3 Best Hostels in Minca – From Hiking and Swimming To Bird Watching

Best Hostels in Minca Colombia

We’re so excited to share a bit of information about this village, suggest some activities you could do there and, of course, provide you with the best hostels in Minca!

Are you thinking about taking a break from the bustle of the city and escaping somewhere where the only sounds you can hear are ones of nature? 

If that’s the case, we’ve got the perfect place for you – the quaint town of Minca, Colombia. 

Good To Know: We also have a detailed guide about the best hostels in Colombia.

What was once a location off the beaten path is now a hotspot for backpackers from all around the world. 

It’s safe to say that Minca is one of Colombia’s coolest places to visit, especially for nature-loving backpackers, though it is usually overlooked.

It’s perched on top of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and it has a population of just 800 citizens!

Planning on another trip after Minca? Read our guide on the best hostels in Salento and the best hostels Bogotá.

The isolated village offers some of the best views of the city of Santa Marta and the Caribbean Sea, including various waterfalls and streams, spectacular bird life and unspoiled nature like nowhere else in the world!

These things alone make Minca the ideal spot for travellers to take a breather from their day-to-day lives and enjoy moments of peace and serenity.

Our favorite hostels in Minca are:

  1. Masaya Casas Viejas - best for solo traveller, female solo traveller
  2. Costeño River Minca - best for couples
  3. Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge - best for family and groups

Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.

Getting to Minca can be a bit challenging. There’s only one road you can take to get there – from the coastal town of Santa Marta, around 30-45 minutes by an off-road path (the trip takes around 5 hours from Cartagena).

Although the trip getting there is difficult, what Minca has to offer is undeniably worth it.

It is believed that the village is home to some of the most beautiful nature spots in the entire country, as well as breathtaking sunsets.

Due to its altitude, the temperature is cooler than in other nearby cities, but don’t let this discourage you.

It’s still hot enough for shorts and tees during the day, but you might require a light jacket during the night.

This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…

  • are tired of crappy hostels!
  • want a social Hostel to actually meet people
  • are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience

All of this and more make Minca a hotspot for backpackers from all around the world!

Plus, since safety in Colombia has recently improved, the village added more charming sightseeing and accommodation spots for travellers to enjoy.

With that in mind, we have carefully curated our list of the best hostels in Minca!

What we cover in this article?

  • best hostels in Minca for solo traveler
  • more hostels in Minca worth a mention
  • cheapest hostels in Minca
  • backpacking tips for Minca 
  • discounts and promo codes
  • How to book?
  • All hostel and sights on a map
  • FAQ
  • Flights
  • You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.

    Quick Introduction to Minca

    Average price for a bed: Hostels in Minca cost 9€ – 17€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 21€ up to 36€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.

    Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelz.com or Hostelworld.com.

    Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check-Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

    Transportation in Minca: Regarding transportation, there are a couple of options you could go for. The cheapest option is to take a shared shuttle that usually has the name of the village inscribed on it. However, you have to wait until the shuttle is full for it to depart – the only and final spot where it stops is in the centre of the village.

    Another option would be to get a moto-taxi, which is ideal for groups. The price is negotiable, but that depends on the day – usually going around the 60.000 pesos mark. Remember, if you opt for this option you will have to carry your luggage to your accommodation.

    Finally, for those who want to travel most comfortably, we suggest renting a 4×4.

    Safety in Minca: Minca is absolutely safe. If you like outdoor activities and nature, this is one of the top spots to visit in Colombia. But like in other places, always be vigilant and take care of your personal belongings.

    🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

    The 3 Best Hostels in Minca are …

    Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Minca.

    1. Masaya Casas Viejas – best for solo traveller, female solo traveller
    2. Costeño River Minca – best for couples
    3. Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge – best for family and groups

    These are our favorite hostels in Minca. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.

    Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

    🦸 Solo Traveler: Masaya Casas Viejas
    🙎‍♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: Masaya Casas Viejas
    👩‍❤️‍👨Couple Hostel: Costeño River Minca
    👨‍👩‍👦 Family Hostel: Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge
    🎒 Backpackers: Masaya Casas Viejas
    🧘 Cozy Hostel: Costeño River Minca

    1. Masaya Casas Viejas

    If you want to stay completely off the grid to recharge your batteries, Masaya Casas Viejas is the perfect spot for you.

    Located just outside of Minca Town, this hostel offers some of the best views of nature that adorn the village!

    More so, you could easily visit La Victoria – the most popular coffee farm in the country since it’s nearby.

    Just make sure to arrive as early as possible, as the trip from Minca town to the hostel takes about 30 minutes and the village gates close at 5:30 PM.

    There’s plenty that Masaya Casas Viejas hostel has to offer! There are numerous room options available, all of which are equipped with power outlets and cabinets to store your luggage.

    However, there are no privacy screens available. If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, you could always book the private double bedroom with its own bathroom.

    The overall setting of the hostel is rustic and cosy, which definitely fits the overall vibe of the town.

    What makes this accommodation one of the best hostels in Minca is the experiences that it offers!

    Book Masaya Casas Viejas here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Masaya Casas Viejas Dormitory

    Masaya Casas Viejas Private Bedroom

    You could go bird-watching, hike to various scenic locations or visit the coffee factory. Moreover, you could start your day with some morning yoga held on the hostel’s outside patio and have a refreshing dip in the pool.

    Be aware of two things though – the food might be a bit overpriced since there are no other restaurants available in the area (the meals are fantastic!) and you should bring a set of warm clothes for nighttime; previous travellers have mentioned that it can get quite drafty.

    Location: Located about 30 minutes away by 4×4 or motorbike from Minca in the Magdalena Region, and only 12 miles from Santa Marta, lies the historic village of Masaya Casas Viejas.

    Masaya Casas Viejas is 9.3 km from Simón Bolvar International Airport and 12 miles from Taganga.

    The best choice in Minca for

    • solo traveller
    • female solo traveller
    Book Masaya Casas Viejas here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Common area at Masaya Casas Viejas  

    Masaya Casas Viejas

    2. Costeño River Minca

    Another fine entry of hostels in Minca is the Costeño River Minca , and we’ve chosen this one as the perfect spot for lovebirds!

    You could relax and socialise in a rural and quaint environment, surrounded by lush greenery and the majestic sounds of wildlife.

    Additionally, the hostel is located a kilometre from Minca Town, so you can enjoy some locally-crafted food and delicious traditional dishes.

    At first glance, you may realise that the dorm rooms are quite small, however, that doesn’t mean that comfort isn’t ensured!

    As we’ve mentioned Costeño River Minca is ideal for couples, so you and your beau can book the private suite that offers a fantastic sunset view.

    Moreover, guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning with a cup of strong Colombian coffee to help them start their day right!

    Apart from the town is nearby, there are a lot of nature places you could visit in the area. As the name suggests, the river is only 20 meters away!

    Book Costeño River Minca here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Costeño River Minca Outdoor Area

    Costeño River Minca Private Bedroom

    The staff is also quite welcoming and helpful, and they can suggest multitudes of activities you could do in Minca.

    If you decide for a quiet night in, though, you can do so by the pool with a scrumptious cocktail in hand!

    Location: The Costeño River Minca is located 22 km away from Santa Marta Gold Museum, and Santa Marta Cathedral is also located 22 km away from the property.

    The Simón Bolvar International Airport is located around 30 km away from the hostel.

    A great choice for

    • couples
    Book Costeño River Minca here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Costeño River Minca cabins

    Have your breakfast surrounding nature at Costeño River Minca

    3. Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge

    While on the topic of the best hostels in Minca, it’s not uncommon for Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge to pop up.

    It is located in the bio-diverse mountains of Sierra Nevada and is the perfect place to relax and recharge your energy and learn about organic farming and indigenous culture!

    In addition, the surrounding nature offers plenty of activities to do in the area.

    Sustainability is the main focus of this hostel. Mainly, the building was once an old coffee farm, so the owners wanted to preserve it as much as possible while making it functional for the guests to enjoy.

    With this in mind, you would be surprised to know that almost all of the furniture in the double, triple or quadruple rooms is completely made from fallen trees called “fincas” that grow in the vicinity.

    All these things contribute to making Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge a “sustainability museum” where its guests can learn to be more environmentally aware.

    Book Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Costeno River Minca Outdoor Pool

    Private room at Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge

    Naturally, education is not the only thing you’ll get from this place. You can visit the hostel’s vegetable gardens and the Awindua indigenous huts, or go on a hike in the various trails of the mountains.

    Still, if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, you can always kick back in the hammocks and enjoy a picturesque view or swim in the infinity pool.

    Whatever option you choose, rest and relaxation are surely guaranteed!

    Location: The Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge is 22 km from Santa Marta and 25 km from Taganga. The Simón Bolvar International Airport is 33 km from the hostel.

    This is one of the best hostels in Minca for

    • family 
    • groups
    • female solo travellers
    Book Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Common area at Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge

    Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge

    Best Hostels in Minca for Solo Travelers?

    What is seriously the best hostel in Minca for solo-travelers?

    Masaya Casas Viejas is the perfect hostel for you if you want to meet amazing travellers while in Seminyak. This has a great social atmosphere. 

    This hostel provides some of the nicest natural views in Minca Town. La Victoria, the country’s most popular coffee plantation, is nearby.

    You may bird-watch, walk, or visit a coffee factory. You can do morning yoga on the hostel’s patio and swim in the pool.

    Book Masaya Casas Viejas here

    Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Masaya Casas Viejas Outdoor Swimming Pool

    More Hostels worth a mention

    We have a few more hostels worth a mention here that could enrich your travel and hostel experience.

    Casa Loma Minca

    Casa Loma Minca is a beautiful wooden hill top house that offers one of the most amazing views from any property in Colombia, particularly at sunset. The hike up is tough, but definitely worth it. 

    There are frequent yoga sessions. The sunset from the bar is amazing, and you don’t feel like you need to do anything apart from sit around soaking in the atmosphere. The restaurant is also SO good – some of the best vegetarian food we’ve ever had. Facilities are basic, but there’s mosquito nets which is very important in Minca. 

    If you want a quieter room or dorm then make sure it’s not above the reception area. The communal spaces in Casa Loma Hostel are really great and it’s good to know that while there is music/partying most nights, quiet hours always started around 10pm, for people who just want to sleep.

    Book Casa Loma Minca here

    Check prices at: HostelworldHostelz.com

    Casa Loma Minca Terrace

    Casa Loma Minca Outside Common Space

    Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge

    Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge is a hidden gem for hiking and relaxation lovers in Paso del Mango, near Minca. It is in a very isolated location, about a 20 min motorbike into the jungle. It is very peaceful with gorgeous settings and the friendliest staff. And the food is all home grown and produced, super fresh and cheap for big portions and so tasty. The treks through the hostel are great and it is a great way to meet new people. 

    The pools are really nice and very clean. There are a range of activities to do. Highly recommend for a few days of hiking and relaxing!

    Book Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge here

    Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge Swimming Pool

    Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge Dorm

    Finca Hostal Bolivar – Casa Quinta

    ‘La Quinta’ is the seventy years old mainhouse of unique finca (farm) in Minca. It is set on the top of the farm, from where you can enjoy one of the best views in Minca to nearby Santa Marta and the Caribbean sea, as well as exclusive private river access on the lower part of the finca!

    This is the great place for digital nomads too. The workspace is clean, beautiful, and has fast wifi. All of the spaces are clean, the staff are friendly and helpful, an amazing sunset view nearby, beautiful and cozy spaces, shared kitchen is great and there’s lots of hammocks and chill out areas. Super clean rooms, comfortable beds and very quiet, so a great place for relaxing too.

    Book Finca Hostal Bolivar – Casa Quinta here

    Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Finca Hostal Bolivar - Casa Quinta Outside Common Space

    Finca Hostal Bolivar - Casa Quinta Room

    Backpacking Tips For Minca

    The unspoilt nature of Minca is undoubtedly the best thing about the village! Here are some suggestions of places and experiences you should try to make the most of your visit.

    • Most travellers make the mistake of visiting Minca for just a day. There’s so much to see, so book your stay for at least a couple of days!
    • It is a well-known fact that Colombia is home to the best coffee in the world! While you’re in the village, you should tour the La Victoria coffee farm. It is one of the oldest farms in the country, where you can learn more about the production of coffee and enjoy a hot cup of delicious java.
    • The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta has one of the most important ecosystems on the planet regarding plants and birds. That being said, grab a pair of binoculars and feast your eyes on some of the most exotic winged creatures, like colourful toucans and parrots, woodpeckers and owls!

    What about the cheapest hostels in Minca?

    Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Minca.

    1. Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Minca
    2. add your dates
    3. Order the listings by price

    Simple as that.

    Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.

    Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.

    Any Discounts?

    You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.

    It is completely free to join!

    How to book?

    The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

    We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

    Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld

    We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Minca best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.

    The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.

    Download the Hostelworld App here

    QR Code to Download your Hostelworld app with one scan
    Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!

    The best way to find hostels: Hostelgeeks website and Hostelworld App

    Need an eSIM Card for Minca?

    Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.

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    Need an eSIM Card for Minca?

    Our Favorite Hostels in Minca put on a map + sights

    Let us have a look at the map. Below, we list all three best Minca hostels on a map.

    Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.

    In Minca we absolutely enjoyed:

    • Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
    • Santa Marta Gold Museum
    • Rodadero Sea Aquarium and Museum
    • Cascadas de Marinka
    • El Dorado Nature Reserve

    Any questions about hostels in Minca? 🤔

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    FAQs

    Here we share with you the most asked question:

    Any questions about hostels in Minca?

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    Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥

    Flights to Minca?

    We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.

    Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.

    Our Step-by-Step Guide to Skyscanner

    review of Skyscanner flight searches

    As you know by now, Colombia has awesome backpacker places to stay. So, we have more guides for you:

    Party hostels in Colombia:

    We’ve gone one step further and created these awesome guides to nearby destinations in Colombia:

    Over to you

    Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!

    Your question will help us to improve this Minca guide.

    Last note: Our commitment

    This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.

    Safe travels,
    The Hostelgeeks

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