Marinka is the waterfall most people mean when they say "the waterfalls" in Minca. There are two of them, stacked on the hillside, each dropping into a pool cold enough to reset your whole personality. Bring a towel, expect to shriek a little, and do not believe anyone who says the water is "refreshing". It is cold. Gloriously, honestly cold.
Getting there is half the point. On foot it is roughly an hour and a half uphill on the road out of town, through green so thick it feels staged. If your legs vote no, a mototaxi gets you up in about ten minutes. Plenty of guests walk up and ride down, which is a perfectly respectable compromise.
It is popular, and on weekends and holidays it can get crowded. Go early and you may share the pools with a few birds instead of a bus group. There is a small entry fee that changes from time to time, so carry cash. Marinka is also on the way to Los Pinos, so strong walkers can turn it into a bigger day.
Pack
- Swimsuit and a quick-dry towel
- Cash for the entry fee (amounts change)
- Plenty of water
- Shoes with grip
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- A dry bag or plastic bag for your phone
Stay safe
- Rocks around the pools are slippery — move slowly
- Water is very cold; get in gradually
- After heavy rain, water levels and currents can rise quickly
- Start early to avoid the midday heat and crowds
- Tell someone at the house where you are going