjoyed a traditional chicken soup, then headed out to hike by a waterfall. Then came the long ride back to Cartagena where we were dropped back at our hotel. Taroa is a great company, and we felt very secure and looked after at all times. It was pleasant having the logistics all arranged and just getting to show up. We were very glad we did this trip and highly recommend it. Since the drive is so long (5 hours each day), it would be great if Taroa offered a 2 night excursion as well (spend the 2nd night in Minca again, then perhaps break up the drive back to Cartagena with some additional sights or activities along the way?) Thanks to Olinta and Marina, you guys are great!
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Mary Runkle profile picture
Mary Runkle
1 December 2020
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
After searching TripAdvisor for multi-day excursions from Cartagena, we found Taroa Adventures. It was a no brainer to go with Olinto and his company! This review is for two trips: Santa Marta and Baru Islands. Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (From the Sea to the Mountains): We wanted an authentic way to experience Colombia beyond Cartagena. This trip was hands down the BEST PART of Colombia for us. Our first day in country, Olinto picked up and we set off. He is a great local guide because of his passion for his country and his interest in sharing his favorite places. Tyrona National Park and Minca (a small town in the mountains) capture the environmental diversity Colombia has to offer. Olinto arranged everything for us which made the trip seamless. Pros: -The entire trip! -Olinto who has become a great friend! -Seeing the diversity of nature in Colombia -Truly unique experience The South of Baru Islands: A great way to see the local islands, beautiful waters and swim! Pros: -Olinto (of course) -“Off the beaten path”
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Abanks1 profile picture
Abanks1
30 November 2019
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Trip of a lifetime Olinto is an excellent guide with an in quenchable thirst for knowledge of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. My wife and I enjoyed our three days with Olinto exploring the Playa Chengue, sunset in Taganga, the eclectic village of Minca, Marinka Falls, a coffee processing plant, birdwatching with “Jungle Joe” and Rolando, and a walk on the Santa Marta Malecón. Olinto is an excellent driver, especially on very rough mountain roads. He also tailors the trip as needed based on what you want to see and do. Is attentive, a good listener, a good storyteller, and knows a lot of good people. He takes care of his guests and the people he relies on to take care of you. When he saw that I had an interest in snorkeling, he quickly arranged for me to snorkel on a reef. When he saw that I enjoyed photography, he arranged a first-rate birdwatching walk and stopped whenever I saw a potential view. His choice of meals is second to none. From a delicious peasant lunch on the beach, to a delicious dinner by the husband and wife team at the restaurant next to our romantic thatched hut, to a traditional Columbian chicken and potato soup in Minca. Olinto’s passion comes from spending his youth vacationing in the mountains and countless trips to find the best of the best places, people, and sights to make you want more. A trip with Olinto is a once in a lifetime educational and cultural adventure that you will cherish forever. Our only regret was that he did not offer a four-day trip.
Posted on Google Google
Susan McDermott profile picture
Susan McDermott
10 June 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Chicago, Illinois Reviewed June 8, 2016 Santa Marta and Baru Trips The Santa Marta trip was great! It takes you to a mountainous area, where you stay in a wonderful eco-lodge. Got to hike, visit a coffee farm, visit a smaller town, and general sightseeing. The trip to Santa Marta lets you experience parts of Columbia not seen by the typical visitor. The U.S. was playing Columbia while we were there and our guide found a local spot for us to watch the game. Everyone was friendly and welcoming. The Baru Baru trip takes you on an interesting journey by SUV across a beach and then down unpaved roads to the end of a peninsula where you visit a local Caribbean village. I'm usually wary of community visits as they can be awkward. This was not at all awkward. The local guide took us around and explained village life to us. There is a small art gallery on the island featuring local talented artists that was very interesting. Some beautifully constructed and colorful buildings are on the island as well. The afternoon was spent relaxing on a lovely beach. On both trips, you will be able to taste local foods. Our guide Olinto made sure that we were comfortable at all times. He was great at explaining local culture and attractions.
Posted on Google Google
Jacklyn Neborak profile picture
Jacklyn Neborak
10 June 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My boyfriend and I took the 2 day tour that goes from Cartagena to Santa Marta (From the Sea to the Mountains). We absolutely loved this tour and it was one of the most memorable parts of our visit to Colombia. I can't recommend this tour enough if you are staying in Cartagena for several days and are looking for memorable activities beyond hoping on a crowded tour bus and just taking photos. Instead, this tour offers a private, authentic experience that will show you locations you otherwise wouldn't see, while also getting in some good physical activity. Furthermore, Olinto is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about providing a high quality tour to offer an authentic experience of Colombia. From the initial tour inquiry to the end of our tour, Olinto was extremely helpful and went out of his way to make sure that we were informed and happy with our experience. Not only did we love the tour, but we have made a wonderful friend, Olinto. The locations on the tour were absolutely breath taking as promised by the pictures and were authentic locations not crammed with other tourists, which was nice. The tour offers locations you can't see anywhere else. On the first day of the tour, we went to a beautiful beach in Tayrona National Park where we snorkelled and had a yummy fresh fish lunch.The snorkelling was fantastic, beautiful coral reefs with lots of bright colored fish, it was like something out of a movie. We then went to Minca to watch the sunset.The eco hab we stayed at in Minca offered a beautiful sunset view of the city of Santa Marta as well as amazing bird watching. It was extremely peaceful, our only regret is that we were only at the eco hab for 1 night. The next day, we went for a hike through the rainforest in the mountains which offered stunning views, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and a variety of wildlife. We then visited a coffee plantation from the 1890s, which also is home to a fantastic local micro brewery. After, we enjoyed a local meal for lunch prepared at a local home in the rainforest. If you love adventure, stunning views, exposure to local life, and wildlife this tour is an absolute must!
Posted on Google Google
Juliet Fitzherbert profile picture
Juliet Fitzherbert
28 May 2019
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My family of two adults and three boys aged 17 - 24 spent two happy days with Olinto. he thought of everything and gave us some of our best memories of Colombia. He took us to places that we would never have found on our own. He was charming and incredibly well organised. The air conditioning in his car was also a huge bonus. Couldn't recommend highly enough.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Bonnie G profile picture
Bonnie G
20 March 2018
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Wonderful way to experience a slice of Colombia! Traveling with my husband and 3 high school and college age children to Cartagena for a week, I was determined to find an experience that would get us out of the city and connecting with Colombia and each other. In searching for outdoor activities near Cartagena online, I was delighted to find several excellent trip advisor reviews of Taroa's offerings. I reached out to Olinto with numerous questions about his trips and eventually settled on an abbreviated "From the Sea to the Mountains" excursion (36 hours). It was fantastic! Olinto is knowledgeable, kind, and has an excellent command of English. He took care of everything--we didn't have to think for a moment, which gave us the mental space to just sit back and enjoy our outing. He picked us up at our airbnb at 6am and drove the 5 hours to Tayrona, patiently answering our many questions and feeding us, first at a Colombian version of Dunkin' Donuts and then another stop at a roadside coconut juice stand. We arrived at the beautiful Tayrona through a private entrance, thereby avoiding the long lines waiting to enter and the hour-long hike to the beach that I read about in all the travel guides. We relaxed, went snorkeling (from another location) and ate a yummy lunch of fish and plantains (fried was more flavorful than grilled). From there, he drove us up to beautiful Minca and dropped us at our lovely accommodations for the night, Sweet Harmony Guest House. Once we settled in, we walked down the short path to the river, which was chllly, but nice to wade in. It's a beautiful spot and I wish I had known that we would be there for a few hours before dinner--I would have brought a bottle of wine to enjoy while relaxing on the veranda (to the sound of rushing water). The other thing I wish I had known (understood) was that we had 3 rooms and not 2. While Olinto may have communicated that to me in emails prior to our trip, I hadn't remembered and the staff at Sweet Harmony didn't convey it (even though my husband speaks Spanish). Not a big deal, but we couldn't figure out why there were no linens on our son's single bed...anyway, Olinto joined us for dinner at a Spanish restaurant that he recommended (very good, but we were the only ones there due to the election). Sleeping in the (slightly) cool mountain air with the sound of the river below was heavenly. I would have happily stayed a second night. After breakfast at the guest house, Olinto picked us up and drove on a rutted twisty "road" up the mountain to La Victoria coffee farm, where we had a terrific tour given by a german volunteer. But the highlight was what followed--a hike to a waterfall with Jorge and his dog, Ton, both of whom charmed our family relentlessly. Jorge works at the coffee farm, but Olinto hires him to accompany his tours on walks and we're so glad he does. He shared his knowledge of the natural surroundings and provided us with some great memories. After the waterfall, we went to Jorge's sister's house, where we enjoyed a traditional (and favorite) Colombian dish of 3-meat stew. Luz Maria's house is situated on a beautiful spot overlooking the surrounding mountains. It was perfection. From there, it was down the path by foot and then back in the car for the long drive back. We all fell asleep (I didn't envy Olinto behind the wheel) and rolled into Cartagena at 7pm. A few very minor things would make it perfect--a printed itinerary when we first meet; a heads up that we'll have time for a byob cocktail or two before dinner in Minca...But all in all, it was a fantastic experience and I enthusiastically recommend it to other travelers!
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sdmathias profile picture
sdmathias
16 March 2018
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Amazing time in Minca and the Sierra Nevadas My husband and I took a 3 day trip with Olinto and we had an amazing time. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Colombia. Olinto was very knowledgeable, personable and spoke great English. Olinto picked us up early from our hotel for our 4 hour drive to Playa Conchas located in Tayrona National Park. Along the way to break up the drive, we stopped off at a local kiosk for fresh coconut juice. The beach was lovely and we had terrific grilled red snapper for lunch and then we had a great time snorkeling with Olinto. The water was warm and we saw amazing fish and beautiful coral. After a few hours relaxing at the beach we were off to see a magnificent sunset in Taganga, which was about an hour away from our hotel in Minca. The next morning we went on a tour of a coffee plantation and then took a hike on the property of the coffee plantation. Although the hike lasted several hours, the weather was ideal so the time flew by! My husband and Olinto cooled off under some waterfalls at the base of the mountain. At the end of the hike we stopped off at a home of a local resident and enjoyed cold lemonade and got to practice some Spanish. Then we were off for lunch and a visit to a cocoa museum where we learned all about the cocoa process. And then back to our great hotel to relax for a few hours before dinner. The next morning we were up early for a 3 hour bird watching tour. The tour started at 6 AM and despite having to get up super early, was quite enjoyable. Beware though - we did get a lot of mosquito bites! After breakfast and checking out from our hotel, Olinto then drove us to Santa Marta for a great lunch and to the airport in Santa Marta for our flight back to Bogota. Olinto really went out of his way to make our trip memorable and I'd HIGHLY recommend this trip or any trip Olinto has to offer.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
spike2017 profile picture
spike2017
9 January 2017
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Visit to Tayrona Park & Minca Olinto was a fabulous guide and host. Our trip was extremely well organized and a wonderful adventure. We stayed in a magical “hotel” in the cool little town of Minca, in cozy thatched huts in a jungle setting. We did a spectacular hike in the rain forest jungle, visited an organic coffee plantation that was very cool and had a delicious lunch at a local’s home in the mountains. We had dinner at a very special spot in Minca that not many travellers would know about. Off the beaten path, Oilinto took us to an outdoor restaurant set on a vista that had beautiful views. The owner was welcoming and, again, it almost felt like we were eating in his home. We felt so well taken care of by our guide. Olinto was kind and attentive and our time with him was truly the highlight of our trip to Columbia. He is passionate about the outdoors and the beauty of his country. We wished we had a few more days with him to enjoy all that he offers. Big hugs good bye after sharing a unique experience with him. We would all recommend him to future travellers.
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msmary33
5 December 2016
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Santa Marta and South of Baru Island Trips (Amazing!!!) After searching TripAdvisor for multi-day excursions from Cartagena, we found Taroa Adventures. It was a no brainer to go with Olinto and his company! This review is for two trips: Santa Marta and Baru Islands. Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (From the Sea to the Mountains): We wanted an authentic way to experience Colombia beyond Cartagena. This trip was hands down the BEST PART of Colombia for us. Our first day in country, Olinto picked up and we set off. He is a great local guide because of his passion for his country and his interest in sharing his favorite places. Tyrona National Park and Minca (a small town in the mountains) capture the environmental diversity Colombia has to offer. Olinto arranged everything for us which made the trip seamless. Pros: -The entire trip! -Olinto who has become a great friend! -Seeing the diversity of nature in Colombia -Truly unique experience The South of Baru Islands: A great way to see the local islands, beautiful waters and swim! Pros: -Olinto (of course) -“Off the beaten path”
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GTRambler
12 July 2016
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Santa Marta excursion was highlight to trip! Our family took Taroa’s two day excursion to Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and cannot express how happy we were with the experience. At the beginning of the trip Olinto told us that he wants his clients to feel like they are his friends he treats you to the special places that he would only take close friends. From the beginning, the trip took us to places that gave the true sense of Colombian culture. From the mangrove park, snorkeling in Tayrona National Park, grilled fish on the beach, dinner and drinks in Minca, to the coffee plantation tour and waterfall hike, we saw a part of Colombia that was authentic and not on the beaten tourist track. Olinto did everything possible to make our time with him special and customized to our interest. This was the highlight of our trip to Cartagena and I cannot recommend it enough to anyone considering time outside of the city.
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Susan M
8 June 2016
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Santa Marta and Baru Trips The Santa Marta trip was great! It takes you to a mountainous area, where you stay in a wonderful eco-lodge. Got to hike, visit a coffee farm, visit a smaller town, and general sightseeing. The trip to Santa Marta lets you experience parts of Columbia not seen by the typical visitor. The U.S. was playing Columbia while we were there and our guide found a local spot for us to watch the game. Everyone was friendly and welcoming. The Baru Baru trip takes you on an interesting journey by SUV across a beach and then down unpaved roads to the end of a peninsula where you visit a local Caribbean village. I'm usually wary of community visits as they can be awkward. This was not at all awkward. The local guide took us around and explained village life to us. There is a small art gallery on the island featuring local talented artists that was very interesting. Some beautifully constructed and colorful buildings are on the island as well. The afternoon was spent relaxing on a lovely beach. On both trips, you will be able to taste local foods. Our guide Olinto made sure that we were comfortable at all times. He was great at explaining local culture and attractions.
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Jacklyn N
9 May 2016
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From the Sea to the Mountains Tour Santa Marta My boyfriend and I took the 2 day tour that goes from Cartagena to Santa Marta (From the Sea to the Mountains). We absolutely loved this tour and it was one of the most memorable parts of our visit to Colombia. I can't recommend this tour enough if you are staying in Cartagena for several days and are looking for memorable activities beyond hoping on a crowded tour bus and just taking photos. Instead, this tour offers a private, authentic experience that will show you locations you otherwise wouldn't see, while also getting in some good physical activity. Furthermore, Olinto is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about providing a high quality tour to offer an authentic experience of Colombia. From the initial tour inquiry to the end of our tour, Olinto was extremely helpful and went out of his way to make sure that we were informed and happy with our experience. Not only did we love the tour, but we have made a wonderful friend, Olinto. The locations on the tour were absolutely breath taking as promised by the pictures and were authentic locations not crammed with other tourists, which was nice. The tour offers locations you can't see anywhere else. On the first day of the tour, we went to a beautiful beach in Tayrona National Park where we snorkelled and had a yummy fresh fish lunch.The snorkelling was fantastic, beautiful coral reefs with lots of bright colored fish, it was like something out of a movie. We then went to Minca to watch the sunset.The eco hab we stayed at in Minca offered a beautiful sunset view of the city of Santa Marta as well as amazing bird watching. It was extremely peaceful, our only regret is that we were only at the eco hab for 1 night. The next day, we went for a hike through the rainforest in the mountains which offered stunning views, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and a variety of wildlife. We then visited a coffee plantation from the 1890s, which also is home to a fantastic local micro brewery. After, we enjoyed a local meal for lunch prepared at a local home in the rainforest. If you love adventure, stunning views, exposure to local life, and wildlife this tour is an absolute must!
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Alvivera
28 July 2014
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Un manera distinta de ver el Caribe Taroa es una forma esplendida de experimentar el Caribe colombiano. Olinto y su equipo hacen de esta experiencia algo ùnico y muy personal. Hay 3 tipos de salidas: 1) Isla de Barù; 2) Montes de Maria; 3) Sierra nevada de Santa Marta. El sàbado pasado hicimos la primera con mis hermanos. Te van a buscar a tu lugar de residencia y te llevan de vuelta. Los precios son justos teniendo en cuenta la exclusividad de la salida y los detalles que vamos consiguiendo a lo largo del dìa. El tour de Barù se divide principalmente en dos partes: la terrestre, que comienza atravesando "playetas" que, como su nombre lo indica se cruza en medio de una playa hasta el otro lado. Llegando al pueblo, percibimos toda la cultura popular de los nativos de Baru. La segunda parte, y ahì es donde uno se lleva la gran sorpresa comienza atravesando un camino alrededor de un mangle que te lleva a un muelle con vista ùnica. Es ahì donde alcanzas a mesurar la diversidad y contraste de este paseo. Te embarcas en una lancha pequeña, te llevan por toda la cienaga de Cholon y almuerzas en un lugarcito tan pequeño y tan agradable que parece como si fuera privado. Los nativos conocen y saludan a Olinto, el lìder del Tour como si hiciera parte de la comunidad y eso da una sensaciòn de confianza ya que Playa Blanca, Islas del Rosario y otros atractivos turísticos tienen la mala fama y costumbre de hacer pagar 2 y 3 veces màs el precio real a los turistas. Tuve la oportunidad de entrar a la parte donde cocinaban y los nativos me explicaban el còmo y por qué de cada cosa. La experiencia la recomiendo al 100% y lo ùnico que espero es tener el tiempo para hacer la de la Sierra Nevada que, si bien esta fue solo de 1 dìa, la otra seguramente tendrà muchísimas otras sorpresas preparadas.
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germán f
17 June 2014
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Mi experiencia en Sierra nevada de santa marta Descubrí un mundo nuevo muy cerca de las ciudades del Caribe. Experiencias que me imaginaba solo posibles en lugares muy alejados de nuestro medio. Clima y paisajes envidiables en medio de una gran tranquilidad. Especial ambiente para relajarse en medio de la naturaleza.
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DFONSECA2014
13 June 2014
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Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Espectacular paseo a minca!!!! La naturaleza bellisima y el clima muy bueno!!! Que orgullo estos sitios turisticos en colombia!!!!!! Todos los colombiamos y extranjeros deben incluir minca en sus proximos planes de vacaciones!!!!!!! Playa los angeles en tayrona tambien bellisima!!! Un paraiso!!! Muchas gracias taroa adventures!!!!Y en especial a laura y a olinto!!!!!!
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