1 Days
Trek Duration
8 max
Group Size
4.9/5
Traveler Rating
100%
Passionate Guides
A Day Unlike Any Other
Step away from the noise of the city for just one day — and discover a world that has existed for a thousand years. The Bunkuany Light Trek takes you deep into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, along ancestral trails carved by the Tayrona civilization, to the ruins of Bunkuany: the “place of the stones that speak.”
This single-day experience is designed for travelers who want a genuine encounter with the jungle and its hidden heritage — without the demands of a multi-day trek. You will cross a river, swim at a waterfall, explore ancient Tayrona terraces, and share a lunch cooked by local families in the heart of the Sierra.
Guided by a community member born in these mountains, you will return to Santa Marta the same evening — with a story you will never forget.
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
Pick-up at Buenavista Mall (Santa Marta) at 8:45 am. Drive to Calabazo, the gateway to the Sierra Nevada.
Trek begins through the humid tropical forest: river crossing and waterfall swimming stop. The trail winds past endemic flora and the occasional wildlife sighting along ancestral paths used for centuries.
Guided visit of the Bunkuany archaeological site (520 m altitude): discovery of Tayrona stone terraces and ceremonial areas, with an introduction to local culture, beliefs and traditions by a community guide.
Lunch in the jungle prepared by local families. Descent to Calabazo and return to Santa Marta — arriving between 4:00 and 5:00 PM.
End of Tour
Distance: ~8 km · Elevation: +300 m / −300 m · Total hiking: ~4–5 h
Duration: 1 day (no overnight stay)
Total hiking: 4–5 hours
Elevation gain: +300 m
Distance: ~14 km
Group size: Maximum 8 people
Pick-up: Buenavista Mall, Santa Marta at 8:45 AM
Return: Santa Marta at approximately 4-6 PM
Difficulty: Moderate — good general fitness recommended
Beehive tour with honey tasting — A unique cultural experience led by local beekeepers. Separate payment required.
Horse transport along sections of the trail — 170,000 COP per day, separate payment. A great option for those wishing to reduce hiking distance.
Both add-ons are arranged on the day with your guide, subject to availability.
What's Included
✅ Included
Round-trip transport from Santa Marta (Buenavista Mall)
Bilingual local guide
River crossing and waterfall swimming stop
Entrance to the Bunkuany archaeological site
Introduction to Tayrona culture, beliefs and traditions
1 lunch prepared by local families in the jungle
Indigenous territory entrance fee
Return transport to Santa Marta
❌ Not Included
International flights
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips (optional but appreciated)
Personal hiking equipment
Why Choose Ancestral Hike?
What Our Travelers Say
★★★★★
"An unforgettable morning in the jungle. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable about Tayrona culture and the trail was beautiful. Highly recommended for anyone spending a day in Santa Marta!"
— Clara M., France
★★★★★
"Perfect for a single day trip. We crossed a river, swam at a waterfall, and explored ancient ruins — all before dinner. Ancestral Hike made it feel completely effortless."
— James R., United Kingdom
★★★★★
"One day between flights and the best decision of my trip. The trail, the waterfall, the ruins — all incredible. My favourite memory from Colombia."
— Sofia T., Germany
★★★★★
"Do not miss this if you are in the Santa Marta area. Fantastic local guides, a stunning waterfall and the chance to walk among ruins that almost nobody visits. A hidden gem."
— Lucas V., Netherlands
★★★★★
"We were a group of four and had an amazing time. The pace was perfect, the landscape breathtaking and the cultural insight was something you cannot get from a guidebook."
— Maria G., Spain
★★★★★
"A one-day adventure that felt like a week of travel. Professional, passionate and attentive team. Already planning to come back for the multi-day trek!"
— Tom K., Australia
Ready to Go? Book Now
Limited spots — Groups of 8 people maximum
Date and Number of Participants
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
The Bunkuany Light Trek is rated moderate. You will walk approximately 8 km over 4 to 5 hours on jungle and mountain trails. No technical climbing is required. A good general level of fitness is recommended. The pace is always adapted to the group.
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.
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.
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.
