Minca

Welcome to a place that sits still as the world around keeps on moving. If you are tired off the same music, sticky climate, and tourists, a trip to Minca will surly relive your temporary travel depression. A world away from the beach and hot weather of Taganga, hidden in the tropical mountains only 30 minutes from Gringo central, Minca is the place for people with open minds and seekers of beauty. A secret place where you might be the only one swimming in a pozo with a powerful waterfall or sipping on a freshly made coffee at the only coffee shop. The town has limited amenities, but then again what do you really need?

A few places to sleep, an amazing coffee shop, a few hostels and restaunts. You might decide that you want to visit for the day. A short collectivo ride cost about $5000 pesos and then you can opt to take a moto-taxi back which may run $6000.

I decided to rent a bike for the day to explore the area faster than on foot. Even though half the day I was drenched from rain water, nothing mattered, except the adventure of getting there. A stop at the coffee shop when you enter into town can get your caffeine kicking and a map to orientate you to where you might want to go. The bikes that they have for rent are challenged, but after a few failed attempts we eventually got one to work. I would suggest heading up to Finca de Esperanza for a swim in the pools below the waterfall. You can buy organic coffee for about $6.00 and talk to the owners about organic farming.

If you have time, a circle hike or bike ride can take you past many points of interest. If you happen to be in Minca on the weekend and missed the last taxi service back, there are a few top notch restaurants that cater to the local weekend crowd.