Bunkuany: 2-Day Sierra Nevada Trek, Beekeeping & Waterfalls

Summary

Walk ancient terraces taste honey swim under waterfalls near Santa Marta

You’ll taste wild honey straight from Sierra Nevada hives, swim beneath Arcoiris waterfall after hiking through dense forest, and walk ancient Tayrona terraces at Bunkuany with a local guide who knows every story behind those mossy stones. This two-day trek includes pickup from Santa Marta, meals featuring regional flavors, and a night sleeping close to nature—hammock or tent under starry skies.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start my Bunkuany tour with a sticky glove full of fresh honey, but that’s how it went. We’d barely finished the bumpy drive from Santa Marta to Calabazo when our guide handed out these big mesh suits—kind of awkward, honestly—and led us behind the house to the hives. The bees sounded like a soft engine in the heat. I was nervous at first (who wouldn’t be?), but our local baquiano made it feel almost calm. He explained how the bees here feed on native flowers—some names I couldn’t pronounce—and then let us try honey straight from the comb. It tasted wild and floral, not like supermarket stuff. My hands smelled sweet all day.

Lunch was rice and fish back at the accommodation—simple but good after walking in that thick Sierra Nevada air. Later we hiked out to Arcoiris waterfall. The water was cold enough to make you yelp but worth it after sweating up the path. There were birds everywhere—bright flashes between the trees—and some kids from Calabazo splashing around like they owned the place (maybe they do). That night I tried sleeping in a hammock for the first time; kept rolling over, listening to frogs and distant voices from another campfire somewhere down the hill.

The next morning started early with coffee that tasted smoky and strong, probably because I barely slept. We set off for Bunkuany’s terraces—a short walk but steep enough to remind you you’re alive. Our guide told stories about the Tayrona people and pointed out old stone paths tangled with roots. I liked how he paused sometimes just to listen; said you can hear history if you’re quiet long enough. The terraces themselves felt heavy with silence, even with our group there. After wandering through mossy stones and sunlight patches we had lunch at an eco-restaurant overlooking green hills—I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santa Marta to Calabazo village

• Depart Santa Marta at 7:00 am
• Walk 2 hours to accommodation
• Enjoy welcome cocktail
• Learn about beekeeping and extract honey
• Return to accommodation for lunch
• Walk to Arcoiris waterfall
• Spend afternoon at waterfall
• Return to accommodation
• Have dinner

Day 2 — Bunkuany terraces and return

• Breakfast at 7:00 am
• Walk 1 hour to Bunkuany terrace
• Discover fauna, flora, and Tayrona history
• Explore terraces and stone paths
• Have typical regional lunch
• Walk 3 hours back via Calabazo path
• Return to Santa Marta at 4:45 pm

Top questions

How long is the hike to Bunkuany from Calabazo?

The initial walk from Calabazo village to the accommodation takes about 2 hours, followed by a 1-hour hike to reach Bunkuany's terraces on day two.

Is food included during the Bunkuany tour?

Yes, meals are included: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner featuring typical regional dishes.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

You’ll sleep in a hammock or camping setup at local accommodations near Calabazo.

Are guides local or indigenous?

The tour includes professional guides as well as baquianos (local guides) and indigenous community members sharing their knowledge.

Can children join this tour?

Infants and small children can join if they ride in a pram or stroller; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is swimming possible during this tour?

Yes, there are opportunities for swimming in rivers and at Arcoiris waterfall during your stay.

What physical fitness level is required?

A moderate level of fitness is recommended due to several hours of hiking over uneven terrain each day.

Does this tour include pickup from Santa Marta?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicle pickup from Santa Marta is included at 7:00 am on day one.

What’s included

Your journey includes air-conditioned pickup from Santa Marta, all entrance fees and contributions to local communities, insurance coverage throughout your trek, overnight hammock or camping accommodation near Calabazo village, all meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinner), plus expert guidance by both professional and indigenous guides—including hands-on beekeeping activities before heading out for hikes and river swims each day.