The Poza Encantada, a 20-minute walk away.

What it is

The Mendihuaca river comes down from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to the Caribbean. Before it reaches the sea it forms pools between the boulders, and the best known is the Poza Encantada, also called the Laguna Encantada. The water is cold and clear all year round, and around it there is jungle, birds and, in the afternoons, monkeys in the trees.

For the Kogi, one of the four indigenous peoples of the Sierra, the pool is a sacred site. If you go with a local guide you will hear the story behind the name. Go in with respect: no music, no litter, no soap in the water.

How to get there from the hostal

We are in the vereda of Mendihuaca, on the trail that leads to the pool. From the cabin it is about 20 minutes on foot along a jungle path that follows the river. You can go and be back before breakfast, or spend the day there with something to eat.

Bring shoes that can get wet, water and sunscreen. In the rainy season the river rises and the trail gets slippery; ask us before you set out.

How to get there from Santa Marta

Agencies in Santa Marta and El Rodadero sell the trip as a full day: over an hour along the Troncal del Caribe, a walk of around an hour following the river, a swim in the pool and a picnic on Mendihuaca beach. Staying here you skip the round trip and reach the pool while there is still nobody there.