Ancestral Bunkuany 3-Day Tour | Archaeology, the Kogui People, and Tayrona National Park
An experience built from the ground up by the region and its communities.
Each route is an invitation to discover nature, culture, and local traditions, promoting conscious, respectful, and meaningful tourism.
💱 Approximate equivalent
Approximate amounts based on the current exchange rate. Payment in local currency.Value of Reserves:
The booking we require an initial deposit per person $140,000 COP
The initial deposit is non-refundable.
There are places that aren't meant for the average traveler, but rather for those who dare to explore the unknown. Here's what this experience is like: hidden landscapes, animals that appear in silence, and ancient cultures that still maintain their connection to the land. Open your eyes and look around.
Schedule of Activities
Day 1 | Santa Marta to Bunkuany: In the Footsteps of the Sierra.
The Experience starts between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. with the pickup at hotels located in the historic center of Santa Marta. This is where we begin our ground transportation to the village of Bonda, the gateway to the Sierra and one of the region's most historically and culturally rich areas.
During this First route (approximately 9 km), the guide will give an introduction to the history of Santa Marta, its urban transformation, and its connection to the mountains.
From Bonda, we’ll continue heading deeper into rural territory for approximately 18.26 km, passing through country roads, agricultural areas, and old community trails such as Paso del Mango, where the landscape begins to change and the city fades into the distance.
Along the way, we'll visit historical and cultural sites in the region, including:
- The old colonial church of Santa Ana de Bonda, one of the some of the oldest religious structures in northern South America, whose history dates back to the 16th century and the early stages of Spanish occupation in this territory.
- Monuments and sculptures associated with the indigenous peoples of the Colombian Caribbean.
- The historic Mier House, a 11th-century buildingX is linked to one of the most influential families in the region's history, associated with Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and the local folklore that originated around this building.
- The Ceremonial Petroglyph Stone Donama, an ancient site with pre-Hispanic petroglyphs estimated to be between 200 and 500 years old.
In Donama, we’ll take a brief break to consciously connect with the land before continuing our journey.
Hike to the Bunkuany Terraces
Our main hike to the archaeological site will begin from the El Boquerón trailhead, in the La Bodeguita area Bunkuany.
- Approximate distance: 4.74 km
- Estimated duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Maximum elevation: 939 meters above sea level
- Level: Moderate
The trail passes through various ecosystems in the The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta:
- Tropical rainforest
- Cloud forest
- Areas of Traditional Smallholder Farming
During the hike, we’ll be able to identify wildlife tracks and signs. This area is home to species such as:
- endemic and migratory birds,
- amphibians,
- snakes,
- medium-sized mammals,
- and occasionally deer or wild cats.
Weather permitting, from the highest points we’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of Santa Marta, Calabazo and sectors close to the Tayrona National Natural Park.
Archaeological Exploration and Connection to the Territory
When we arrive in Bunkuany, we’ll have time to explore its ceremonial terraces, ancient retaining walls, and sacred sites used by the ancestral peoples who once inhabited the Sierra.
Here we'll learn about:
- The meaning of the word "Bunkuany.".
- The spiritual and territorial significance of its terraces.
- The relationship between this site and present-day indigenous peoples, such as the Kogui.
- The current value of the site for rural and indigenous communities.
Afterward, we'll continue on to a local farm where we'll enjoy a rustic lunch and take a break surrounded by nature.
Descent to the Eco-Hotel and meeting with the community.
In the afternoon, we’ll resume our hike, descending approximately 4.4 kilometers through former pastures—which are now undergoing ecological restoration—agroforestry systems, and conservation areas.
Along this stretch, we'll be able to see:
- organic crops,
- fruit trees used by local wildlife,
- ecological corridors frequented by monkeys, birds, and other mammals.
Upon arrival at the Eco-Hotel, we’ll take a break to enjoy a hot or refreshing drink before continuing our journey to the indigenous community.
A Night in an Indigenous Community
Our final leg of the journey (6.84 kilometers) will take us into the ancestral territory of the people Kogui, where we will be welcomed by members of the community.
Depending on our arrival time, we’ll be able to participate in cultural exchange activities such as:
- Interpretation of the traditional use of the coca leaf.
- Knowledge of the Sugi (Poporo), a ceremonial element linked to a man's spirituality, identity, and marriage.
- Conversations with leaders, elders, or community members around the fire.
The day ends with a traditional dinner and a night’s rest within the community’s territory, in a space set up to welcome travelers in a simple, authentic, and respectful way.
Day 2 | Life in an Indigenous Community and the Journey to Tayrona National Park
The second day begins surrounded by the silence of the mountains and the natural sounds of the The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
At 7:30 a.m., we'll enjoy a traditional breakfast within the village's reservation Kogui, accompanied by hot beverages such as locally grown organic coffee or a traditional herbal tea made from coca leaves, prepared by members of the community.
Cultural immersion on the reservation
After breakfast, we’ll begin an interpretive tour of the indigenous territory, where we’ll get an up-close look at the community’s daily life and the spiritual and practical connection they have with the land.
During this experience, we will be able to observe and understand traditional processes such as:
- Housing Layout and Traditional Architecture.
- The roles of men, women, young people, and older adults within the community.
- Traditional gardens and food production systems.
- Harvesting and Traditional Uses of the Coca Leaf.
- Extraction and processing of maguey into natural fibers.
- Traditional processes for turning fibers into yarns and ropes.
- Traditional techniques for extracting sugarcane juice (depending on the growing season).
More than just a demonstration, this activity aims to understand how ancestral knowledge remains alive and is part of daily life in the region.
Natural Dyes and Traditional Crafts
The final part of our immersion will be devoted to traditional textile art.
Here, we'll learn how the community extracts natural pigments from roots, tubers, and forest plants to dye maguey fibers.
We'll learn about:
- Processes for producing light-colored or white fibers.
- Extraction of yellow pigments using traditional methods.
- Using plants and bark to create dark shades.
This knowledge is part of the artisanal craft that the community still preserves and that continues to be passed down from one generation to the next.
Before leaving the reservation, we'll have time to visit the community craft shop, a place where every purchase directly supports the local economy.
Lunch and preparations for the hike to the ocean
After the cultural tour, we'll enjoy lunch within the community's territory and get ready for the second major trek of the day.
Each hiker will be provided with water before setting out on the hike to one of the park's most remote areas Tayrona.
Hike to Playa Brava
From the reservation, we'll begin a hike of approximately:
- Distance: 4.5 km
- Estimated duration: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
- Level: Moderate
- Land: Mostly downhill
The trail winds through tropical rainforests with high biodiversity, where we can find:
- resident and migratory birds,
- monkeys,
- amphibians,
- reptiles,
- spiders and other small forest creatures.
Along the way, we'll cross small mountain streams before reaching one of the most remote and unspoiled beaches in the Colombian Caribbean: Brava Beach.
Known since ancient times as Teyumakke, this place held profound significance for the indigenous peoples who inhabited the coast and the mountains, particularly because of salt harvesting and their ceremonial connection to the land.
Here, mountains, jungle, and sea come together in a wild and largely unspoiled landscape.
During the rainy season, depending on trail conditions and natural light, you may be able to visit a small waterfall hidden deep in the forest.
A Night by the Caribbean Sea
At the end of the day, we’ll settle into rustic accommodations right on the beach, in a completely secluded natural setting.
The evening includes:
- Local dinner.
- Rest in hammocks with mosquito nets or in designated areas, subject to availability.
- Free time to listen to the sound of the sea and disconnect from the daily grind.
And so our second day comes to an end, surrounded by the ancestral wisdom of the mountains and the natural power of the Colombian Caribbean.
Day 3 | Playa Brava to Cabo San Juan: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea
The third day begins with the sound of the Caribbean Sea and a natural awakening in one of the park's most secluded areas Tayrona.
Depending on the time of year, sunrise can occur between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., offering a unique opportunity to witness the transition between the jungle and the sea.
At 7:30 a.m., we'll enjoy breakfast overlooking the ocean, and between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m., we'll begin our journey to one of the park's most iconic areas.
Hike from Playa Brava to Cabo San Juan
Today's hike covers approximately:
- Starting distance: 5 km
- Estimated duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours (including interpretive stops)
- Maximum elevation: 564 meters above sea level
- Level: Moderate
During this trek, we will travel along ancient indigenous trails surrounded by tropical rainforest, traditional farming areas, and biological corridors rich in biodiversity.
Along the way, you may see species such as:
- howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys,
- ñeques (agoutis),
- land crabs,
- lowland hummingbirds,
- forest reptiles and amphibians,
- With a little luck, the iconic blue-billed paujil, one of the most important birds for conservation within the park.
At certain times of the year, especially between May and August, we can also find fruit trees such as wild avocado trees, which are used by local wildlife and communities in the area.
You Might Be Interested In: Wildlife of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: Animals You Might Encounter (A Realistic Guide)
The Little Town of Chayrama: Ancestral Memories Facing the Caribbean
One of the highlights of the tour will be the section through Chairama (Pueblito) Archaeological Site.
This ancient pre-Hispanic settlement, whose archaeological records date back to approximately the 7th century A.D., was one of the most important ceremonial and residential centers of the ancient peoples of the Sierra near the sea.
Currently, access to the archaeological site by tourists remains restricted as part of agreements on conservation and cultural respect with the indigenous communities in the area.
Here we'll take a moment to reflect on its history, its spiritual connection to the Sierra, and its significance today.
Cabo San Juan and the beaches of Tayrona Park
As we continue our descent, we'll pass through iconic coastal areas such as:
- Nudist Beach
- Bocas del Saco
- And finally, the iconic Cape San Juan del Guía
At Cabo San Juan, we can enjoy panoramic views, take photos, and appreciate one of the most iconic landscapes of the Colombian Caribbean.
Due to the large number of visitors during certain seasons, our tour continues on to quieter areas of the park.
Snorkeling, quiet beaches, and lunch by the sea
We'll head toward areas with calmer waters, such as:
- Beach Pool
- Arenilla Beach
Here we'll have time to:
- swim and relax,
- go snorkeling in favorable conditions,
- observe reef fish, seagrass, and, occasionally, sea turtles.
Afterward, we'll enjoy lunch overlooking the ocean, with local options depending on what's available that day.
Kogui Trail and Park Exit
In the afternoon, we’ll resume our hike along the trail leading out of the park, passing through areas such as:
- Reefs
- Path of Knowledge or Kogui Trail
- Sea Turtle Nesting Areas
- Natural viewpoints overlooking Cañaveral and the park's coastal areas
During this final part of the tour, we will continue to explore the relationship between nature, conservation, and the indigenous worldview.
After finishing the hike, our transportation will be waiting for us at the park exit to take us back to Santa Marta.
End of the experience
After three days exploring mountains, jungles, archaeological sites, indigenous communities, and hidden beaches along the Colombian Caribbean coast, this experience—designed for those seeking to go beyond conventional tourism—comes to an end.
Here, you didn't just hike trails… you walked through the living memory of the Sierra.
What does this experience include?
Guided Tours and Interpretation of the Area
✔ Professional guide in Spanish
✔ English-language guide included
✔ French-language guide available for an additional fee of COP $50,000 per person
Transportation and Logistics
✔ Ground transportation by car from Santa Marta
✔ Return transportation from Tayrona National Park to Santa Marta
✔ Local motorcycle transfers with licensed local drivers
Meals for the 3 days
✔ 2 breakfasts
✔ 3 lunches
✔ 2 dinners
✔ Energy snacks during the hike (artisanal bread, coffee, or other options depending on the route)
✔ Local, in-season fruits
Hydration
✔ Bottles of water at various points along the route
Tickets and Experiences
✔ Admission to the Bunkuany archaeological site
✔ Cultural activities within the indigenous community
✔ Admission to Tayrona National Natural Park
Accommodations
✔ 1 night inside the indigenous reservation (depending on the option selected: Bed upon request and subject to availability, OR hammocks with mosquito nets and blankets)
✔ 1 night in a hammock with a mosquito net right on the beach at Playa Brava
Safety and Local Support
✔ Assistance insurance during the experience
✔ Tayrona National Park admission ticket
✔ Community contributions and direct contributions to local economies and land conservation efforts
Does not include
✘ Personal expenses.
✘ Services not described in the program.
✘ Alcoholic beverages.
✘ Snacks or additional purchases during the tour.
✘ Handicrafts or additional voluntary contributions to local communities.
Recommendations
To get the most out of this journey through the The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Tayrona National Natural Park, we recommend bringing:
Clothing and Footwear
✔ Lightweight, comfortable clothing for hot and humid weather.
✔ Long hiking pants (preferably detachable or quick-drying).
✔ A change of clothes for each day and light sleepwear.
✔ Shoes suitable for trekking or hiking with good traction.
✔ Sandals or flip-flops for relaxing in the evenings.
Personal protection
✔ Sunscreen.
✔ Insect repellent.
✔ Cap or hat.
✔ Lightweight raincoat or rain poncho (especially during the rainy season).
Hygiene and Personal Care Items
✔ Personal hygiene kit:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Biodegradable soap, preferably
- Quick-drying towel
✔ Reusable water bottle or thermos (there are refill stations and filters available along the route).
Recommended Optional Equipment
✔ Hiking poles or walking sticks.
✔ Headlamp or small personal flashlight.
✔ Waterproof bag to protect electronics and documents.
✔ Camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Health and Wellness
✔ Personal medications, if needed.
✔ Please notify us in advance of any medical conditions, allergies, or significant dietary restrictions.
Who is this experience for?
This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to go beyond conventional tourism.
It's ideal for people who enjoy:
✔ Explore areas that have seen little human impact.
✔ Hike through the mountains, the jungle, and along the coast.
✔ Learn about ancient cultures with respect.
✔ Observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
✔ Adapt to humidity, weather changes, and natural trails.
✔ Stay in simple, authentic accommodations that are connected to the local area.
This experience is not recommended for those seeking luxury, urban comforts, or large-scale activities.
Here, the real star is the region itself.
Recommended fitness level
Level: Moderate to Moderate-High
- Day 1: A progressive hike with a better balance between ascents and descents.
- Day 2: Cultural tours + hike to Playa Brava.
- Day 3: The most physically demanding day, with high humidity, ascents, descents, and greater exposure to the tropical climate.
Recommended for travelers who are physically able and willing to walk several kilometers a day.
Highlights of this experience
Why is this route different?
✔ Explore the archaeological site at Bunkuany Archaeological Site, one of the most important ancient sites open to community-based tourism.
✔ Experience true immersion within a community Kogui, learning about traditions, crafts, coca leaves, natural fibers, and the indigenous worldview.
✔ Explore off-the-beaten-path trails through tropical rainforests, mountains, and the Caribbean Sea.
✔ Discover wildlife in its natural habitat: birds, monkeys, amphibians, reptiles, and other inhabitants of the Sierra.
✔ Connect two worlds in a single expedition: the cultural depth of the The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the wild beaches of the Tayrona National Natural Park.
✔ Wrap up the experience by exploring iconic areas such as Brava Beach and Cape San Juan del Guía.
Book your experience
Would you like to explore the Sierra, spend time with indigenous communities, and end your trip by the Caribbean Sea?
Check available dates and receive personalized service directly from our local team.
Important Information Before Booking
This experience takes place in rural areas, nature trails, indigenous territories, and tropical rainforests.
During the tour, you may come across:
- high temperatures and humidity,
- rain,
- mud in some areas,
- insects,
- and the region's native wildlife.
The itinerary is designed for travelers with a spirit of exploration, respect for local communities, and a willingness to adapt to the realities of the natural environment.
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