2-Day Cerro Kennedy Trek
Experience breathtaking landscapes and rich culture on a guided adventure in Sierra Nevada.
Cerro Kennedy Trek
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Cerro Kennedy, one of the most spectacular trekking destinations in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This 2-day adventure offers stunning sunrise views of the snow-capped peaks, diverse wildlife, and a deep cultural experience guided by an expert local guide.
What’s included?
✔️ Round-trip transportation (Santa Marta – La Tagua – Santa Marta)
✔️ Bilingual local guide
✔️ Accommodation in a comfortable bed
✔️ All meals & snacks
✔️ Medical assistance insurance
✔️ Cultural insights from local farmers.
✔️ Spectacular viewpoints & nature experiences
Itinerary of adventure
Day 2
5:45 AM: 1 KM sunrise trek to a nearby viewpoint.
6:00 AM: Enjoy the sunrise over the snow-capped peaks
7:00 AM: Breakfast & ascent to the highest point, 3100 MASL, to enjoy the views of Palomino beach, Cienaga, Santa Marta, and the snowy crops of the Sierra Nevada
8:45 AM Descent and snacks
1:20 PM: Lunch at Vista Nieve
2:30 PM: Transport back to Santa Marta
5:00 PM: Arrival in Santa Marta
Day 1
6:00 AM: Pickup in from Santa Marta or Minca
7:45 AM: Arrival at Vereda La Tagua, snack and begin of thhe trek.
9:20 AM: Arrive to the Santa Elena farm for breakfast and local farming tour.
1:30 PM: Arrive at Mountain Hostel La Sierra, lunch & rest
4:45 PM: 1 km short hike to a viewpoint to see the sunset.
7:00 PM: Dinner & stories from the locals.
A Magical Experience Under the Stars
As night falls over the Sierra Nevada, Hostal Donde Moncho transforms into a peaceful retreat surrounded by the untouched beauty of the mountains. Nestled at a high altitude, the crisp night air settles between 4 and 8 degrees Celsius, making it the perfect setting to cozy up and enjoy a truly unique experience.
Speaking of stars, the night sky at our friend's hostel at 2450 MASL is breathtaking. Far from the city lights, the Milky Way stretches across the sky in stunning clarity, offering a rare view of the cosmos that few places on Earth can match. This is a perfect moment to sit back, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the vastness of the universe.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Cerro Kennedy Trek?
The Cerro Kennedy Trek is considered moderate to challenging. You don't need to be an experienced mountaineer, but you should be comfortable hiking uphill for several hours. The altitude and elevation gain make the first part of the trek physically demanding.
How much elevation gain is there?
On Day 1, the hike starts in La Tagua at approximately 1,600 meters above sea level and climbs to the mountain farm at around 2,450 meters, for approximately 850 meters of elevation gain.
On Day 2, we hike from the farm to the highest viewpoint at approximately 3,100 meters, adding another 650 meters of elevation gain. After visiting the viewpoint, we begin the descent.
What can we see from Cerro Kennedy?
On clear mornings, Cerro Kennedy offers spectacular views across the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, including its highest snow-capped peaks and, depending on visibility, the Caribbean coast. The landscape changes considerably as you gain altitude, passing through mountain forests and coffee-growing areas.
Are the views guaranteed?
No. Cerro Kennedy is a high-mountain environment, and visibility depends entirely on weather conditions. Clouds and mist can appear quickly. We cannot guarantee clear views, although the early morning generally provides the best opportunity.
Where do we sleep?
You will spend the night at a local mountain farm at approximately 2,450 meters above sea level. The accommodation is rustic and simple, reflecting the remote location of the trek. Bedding is provided, so you do not need to bring a sleeping bag.
Does it get cold at night?
Yes. Temperatures are noticeably cooler than in Santa Marta or Minca, particularly during the night and early morning. We recommend bringing long trousers and a warm layer or light jacket.
What is included in the trek?
The experience includes a local guide, transportation, accommodation, meals during the trek, snacks, and travel insurance.
Can you pick us up in Santa Marta or Minca?
Yes. Transportation can be arranged from Santa Marta or Minca, depending on your itinerary and the departure arrangements. If you're staying elsewhere, contact us before booking so we can confirm the best meeting point.
Can I leave my large luggage somewhere during the trek?
Yes. If your logistics pass through our office in Bonda, we can safely store your larger luggage while you are trekking. We recommend hiking only with a small backpack containing what you need for the two days.
What should I bring?
We recommend comfortable hiking shoes, long trousers, a light rain jacket, a warm layer for the evening and sunrise, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, personal toiletries, and a small backpack. A power bank can also be useful.
Is there electricity at the accommodation?
Electricity may be available at the mountain accommodation, but because this is a remote rural area, we recommend arriving with your devices charged and bringing a power bank if possible.
Is Cerro Kennedy inside Minca?
Not exactly. The trek takes place in the mountains above the Minca region, in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Minca is one of the most convenient starting points for accessing the route, and the journey continues deeper into the mountains before the hike begins in La Tagua.
Is Cerro Kennedy a good alternative to the Lost City Trek?
They are very different experiences. Lost City focuses primarily on archaeology and Indigenous history, while Cerro Kennedy is a shorter high-altitude mountain trek focused on landscapes, biodiversity, rural life and panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Cerro Kennedy is a good option for travelers who want a challenging mountain experience but only have two days available.
Gallery of adventure
Reserve Your Trek
Book your unforgettable Cerro Kennedy trek for a unique cultural and adventure experience today for only $800.000 COP
