Explore the Colombian Pacific: Untamed, Raw, and Deeply Moving

Travel Beyond Expectations – with Chaska Tours

The Colombian Pacific coast is one of the most mysterious and pristine regions in South America. Lush rainforest, wild ocean, endless beaches – and in between, small communities living in harmony with nature.

At Chaska Tours, we offer trips throughout Colombia. But some places are especially close to our hearts. In close collaboration with our trusted Pacific expert Vanessa, we’ve created a series of tailor-made travel routes for those who want to dive deeper.

Today, we’re excited to present two of our favorite Pacific journeys:

• Nuquí – El Vijo Surf

• Mecana – Biohotel at the Pacific Botanical Garden

El Vijo Surf in Nuquí – Life Between Jungle and Ocean

Near the village of Termales, where natural hot springs meet tropical jungle and black-sand beaches, you’ll find El Vijo Surf – a rustic eco-lodge where the tides set the rhythm of the day. It’s a place to disconnect, unwind, and breathe.

Our Suggested Routes for Nuquí

1. "Yubarta" – Whales & Wellness (July–October):

   A natural spectacle like no other: head out by boat to Cabo Corrientes and watch majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. Back on land, soak in the thermal springs of Termales and spend peaceful evenings in your open-air bungalow by the sea.

2. "Surf Beginners & Advanced" – Finding Your Flow

   For beginners, we offer gentle surf lessons, board rental, and ideal learning conditions right on the lodge’s home beach. More experienced surfers can head out by boat to hidden local breaks. The ocean here is wild, powerful – and surprisingly uncrowded.

3. "Descanso" – Rediscover the Art of Doing Nothing

   This route is made for those who crave stillness: soak in natural hot springs, enjoy a therapeutic massage on the sun deck, and stroll slowly through the surrounding jungle. A perfect reset – even for solo travelers.

Mecana (Bahía Solano) – An Immersion in Biodiversity

Just north of Nuquí lies Mecana, a quiet coastal village in the municipality of Bahía Solano. Nestled directly beside the Pacific Botanical Garden, the Mecana Biohotel is a unique destination where conservation, education, and eco-tourism come together.

Our Suggested Routes for Mecana:

1. "Whale Watching with a Marine Biologist" (July–October)

   A once-in-a-lifetime experience: in the calm waters of Mecana’s bay, you’ll observe humpback whales accompanied by a local marine biologist. Listen to their songs through an underwater microphone, then explore the jungle with an indigenous guide and visit the 20-meter-high Nabugá waterfall.

2. "Mecana Offseason" (November–June)

   For those traveling outside whale season: night walks in the rainforest, botanical hikes through the Pacific Garden, and a refreshing swim beneath the jungle waterfall. All at a slower pace – surrounded by vibrant, untouched nature.

Travel with Purpose – For Nature Lovers, Families & Curious Minds

All of our Pacific routes include:

• Stays in eco-conscious accommodations

• Full-board with fresh, regional cuisine – often vegetarian/vegan friendly

• Passionate local guides (English-speaking available)

• Deep cultural and ecological insights

• Transfers by boat, tuk-tuk, or on foot

  
  

These journeys promote responsible tourism, support local communities, and foster genuine connections with nature.

Essential Travel Tips for the Pacific Coast

• Bring Cash – No ATMs in Nuquí or Mecana: Make sure to withdraw enough Colombian pesos in Medellín, ideally at the airport, before your flight to the coast.

• Prepare for a Digital Detox: Cell reception is limited. Both lodges offer Wi-Fi, but this is a great chance to unplug. A local SIM (Claro) or an eSIM like Airalo is recommended.

• Packing Checklist – Light, Practical & Jungle-Proof

  • Waterproof backpack or dry bag

  • Sandals and sturdy water shoes

  • Insect repellent with DEET

  • Reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen

  • Flashlight and power bank

• Health Precautions – Travel Smart in the Tropics

  • Consult a tropical medicine specialist (Malaria prophylaxis may be advised)

  • Check vaccinations: Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A/B, Tetanus

  • Drink only filtered or bottled water

    
    

These routes are signposts, not scripts – your journey is your own.

From our experience, the trips described above offer a rich, meaningful introduction to the Pacific – perfect for a first-time visit. But they are just one part of what’s possible.

You're welcome to combine, extend, or adapt these suggestions. We’re here to help you design a journey that fits you – whether it’s wild adventure, quiet retreat, or something in between.

Get in touch – and let us help you shape your Pacific experience.

Whether you’re chasing waves, observing wildlife, or slowing down in nature – we’ll help you find the route that’s right for you.

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