1 Day
Trek Duration
8 max
Group Size
4.9/5
Traveler Rating
100%
Passionate Guides
An Escape Unlike Any Other. Imagine one day away from everything — no signal, no noise, just the sound of the jungle, the scent of cacao, and the rush of hidden waterfalls. Guided by people who were born here and know every trail, every tree, and every secret swimming hole near Tayrona National Park.
In the morning, learn to transform raw cacao beans into handmade chocolate alongside local artisans — fermentation, roasting, grinding, moulding. In the afternoon, trek through lush forest to crystal-clear waterfalls and natural swimming pools that only locals know. The day ends at the entrance of Tayrona National Park, ready for whatever comes next.
Caribbean Jungle
Lush trails and hidden waterfalls near Tayrona National Park.
Fair Trek
Not an agency — a collective that celebrates our heritage and directly benefits Sierra families.
Total Immersion
One day off-grid: cacao workshop, jungle trails, waterfall swimming.
Who are we?
Ancestral Hike is a collective of local and international guides passionate about the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and its history. We are not a conventional travel agency — we are residents who open the doors of our territory, our culture and our Tayrona ancestral traditions to you.
By choosing Ancestral Hike, you directly fund local families and contribute to the preservation of this unique cultural heritage. Every trek is an authentic encounter, never a performance.
Taste Cacao. Swim Under Hidden Waterfalls.
A jungle escape only locals know.
The Day-by-Day Program
Morning — From Bean to Chocolate
After pickup in Santa Marta, head into the lush foothills near Tayrona National Park. Your first stop: the cacao farm, where local artisans guide you through the full journey from raw bean to finished chocolate — fermentation, sun-drying, roasting, grinding, and moulding. You leave with your own handmade bar and a completely new appreciation for one of the world’s most complex flavours.
🚍 Pickup in Santa Marta · 🍫 Cacao & chocolate workshop · 🍫 Your own bar to take home
Afternoon — Waterfalls & Wild Nature
Lunch in the forest, then set off with your guide through lush tropical trails to reach hidden waterfalls near Tayrona National Park — spots that only locals know. Swim in crystal-clear natural pools, relax on mossy rocks, and reconnect with nature far from the tourist circuit.
The day ends at the entrance of Tayrona National Park, so you can walk straight into the park, continue east along the coast, or arrange your own onward transport from there.
🍽 Lunch included · 🌊 Hidden waterfalls & swimming · 📍 Ends at the Tayrona Park entrance
What's Included
✅ Included
One way transport from Santa Marta to the Tayrona area
Bilingual local guide & medical assistance insurance
Guided cacao & chocolate-making workshop
Waterfall hikes & natural swimming
Birdwatching
Lunch
Your own handmade chocolate bar to take home
All logistics handled — just show up and enjoy
End of the tour at Tayrona Park entrance
❌ Not Included
International flights
Travel insurance (recommended)
Personal expenses & tips
Alcoholic beverages
Any service not listed above
Why Choose Ancestral Hike?
What Our Travelers Say
★★★★★
"We made chocolate from scratch, swam under a waterfall that barely anyone knows about, and fell asleep to the sound of the jungle. This trip was everything we didn’t know we needed."
— Marie & Lucas, France
★★★★★
"The cacao workshop was fascinating — I had no idea how much work goes into a bar of chocolate. The bonfire and the sounds of the jungle at night were pure magic."
— Thomas K., Germany
★★★★★
"The waterfall on Day 2 was spectacular. Crystal-clear water, no crowds, just us and the jungle. Already recommended it to everyone I know."
— Emma V., Netherlands
★★★★★
"An incredibly intimate experience. Small group, knowledgeable guide, stunning nature. A perfect escape from the tourist circuit in Santa Marta."
— Carlos R., Spain
★★★★★
"Perfect for couples — romantic, adventurous, and completely stress-free. Every detail was organised for us. We came back refreshed and smiling."
— Sophie & James, United Kingdom
★★★★★
"The guides really made the experience special. They know the jungle like the back of their hand and the chocolate we made ourselves tasted incredible!"
— Annika B., Sweden
Ready to Go? Book Now
Limited spots — Groups of 8 people maximum
Date and Number of Participants
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel for the waterfalls, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, sun protection, a change of clothes, and a refillable water bottle. Lunch and all equipment are provided. If you are continuing into Tayrona Park afterwards, pack accordingly — the tour ends at the park entrance.
What level of fitness is required?
Easy to moderate. The morning is mostly cultural (cacao workshop). The afternoon involves light jungle hiking to reach the waterfalls (~3–4 hours on gentle trails). Suitable for most adults, including those with little hiking experience.
Where do we meet?
Pickup is in Santa Marta. Exact location and time are confirmed in your booking confirmation, and hotel pickup can be arranged on request. Note that transport is one way: the tour finishes at the entrance of Tayrona National Park, not back in Santa Marta.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 7 days before departure. Between 7 and 3 days: 50% refund. Less than 3 days before departure: no refund. We are happy to reschedule if you contact us in advance.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes — this is one of our most family-friendly experiences. The cacao workshop and waterfall swimming are great for children aged 6 and above. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Ready for the Adventure?
Small groups only — maximum 8 participants.
