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Ecotourism in Colombia: 3 landscapes to explore
December 4, 2024
Three Columbian ecosystems that teem with beauty and biodiversity. Here's how to explore them responsibly.
Colombia’s broad range of ecosystems makes it an amazing place to explore outdoors. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.
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Ecotourism in Colombia: Where to go
Colombia’s most populated cities, like Bogotá and Medellín, are ideal starting points before venturing into the wild. In some cases, tourists can even experience nature within the city limits. But for a true taste of Colombia’s vibrant natural world, one must travel deep into the heart of Colombian nature. Not to fear, Colombia’s growing popularity among tourists has made traversing the country a breeze.
Medellín: Parque Arvi (Arvi Park)
Just on the outskirts of Medellín, even the ride to Arvi Park is a memorable experience. Visitors can take the city’s Metrocable cable car system, which offers scenic views of the Aburrá Valley and Andes Mountains.
Arvi Park is 40 acres of preserved land and includes hiking and biking trails. Tucked beneath the forest canopy, one will likely spot a number of Colombia’s famous endemic birds, butterflies, orchids and more. There’s even a farmer’s market on Sundays where visitors can enjoy a snack or browse locally made crafts and souvenirs.
Bogotá: Chingaza National Natural Park
Often described as one of the country’s “most unusual ecosystems,” Chingaza National Park runs along the eastern range of the Colombian Andes, just outside Bogotá. Hike up 13,200 feet for unbeatable views of arid valleys along the Orinoco River and over 40 glacial lakes. For animal lovers, one might be able to spot bears, jaguars, wooly monkeys and many birds that call the park home. While some prefer the freedom of exploring alone, the park also offers guided hikes and other group activities.
Santa Marta: Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta range is the highest recorded elevation near the sea outside of the Andes Mountains. Located right on the tip of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, snow dusts these peaks year-round, an unusual sight when the tropical Caribbean water sits just kilometers away.
But you don’t have to climb too high to enjoy this area’s beautiful tropical rainforest. The small town of Minca is one spot within the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region that can accommodate ecotourists with cozy hostels and retreats. Take a guided birding tour and watch parrots, toucans, hummingbirds and more flutter through the dense canopy. Or walk along one of the many trails. You just might stumble across a rushing waterfall, coffee farm or a view that would make anyone stop in their track.
Colombia’s vast tracts of wilderness make the country a perfect destination for explorers of all stripes. Through the lens of ecotourism, it’s an ideal setting to enjoy nature at its most breathtaking.
Know before you go
Insect-borne diseases
Insect-borne diseases, like malaria, can be present in Columbia’s more rural areas. Bring insect repellent and wear long clothing when exploring areas where insects are common.
Altitude sickness
When traveling to a high-altitude area, give your body a day or two to adjust. To manage the symptoms of mild altitude sickness (including headaches, fatigue and trouble sleeping), drink plenty of water and get a good night’s sleep.
Vaccination requirements
Some areas, like Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park, require visitors to be vaccinated for yellow fever before entering. Make sure to get vaccinated at least 10 days before your visit and bring proof.
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