World > South America > Colombia > Magdalena > Santa Marta Dist Esp > Hotels in Minca > Rio Elemento

Rio Elemento

Minca , Carrera 1 # 2 - 99 (Show on Map)

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1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests

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Summary of reviewsRío Elemento is lauded for its idyllic location beside a natural river and within a lush jungle landscape, offering tranquility and easy access to Minca's village core. The serene river sounds, beautiful views and well-landscaped premises enhance the peaceful atmosphere, making it an attractive base for exploring local trekking routes and tourist sites. Guests can easily immerse themselves in Santa Marta's jungle beauty while staying close to the village's amenities.

The breakfast at Río Elemento receives positive feedback for its delicious and fresh offerings, despite some remarks on portion size and limited options. The scenic breakfast area adds to the pleasant start of the day, complemented by free amenities like unlimited water, coffee and tea. The on-site restaurant and bar provide tasty and varied meals, although occasional comments suggest a need for more extensive menu options and better pricing. However, the friendly bar staff and welcoming atmosphere elevate the dining experience.

Accommodation options at Río Elemento include comfortable private rooms, cozy cabins and clean dormitories, though the latter may lack privacy due to the absence of individual curtains. Reviews of tent stays are mixed with some guests appreciating the outdoor experience while others note discomfort and hygiene issues. The clean bathrooms and cool bar receive favorable mentions and the helpful, attentive staff significantly enhance the overall guest experience.

Cleanliness at Río Elemento is generally praised, especially in communal and outdoor areas, though some specific rooms and facilities require better maintenance. The staff is highlighted for their friendliness, attentiveness and professional demeanor, contributing to a welcoming and supportive environment. Notably, staff members like Cristian, Davide, Marlon, Kosta and Natalia are frequently commended for their exceptional service.

The hostel offers free Wi-Fi, though connectivity can be inconsistent, particularly in the rooms. The small gym provides a modest workout space with scenic river views and the large, beautiful outdoor pool is a major highlight, offering a refreshing retreat despite occasional maintenance issues.

Onsite parking is available but limited with charming yet potentially problematic features such as falling mangos. The beds mostly receive positive remarks for their comfort and convenience, though some issues with bed quality and mosquito nets need addressing. As an adults-only hostel, Río Elemento offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape without the presence of children. The expansive outdoor pool further enhances the guest experience with its clean, eco-friendly environment and ample space for relaxation.

In summary, Río Elemento provides a unique and enjoyable retreat for nature lovers, offering a blend of comfort, natural beauty and excellent service with room for minor improvements in certain areas.
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Hostel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Included in lists of recommended hostels that feature several eco-friendly options, suggesting an inclination towards sustainable practices or providing an experience closely connected to nature.

Hostel with Parking

Rio Elemento provides free private parking for its guests. It is situated next to Minca's main river and is a short walk from the town center.

Small Hostel

Located within walking distance to town and very close to the Minca River, it has a great pool surrounded by forest with hiking trails down to the river. There is a cool little bar area, a yoga area by the river, and the restaurant has good reviews. It is a fun vibe and happy medium between vicinity to town and feeling immersed in nature.

Hostel with Outdoor Pool

Rio Elemento features an outdoor swimming pool and is situated near the Minca River. It offers a tranquil retreat with a pool with a view and is surrounded by nature.

Hostel with Swimming Pool

Outdoor Pool

Hostel with Gym

Hostel for Adults Only

Hostel for Yoga

Room Types

Deluxe King Room The double room features air conditioning and a dining area, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The double room provides a wardrobe and a barbecue. The unit has 1 bed.

Double Room The double room provides air conditioning and a dining area, as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.

Single Bed in Dormitory Room

Twin Room with Garden View The twin room offers a dining area, a wardrobe, as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The twin room features a barbecue and garden views. The unit offers 2 beds.

Single Room The single room features a dining area, a wardrobe, as well as a shared bathroom boasting a shower. The single room offers a barbecue. The unit has 1 bed.

Bungalow with Garden View The bungalow provides a dining area, a wardrobe, as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The bungalow features a barbecue and garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Bungalow with Garden View This bungalow is comprised of 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a shower. The bungalow offers a dining area, a wardrobe and garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Single Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room

Tent The tent features a dining area and a wardrobe, as well as a shared bathroom boasting a shower. The tent provides a barbecue. The unit has 1 bed.

Cottage with Garden View The bungalow offers a dining area and a wardrobe, as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 3 beds.

Standard Double Room The double room provides air conditioning and a dining area, as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.

Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room

Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room

About Rio Elemento

License: 901462282-0

Guest Reviews

Location

Nestled right by a natural river and surrounded by the lush jungle, Río Elemento's location is often praised for its tranquility and proximity to nature. The serene sounds of the river provide a soothing backdrop at all times of the day. Situated just outside the town center of Minca, the hostel offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. It is merely a short walk—around 5 to 10 minutes—from the bustling village core where restaurants, bars and shops abound.

This strategic spot allows easy access to many of the area's trekking routes and tourist sites while keeping the noise and bustle at bay. Visitors enjoy the beautifully landscaped premises, replete with natural beauty and a giant pool, feeling almost like a luxurious resort. The hostel’s jungle setting provides a unique and private experience without compromising accessibility, making it an ideal base for exploring Minca and its surroundings.

Whether guests are lounging by the river, enjoying the incredible views of the mountains or taking advantage of the easy walk to the village for a meal or supplies, the location of Río Elemento offers an unparalleled mix of comfort and nature immersion. With its excellent location, visitors can effortlessly delve into the serene beauty of Santa Marta's jungle while staying close to the amenities and activities in Minca.

Breakfast

Río Elemento's breakfast receives generally positive feedback from guests, who frequently describe it as delicious and fresh. The breakfast options often include homemade jam, scrambled eggs or pancakes, accompanied by fruit and toast. Both included and paid options are available with the free breakfast offering basic choices that some find adequate but others consider too limited and small in portion size.

Guests appreciate the good and varied flavors, mentioning that the breakfast is tasty and the juices served are good, although there are complaints that juice is not included in the free breakfast and can be artificial at times. It's noted that the breakfast area offers scenic views of the forest, adding to the pleasant start to the day.

Despite the enjoyment of the breakfast's taste, several reviews mention the portions are on the smaller side, suggesting room for improvement. The setting also includes free amenities like unlimited water, coffee and tea throughout the day and friendly staff serving the breakfast adds to the overall positive experience.

In summary, while the breakfast at Río Elemento is well-liked for its flavor and freshness, it could benefit from larger portions and more inclusive options.

Dinner

The dining experience at Río Elemento is generally well-received with guests frequently praising the delicious and varied meals. The on-site restaurant and bar are noted for serving tasty cuisines, including standout pastas and offering a happy hour with reasonable prices. Despite some comments about limited menu options and occasional high costs, the overall feedback highlights the high quality of food and cocktails. Friendly and welcoming bar staff enhance the dining atmosphere, making it a pleasant place to relax. Additionally, complimentary water, coffee and tea are appreciated perks. However, some visitors mention that lunch and dinner are not available mid-week and portions can be small. Overall, Río Elemento offers a satisfactory culinary experience with room for slight improvements in variety and pricing.

Rooms

Río Elemento offers a variety of accommodation options set amidst beautiful natural surroundings, making it an appealing spot for jungle lovers and adventurers alike. The private rooms are frequently highlighted for their comfort, cleanliness and spaciousness, often deemed as “super comfortable” and “really nice”. Similarly, the cabins are noted for providing a cozy and connected-to-nature experience, contributing to a restful and immersive stay.

The dormitories, while clean and pleasant, can be on the smaller side and lack individual curtains, which may affect privacy. For those opting to stay in tents, the reviews are mixed. Some guests appreciated the unique outdoor experience, though there were consistent mentions of them being uncomfortable and in need of more attentive cleaning. Mosquito nets are provided, but there were notes about them being insufficient in size.

Among the amenities, the clean bathrooms and the cool bar received positive mentions. Guests also enjoyed the convenience of a pool, which is great for cooling off. However, some issues cropped up regarding the general maintenance of the facilities, including mold in the dorm bathrooms and outdated amenities.

Overall, the staff at Río Elemento are praised for their excellent service and friendliness, contributing positively to the guest experience. Despite some recurring remarks about room humidity, lack of air conditioning and minor maintenance issues, the setting, complete with direct access to a river, offers a charming and nature-filled retreat.

Beds

Río Elemento provides a mixed experience when it comes to its beds, mostly gathering positive remarks from its guests. Many visitors found the beds to be very comfortable with mentions of super comfy beds and even users loving their beds in unique accommodations like tree huts. The beds are described as wide, spacious and sturdy with each one equipped with its own fan and power outlet, adding to the convenience.

The beds in shared dormitories are noted for their comfort, warmness and spacious design, offering a restful night for most travelers. Having mosquito nets on the windows and over the beds is a welcome feature, though some guests noted that the mosquito nets can be a bit short and not every bed is outfitted with one.

However, there are some areas for improvement. Some guests reported issues with bedbugs, sagging mattresses and lingering odors in the bedding. The beds can also be quite short and narrowly demarcated, which might be uncomfortable for taller individuals. On a less positive note, the lower bunk beds have a low "ceiling," and some beds are described as hard as concrete or even equivalent to a concrete slab, leading to less than stellar comfort for some visitors.

Ultimately, while many guests reported a comfortable and pleasant sleeping experience at Río Elemento, there are occasional issues with bed quality and cleanliness that the management might want to address to ensure all-around satisfaction.

Cleanliness

Río Elemento receives varied feedback regarding cleanliness with numerous guests commending the overall tidiness and maintenance of facilities. Visitors frequently noted that places such as the rooms, shared bathrooms and general areas were consistently clean. The garden and outdoor spaces were particularly appreciated for their well-maintained and beautiful appearance. Daily cleaning routines and friendly, helpful staff further added to the positive experiences, making it a recommended spot for many travelers.

However, there were also several remarks about areas needing improvement. Some guests found the pool to be less than pristine, particularly after heavy rain, which resulted in noticeable dirt and bugs. A few reviews highlighted issues with specific rooms and communal spaces not being cleaned adequately, pointing to problems like mold and musty smells. Criticism also extended to the private bathrooms and certain tents, which were occasionally described as unhygienic or poorly maintained.

Despite these areas for improvement, the overall sentiment toward Río Elemento's cleanliness is favorable, particularly with regard to its communal areas and outdoor settings.

Staff

The reviews for 'Río Elemento' reveal that the staff were generally a highlight of guests' experiences. Descriptions frequently emphasize the friendliness, attentiveness and helpfulness of the staff, creating an inviting atmosphere that many found welcoming and enjoyable. There are special mentions of exceptional team members such as Cristian, Davide, Marlon, Kosta and Natalia, who were notably attentive and provided excellent service. Guests appreciated the professional demeanor and caring nature of the staff with some going the extra mile by assisting with transportation recommendations, bike rentals for fun tourist activities and even bringing medicines to rooms when needed. The bar staff's enthusiasm and friendliness also stood out.

However, a few reviews indicated areas for improvement. Some guests experienced unfriendliness or unprofessional behavior from certain staff members, highlighting a need for better training and more consistent hospitable service throughout the entire team. Despite these occasional issues, the overall sentiment towards the staff remains highly positive, contributing significantly to a relaxing and enjoyable stay at the property.

Overall, the warmth and dedication of the staff richly enhance 'Río Elemento' as a destination, making it a place many would recommend to others as a friendly and supportive environment.

Wi-Fi

Río Elemento boasts a fantastic location and exceptional staff, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. However, the Wi-Fi service at the hostel presents some inconsistencies. While the internet connection is generally good across the property, it tends to be unreliable in the rooms with some guests experiencing slow connections and others having no access at all. The strongest signal is found in the reception area. Guests in need of a robust internet connection may find it challenging here, though some reported being pleasantly surprised by the Wi-Fi quality in certain areas.

Gym

Río Elemento offers a fantastic place to stay with several fitness amenities, including a small gym and a pool. The gym, though modest in size, provides weights for a workout with a scenic view of the river, enhancing the exercise experience. AC-equipped, spacious rooms further contribute to the comfort of the stay. While some guests suggest that the gym could benefit from additional equipment like bars, it remains a convenient option for travelers looking to maintain their fitness routine. Additionally, there are designated yoga areas to support various forms of exercise.

Pool

Río Elemento is celebrated primarily for its impressively large and beautiful swimming pool, which guests often describe as huge, gorgeous and artful. The pool area, complemented by a well-maintained bar, gym and common spaces, serves as a welcoming retreat to relax and cool off, especially during hot days. Its pristine state during operational periods, along with clean bathrooms and surrounding facilities, contributes positively to the guest experience.

However, the pool's maintenance seems to fluctuate with some periods marked by cleanliness and others by issues such as dirt, mold or even partial emptiness. While the pool’s problematic times have led to closed or unuseable conditions, its spectacular ambiance and refreshing waters during optimal periods leave a lasting impression. Overall, Río Elemento delivers an enjoyable and comfortable poolside experience, making it a great spot for guests to unwind amidst scenic, natural surroundings.

Parking

Río Elemento offers the convenience of onsite parking, which is a rarity in the area. Guests appreciate the availability of free parking, noting that it is one of the few places that includes this amenity. However, the parking lot is quite limited, posing challenges during peak times. A unique feature is the parking space near a large mango tree; while it adds a charming touch, some guests have experienced minor issues with falling mangos causing damage to their cars. Beyond parking, the restrooms are clean and the facilities well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay at the hostel.

Adult Only

Río Elemento is an adults-only hotel, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a tranquil escape without the presence of children. The ambiance caters well to hostel enthusiasts, although couples might find it less conducive for making new connections. The overall atmosphere is calm with no typical party scenes disrupting the peace. Visitors have noted the importance of bringing bug spray to ensure a comfortable stay. Despite its serene environment, the hotel does not specifically cater to families or children, making it a specialized choice for adult travelers.

Outdoor Pool

Río Elemento boasts an expansive, well-maintained outdoor pool that has garnered significant praise from guests. Described as huge, massive and surprisingly large, the pool offers ample space for swimming and relaxation. Reviews frequently highlight the clean and lovely conditions of the pool, making it a top-notch facility within the hotel. The eco-friendly aspect of the pool also adds to its appeal, providing an ideal spot for guests who appreciate sustainability.

The atmosphere around the pool area is complemented by a cool bar, creating a convivial environment for socializing and unwinding. Moreover, the bar and pool area are noted for having a great atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy a comfortable and pleasant experience. Clean restrooms nearby ensure convenience and hygiene for guests.

Additionally, the hotel offers more than the pool alone. The presence of a private river adds to the charm, providing another serene setting alongside the nice bar to enhance the overall stay. Despite an isolated incident where a tree fell into the pool causing a temporary closure, positive feedback overwhelmingly highlights the superb quality and enjoyment derived from the outdoor pool experience at Río Elemento.

Yoga

Río Elemento offers an exceptional setting for yoga enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy daily yoga sessions, which are a highlight of the hotel's activities. These classes are held every morning, either for free or at a minimal cost, allowing visitors to start their day with grounding exercises by the riverside. Reviews frequently praise the skilled instructors and the effectiveness of the classes, noting that the yoga area is spacious and well-equipped, even featuring a large yoga tent.

The yoga sessions cater to different levels, ensuring that both beginners and seasoned practitioners can benefit. Guests appreciate that the yoga activities are aligned with the hotel's eco-friendly and relaxation-focused ethos. The serene environment with lush gardens, a pool and the tranquil river, enhances the overall experience, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind.

In addition to yoga, the hotel offers other free activities such as coffee scrubbing classes, which add to the holistic wellness experience. The overall atmosphere and the abundance of relaxation spots like swings and net beds make Río Elemento an excellent choice for travelers seeking rejuvenation through yoga and nature.

Yes, Rio Elemento has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Rio Elemento.

No, Rio Elemento doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Rio Elemento.

Yes, Rio Elemento has a gym.

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