Visit to Paso del Mango
Rivers and Waterfalls
Corregimiento de Bonda
Description of the experience
El Paso del Mango is a small village in the town of Bonda where the owners of the ecotourism farms have developed community tourism among themselves, organizing tours so that travelers can enjoy and be part of the cultivation and the process of bringing cocoa and coffee from the farm to your home table, as well as supporting the local economy with souvenirs, such as ground coffee or chocolate bars.
How to get there
If you are in the center of Santa Marta or any tourist accommodation, you can take these 2 transportation options to get to the village of Paso del Mango.
Public transportation (bus)
Find the nearest bus stop and take a bus to Bonda and inform the driver that you will get off at the police inspection.
From there, you can start a 1:30 minute walk to the Mango Pass; or if you wish, at the Bonda police inspection, you can find a group of experienced motorcycle cabs that offer transportation to the Mango Pass.
Cab or private transportation service
First you must hire a cab or private transportation service from Santa Marta.
Indicate the destination to Paso del Mango, the duration of the trip is approximately 2 hours; follow the route to Bonda and then signs to Paso del Mango.
Itinerary of the experience
- 7:00 – 7:30 AM: Pick up at the hotel or hostel for transfer to Mango Pass.
- 7:30 – 9:00 AM: Transfer to the Caoba Reserve, taking advantage of the trip to enjoy the scenery and prepare for the day.
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM: Tour of the Caoba Reserve. Exploration of the local flora and fauna (plants, fish, turtles). Guided hike with informative stops.
- 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: The tour starts at the Cacao Farm for approximately 2 hours, starting the tour in the crops and cocoa plantations, where you will learn how and when it is planted, harvested, cleaned, dried and then the raw material for chocolate.
- 11:30 AM: Short break with light snack and photo opportunity.
- 12:00 – 2:00 PM: Transfer to Sierra Limón for lunch. A quiet meal in a natural environment to enjoy the local cuisine.
- 2:30 – 3:30 PM: Visit to the Well of Love. Time to swim, relax and enjoy the surroundings.
- 3:30 – 4:30 PM: Transfer back to the city of Santa Marta. Time to reflect on the day’s experiences.
What is included
- Round trip transportation.
- Traveler’s insurance.
- Guide in Spanish.
- Entrance to the Caoba Reserve.
- Tour in museum and nature reserve.
- Lunch.
- Good vibes and attitude.
- Snack with coffee.
- Morning snack.
Recommendations
Dry season (Dec - Mar): Ideal for hiking and exploration, as there is less rainfall.
Rainy season (Apr - Nov): Although wetter, nature is at its best.
Book accommodation in advance: There are options from hostels to boutique eco-lodges.
Carry cash: Not all places accept credit cards.
Visits to waterfalls and rivers: Bathing in the refreshing waters of the local waterfalls and rivers.
Bird watching and nature: Bring binoculars to enjoy the diversity of birds.
Sun and rain protection: Hat, sunscreen, and a raincoat or rain poncho.
Insect repellent: Essential to avoid bites.
Leave no trace: Take away all garbage and respect the local flora and fauna.
Respect the local community: Interact with respect and consideration for the local inhabitants.
What to bring
- Lightweight clothing
- Hiking shoes
- Sandals or water shoes
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or telephone
- Binoculars (optional)
- Personal hygiene items
- Personal medications
- Cash or cards
- Identity documents or passport (if required)
