An up-to-date travel guide featuring the best hotels, hostels, & accommodation picks to help you plan where to stay in Minca, Colombia!
Congratulations, you’ve discovered one of Colombia’s true hidden gems. Minca, a charming town nestled in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains of Colombia is a nature lover’s paradise. This mountain town is an adventure-filled gateway to amazing hikes, waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and amazing freshwater swimming holes.
However, when planning a visit to Minca, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is where to stay. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat at a luxury eco-resort or boutique hotel, or a chance to experience real Colombian culture and hospitality at one of the amazing “Fincas”, this Minca accommodation guide will have you covered.
In a Hurry? Here are the 4 Best Hotels in Minca
The main town of Minca is quite small, and you'll discover that some of the best places to stay are on the jungle foothills of the surrounding mountains. Below I've included the current top-rated options for various budgets.
While everybody knows about the famous Sierra Minca, there are several other great places to consider as well. Minca has some of the best hostels in South America, and the unmissable ones sell out frequently, so it's best to book in advance!
- Stay at an Organic Cacao & Coffee Farm: Finca San Rafael - This is where I stayed, and it was one of my favorite lodges in all of Colombia. Set in the jungle just outside of town, this beautiful oasis offers a pool with mountain views, and private or shared rooms, and offers plantation tours to learn about the cultivation process of cacao and coffee.
- Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge - 9.6/10 rating on HostelWorld with over 800 reviews! This is an absolute backpacker heaven with 3 swimming pools, and amazing jungle views, and is well-located close to amazing hikes.
- Casas Viejas - Winner of the best hostel award in South America! Unfortunately, this place was booked out when we visited, but many claim that this is one of the best hostels in the world!
Where to Stay in Minca: The 3 Best Neighborhoods (Areas)
Wondering which area of Minca you should pick for your hotel or lodging? Below is a brief area and neighborhood outline– click the links to skip straight to the hotel recommendations.
- Stay in Minca Town: Perfect place for those wanting easy access to restaurants and cafes.
- Stay in a Finca or Coffee & Cacao Plantation: A great option if you're wanting to learn more about the production of Colombian coffee.
- Stay in the mountains above Minca: The best pick for those wanting to escape the town and be immersed in the sounds of nature.
Minca Town - Best Place to Stay for Cafes & Restaurants
Minca town boasts some of the best restaurants and is conveniently located next to a fast-flowing river that is the perfect place to cool down after a long day of hiking.
As the main launch pad for all the fun things to do in Minca, this area has some of the best hostels and hotels that are the perfect choice once you have hopped off the minibus from Santa Marta.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Minca Town
Pros:
- A close walk to many restaurants and stores
- Easy to get a motorbike or walk to the surrounding waterfalls
- Touristy town and a great place to relax and meet other backpackers
- Easy walk to Minca hostels and hotels in the main area
- Close to the bus drop/pick-up location to Santa Marta and Tayrona National Park
- Close to the main river that runs through town
Cons:
- Loud as there are many motorbikes and cars in the main area all-day
- Dusty - Lots of dirt on the road and this puts lots of dust into the air
- Music from bars/restaurants may be heard
- Not as much nature or wildlife in this area
Best Hotels in Minca Town
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Costeño River Minca | $$$ |
 | Hotel Minca - La Casona | $$$ |
 | Ecohabs | $$ |
 | Dunarinka | $ |
Costeño River Minca
If tranquility is something you're looking for go no further than Costeno River Minca. This secluded hotel sits on the Rio Mina River and is nestled perfectly amongst the trees of the surrounding jungle.
Costeno River Minca provides is an adults-only accommodation and it provides its guests with dorms and private rooms which all boast incredible views over the surrounding jungle.
There is a large outdoor seating area and an incredible outdoor swimming pool. It is located close to the main area of town and is a short 5-minute walk to the river. And for those wanting to explore further, it is an easy hike to the Ear of the World Waterfall.
The best part is there is an on-site bar with happy hour each day!
Hotel Minca - La Casona
If you don't want to move from your hotel for the day and just want to relax Hotel Minca - La Casona is your best choice. Firstly, it is located close to town and surrounded by nature and it has its very own cafe and restaurant. It has everything you would need without having to leave.
It features an outdoor pool with incredible views over the surrounding valleys. Hotel Minca has many lounging areas for those wanting to relax or meet other travelers. Furthermore offers a range of rooms that feature their own private bathrooms with free toiletries and hot water.
Pozo Azul waterfall and swimming hole is located 1km from the property.
Minca Ecohabs
Still, wondering where to stay in Minca? Minca Ecohabs hotel is another great choice for those wanting to be close to Minca's main town but far enough away from the hustle and bustle.
Featuring bungalow-styled rooms with mosquito nets, private bathrooms, and a mini bar this screams relaxation. It is perfect for those on a lower budget who want to experience a relaxing stay.
The location looks over the surrounding mountains and jungle and the town is just a short walk away. It has access to many of the surrounding hikes and activities. It is known for its incredible sounds of the jungle at night.
Dunarinka
Another great choice for low-budget backpackers looking for epic Minca hostels, this is the perfect option for you. Located a short walk from the main town this accommodation offers its guests a shared kitchen, living space, outdoor netted hammock area, and great views over the surrounding mountains. Furthermore, it has great free wifi for those needing to work online or keep updated on their socials.
We personally stayed at Dunarinka and loved our time here. It is situated in an extremely quiet area away from the loud motorbikes and town music. The owner and staff of Dunarinka were always there to help and answer any questions.
The best part about Dunarinka was watching the sunset from the shared lounge whilst admiring the local honey birds drinking from the hanging feeders.
Stay in a Fincas or Coffee & Cacao Plantation
This area is a must-visit if you're wanting to experience the real Colombian coffee experience. These Minca hostels and Fincas offer some of the best knowledge on the harvesting and production of Colombian coffee.
Pros & Cons of Staying at a Minca Coffe & Cocao Plantation (Finca)
Pros:
- Located in the middle of the jungle in Minca with only nature surrounding you
- Peaceful area and perfect for bird watching/ howler monkey spotting
- It boasts the best coffee
- Great place to relax without the interruption of noise or town traffic
- Learn about coffee and explore the plantations during your stay at no extra cost
Cons:
- Lots of mosquitos/sandflies
- It is a long walk to town
- Limited wifi connection due to the location of the properties
Best Finca Accommodation in Minca
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Sierra Alta Finca Boutique | $$$$ |
 | Casa Viejas | $$$ |
 | Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge | $$ |
 | Finca San Rafael | $$ |
Sierra Alta Finca Boutique
An absolute must-stay if you're wanting to be totally immersed in nature with luxury service. Sierra Alta Finca Boutique Hotel offers beautiful gardens with excellent views over Santa Marta and the surrounding Sierra mountains.
Although the property is 13km from the town of Minca there is no need to worry as there is an on-site restaurant and transport can be arranged.
A range of different-sized private and family rooms are available and they all boast incredible views over the surrounding landscapes. Above all, there is a hot tub jacuzzi that has guests raving in the reviews!
Casa Viejas
One of the best Minca hostels, located 1600m above sea level on a 500-hectare coffee farm you will find Casa Viejas. This fantastic hostel boasts fantastic views with a jaw-dropping outdoor infinity pool.
It is perfect for those wanting to relax and unwind in the wild nature of Minca. It has both dorm rooms and private rooms and its very own on-site restaurant. furthermore, there are various activities on the property such as bike riding, yoga, massage, bird watching, and coffee tours.
With over 1,000 reviews and a great star rating, Casa Viejas has something for everyone to enjoy!
Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge
Another great choice for a finca stay is the Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge. Nestled in the jungle Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge showcases beautifully designed bungalows with three outdoor swimming pools.
There is a restaurant on site that serves delicious meals made from organic products, coupled with a vending machine and laundry facility. Above all, you can participate in a range of product workshops that promote how to grow and produce your own honey, cocoa, coffee, and cheese.
The finca sits on the Manzanares River and a range of activities such as hiking and swimming are arranged for those staying at the property.
Finca San Rafael
Lastly, Finca San Rafael sits up on the mountain 2km from Minca town center and produces incredible coffee and hosts informational tours on the production of coffee.
We personally stayed at Finca San Rafael and even extended our stay by a week as we immersed ourselves in the jungle and lapped up the incredible views over the town. There is an on-site restaurant that serves delicious meals throughout the day and free breakfast.
Both dorm and private rooms are available on the property. Additionally, there is an outdoor swimming pool with vast views over the surrounding tropical gardens and plantation. Toucans and honeybirds can be spotted in the early morning here and if you're lucky you might even spot a howler monkey.
This was by far one of our favorite Minca hostels.
Stay in Minca Accommodation on the Mountain Ridges
In this area, you will find some of the most unique accommodation choices in all of Minca. Surrounded by the mountains and jungle, this area is perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle and hear the sounds of nature.
Pros & Cons of Minca Accommodation Above Town
Pros:
- Surrounded by nature and animals. The perfect place for those wanting to photograph birds or monkeys
- Great place to relax and meet other travelers (no wifi means more speaking)
- Accommodation in this area of Minca is close to lots of hiking trails and waterfalls
- Nearby hike with incredible 360 mountain views
- limited wifi/cell service so no distractions
Cons:
- Long walk from town or to restaurants
- May need to pay extra for a motorbike taxi to reach desired accommodation
- Limited cellphone service and this may be an issue If you're working online
Best Minca Mountain Hostels & Hotels
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Trekker Glamping | $$$$ |
 | Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge | $$$ |
 | Sierra Minca | $$ |
 | Loma Nevada | $$ |
 | Siembra Hotel & Spa | $$ |
Trekker Glamping
Still, looking for the perfect 5-star Minca hotel? Trekker Glamping is the perfect option for those wanting to be surrounded by wilderness yet still close enough to Minca town.
Above all Trekker Glamping boasts incredible views over the surrounding mountains and is the perfect location for watching the sunset. However, the coolest thing about this accommodation is the choice of sleeping in igloo-styled bungalows.
In addition, there is an on-site restaurant, hot tub, swimming pool, and plenty of activities such as yoga, biking, and massages. Additionally, you can hike to the 360 mirador viewpoint hike or go horse riding.
Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge
Another great Minca accommodation choice is the Mundo Eco Lodge. Situated in the mountains just a short drive from Minca town this lodge boasts incredible views over the surrounding valley.
Guests can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, horse riding, bird watching, and learning about the production of honey. The property produces its own organic fruit and vegetables and this is served in a range of vegetarian dishes at the on-site restaurant.
There is free wifi throughout the lodge and a range of dorm rooms with a shared bathroom or family rooms with private bathrooms to choose from with views of the garden.
Additionally, there is free parking on the property for those with a car.
Hostal Sierra Minca
Hostal Sierra Minca is by far one of the best adventure lovers' accommodation choices in Minca. Located in the hills behind Minca town it offers its guests incredible views over the surrounding mountains and jungle.
Still, wondering why you should stay at this hostel in Minca? Firstly it has an outdoor infinity pool, a large common area, a dining area, and its very own zipline! On the other hand, you can sit in one of the netted seating areas and try and spot the local howler monkeys.
Guests can choose to stay in a private room or dorm-styled rooms. Furthermore, there is a restaurant on-site and free American breakfast available.
There is no wifi on the property however don't let this turn you away. It is the perfect place and opportunity to meet other travelers and undertake some adventurous activities such as bike riding or the Los Pinos hike.
Loma Nevada
Loma Nevada is another hotel that deserves a spot on this Minca accommodation list! A great choice for gym junkies wanting a unique experience.
Located in the mountains behind Minca Town Loma Nevada offers an outdoor fitness center with incredible views over the surrounding valley. Additionally, it is a popular area for hiking and mountain biking.
The bungalow-styled rooms have private bathrooms and have views over the outdoor swimming pool and gardens below. There is a restaurant on-site with a vegetarian breakfast or American breakfast each morning.
The perfect place to switch off and relax.
Siembra Hotel & Spa
Last but not least the incredible Siembra Hotel and Spa. This 4-star adult-only Minca hotel is located on the mountain with incredible views over Minca Town.
Private rooms and dorm rooms are beautifully designed with views over the surrounding gardens. It boasts a large sun terrace which is a great place for people to meet up and relax over a few drinks.
A large outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, yoga classes, sauna, and wellness center on the property for guests to enjoy.
It really does have it all and for an excellent price!
After Minca: More Accommodation & Travel Guides in Colombia
And that's a wrap for this comprehensive accommodation guide summing up the best areas and the top hotels in Minca, Colombia.
Before you head off on your adventures, check out some of my other guides below for more inspiration.
