The house sits at 1,500 masl, between dense rainforest and coffee fields, with a perfect view of the ocean. This ecosystem is particularly unique because of the cloud forest formations that shelter an incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna.
Take advantage of remote location of the house to disconnect from the world. There is no internet connection and cellphone signal is (very) weak, so you are obliged to enjoy the nature around you.
There is no better way to disconnect from the world than by saluting the sun surrounded by nature at 1,500 meters above sea level. Private yoga sessions are by an English-speaking instructor, on an outdoor deck or in the garden, with a magnificent view of the mountains and ocean.
The chef has designed a menu where he fusions Colombian and international cuisine, utilizing local organic products like coffee, cacao, and honey, in addition to herbs, fruits and vegetables from the garden. Don’t hesitate to accompany the chef to pick the avocados and tomatoes for lunch.
Coffee harvesting season is from November to March. During this time, guests participate in the process of handpicking coffee, a relaxing and stress-relieving activity.
If you want a more serious tour, we can organize a drive down to Hacienda La Victoria, founded in 1892, and take a tour through the hacienda’s spectacular processing center to learn about the coffee harvesting process, and taste some of the best coffee in Colombia.
Nature Walks
Nature walks led the by the Casa Oropéndola's host, a knowledgeable nature enthusiast who provides fascinating insight about the local flora and fauna. These are short and leisurely walks that don’t require much physical endurance, and are ideal for families.
Birdwatching
La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is a birdwatching paradise thanks to its wide variety of birds, including 20+ endemic species. In Sierra Nevada, birdwatching can take places in areas from 1,000 masl. in Hacienda La Victoria to 2,800 masl in Cuchilla San Lorenzo, which provides the opportunity to spot a great diversity of species.
Casa Oropéndola works with the top birdwatching guides in the region, including professional photographers specialised in birding, and ornithologists from University of Oxford and renowned Colombian universities.
Yoga
There is no better way to disconnect from the world than by saluting the sun surrounded by nature at 1,500 metres above sea level. Yoga sessions can be organised in the balcony or the garden, with a magnificent view of the mountains and ocean below. Sessions can be done on a daily basis, or a full yoga retreat can be arranged.
Coffee Harvesting
Casa Oropéndola produces premium organic coffee that is to share exclusively with family, friends and esteemed guests. During coffee harvesting season (October - December), guests can spend their mornings or afternoons handpicking coffee –a surprisingly therapeutic experience.
Cooking Classes
Join the lodge’s chef as he prepares local delicacies, and shares his cooking tips and secrets. He will propose a few options, and together you can design the class’ menu. Perfect your grilling skills, learn to prepare local dishes, or experiment with new ingredients such as local exotic fruits.
Trekking
Guests can choose from short 1-3 hour treks, to more demanding 6-8 hour treks to visit spectacular waterfalls. Take on the mountain equipped with trekking poles, water bottles, snacks and a picnic lunch prepared by our chef. Please note that some treks require a car transfer, which have an additional cost.
The Sierra Nevada mountains have been inhabited by indigenous communities for thousands of years. Today, the Wiwa, Kogui, Arhuaco and Kankuamo communities continue to preserve their traditional way of life, a strong culture and a belief system based on Mother Earth. As the “Elder Brothers”, these indigenous communities are the guardians of the Sierra Nevada, as they help protect and restore the forests, water sources, and fauna of the area.
A percentage of the profits from Casa Oropendola and the experiences offered, are dedicated to supporting local indigenous communities’ and projects to revitalize traditional education, in addition to Western education. It is critical that the new generations continue upholding the importance of protecting the environment and preserving their ancient culture, traditions and beliefs.
