3 Days
Trek Duration
8 max
Group Size
4.9/5
Traveler Rating
100%
Passionate Guides
An Adventure Unlike Any Other
Imagine three days away from everything — no signal, no noise, just birdsong, the murmur of rivers and the crackle of a campfire under the stars. The Bunkuany trek takes you where few travelers dare to venture: deep into the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain, along ancestral trails carved by the Tayrona civilization over a thousand years ago.
Here, you will not be a tourist — you will be a guest. You will walk alongside guides born in these mountains, sleep in a Kogi village where time has stood still, and discover archaeological ruins hidden beneath the jungle canopy, rediscovered by the world only recently. Every meal is cooked by local families using ingredients from the Sierra. Every story told around the fire is a living fragment of a thousand-year-old culture.
This is not an organised tour. It is a total immersion — physical, cultural and human — into one of the last wild sanctuaries on earth. And when you return, you will not be quite the same.
Wild Sierra Nevada
The world's highest coastal mountain, untouched and preserved.
Fair Trek
Not an agency — a collective that celebrates our heritage and directly benefits Sierra families.
Total Immersion
Three days off-grid, around the fire, under Kogi stars.
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.
“Follow in the Footsteps of Your Ancestors”
A forgotten path, a living civilization
The Day-by-Day Program
Day 1 — Into the Jungle
Pick-up in Santa Marta at 8:45 am. Drive to Calabazo, the gateway to the Sierra Nevada.
Trek begins through the humid tropical forest: river crossings, observation of endemic wildlife. The trails pass through small villages where life still follows ancestral rhythms.
Arrival at the first campsite in the late afternoon. Traditional dinner around the fire.
Distance: ~8 km • Elevation: +150 m • Hiking: ~4 h
Day 2 — The Ruins of Bunkuany
Gradual ascent to the Bunkuany archaeological site (520 m altitude). Discovery of the terraces and stone structures of the ancient Tayrona, guided by a community member.
Swimming at a waterfall, discovery of medicinal plants and the unique biodiversity of the Sierra Nevada.
Night in a Kogi village around a wood fire.
Distance: ~10 km • Elevation: +370 m • Hiking: ~5 h
Day 3 — Cultural Encounter & Return
Visit to the Kogi indigenous village, cultural exchange and discovery of traditional local crafts.
Lunch in the village before the return to Calabazo. Back in Santa Marta by early afternoon.
End of Tour
Distance: ~7 km • Elevation: −900 m • Hiking: ~3 h 30
What's Included
✅ Included
Transport from Santa Marta
Bilingual local guide (French / Spanish / English)
Medical insurance included for the full duration of the trek
1 night in a traditional campsite
1 night in an Indigenous campsite
Waterfall visit
7 meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Archaeological site entry fees
Indigenous territory entry fees
Introduction to Kogy traditions and customs
❌ Not Included
International flights
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips (optional but appreciated)
Personal hiking equipment
Why Choose Ancestral Hike?
What Our Travelers Say
★★★★★
“A life-changing experience. Our guides knew every plant, every story. I recommend it 100%.”
— Marie L., France
★★★★★
“Completely different from classic tours. You genuinely feel welcomed by the local community.”
— Thomas B., Belgium
★★★★★
“The ruins of Bunkuany took my breath away. The Kogi guide was incredible.”
— Sophie M., Switzerland
★★★★★
“An unforgettable adventure deep in the jungle. Our guides knew every plant, every bird. I recommend it 100% for lovers of authentic nature.”
— Sophie M., France
★★★★★
“The Bunkuany trek gave me a deep connection with nature. The camps were well organised, the food excellent. A truly transformative experience.”
— Carlos R., Spain
★★★★★
“Three days worth a lifetime of memories. The Ancestral Hike team is professional, passionate and attentive to every detail. Thank you so much!”
— Emma L., Belgium
Ready to Go? Book Now
Limited spots — Groups of 8 people maximum
Date and Number of Participants
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring for the trek?
We recommend bringing: good hiking shoes (essential), lightweight breathable clothing, a waterproof jacket, sun protection and insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a headlamp, and a small first-aid kit. All camping equipment is provided by Ancestral Hike.
What level of fitness is required?
The 3-day Bunkuany trek is rated moderate. You will walk an average of 7 to 10 km per day on mountain trails. No technical climbing experience is required. A good general level of fitness is recommended. We always adapt the pace to the group.
Is the trek suitable for beginner hikers?
Yes, absolutely. Our local guides know the trails perfectly and adapt the walking pace to each group. Regular breaks are built in. The only requirement is to be in good general health and motivated to explore an exceptional natural environment.
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: non-refundable. In cases of force majeure (extreme weather, medical emergency), we always offer a free reschedule.
Is there an age limit to participate?
The trek is open to participants aged 10 and over. Minors aged 16 to 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. There is no upper age limit, but we recommend that participants over 65 consult their doctor beforehand.
Ready for the Adventure?
Join the next group. Limited to 8 people.
