
Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Pasto, Nariño, Colombia
1. Parque Nacional Natural Puracé
Volcanic national park offering hiking trails and diverse wildlife such as Andean condors and spectacled bears.
- Active Volcano: Puracé is home to one of Colombia's most active volcanos.
- Biodiversity: More than 150 bird species, 35 mammal species, and numerous reptile and amphibian species call Puracé home.
- Thermal Springs: Relax in the hot thermal springs found within the park after a long day of exploring.
2. Reserva Natural Tayrona-Parrán
Combines the tropical rainforest and Paramo ecosystems, offering a unique blend of flora and fauna.
- Endemic Species: Home to several endemic species like the parrots and hummingbirds.
- Coastal Location: Tayrona-Parrán boasts a stunning coastal location with beaches and coral reefs.
- Archaeological Sites: Includes archaeological sites like the pre-Columbian Tayrona indigenous ruins.
3. Selva de Florencia
Tropical rainforest known for its rich biodiversity and opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Amazonian Rainforest: Selva de Florencia is a small slice of the Amazon rainforest in Colombia.
- Anaconda Spots: Anacondas are often spotted within the rainforest, adding to the adventure.
- Eco-Lodges: Several eco-lodges offer comfortable accommodations for visitors.
4. Reserva Natural Los Cocos
Protects a large tract of Paramo grasslands and supports diverse wildlife like spectacled bears and pumas.
- Paramo Grasslands: Los Cocos showcases the unique Paramo grassland ecosystem.
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails through the stunning landscapes of Los Cocos.
- Wildlife Observation Stations: Stations offer opportunities for close-up wildlife observations.
5. Parque Nacional Natural Los Katíos
Largest protected area in Colombia, offering an untouched wilderness experience with diverse flora and fauna.
- Amazon Rainforest: A significant portion of the Amazon rainforest can be found within Los Katíos.
- Giant Otters: Giant otters, a critically endangered species, are often spotted in the rivers of the park.
- Jaguar Sightings: Visitors may be lucky enough to spot jaguars during their explorations.
6. Refugio de Vida Silvestre San Cayetano
Nestled between the Magdalena and Guaviare rivers, it's a haven for diverse wildlife like river turtles and pink dolphins.
- River Dolphin Spotting: San Cayetano is one of the few places where you can spot the rare pink river dolphin.
- Turtle Conservation Efforts: The refuge focuses on the conservation of several turtle species, such as the leatherback and green sea turtles.
- Indigenous Culture: Learn about the rich indigenous culture that thrives alongside the wildlife in San Cayetano.
7. Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de los Yariguies
A remote and rugged mountain range harboring unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Andean bear.
- Endemic Flora: Serranía de los Yariguies is home to a variety of endemic plant species.
- Rugged Terrain: The park's challenging terrain provides an adventure for the more adventurous traveler.
- Wildlife Conservation Efforts: Efforts are being made to protect and reintroduce species such as the Andean bear.
8. Reserva Natural El Corchal
A coastal wetland reserve teeming with birdlife and home to a breeding colony of Magdalena River dolphins.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: El Corchal is an excellent spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Dolphin Watching: Visitors can observe the Magdalena River dolphins from designated viewing points.
- Mangrove Forests: The reserve's mangrove forests provide vital habitat for various species.
9. Reserva Natural Guácharo
Protects the unique and endemic Guacharo (oilbird) as well as other nocturnal wildlife.
- Guacharo Caves: The reserve features caves where the Guacharos roost during the day.
- Nocturnal Wildlife Observation: Visitors can observe nocturnal wildlife using specialized equipment.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available to ensure minimal disturbance to the animals and their habitats.
10. Reserva Natural Paramo del Sapayo
High-altitude paramo ecosystem with unique alpine flora and fauna, such as the Andean condor.
- Alpine Flora: The reserve is home to a variety of rare alpine plant species.
- Andean Condor Viewing: Visitors may have the opportunity to view Andean condors in their natural habitat.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
11. Reserva Natural San Lorenzo
Tropical rainforest located near Pasto with a focus on wildlife conservation and research.
- Wildlife Conservation: The reserve focuses on the conservation of various wildlife species, including jaguars.
- Research Stations: Research stations offer opportunities to learn about ongoing research projects.
- Hiking Trails: The reserve features several hiking trails for exploring the rainforest.
12. Reserva Natural Los Colorados
Coastal wetland reserve with a diverse bird population and opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Los Colorados is an excellent spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Mangrove Forests: The reserve's mangrove forests provide vital habitat for various species.
- Eco-Lodges: Several eco-lodges offer comfortable accommodations for visitors.
13. Reserva Natural La Piedra del Aguila
Rocky outcrop offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Wildlife Spotting: Visitors may have the opportunity to spot various wildlife species, such as spectacled bears.
- Panoramic Views: The rocky outcrop provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Hiking Trails: Several hiking trails lead to the top of La Piedra del Aguila for incredible vistas.
14. Reserva Natural Los Tequendama
Protects a large tract of tropical rainforest with diverse wildlife and opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Biodiversity: The reserve is home to more than 500 bird species, 120 mammal species, and numerous reptile and amphibian species.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the tropical rainforest.
- Eco-Lodges: Several eco-lodges offer comfortable accommodations for visitors.
15. Parque Nacional Natural El Cocuy
High-altitude national park featuring the stunning Cocuy glacier and diverse wildlife such as spectacled bears.
- Cocuy Glacier: El Cocuy is home to one of Colombia's largest glaciers, the Cocuy glacier.
- Hiking Trails: The park offers several challenging hiking trails for experienced trekkers.
- Wildlife Spotting: Visitors may have the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife such as spectacled bears and condors.