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Minca is a laid-back mountain village in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. It's cooler and greener than the coast below, known for its coffee farms, waterfalls and birdwatching. The colectivo is the cheapest and quickest way to get from Santa Marta to Minca, taking 45 minutes for $2.90 (10,000 COP). A private transfer or an organised day trip costs more if you'd rather have it all arranged.
Distance from Santa Marta to Minca
Santa Marta and Minca are about 14 km (9 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 21 km by road. The quickest way to get from Santa Marta to Minca is by taking the colectivo, which takes around 45 minutes.
3 ways to travel from Santa Marta to Minca
There are three ways to travel from Santa Marta to Minca. You can choose between the colectivo, private transport, and day trip. The journey takes 45m–7h and the quickest way is by colectivo. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at $2.90 (10,000 COP).
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Santa Marta to Minca by Colectivo
Taking a colectivo is the cheapest way to get to Minca from Santa Marta, but it's not exactly the most comfortable. They're often cramped, and many colectivos still don't have have air conditioning — not ideal for a ride through winding mountain roads.
Some colectivos do have A/C, though, so it’s worth asking at the ticket office before you board.
That said, if you’re up for a more local experience, keep reading.
Colectivos for the Santa Marta to Minca route run from 07:00 to 18:00, but they do not have set departures. Drivers wait until the van is full. Keep that in mind when they say that the colectivo is departing "soon" — because this may take up to 30 or 40 minutes. If you're in a hurry, consider taking a private transfer instead.
Departure station
These colectivos don't leave from the main bus terminal in Santa Marta. Instead, they depart from a stop behind the central market (Mercado Público de Santa Marta), quite close to the city centre.
The exact location is on the intersection of Carrera 9 and Calle 12. You can walk there from the historic centre in about 20 minutes, but the route isn’t very safe. It’s better to take a taxi. The ride costs around $2.90 (10,000 COP).
If you’re coming from Santa Marta Airport, expect to pay between $8.70 (30,000 COP) – $12 (40,000 COP) for a taxi. From the bus terminal, the fare is usually around $4.30 (15,000 COP).
Once you arrive, look for the Cootrasminca office and white vans with “Minca” written on the windshield. You can buy your ticket at the office for around $2.90 (10,000 COP).
Arrival station
The bus will drop you off at Cootrasminca Terminal in Minca. If you are staying in town, everything is within walking distance.
If you are staying outside of town, mototaxis (motorbikes) can take you to where you need to go. Just negotiate the rate with the driver and make sure to wear a helmet.
Santa Marta to Minca by Private Transport
A private transfer from Santa Marta to Minca is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 50m - 1h 30m, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
You have 3 options: Uber, regular taxi, and pre-booked private transfers.
Uber is a good choice, if you can book one. Prices start from $23 (79,000 COP) for an Uber taxi and $27 (94,000 COP) for an Uber car. If you're in a group of 4, it’s about $12 (42,000 COP) each. It's worth noting that not a lot of drivers accept bookings for this long-distance journey.
If you prefer booking in advance, BookAway is a great choice, especially if you're coming from Santa Marta Airport. They’re very reliable but come with a higher price tag, starting at $49 (167,000 COP).
Regular taxis are also available for the Santa Marta to Minca route, but don't just hail any taxi from the street. It's best to ask your hotel to help you get a reputable driver. A regular taxi ride typically costs the same as an Uber taxi.
Private Transport options from Santa Marta to Minca
Private Transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Santa Marta to Minca by Day Trip
If you’re short on time but still want to experience the magic of Minca, it's possible to do it in one day. You can book a day trip from Santa Marta to Minca on GetYourGuide for around $60 (209,000 COP) per person.
This 7 to 9-hour tour includes round-trip transport from Santa Marta and a chance to relax amidst the beautiful nature and culture in Minca. You’ll visit local farms to learn how coffee and cocoa are made, taste them fresh, and even make your own chocolate surrounded by lush greenery.
You can also enjoy some light hiking, sample local flavours, and unwind in a peaceful rural town.
Pickup and drop-off points in Santa Marta
- Zazue Shopping Centre: 07:40 or 08:00
- Bomba Puma Rodadero: between 08:00 and 08:20
- Casa del Castillo Centro: between 08:30 and 09:00
- Los Trupillos (in front of Buena Vista Shopping Centre): between 09:10 and 09:20
You’ll be dropped off at the same spot where you were picked up.
Day Trip tickets are available on GetYourGuide.
Where to Stay
See our accommodation guide for ColombiaABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Minca?
Minca is a jungle paradise set within the mystical mountain range of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. With only 800 residents, the small town offers a tranquil and laidback vibe perfect for nature lovers.
Some of our favourite things to do in Minca include chasing waterfalls, hiking up mountains, learning about cacao and coffee, and birdwatching (it's home to 345 bird species!). And despite the town's small size, it offers a wide array of restaurants — all offering fresh and healthy cuisine.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Santa Marta to Minca, roughly 14 kilometres (9 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $2.90 (10,000 COP). The quickest trip takes 45m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Santa Marta to Minca?
The distance from Santa Marta to Minca is 14 kilometres (9 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Santa Marta to Minca?
The fastest way to get from Santa Marta to Minca is by colectivo and takes 45 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Santa Marta to Minca?
The cheapest way to get from Santa Marta to Minca is by colectivo with ticket costs starting from 10,000 COP.
About the Authors
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
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