Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
2,450.00 m (8,038.06 ft)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
35.96 mi (57.87 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Cerro Kennedy, at 3,100 meters, is the perfect mountain summit to get a view of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. When you reach the summit, don't be surprised by the old military base, it means you have made it! The breathtaking views at the top include the city of Santa Marta, the coast line to the Caribbean, the snow-capped peaks of Bolívar and Colon, and the jungle that encompasses the Sierra Nevada. The hike itself can be strenous due to the long mileage and steep incline, but the sunrise view is completely worth it. During the hike, you will be a part of a bird watching and fauna and flora paradise.

You begin your adventure in Minca, where you will need to be prepared with food before you arrive because there are not many options in the town with regard to camping food. The trail begins as a road for the first 9 kilometers, so you have the option to hike from the beginning or to catch a ride on a local moto-taxi to the end of the road (a samll town called El Campano).  The route is well known in town, and if you need help, any local will be able to guide you in the right direction.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

2

Pros

Stunning views of mountains and the jungle. Massive variety of flora, birds, and waterfalls.

Cons

The view from the summit usually can only be seen at sunrise.

Trailhead Elevation

2,132.55 ft (650.00 m)

Highest point

10,170.60 ft (3,100.00 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Family friendly
Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Waterfalls
Wildlife
Wildflowers
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

Yes

Suitable for

Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

Comments

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