Cerro Kennedy Overnight - 2 Day Trek

The most spectacular experience in MINCA. Our overnight tour to Cerro Kennedy is ideal for those who do not have much time, & want an unforgettable way to discover the magic and panoramic views of this biodiverse mountain range.

The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the second-highest coastal mountain range in the world and the source of 36 rivers, contains almost every ecosystem on the planet: deserts, alpine lakes, rainforests, wetlands, tundra, coral reefs, & glaciers. The mosaic of habitats and species found here are like nowhere else on Earth. Separated from the Andes mountain chain by plains & deserts, the Sierra Nevada is a self-contained microcosm of diverse ecoregions & lifeforms containing thick, misty jungles, snow capped peaks, rare and unusual species, ancient lost cities, & isolated indigenous people rich with culture and tradition, all of which steep these mountains in myth and intrigue. Many plant and animal species here are found nowhere else in the world.

This journey is full of wildlife, waterfalls, stunning views, and adrenaline. Recharge your spirit with the energy that only mother nature can provide.

Day 1 As we venture up the first part of the mountain on moto, we will stop at a lookout point under the shade of giant pine trees, we can relax and take in the sights of the Caribbean ocean below, where brightly-colored tropical fish delight, and the mountains which stretch as far as we can see. After lunch, we will start our hike (aprx. 4 hours) through a richly biodiverse region of the mountain that stretches from roughly 1,300 meters in elevation to 3,000 meters. Here exists a grand variety of birds, mammals, and amphibians, and it is the center of the El Dorado Bird Reserve which is dedicated to protecting a high number of endemic species of flora and fauna at these elevations which are threatened with extinction. In the evening, we’ll reach an elevation of roughly 3,000 meters, where we will be greeted by pine tree forests, refreshing cooler temperatures, wild soundtracks from the birds and amphibians in the mountain, and our friendly, local hosts at our accommodation for the night. A hearty, fresh dinner and a comfortable bed to sleep in awaits us.

Day 2 We’re out of bed before the sun rises. An (aprx. 1 hour) walk leads us to the summit of Cerro Kennedy as the rays of sun begin to paint the valleys below. In one direction, we can see the warm Caribbean ocean waters lined with palms and forest. In the other direction, we can witness the stunning snow capped summits of Mt. Colon and Mt. Bolivar, the tallest mountains in Colombia, which both rise to roughly 5,700 meters above sea level and stand just 42 kilometers from the ocean. This mountain range before us was declared an Alliance for Zero Extinction site in 2005 and is ranked as the second-most important site for threatened birds and amphibians in the world. It was once home to the advanced Tairona civilization who built many stone structures and pathways throughout the hillsides, and left behind stunning gold, artwork, stone and pottery artifacts. Four indigenous cultures, descendants of the ancient Tairona civilization, still call these mountains home: the Koguis, Arhuacos, Kankuamos, and the Wiwas. As we admire the exuberant beauty surrounding us, one might be able to comprehend why some of the indigenous here consider the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to be the heart of the world and prioritize living in harmony with the environment.

We soak in the views, grab some amazing photos, and return to our accommodation for breakfast. After breakfast, we’ll set out for our return down the mountain to Minca (aprx. 3 hours walking + 30 minutes in moto) which can include a few stops along the way to stock up on organic coffee, chocolate, fresh fruit pastries and any treats you’ll like to buy.

We take pride in sharing this experience with you and ensuring that this adventure through a unique ecosystem in the world is an unforgettable experience for you. Containing such tremendous biological & cultural wealth, it is important to conserve these lands for wildlife and the people.

Photo Credit: Donde Moncho

We love these mountains and want to do the best we can to protect them. One of our efforts to do so is by planting a tree for every single client that accompanies us to Cerro Kennedy and by spreading awareness. Thank you for helping us make this possible.

Customization: If you want to add rappelling to this experience, let us know.

If you are interested in this experience, but need to walk less, we can coordinate motos or a car to transport us for part or all of the tour. Just reach out to us.

Desire another customization for your tour? Let us know.

320-888-2729

312-359-5090