Tag: pacific forest

Farallones de Cali Natural National Park, the Land of the Tororoi Bailador

Posted on by Frank59872

In west of the city of Cali you will find páramos, waterfalls, trails, mountains and rivers hidden in the  youngest rock formations of the Western Cordillera of the Andes: Farallones de Cali Natural National Park.

This protected area, distinguished by its majestic blue peaks that rise above a plain that separates the basins of the Pacific and the Cauca River, is recognized for its great natural wealth and therefore becomes a must-see destination when it comes to nature tourism in this region of the country.

Below you will get the information you need to enjoy and fall in love with the largest natural reserve in Valle del Cauca.

Discovering Farallones de Cali Natural National Park

Farallones de Cali National Park is located in southwestern Colombia, in the department of Valle del Cauca, between the municipalities of Cali, Jamundí, Dagua and Buenaventura, covering an area of 1,500 km².

The “farallones” are rock formations of about 20 million years ago, being the youngest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes, formed by the folding of the South American and Nazca tectonic plates.

The protected area is the largest in Valle del Cauca and allows the conservation of more than 540 bird species and more than 30 rivers that originate there. The rivers and streams that originate in this area are divided into two basins: the Cauca and Pacific basins, and supply the southwestern part of Colombia.

Pance Peak, Farallones de Cali National Park, CC Parques Nacionales Archives

The elevation gradient is between 200 and 4,100 meters above sea level, where the following ecosystems are present:

  • Tropical Rainforest (200 and 1,200 meters above sea level);
  • Humid Sub-Andean Forest (1,200 and 2,000 meters above sea level);
  • Humid High Andean Forest (2,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level) and
  • Páramo (above 3,500 meters above sea level).

Farallones de Cali NNP has the only paramo ecosystem in Colombia that does not have frailejones. However, the park is considered one of the richest in flora and fauna Colombia.

How to get to Farallones de Cali Natural National Park

Bogotá-Palmira-Pance

Take a 145- minutes flight from El Dorado Bogotá (BOG) to Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) at Palmira city. Once at the airport, take an approximately 45- minutes ride to Pance at Centro de Educación Ambiental El Topacio.

What to do in Farallones de Cali NNP

Colombia’s National Natural Parks announced that as a contribution to the country’s economic reactivation and as a continuation of the reopening of protected areas with an ecotourism vocation, the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park reopened its doors so that visitors can enjoy its natural and cultural values.

Authorized sectors for entry

The organization, in charge of administering and managing the Natural Parks System and coordinating the National System of Protected Areas of Colombia, announced the following points that will be authorized for visitors:

  • Puesto de atención a visitantes el Topacio, located in Vereda el Topacio Corregimiento de Pance, Distrito de Cali, access to the attractive Pico de Loro.
  • Quebradahonda Visitor Service Station, located in the Quebradahonda Village, Corregimiento de los Andes, District of Cali, access to the Peñas Blancas attraction.
  • Km 81 Visitor Service Station, located in La Cascada, municipality of Dagua, access to the Cañón del Anchicayá attraction.

Schedules and measures to take into account

National Parks informed that visitors will be able to enjoy the protected area “in day trip mode” and it is important to follow the instructions of the park rangers, the National Police and members of the communities that provide ecotourism support.

The entrance hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and the departure time should be no later than 5:00 p.m.

Biosecurity protocols

At the same time, the entity highlighted the recommendations and biosecurity protocols, which have been developed given the pandemic situation and among which are: maintaining social distance, permanent use of masks and glycerin alcohol, as well as avoiding crowds.

Additionally, the tourist load capacity of each of the trails has been reduced to 30% for this reopening stage, and also police accompaniment is provided.

What to enjoy in Los Farallones?

In this protected area you can spot species such as the spectacled bear and the anteater, along with guans, chachalacas, parrots and eagles.

Los Farallones de Cali National Natural Park, located in the Western Cordillera of Colombia, allows visitors to enjoy relaxing landscapes, which are also home to marsupials and monkeys, as well as camping and hiking activities.

Hiking

Hiking is an exciting activity in Farallones de Cali National Park. You can hike on 4 trails: Pico de Loro Trail; Burbujas Trail; Peñas Blancas Trail and Anchicayá Canyon.

  • Pico de Loro Trail: Starting point 1718 masl to 2860 masl arrival point. Difficulty level: Medium – High and maximum capacity of 50 people per day. (3 hours)
  • Burbujas Trail: Starting point 1676 masl to 1735 masl arrival point. Degree of difficulty: Low and maximum capacity of 267 people per day.
  • Peñas Blancas Trail: Starting point 1987 masl to 2886 masl arrival point. Degree of difficulty: Medium – High and maximum capacity of 50 people per day.
  • Anchicayá Canyon: It is a natural well with a depth of approximately 80 cm to 6 meters. Degree of difficulty: Low-Medium and maximum capacity of 200 people per day.

Birdwatching

Tororoi Bailador. CC Diego Calderón (Colombia Birding)

The most representative birds of the park are the:

  • Long-wattled umbrellabird (Cephalopterus penduliger);
  • Multicolored Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima);
  • Yellow-green tanager (Chlorospingus flavovirens);
  • Cauca guan (Penelope perspicax);
  • Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana);
  • Banded ground cuckoo (Neomorphus radiolosus); and,
  • Baudó guan (Penelope ortoni).

Land of the Tororoi Bailador, or the Dancing Grallaria

Species number 562 was named Tororoi Bailador, which was discovered in the Dagma conservation area, immersed in the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park.

Thus, the Tororoi Bailador is an endemic bird recorded in the park, and it is known to be present in five rural territories near the park.

Wildlife Tours

In Farallones de Cali NNP you can observe small bats up to pumas, in addition to panthers, ocelots, foxes and spectacled bears.

The amphibian community includes the Lehman’s poison dart frog, Oophaga lehmanni. Check our dart frogs tour here.

Orchids tours are also a very well developed activity to do in the park. Know more about orchids of Colombia in our entry The Richest Country in Orchids in the World: Colombia.

Where to stay in Farallones de Cali NNP

Thanks to the proximity of Farallones de Cali NNP with the city of Cali it is not necessary to stay overnight in the park.

We recommend you to stay in Cali, where there are plenty of nice hotels you can stay. Our recommendations for you are:

  • Hotel Casa del Hidalgo
  • Hotel Dann Carton Cali
  • Cali Marriot Hotel

Best time to visit Farallones de Cali NNP

We recommend that you visit the park during the 2 dry seasons, between the months of January and March, and between July and August.

Keep in mind that Farallones de Cali NNP has an average temperature of 25º C (77º F) in most of the marked trails but in the summits it has a temperature of 5º C (41º F).

Farallones de Cali NNP Entrance fees

Farallones de Cali NNP does not currently charge admission to visitors.

What to consider before visiting Farallones de Cali NNP

  • The park currently has regulated access, so you must request access to the following email farallones@parquesnacionales.gov.co.
  • The hours of entry and permanence of the trails allowed in the park are:
    • Pico de Loro Trail: Entrance from 6 am to 8 am; departure 4 pm maximum;
    • Burbujas – Pance: Entrance from 6 am to 5 pm;
    • Peñas Blancas Trail: Entrance from 6 am to 8 am; departure 4 pm maximum;
    • Anchicayá Canyon: stay from 7 am to 5 pm.
    • The Pico Pance trail is currently restricted because it is in an intangible zone.
  • The entry of pets or domestic animals is prohibited.
  • The use of flash when taking photographs is prohibited.
  • Use of binoculars to watch animals’ behavior is recommended.
  • Bring along valid identification documents and health insurance.
  • It is recommended to be vaccinated against yellow fever and tetanus.
  • If you take specific medications, take them with you a personal first aid kit.

Some prohibitions

Feeding, bothering or hunting animals, alcoholic drinks and drugs, throwing cigarette butts, burning garbage, felling, and capturing wildlife.

References
  • Parques Nacionales
  • Colombia.travel
  • Colparques
About the authors

Sara Colmenares

The current director of Sula. Doctor in Biological Sciences. Her main interests are to explore and understand the organism-environment interactions, taking advantage of emerging knowledge for the management and conservation of species and ecosystem services. She is currently working as a consultant in functional ecology, ecosystem services, and conservation projects in Colombia related to ecotourism and birdwatching.

Luisa Martin

Engineer, world traveler, amateur photographer, traveling blogger, and foody.

Ultimate Travel Guide to the Utría National Natural Park

Posted on by Frank59872

Discover the natural wonders of Utría National Natural Park in Colombia. It is possible to admire a series of mountainous spurs covered with exuberant tropical jungle, and bathed by the mysterious waters of the Pacific Sea. Its landscapes can be described with rainforest, mangroves, and gray beaches, and it is an ideal place for whale watching in Colombia.

Discovering Utría National Natural Park

This park locates in the Biogeographic Choco Forest, belonging to the Baudo mountain range, in the north of the Colombian Pacific coast, in the department of Choco. This region is known worldwide to be the rainiest, and it is also an important biodiversity hotspot.

The park has a unique peaceful boat ride way inset to the sounds of the jungle. A beautiful lagoon of marine water surrounded by mangroves and gray beaches welcomes you.

At Utría, you can evidence a fracture of the earth generated millions of years ago. This fracture allows seawater to flow for 7km inland.

The Baudó mountain range gives rise to the Boroboro, Jurubidá, Baudó, Chori and Bojayá rivers, as well as the giant Caribbean and Pacific hydrographic areas. The hydrographic representation of this area is 2,242 MMC.

Biodiversity

This protected area has 7 of the 10 species of mangroves and hidden rocky cliffs reaching heights of 1,400 meters above sea level. Depending on the season, mangrove roots protrude like land animals at low tide. When the tide rises, roots hide underwater, serving as a shelter for water animals that visit to mate.

The diversity of the park makes it a magical place to appreciate diverse environments and ecosystems. The contrast of tropical rainforest and reefs makes the flora and fauna of this protected area quite unique and diverse.

Ethnography

Utría is a territory populated by two communities that are strategic allies for the conservation and protection of the park.

On one side, the “Embera” natives, which live within the jungles of the province of Chocó, keeping their cultural traditions intact. Their presence is also noticeable in the provinces of Antioquia, Risaralda, Quindio, Caldas, Valle, Cauca, Cordoba, Putumayo, Caquetá and Nariño.

On the other side, the black afro-Colombian communities of the Pacific coast that are known for developing economic activities related to the art of the sea and are the ones that have the most contact with visitors of this protected area.

How to get to Utría National Natural Park

Bogotá-Medellín-Bahía Solano

Take a flight to Rionegro José María Córdoba (JMC) airport in Medellín. Take a taxi ride to Medellin´s alternative Olaya Herrera airport (OH) at the city center, about 40 minutes away.

From Olaya Herrera, you can take a flight to Bahia Solano using Colombia’s national airline, Satena. Finally, from Bahía Solano take a boat to Utria National Natural Park.

Bogotá-Quibdo-Bahía Solano

Take a 1-hour flight from Bogotá to El Caraño Airport (UIB) at Quibdo city. Once at the airport, you have to take a flight to Bahia Solano with Satena Airline. Finally, from Bahía Solano take a boat to Utria National Natural Park.

Cali-Buenaventura-Bahía Solano

Take a 145-minute flight from Bogotá to Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) at Palmira city. Once at the airport, take an approximately 3-hour ride to Buenaventura.

In Buenaventura, take a 6 hours boat trip to Bahia Solano. Lastly, from Bahía Solano take a boat to Utria National Natural Park.

Although these three routes exist, we recommend the Medellin-Bahia Solano route because it is the safest.

What to do in Utría National Natural Park

Utría National Natural Park is currently closed. Those who wish to visit Utría and carry out ecotourism activities may do so in the day trip mode, that is, enter the protected area in the morning and leave at the time arranged by the park.

The staff of Utría National Natural Park is the only one in charge of registering at the park’s entrance, giving induction talks, explaining the authorized sites, and providing recommendations for any activity within the protected area.

Utría National Natural Park, known as the ‘cradle of whales’, continues its whale season without any setbacks, as in previous years.

Hiking and Trekking

Hiking along any of the 3 available trails is the most exciting activity in Utría National Natural Park:

  • Cocalito Trail, the round trip is about 1 km, 1 hour and it’s of moderate level of difficulty.
  • Estero Grande Trail, the round trip is about 611 m, 40 minutes, low level of difficulty.
  • Water trip, about 1.1 km long, with a low degree of difficulty; it can be done by canoeing at high tide.

Diving and Snorkeling

Diving at Punta Esperanza and Punta Diego, an ecosystem rich in coral formations and marine life is a must-do. At Playa Blanca, there is a marked snorkeling area. Diving programs, rental equipment, and facilities are available on site.

Wildlife Observation in Utría

Utría hosts unique ecosystems on the planet and is ideal for observing a great amount of native fauna and flora. Regarding mammals, at the Utría Natural National Park it is possible to observe:

  • Giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)
  • Jaguar (Panthera onca centralis),
  • Neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis),
  • Gray-bellied night monkey (Aotus lemurinus zonalis),
  • Geoffroy’s spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi),
  • Mantled howler (Alouatta palliata),
  • Baird’s tapir (Tapirus bairdii),
  • White-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari),
  • Tamarins (Saguinus sp.),
  • Colombian white-faced capuchin (Cebus capuccinus),
  • Margay (Leopardus wiedii),
  • Agouti (Dasyprocta punctata),
  • Common opossum (Didelphys marsupialis),
  • South American coati (Nasua nasua),
  • Lowland paca (Cuniculus paca),
  • Red brocket (Mazama americana),
  • Tayra (Eira barbara) y
  • Hoffmann’s two-toed sloth (Chloepus hoffmanni)

With regards to marine life, it is worth noting that this point of the Pacific is ideal for animal mating and the birth of the amazing humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), Orcas, or killer whales (Orcinus orca), and sperm whales or cachalot (Physeter macrocephalus).

Ocypode gaudichaudii, also known as the painted ghost crab or cart driver crab. Huina Beach, Bahía Solano, Chocó.

The area has 105 species of decapod crustaceans, where the painted ghost crab (Ocypode gaudichaudii) is a predominant species. There is also the presence of bivalves such as the Hacha (Pinna rugosa) and “piangua” (Anadara spp.), and mollusks such as the Eastern Pacific giant conch (Titanostrombus galeatus).

It is also possible to see endangered species of sea turtles on the beaches such as the olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), the hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), and the leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea).

Bird Watching

Around 270 species of birds may be observed in Utria National Natural Park, being the most diverse watching spot in the area. The endemic birds in the Utria park are:

  • Choco tinamou or Chocó tinamou (Crypturellus kerriae)
  • The Harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja)
  • Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus)
  • The Great Curassow (Crax rubra)

Other bird species are Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), Tricolored heron (Egretta tricolor), Yellow-crowned night heron (Nyctanassa violacea), Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), and many migratory shorebirds.

Where to stay in Utría National Natural Park

Utría National Natural Park offers shared accommodations within the Park. Additional accommodation alternatives are available close by. Our suggested choices are:

  • Ecolodge El Almejal is located in Bahia Solano, 24 km away from the protected area.
  • Hotel Costa Choco is in Bahia Solano, 30 km away from the protected area.
  • Coco Loco Lodge is in Bahia Solano, 23 km away from the protected area.

Best time to visit the Utría National Natural Park

Humpback whale watching season happens between July and November. Note that at Utría it rains for approximately 300 days a year, and October is considered the rainiest month.

Utría National Natural Park Entrance fees

The entrance fee varies depending on the nationality and age of the visitors. These are the entrance fees for 2021:

  • Colombians, resident foreigners, and tourists from Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru (ages 5 to 25): COP 13,000
  • Colombians, resident foreigners, and tourists from Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru (over 25 years old): COP 19,500
  • Non-resident foreigners (over 5 years old): COP 55,000
  • Children under 5 years old and Colombians over 65 years old have free entrance presenting their IDs.

What to consider before visiting Utría National Natural Park

  • To take any of the tours inside the park you must hire an authorized and certified guide.
  • Consider wearing personal protective items (sun blocker, sunglasses, towel, insect repellent, and hat).
  • The use of flash when taking photographs is prohibited.
  • Recommended the use of binoculars to admire animals’ behavior and beauty in their natural habitat.
  • Carry valid identity documents and health insurance. It is recommended to be vaccinated against yellow fever and tetanus.
  • If you take specific medications, take them with you. It’s never enough to carry a personal medicine kit.

Some prohibitions

Feeding, bothering, or hunting animals, alcoholic drinks and drugs, throwing cigarette butts, burning garbage, felling, and capturing wildlife.

References
About the authors

Luisa Martin

Engineer, world traveler, amateur photographer, traveling blogger, and foody.

The Southwestern Andes Birding Trail of Colombia

Posted on by Frank59872

The Southwestern Andes Birding Trail of Colombia is probably the most diverse with nearly 1,400 bird species between the departments of Valle del Cauca, Cauca and Nariño.

In this region, you have contact with the Western Andes mountain range, the Choco Region, and the Pacific ocean.

The most relevant birding hotspots of this route are the Choco Forest and the Andean Cloud forests of the western cordillera.

The diversity of this route is explained because it covers many different habitats such as paramos, wetlands, Andean cloud forests, tropical rainforest, coastal areas, dry forest and very nice bird-lodges and farms dedicated to bird photography.

The Southwestern Andes Birding Trail

The National Audubon Society of the United States was involved in the design of this route along with the government of Colombia and Calidris NGO to help the country reach its goal of becoming the world’s top birding destination.

The training of stakeholders linked to the birding offer in the region was the main activity, including local guides, owners of lodges, farms and nature reserves, and community-based tourism associations.

Among the places to be visited are included national parks, civil society nature reserves, and private reserves.

Birding Spots of The Southwestern Andes Birding Trail

You should know that in the past, this region was not a safe place. Nowadays, birding tourism and related stakeholders are becoming:

“active drivers in conservation, economic development, and peace-building”

For that reason, there are still some destinations with difficult access, and poor hotel infrastructure, especially towards the Pacific region in Valle del Cauca and Nariño.

Itinerary

The following itinerary is just an example of the route you can take. However, if you want to see more options, visit the itinerary designed by us.

Remember that you can customize your trip with us. Don’t miss the opportunity to add other activities such as whale watching; a city tour in Cali, the city of salsa music; an urban birding day also in Cali; a stop in the beautiful city of Popayan in the department of Cauca; or visit the paramos and volcanic lakes of Nariño, among many other activities, either alone or with your family.

Given the wide offer of destinations on this route, here are the main stops in each department. If you want to know more about each destination, I recommend you to visit the entries we prepared for you about them.

You can also visit our Youtube channel ColombiaFrank, where you will find first hand information about many of these destinations.

Valle del Cauca

Western Andes Cloud Forests

Wetlands – Sonso Lagoon

  • Laguna Sonso
  • Gota de Leche

Choco region – Anchicaya

  • El Descanso km 55
  • Upper Anchicaya
  • Aguasclaras
  • Lower Anchicaya
  • Buenaventura*

Following the path of the Anchicaya River as it descends through the western Andes to meet the Pacific Ocean, the old road from Buenaventura, mostly abandoned, offers incredible birding.

One of the most famous places in this point is the restaurant El descanso km 55, read our entry about this place Best Set to Photography Tropical Rainforest Birds at Upper Anchicayá.

Among the more than 500 species that have been recorded along the road are about 50 species endemic to the region.

The Pacific lowlands of the San Cipriano Reserve

  • San Cipriano Reserve
  • La Delfina
  • Buenaventura*

The Pacific rainforest of San Cipriano is incredibly humid, very lush and home to Chocó endemics, including the Five-colored Barbet, Chocó Toucan, Chocó Woodpecker, Rose-faced Parrot, Stub-tailed Antbird, Bicolored Antbird, and Black-tipped Cotinga.

*From here you can continue to Buenaventura for seabird watching on the Pacific coast. This point was not included in the official route, but if you have time, you can visit it in a day trip.

Cauca

Paramos in Puracé National Park and the Central Andes

From Valle, the route goes into the south of the department of Cauca to observe the Central Andes and the páramo where you can see the Andean condor.

At the end of the day you can enjoy a bath in the volcanic springs of Coconuco, where the thermal waters have been diverted to a series of pools, each at a different temperature.

Dry Forest in the Patía Valley

Descending from the páramo, the itinerary concludes in the dry forest of the Patía Valley, located only 600 meters above sea level. The dry forest is a very different habitat where you can find Blue Ground-Dove, Ruby-topaz Hummingbird, Apical Flycatcher (endemic), and the Scarlet-backed Woodpecker.

Nariño Extension (Optional)

Birders with extra time and a thirst for adventure should continue south to the department of Nariño, a former conflict zone that is newly accessible to visitors.

Nariño is rather more rustic than Valle or Cauca, but features fantastic birding, especially in the rainforests of the Pacific slope.

Among the highlights is La Planada Reserve, which offers some of the best birding in Colombia. You can also continue on to the Rio ñambi Reserve and the Bangsias Reserve.

Another place that has emerged as an interesting birding destination in Nariño is Tumaco. However, the law and order situation still keeps it on the back foot for tourism development. We do not recommend traveling to this place alone.

As time goes by, the list of Colombian birding trails has grown and you can be sure that you will find fantastic birds in any region of the country.

Recommendations

  • Take waterproof clothing, waterproof boots, and waterproof backpacks to protect your equipment in case of rain.
  • Remember that this whole region has a high relative humidity, so be prepared to keep your equipment safe from excess humidity. In our entry How to Prepare for a Birding Tour in the Neotropics? you will find useful information on this subject.
  • Be always accompanied by a local guide.

If you want to know more about Colombian nature tours contact us and plan your trip with us.

References
  • Birdwatching in Colombia – Procolombia
  • Audubon Society Website
  • The Southwestern Andes Birding Trail
About the author

Sara Colmenares

The current director of Sula. Doctor in Biological Sciences. Her main interests are to explore and understand the organism–environment interactions, taking advantage of emerging knowledge for the management and conservation of species and ecosystem services. She is currently working as a consultant in functional ecology, ecosystem services, and conservation projects in Colombia related to ecotourism and birdwatching.

Know One of the Most Pristine Nature Destinations in Colombia: Rio Ñambi

Posted on by Frank59872

The Río Ñambí Nature Reserve is a natural paradise the tropical forest inserted in the colombian biogeographic Chocó of Nariño. It has a great variety of birds, animals and species that invite you to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air of this tropical rainforests.

Sustainable Destination

Rio Ñambi is owned by the “Los Colibríes de Altaquer” Ecological Foundation (FELCA), a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of nature. FELCA arised in 1991 as a community initiative by a group of students and teachers of the school Santa Teresita de Altaquer, who, concerned about the growing deterioration of natural resources, undertake the task of conserving important areas of forest and teaching others the importance of assuming a responsible attitude towards nature.

FELCA protects the Río Ñambí Nature Reserve since 1992, being one of the first community conservation experiences in South America. Since then, FELCA has been working together with local, national and international institutions, through strategic alliances, to fulfill the objectives of the FELCA Foundation.

Today, the Rio Ñambi Nature Reserve is recognized as a good place for scientific research and ecotourism. It is one of the best destinations for academic practices for institutions of higher, primary and vocational education of the country and around the world.

Characteristics of Río Ñambi Nature Reserve

Rio Ñambi is located in Altaquer, department of Nariño, in the Pacific Region of colombia, Vereda el Barro municipality. It has an extension of
1,400 hectares, distributed along 1100 to 1900 meters above sea level. Temperature ranges between 18ºC and 24ºC.

It is located on the Pacific slope of the Nudo de los Pastos in the Andes mountain range, in the central area of the Biogeographic Chocó. It rains a lot in this region, with an average annual rainfall is between 7000 and 8000 mm, being September to June the wet season, and July to August the dry season. However, do not think is not going to rain, this is an annual cycle when it rains almost every day after 12 noon.

Pristine premontane rainforest at Rio Ñambi Nature Reserve

The reserve protects pristine premontane rain forest, and in succession, concentrating a large number of endemic and endangered species of Fauna and Flora. The Flora of Rio Ñambí presents a high diversity in comparison with others at a similar height on the eastern slope of the Andes. The canopy is between 25 to 30 m high with some emergent species up to 40 m such as Sapium glandulosum (Cebo); The undergrowth is very dense, consisting mainly of high density of orchids, bromeliads, and anthuriums and a great variety of palms. It is an area where several new plant records have been described for Colombia.

Regarding fauna, 25 species of reptiles have been found, and two have been recently described: the Carchi Andes toad (Rhaebo colomai) endangered, and the Campbell’s toadheaded viper (Bothrocophias campbelli) vulnerable. You can also find up to 160 species of Butterflies, and a new one of the genus Hesperocharis.

Thus, Rio Ñambi is home to an extraordinary biological diversity in plant and animal species, many of them considered endemic (species unique to a particular area), or at risk of extinction. Among them we can mention: Chocó vireo (Vireo masteri), a new species of bird for science, Clusia nambiensis a plant with showy and colorful flowers frequently visited by birds, the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus), the jaguar (Pantera onca) and the Andean cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana), among others.

Rio Ñambi as an Area of High Ornithological Interest

According to BirdLife International, Río Ñambí and in general the whole surrounding area is very important for the research and conservation of birds worldwide. The Rio Ñambi nature reserve is an Important Bird Area (IBA) because it houses globally threatened species, at least two restricted-range species, and hold species largelly or wholly confined to one biome-realm, i.e., biome-restricted species. Of the 351 registered species 46 are within the Endemism Area (EBA 041), 23 have some degree of threat being one of the areas that harbors the largest number of globally threatened species in Colombia. From this set of species, 31 are hummingbirds being the most complex and diverse community of hymmingbirds in the world (Flórez 2004, Gutiérrez et al 2004).

Location

This beautiful reserve is located in the southwest of Colombia, in the village of El Barro, Altaquer district, Barbacoas municipality, department of Nariño. It is placed at km 155 on the San Juan de Pasto – Tumaco road.

What to do at Rio Ñambi Nature Reserve

This is a place intended primarily for bird watching. However, you can enjoy both of its rivers and waterfalls, walking along its paths and spend a night na alojamineto very basic, being attended by people from the community. It is an ideal place to simply enjoy and appreciate nature, be calm, or to take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the Ñambí River.

There is a cabin located 2.5 km far from the road which provides basic facilities for conducting scientific research, workshops and meetings in the middle of the primary forest. It also has a lodging capacity for 40 people, wich includes food and sanitary services. As many reserves in Colombia, services for tourism are not developed, so do not expect to find any luxury.

Rio Ñambi Nature Reserve Cabin

Hiking and Adventure

The reserve has interpretive trails of the numerous natural events and outstanding ecological processes of the tropical rain forests. You can follow the trails starting from the main cabin: the Regugio trail and the Sonoro trail, around the house and near to the river, and the main trail, which is the only access to the main house from the road.

Among them you can visit the forest, enjoy local flora and fauna and take a bath at several waterfalls and pools along the Ñambi river. The Río Ñambí Nature Reserve has waterfalls and natural pools named as “Las Calaveras”, “El Charco”, “La Paila” and “La Piedra del Río Peje ” where you can enjoy a refreshing bath or practice torrentism. You will be able to rappel down the waterfalls, with all the security measures, using ropes, harnesses, gloves and helmets, and with the help of a professional guide.

The forest also has many lianas, typical of these habitats, which are very resistant. You can hang from them like Tarzan or George de la Selva in the middle of this rain forest, or as the locals say make the Howler monkey jump. This activity is done with all the necessary security measures and is one of the main attractions for young and old.

Birding at Rio Ñambí Nature Reserve

After La Planada Nature Reserve, Rio Ñambí is one of the most appreciated places in Nariño to watch birds. It is also an important hotspot in the world to observe birds thanks to the fact that it concentrates a great diversity of bird species in only 1,400 ha, being home to 44 endemic species and 31 species of hummingbirds (Find a complete guide of the Rio Ñambi hummingbirds here).

The forests of Rio Ñambi are characterized by being largely constituted by a primary forest forming a canopy between 25 and 30 m high. Fortunately, the slope of the terrain allows you, in some moments, to be at the height of the canopy or at least half of the height of the forest. And so, you will be able to observe species that would otherwise be no less than gray spots under a white background.

The reserve also has several facilities for birders along the way, such as drinkers and feeders, photography sets, feedlots, and observation balconies.

Among the 350 bird species you can find in the Rio Ñambi reserve, BirdLife international recognizes 60 which gave the IBA criteria for the reserve, which makes them, in turn, of great ornithological interest for birders and scientists. Significantly, including the endangered Baudo Guan (Penelope ortoni), Banded Ground-cuckoo (Neomorphus radiolosus), Great-billed Seed-finch (Sporophila maximiliani) and the vulnerable Dark-backed Wood-quail (Odontophorus melanonotus), Little Woodstar (Chaetocercus bombus), Cloudforest Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium nubicola), Plumbeous Forest-falcon (Micrastur plumbeus), Bicolored Antvireo (Dysithamnus occidentalis), Long-wattled Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus penduliger), Scarlet-breasted Dacnis (Dacnis berlepschi), and the Yellow-green Tanager (Bangsia flavovirens).

Among the restricted distribution species you can find: Purple-bibbed Whitetip (Urosticte benjamini), Choco Trogon (Trogon comptus), Choco Tapaculo (Scytalopus chocoensis), Nariño Tapaculo (Scytalopus vicinior), Choco Tyrannulet (Zimmerius albigularis), Choco Vireo (Vireo masteri), Choco Poorwill (Nyctiphrynus rosenbergi), Choco Daggerbill (Schistes albogularis), Choco Toucan (Ramphastos brevis), and Choco Woodpecker (Dryobates chocoensis).

Nocturnal Treks

Night trips are made in order to find frogs, fluorescent fungi, nocturnal birds and some insects and spiders. The main attraction is the possibility of meeting a beautiful Crystal Frog (Espadarana prosoblepon).

Crystal Frog (Espadarana prosoblepon) © Creative Commons Licence

Orchids Tour

The reserve has an orquidiarium for scientific reserach. There are around 130 species of Orchids registered at Rio Ñambi nature reserve.

Travel recommendations

To give you the best in Reserva Natural Rio Ñambí experience must bring:

  • Light luggage. Access makes it difficult to carry very large or heavy luggage.
  • Health insurance.
  • Mosquito repellent.
  • Cellular 100% charged.
  • Batteries for charging equipment, electricity in the place is minimal.
  • Bring your own medicine cabinet since there isn’t one there.
  • Cash.
  • Camera and accessories.
  • Waterproof hiking boots.
  • Raincoat.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Binoculars.

References

  • Fundación Ecológica Los Colibríes de Altaquer FELCA Website
  • BirdLife International (2020) Important Bird Areas factsheet: Reserva Natural Río Ñambí. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org 
  • Tourist information system of the department of Nariño, SITUR Nariño Website.
  • Kahuari Travel
  • Voces de Nariño Blog
  • Colparques Organization Website

About the author

Sara Colmenares

Current director of Sula. Doctor in Biological Sciences. Her main interests are to explore and understand the organism – environment interactions, taking advantage of emerging knowledge for the management and conservation of species and ecosystem services. She is currently working as a consultant in functional ecology, ecosystem services and conservation projects in Colombia related to ecotourism and birdwatching.

Best Set to Photography Tropical Rainforest Birds at Upper Anchicayá

Posted on by Frank59872

The Anchicayá is a Colombian river, in the department of Valle del Cauca, which originates west of Cali and flows into the Pacific Ocean, in the Buenaventura Bay. Like all rivers on the Pacific side, it has a high biodiversity. The Anchicayá basin is one of the richest places in Colombia for birding, and is considered the first in the world. This area is composed by a tropical rainforest that contains countless rivers and waterfalls of crystalline water and has a great variety of fauna and flora typical of the Pacific region and the Biogeographic Chocó. It is an area rich in primary forests that are characterized by their biodiversity in flora and fauna. The region is the third place with the highest rainfall in the world and the first in bird diversity. This is a very special area for birdwatching, with around 500 species recorded in several locations along the road, such as Agua Clara, the Danubio, Lower Anchicayá and Upper Anchicayá.

Since 1955, the company CELSIA, from the ARGOS Group, owns two hydroelectric power stations: The Alto Anchicayá hydroelectric plant, located 85 km west of Cali, and the Bajo Anchicayá plant located within the perimeter of the Los Farallones Natural Park. The reservoirs are located along the Anchicayá River. When you go birding on this road, the observation points are distributed and referenced around these two reservoirs, and they are known as Low Anchicayá and Upper Anchicayá. The upper Anchicayá is the nearest point from Cali.

Birding at Upper Anchicayá: El Descanso

El Descanso is a must for those who like bird photography. It is a unique place thanks to its location on the road that leads from Cali to Buenaventura through the Anchicayá River basin, in the Valle del Cauca department. As I mentioned before, it is one of the most important hotspots for bird watching, where the western mountain range of the Colombian Andes merges with the tropical rainforests of the biogeographic Chocó. On this road you will find a gradient that goes from the Andean cloud forest to the seashore in the Pacific sea.

In the area known as Alto Anchicayá, or upper Anchicayá, Dora Londoño offers tourist services for bird watching, together with her children, her grandchildren and her husband. She was a victim of the war in Colombia, who had to leave her place of origin to save her life. In Anchicayá she found refuge for her family, and has lived there for more than 20 years.  Initially, Doña Dora had a small cafeteria on her farm called El Descanso, next to the old road that leads from Cali to Buenaventura, at kilometer 55. In her cafeteria she offered lunches, cheese empanadas, coffee and her famous puff pastries. Her clients were the engineers and workers of the local reservoirs, who constantly went by. Doña Dora feels immense gratitude for that time, and for her first clients, who made it easier for her to settle in this place.

Doña Dora making her famous puff pastries at El Descanso

Over time, other types of customers began to arrive at their cafeteria. This family did not know that there were people willing to paid trips to come to Colombia to watch birds. They would never have thought of such a thing! For them, birds were part of their daily lives, and they did not pay much attention to them.

The Bird Photographers

Groups of people with very large cameras and binoculars, dressed in camouflage clothes began to arrive. Doña Dora asked the guides who were with them about who they were or what they were doing. She found out that they were birders. They used to sit and have a coffee at Doña Dora’s while they rested from their long journey along this road. One day, next to the house, one of the trees was bearing fruit, and a large number of birds began to arrive to eat from the tree. And it was that just at that moment there was a group of bird watchers in the cafeteria. They quickly got up from their chairs, leaving the coffee and the flakes, to follow and photograph these birds in the tree. And so the story began.

El Descanso farm is on the edge of a mountain covered by a dense cloud forest, in the tropical rainforest of the Biogeographic Choco. There is nothing but the mountain bordering the road and the house. One day, one of the guides suggested to Doña Dora that she give the birds food to attract them. Despite her incredulity, she began by putting bananas on a board, then papaya and sugary water. With this, not only did the birds arrive, but more tourists! In time, and by applying visitor’s recommendations, she set up a garden behind her house, with sticks and logs, drinking troughs and feeders, and began to make improvements with the money that tourism left her.

Attracting the Birds

She remembers that the first birds to arrive were the Mal-casados, or the badly married, common name of the White-lined tanagers. Then the Primaveras ones (Clay-colored Thrush), the Clarineros del Pacífico (Blue-winged Mountain Tanager), and the last one, the most difficult to attract, the Compás (Toucan Barbet) because it is a bird that usually do not exposes easily.

Malcasados – White-lined Tanager – Tachyphonus rufus

Clarinero del Pacífico – Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager – Anisognathus somptuosus

Compas – Toucan Barbet – Semnornis ramphastinus

Sustainable Destination

Family unity and constant commitment have brought this tourism project to fruition. Thanks to the support of her husband and sons, and with the help of several bank loans, she has managed to finish building her house, support her family and keep the birds. She build a third floor with an observation tower, which is more as a terrace, which gives direct view to the canopy, and where she has installed some drinking troughs to attract hummingbirds. His plans in the future are to offer a basic rural accommodation service, with hot water bathrooms. One of the attractions of the place is also the beautiful murals with birds painted by one of Dora’s sons, Erbert Sanchez. His aim is to fill the house with these murals, and to highlight the beauty of the rainforest birds that visit the gardens.

Gardens at El Descanso Farm, Doña Dora, especially disposed for bird photography.

Terrace, at El Descanso Farm, Doña Dora, especially disposed to attract hummingbirds.

Murals, at El Descanso Farm, Doña Dora.

All this has been paid for by the money left over from the birders’ visits. She knows that developing a tourist destination is a process that requires love and a lot of commitment. It has only been four years since she has positioned herself as a destination with a constant flow of birdwatching tourists, before that, it was all effort, patience and dedication, for almost two years.  Today they have been affected by the pandemic crisis, and any economic assistance is very important to them. If you are interested in helping you can contact them through their Facebook page.

Find a checklist of the birds you can observe in and around El Descanso, in Upper Anchicayá. This checklist is generated with data from eBird (ebird.org), a global database of bird sightings from birders like you. If you enjoy this checklist, please consider contributing your sightings to eBird. It is 100% free to take part, and your observations will help support birders, researchers, and conservationists worldwide. Go to ebird.org to learn more!

 

About the author

Sara Colmenares

Current director of Sula. Doctor in Biological Sciences. Her main interests are to explore and understand the organism – environment interactions, taking advantage of emerging knowledge for the management and conservation of species and ecosystem services. She is currently working as a consultant in functional ecology, ecosystem services and conservation projects in Colombia related to ecotourism and birdwatching.

Top 5 of the Best Nature Tourism Experiences in Colombia

Posted on by Frank59872

The second most biodiverse country on the planet has incredible nature experiences for everyone. With its variety of ecosystems, from rain forests, savannas and deserts to moorlands, cloud forests and glaciers that provide water, and its system of National Natural Parks and Natural Reserves, Colombia is a great place for nature tourism. 

In this post, we will talk about the best nature experiences in Colombia. 

Exploring the Biodiverse Chocó 

In this biodiversity hotspot on the Colombian Pacific coast, you will find many options for an nature experience in Colombia. 

Due to the rainfall, the tropical conditions and its isolation from the Amazon basin, the Biogeographic Chocó has an outstanding diversity of fauna and flora, as well as a high level of endemism.

Nuquí, Chocó

The activity not to be missed is whale watching, which you can enjoy in Bahia Solano, Nuqui and Utria National Natural Park from July to October.

It is amazing to see groups of humpback whales migrating to the warm waters of the Pacific to mate and raise their calves.

This is also a season of turtle and bird migration, so the coasts seem to come alive. Bird watching, scuba diving, snorkelling and hiking are other nature tourism activities you can do in the wonderful Chocó.

The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), Bahía Solano, Chocó

Getting lost in the Caribbean 

The Caribbean region of Colombia boasts nature, colors and joy. The white sanded beaches of the Caribbean, that merge into tropical lush forests with exotic birds and variety of other animals.

Getting lost in this landscape is one of the best nature tourism experiences you can have in Colombia.

Visiting rivers and waterfalls in Minca

Visit the Tayrona and Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Parks to explore the biodiverse forests and mangroves, and the highest coastal mountain in the world, of course. 

One of the best sights you can enjoy is the Lost City (or Teyuna), an ancient indigenous civilization built around 650 AD that is currently considered the greatest archaeological finding in Colombia.

You can reach Lost City after a trekking of minimum 4 days, along a trail of over 20 km and a climb of 120 steps made of stone. It is among the best trekking trails in Colombia.

Lost City – Tayrona Park, Santa Marta

As for Minca, it is a hidden village full of peace, with natural attractions such as waterfalls and rivers, and it is a great birdwatching spot.

The most northern tip of Colombia, and South America, La Guajira, is a one of its kind place. Visit the golden dunes and paradisaical beaches in Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas, the highlands of the Macuira National Natural Park and the Flamingo heaven at Los Flamencos Sanctuary.

During all your days in La Guajira, you interact with the Wayuu indigenous community, which is a rewarding experience. 

Birds of La Guajira, White Ibis – Eudocimus albus

Adventure in Santander 

If you like extreme sports, Santander is the place for you. Adventurous travelers come to this department located in the center of Colombia, north of Bogota, to enjoy paragliding, rafting, hiking, bungee jumping, buggies, rock climbing and more.

San Gil is the capital of extreme sports, in Barichara you can go hike the royal road of Lengerke and in the Chicamocha Park, you can take the zip line to cross the Chicamocha Canyon  while admiring the stunning natural  landscape. 

Learn more about the Chicamocha Canyon in our entry The Chicamocha Canyon, the 1st Largest Canyon in Colombia.

Climbing Paramos in the Andes 

You cannot say you had an nature tourism experience in Colombia if you did not hike to a paramo. Colombia is one of the 6 countries in the world with the paramo (moorland) ecosystems!

Paramos are considered water factories, since rivers that supply water and energy to nearby towns originate there.

Espeletia, Páramo at the Andean Forest

Colombian moorlands hold 98% of the world’s flora endemic to this ecosystem and the country is home to the world’s largest one, Páramo de Sumapaz. Because of this, many are protected as national parks or flora and fauna sanctuaries.  

If you are planning to visit, take into account the low temperatures, the humidity and the high altitudes -moorlands are above 2600 m (8530 ft) ASL.  

Sumapaz 

Is close to Bogota, to the south, so it is perfect for a day trip. The Muisca indigenous people deemed this place a sacred spot and it boasts wildlife, including deer, tapirs, coatis, golden eagles and the typical moorland plant: frailejones. Don’t miss its several lagoons, the Verjon bats cave and the Buenos Aires viewpoint.  

Chingaza National Park

This is an important natural reserve for the center of the country, as it provides around 80% of the capital and nearby municipalities water supply. There are 6 hiking trails and 3 viewpoints for you to discover the life hidden in the Andean forests and moorlands.

It is possible to see condors, eagles, the unique Spectacled bear and deer. Chingaza also has a lagoon system of about 20 lagoons, including Laguna de Siecha. Prefer hiring local guides and remember to file a request at least 15 days before your trip to the park. 

Ocetá 

This páramo is known as ‘Colombia’s most beautiful paramo’. It is located in Boyacá and remains well-preserved, since it is not visited as much as the other moorlands.

Páramo de Ocetá

Ocetá has a dazzling variety of flora, including silver, yellow and white frailejones, yellow senecios, violet lupins and tons of liquens and moss. It is also a place to see the national bird of Colombia, the Andean condor.

The Stone City, a rocky zone with alleys enclosed by 15-meter high stone walls is the number one attraction.  

Puracé 

Puracé is the only active volcano of the Coconucos volcanic range, in the department of Cauca. It is a National Natural Park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

In this mountain, 4 main rivers in Colombia have its source (the Magdalena, Cauca, Patía and Japurá), and you can also enjoy almost 30 clear lagoons and sulfur hot springs.

You can hike along several trails and probably spot the Andean condor -Puracé is actually a privileged spot to see them. Also, this is an ancient indigenous territory. 

Iguaque

It is a sanctuary for flora and fauna in Boyacá, near Villa de Leyva. Like many territories in Colombia, Iguaque is sacred for an indigenous community, the Muiscas.

According to their mythology, the Iguaque Lagoon was the cradle of humanity, as the goddess Bachue emerged from it to populate the earth. Its glacier lagoons provide water for nearby towns and the local wildlife.

Laguna de Iguaque, Sanctuary of Fauna and Flora Iguaque, department of Boyacá, Colombia. © Creative Commons

Having a real nature tourism experience means to connect with nature truly and here, you will be able to cleanse your soul and purify your spirit surrounded by nature. 

Visit our entry Discover the Natural Attractions of Villa de Leyva, Colombia to find more about Iguaque and Villa de Leyva natural attractions. 

Bike Tourism in Quindío 

A new nature tourism project in Colombia was launched at Vitrina Turística Anato 2020: a bike tour through the Central Andes range between south of Quindio and north of Valle del Cauca.

At least 200 km (124 mi) can be cycled by tourists interested in nature, community and adventure tourism. The road includes the municipalities of Calarca, Buenavista, Pijao, Cordoba, Genova (Quindio), and Sevilla and Caicedonia (Valle).

Bike tours in Colombia

The idea, funded by the local and the Suiss government, the municipalities and the Chambers of Commerce, aims to diversify the tourist corridor of the Coffee Cultural Landscape.

In this way, tourists can enjoy different activities such as hiking, jeep Willys rides, wildlife observation, adventure, cultural and historical experiences, and even yoga. 

 

Of course these are not the only nature tourism experiences in Colombia. There are plenty more destinations for nature tourism in the country, each of the 6 natural regions boast amazing settings for tourists to travel consciously and connect with the environment. Experiences such as exploring the great Amazon basin or traveling the Eastern Plains cannot be set aside.

References 
About the author.

Ana María Parra

Modern Languages professional with emphasis on business translation. Interested in cultural adaptation of written and audiovisual content.  Passionate about knowing new cultures and languages, tourism and sustainable living.