Mamancana Natural Reserve
A breathtaking natural reserve near Santa Marta, ideal for events and offering serene pools amidst lush landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Mamancana Natural Reserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking natural reserve near Santa Marta, ideal for events and offering serene pools amidst lush landscapes.
"The venue is magical, in the middle of the Sierra Nevada, overlooking the ocean."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Pools
Main facility area
Serene, impeccably maintained pools surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes.
Stunning Event Venue
Various event spaces
Magical setting in the Sierra Nevada overlooking the ocean, ideal for weddings and gatherings.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Surrounding reserve area
Explore trails with breathtaking views, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Group Bookings & Events Focus
Advance Planning is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Alcohol Pricing Alert
Be aware that alcohol prices can significantly increase closer to an event. Clarify all costs upfront.
Plan Your Transportation
Arrange transportation for guests, especially for late-night departures, as taxis may take time to arrive.
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.
Book Services in Advance
Massages and other special services need to be booked days ahead. Don't expect walk-in availability.
Alcohol Pricing Alert
Be aware that alcohol prices can significantly increase closer to an event. Clarify all costs upfront.
Plan Your Transportation
Arrange transportation for guests, especially for late-night departures, as taxis may take time to arrive.
Hydrate on Trails
It gets hot during hikes! Ensure you carry plenty of water to stay refreshed.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is parking available. One visitor noted being asked to park neatly, suggesting it's managed.
Information on public transport is scarce. It's advisable to arrange private transportation or a taxi for a direct and convenient journey.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Yes, Mamancana offers accommodation, but it seems to be geared towards groups and events, with a minimum number of nights often required.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
The natural pools are a highlight and are generally accessible for guests staying at the reserve or attending events.
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.
Activities can include nature walks, bird watching, and potentially zip-lining or horseback riding, though these may be part of event packages.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mamancana offers dining, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They are known for catering to various dietary needs for events.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural pools with their lush surroundings and the ocean-view event spaces offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally encouraged, especially for events. If visiting for a day hike or to see the pools, confirm any restrictions or fees.
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
💍 Couples Planning a Wedding
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mamancana as an Event Venue
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. 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.
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.
The Natural Pools and Surroundings
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. 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.
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. The emphasis is on experiencing the natural beauty and sophisticated ambiance of the location.
Visitor Experience and Service
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. Some services advertised, like helicopter transport, are no longer available, and assistance in finding alternatives has been lacking.
For those attending events, the service is generally described as exceptional, with staff going above and beyond. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit