At Parque Nacional Natural Amacayacu, the tropical rainforest encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including flooded and terra firme forests, swamps, wetlands, oxbow lakes and river systems. These landscapes are representative of the Amazon rainforest. Their diversity makes the park an interesting destination for travelers who want to discover the different features of this natural environment. The tropical rainforest ecosystem is home to more than 5,000 plant species, 468 bird species and 150 mammal species.
A Protected Area with a History
Parque Nacional Natural Amacayacu was established in 1975 and expanded to 267,241 hectares in 1987. These two dates mark important stages in its development as a protected area. Together with its diverse ecosystems, they offer an impression of how the natural environment and protected-area management shape the character of the park.
Exploring the Forest, Waterways and Wildlife
Activities listed in the park include short hikes, interpretive trails, treks lasting more than eight hours and overnight stays in the rainforest. The time required makes a difference when planning a trip: short hikes are an alternative to longer treks. Wildlife and plant observation is also listed as an activity, including bird, primate and dolphin watching.
Nighttime activities include walks to observe arthropods and nocturnal wildlife, stargazing and photo safaris. Other options include canoe trips in traditional canoes or kayaks, boat rides, and swimming in rivers and streams. Nature observation, trails and water activities offer different ways to experience the area. Check with the park in advance to find out which of these activities are currently available.
Culture, Crafts and Fariña
Parque Nacional Natural Amacayacu overlaps with the Indigenous protected areas of Momaveza, Ticoya, Cotuhé-Putumayo and Utiboc. Management is coordinated with traditional authorities, with the aim of ensuring the sustainable use of the area. A community walk in Mocagua offers insight into the continuity of Indigenous cultures, collective territory and new forms of Indigenous self-determination.
The Indigenous craft workshops listed focus on basket weaving, ceramics, bracelet weaving, plant painting, working with fibers from the chambira palm and yanchama, and balsa wood carving. A culinary workshop includes taking part in some steps of fariña preparation. Crafts, a community walk and participation in individual preparation steps offer different ways to experience the area's culture. Check current workshop dates with the park in advance; arrange the community walk with the community.
A Specific River Route
One route runs from Leticia toward Puerto Nariño along the Amazon River to the mouth of the Río Amacayacu. The speedboat ride takes one hour and 40 minutes, followed by a 30-minute trip by private boat to the community of San Martín de Amacayacu. Check the arrangements before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Puerto Narino, Leticia, San Juan De Atacuari, Caquetá, Chocó, Cundinamarca, Sucre, Tolima.
See the main travel overview: Colombia.
