Mamancana Natural Reserve - Image 1
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Mamancana Natural Reserve

4.7
·630 reviews·, Colombia

A breathtaking natural reserve near Santa Marta, ideal for events and offering serene pools amidst lush landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Mamancana Natural Reserve - Image 1

Mamancana Natural Reserve

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking natural reserve near Santa Marta, ideal for events and offering serene pools amidst lush landscapes.

4.7
(630 reviews)

"The venue is magical, in the middle of the Sierra Nevada, overlooking the ocean."

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Group Policies

Mamancana often caters to groups. Verify if individual bookings are possible and what minimum stay requirements exist.

Book Services in Advance

Massages and other special services need to be booked days ahead. Don't expect walk-in availability.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Natural Pools

Natural Pools

Main facility area

Serene, impeccably maintained pools surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes.

Stunning Event Venue

Stunning Event Venue

Various event spaces

Magical setting in the Sierra Nevada overlooking the ocean, ideal for weddings and gatherings.

Scenic Hiking Trails

Scenic Hiking Trails

Surrounding reserve area

Explore trails with breathtaking views, offering a refreshing escape into nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Group Bookings & Events Focus

Mamancana primarily caters to groups, weddings, and events. Individual tourist visits might be limited or require specific arrangements. Confirm booking policies and availability for smaller parties before planning.

Advance Planning is Key

Services like massages and helicopter transport (if available) require advance booking. Confirm all amenities and services with Mamancana well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Event days (check schedule)
Why
Experience a vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Este lugar es una LOCURA, definitivamente un paraíso escondido en Santa Marta✨ #santamarta #fyp #parati #viral #foryou #playa #recomendacion #foryou #colombia #piscinanatural
@stefanymll_
64.9K likes • 746.3K views

Confirm Group Policies

Mamancana often caters to groups. Verify if individual bookings are possible and what minimum stay requirements exist. Reddit

Book Services in Advance

Massages and other special services need to be booked days ahead. Don't expect walk-in availability. Reddit

¿Con quien te gustaria hospedarte en este conjunto en Santa Marta? Vive las mejores vacaciones y visita destinos turisticos #santamarta #colombia #turismo #vacaciones
@carolinotaob
24.1K likes • 513.5K views
A partir del verde natural surge la belleza y la magia, vive una experiencia naturalmente sofisticada con nosotros . Síguenos @mamancana . . . . . #beautifulhotels #santamartanaturalmentemágica #nature #reserva #esrthpix #colombiaexperiences #tayronaexperiences #instatraveling #reserve #beautifuldestinations
mamancana
1K likes • 35.2K views

Alcohol Pricing Alert

Be aware that alcohol prices can significantly increase closer to an event. Clarify all costs upfront. Reddit

Plan Your Transportation

Arrange transportation for guests, especially for late-night departures, as taxis may take time to arrive. Reddit

Nature is the new luxury !! @mamancana beautiful natural reserve for weddings and events. Where : Santa Marta Colombia . ( 10 minutes away from the city ) What to know ( You feel the power of nature ) 🇨🇴 Reserva natural perfecta para eventos y bodas, te sientes en la Sierra Nevada pero estás a 10 minutos de la ciudad . #visitcolombia #visitsantamarta #mamancana #turismoderomance #weddingdes...
andreaminski
1K likes • 8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Group Policies

Mamancana often caters to groups. Verify if individual bookings are possible and what minimum stay requirements exist. Reddit

Book Services in Advance

Massages and other special services need to be booked days ahead. Don't expect walk-in availability. Reddit

Alcohol Pricing Alert

Be aware that alcohol prices can significantly increase closer to an event. Clarify all costs upfront. Reddit

Plan Your Transportation

Arrange transportation for guests, especially for late-night departures, as taxis may take time to arrive. Reddit

Hydrate on Trails

It gets hot during hikes! Ensure you carry plenty of water to stay refreshed. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(630 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mamancana Natural Reserve is a breathtaking venue, particularly praised for its stunning natural pools and its magical setting for weddings and events. While the beauty of the location and the quality of service during events are highly rated, some visitors have experienced issues with customer service and clarity on booking policies for individual stays.

"Customer service was poor, I tried reaching them via their website and WhatsApp. When they did respond, the level of attention was not what you would expect. Their website didn't mention that you just book a minimum number of nights, not just a one or two night stay. They also don't tell you on their site that they only cater to groups, so mostly businesses, retreats, weddings, gatherings etc so they expect to book multiple rooms not just one or two. They advertise Helicopter service and that is no longer available and they refused to provide any assistance on how to reach the helicopter operator. I asked for a supervisor, manager, owner, they refused to escalate the call or the request"

J David Rojas

"Reserva Natural Mamancana was an extraordinary venue that surpassed all our expectations. Nestled in the heart of nature, this retreat offered a serene and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the beautiful pools, which were impeccably maintained and provided a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment. Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes, the pools offered stunning views that made every moment feel like a slice of paradise.

The entire facility was thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the natural environment, creating a tranquil ambiance that immediately put us at ease. We appreciated the seamless blend of modern amenities with the rustic charm of the natural surroundings. The rooms and common areas were comfortable, clean, and well-equipped, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

The staff at Reserva Natural Mamancana were exceptional, going above and beyond to make our experience memorable. Their warm hospitality and attention to detail made us feel welcome and valued throughout our stay. They were knowledgeable about the local area and provided excellent recommendations for activities and excursions, ensuring we made the most of our time there.

In addition to the pools, the venue offered a range of activities that catered to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. From guided nature walks and bird watching to zip-lining and horseback riding, there was something for everyone. We particularly enjoyed exploring the surrounding trails and taking in the breathtaking views from various lookout points.

Dining at Reserva Natural Mamancana was a delight, with a menu that featured fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a variety of delicious options. Each meal was a culinary experience, expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The outdoor dining areas allowed us to enjoy our meals while soaking in the stunning natural beauty around us.

Overall, Reserva Natural Mamancana provided a truly exceptional experience. The combination of beautiful pools, outstanding service, and a stunning natural setting made our stay unforgettable. We highly recommend this venue to anyone looking for a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in a breathtaking environment."

Luna S.

"I got married in Mamancana in April 2023. The venue is absolutely stunning and probably the best location in Santa Marta to get married. The venue is magical, in the middle of the Sierra Nevada. It overlooks the ocean but is not on the sand (SM gets very windy!) and they have a proper kitchen which most venues by the beach cannot offer.

The food was exceptional, they really paid attention to every detail and catered for gluten free, vegetarians, vegans, etc. The service during the night of the wedding was also amazing, the staff made sure we did not have our hands empty for more than two minutes :)! Karen, the operations manager and their team are exceptional and provided the best service to our guests, and to us during the planning process. Our wedding day was absolutely perfect, thank you Mamancana!

One recommendation though, we booked the venue almost a year in advance based on a food and alcohol list. We knew the prices would increase the year after, plus inflation was running high at the time, however they double, and in some cases triple, the prices of alcohol just a couple of months before the wedding.

The cost of alcohol was already really high as they make a big profit from this (as well as any other venue), so to double/triple the price on top of that was quite disappointing. There was nothing we could do so close to the wedding, so we just had to accept it. They also make you buy all the alcohol you need for the night (which is quite difficult to calculate, so we ended up with a lot of leftover bottles) and pay for it even if you don't drink it which again, is completely unnecessary. We were travelling from overseas so this was an issue as we had to pay extra to take the bottles back home. Most venues in SM charge only for the amount you consume, you only need to give them a rough guide on numbers (I had a couple of additional events in SM, and found this approach better) which is more considerate with the customer.

Finally, if you book this venue, make sure you also book transportation for your guests at the end of the night. Our party finished at 3am, and it took a long time for taxis to come to the venue. There was no one from Mamancana around at the time, so we had to rely on taxi drivers calling other taxis.

Overall it was a great experience, and I would get married again in Mamancana if I could!"

Lina RiGO

What People Like

Beautiful natural pools
Stunning event venue
Serene natural setting

What People Dislike

Inconsistent customer service
Unclear booking policies
High alcohol pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mamancana is located about 10 minutes from Santa Marta. While some TikToks mention a helicopter service, it's no longer available. Travelers have reported issues with getting assistance to reach operators. Taxis or private transport are the most common ways to reach the reserve. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is parking available. One visitor noted being asked to park neatly, suggesting it's managed. Reddit

Information on public transport is scarce. It's advisable to arrange private transportation or a taxi for a direct and convenient journey. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mamancana primarily operates for events and group bookings. For individual visits, it's crucial to contact them directly to confirm availability and any entry fees, as walk-in access for general tourism might be restricted. Reddit

Opening hours can vary significantly depending on whether there's a private event. For general inquiries or to plan a visit outside of an event, it's best to contact Mamancana directly. Reddit

One reviewer mentioned being told they'd have to pay a day fee of 200,000 pesos per person and use a guide for a walk, indicating potential fees for non-guests or specific activities. Reddit

Yes, Mamancana offers accommodation, but it seems to be geared towards groups and events, with a minimum number of nights often required. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The reserve is known for its beautiful natural pools, stunning views, and its suitability as a venue for weddings and events. Hiking trails are also available. TikTokInstagramReddit

The natural pools are a highlight and are generally accessible for guests staying at the reserve or attending events. Reddit

Yes, there are hiking trails within the reserve. Be prepared for the heat and bring water. Some visitors have reported being told they need a guide and to pay a fee for hiking. Reddit

Activities can include nature walks, bird watching, and potentially zip-lining or horseback riding, though these may be part of event packages. Reddit

While some accommodations like 'Reserva del Mar' apartments in nearby buildings are family-friendly, Mamancana itself seems more geared towards events and groups. It's best to confirm family-specific offerings. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Mamancana offers dining, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They are known for catering to various dietary needs for events. Reddit

One reviewer mentioned receiving a limited menu via WhatsApp and experiencing long waits for food, suggesting that dining might be primarily for guests or event attendees. Reddit

For events, it's often required to purchase alcohol through the venue, and you may need to buy all your alcohol in advance, even if it's not consumed. Clarify policies for any type of visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The natural pools with their lush surroundings and the ocean-view event spaces offer stunning photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Photography is generally encouraged, especially for events. If visiting for a day hike or to see the pools, confirm any restrictions or fees. Reddit

No specific information is available regarding drone usage. It's advisable to contact Mamancana directly to inquire about their drone policy.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mamancana Natural Reserve itself seems to cater more towards events and adult retreats. However, nearby accommodations like the 'Reserva del Mar' apartments are highlighted as family-friendly options with amenities like pools and direct beach access, offering a comfortable base for families exploring Santa Marta. TikTok+1 If planning a visit to Mamancana with children, it's crucial to contact them directly to inquire about any specific family-oriented activities or if the facilities are suitable for younger guests outside of event contexts. Confirming any age restrictions or minimum stay requirements for accommodation is also advisable. Reddit

💍 Couples Planning a Wedding

Mamancana is frequently recommended as a stunning venue for weddings in Santa Marta. Its unique location in the Sierra Nevada with ocean views provides a magical and sophisticated setting, distinct from beach venues. InstagramReddit The reserve offers exceptional catering with attention to dietary needs and provides attentive service during events. Reddit However, couples should be diligent in clarifying all costs, especially for alcohol, as prices have been known to increase significantly closer to the wedding date. Reddit Planning transportation for guests is also a key consideration for a smooth event. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those seeking a connection with nature, Mamancana offers scenic hiking trails with beautiful views. Reddit Remember to bring plenty of water as it can get hot. While the reserve's primary focus might be events, the natural beauty and the serene pools are appealing. Reddit Be prepared for potential entry fees or the requirement of a guide for hiking, as reported by some visitors. Reddit It's advisable to confirm access and any associated costs for exploring the trails as a day visitor. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Mamancana as an Event Venue

Mamancana Natural Reserve is frequently highlighted as a premier venue for weddings and events in Santa Marta. Its magical setting, nestled in the Sierra Nevada with ocean views, offers a unique backdrop that combines natural beauty with sophistication. Instagram Unlike venues directly on the beach, Mamancana provides a more stable environment away from strong winds and boasts a proper kitchen, which is a significant advantage for catering. Reddit

The reserve's staff, particularly operations managers like Karen, are praised for their exceptional service during the planning process and on the event day. They are noted for their attention to detail, catering to various dietary needs (gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan), and ensuring seamless service throughout the night. Reddit However, potential clients should be aware of pricing structures, especially concerning alcohol, which has been reported to increase significantly closer to the event date. Clarifying all costs and policies upfront is crucial. Reddit

For guests attending events, arranging transportation is a key consideration. Taxis may take time to arrive late at night, so pre-booking or coordinating transport is recommended to ensure a smooth departure after the festivities conclude. Reddit

The Natural Pools and Surroundings

The natural pools at Mamancana are a significant draw, described as serene, beautifully maintained, and offering stunning views amidst lush greenery. TikTokReddit They provide a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the reserve. The overall design of the facility is thoughtfully integrated with the environment, creating a tranquil ambiance that allows visitors to feel at ease. Reddit

Beyond the pools, Mamancana offers opportunities for exploring the natural surroundings. Hiking trails wind through the reserve, providing breathtaking vistas and a chance to connect with nature. Reddit Visitors are advised to stay hydrated due to the heat. While some reviews suggest that hiking might require a guide and a fee, the trails themselves are noted as a great feature of the reserve. Reddit

The reserve aims to offer a blend of relaxation and adventure. While specific activities like zip-lining or horseback riding are mentioned, their availability might be tied to event packages or require advance booking. Reddit The emphasis is on experiencing the natural beauty and sophisticated ambiance of the location. Instagram

Visitor Experience and Service

Reviews for Mamancana present a mixed picture regarding visitor experience and service, particularly for non-event guests. While the venue itself is often lauded for its beauty and potential, some visitors have reported poor customer service and a lack of attention. Reddit Communication issues, including slow responses via website and WhatsApp, have been noted. Reddit

There's a recurring theme that Mamancana is primarily geared towards group bookings, retreats, and events, rather than individual tourists. This focus can lead to misunderstandings regarding booking policies, such as minimum night stays or the expectation of booking multiple rooms. Reddit Some services advertised, like helicopter transport, are no longer available, and assistance in finding alternatives has been lacking. Reddit

For those attending events, the service is generally described as exceptional, with staff going above and beyond. Reddit However, for general visitors, it's essential to manage expectations and confirm all details, including access, services, and pricing, directly with the reserve well in advance to ensure a smoother experience. Reddit

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