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In the heart of the Páramo de las Papas, at over 3,000 meters above sea level, lies the majestic Laguna del Magdalena. This iconic body of water is not only the source of the Magdalena River, Colombia's most important waterway, but also a symbol of the country's natural, cultural, and spiritual wealth. Known as the "cradle of the great river of the nation," this lagoon is a true gem that deserves our admiration and protection. The Natural Reserve and Its Biodiversity The Laguna del Magdalena is part of the Puracé National Natural Park, a vast 83,000-hectare reserve encompassing páramos and humid forests across the Cauca and Huila departments. This unique ecosystem is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the spectacled bear, the puma, and many endemic bird species. The area surrounding the lagoon is covered with frailejones (Espeletia plants), often called "guardians of water," which play a crucial role in regulating the region’s water cycle. Beyond its impressive biodiversity, the Laguna del Magdalena holds deep spiritual significance. For indigenous communities like the Yanacona, this place is sacred. It represents the balance between humanity and nature and is considered a spiritual space for connecting with Mother Earth. The legends surrounding the lagoon reflect ancient wisdom about the importance of protecting water as a source of life. Environmental Importance The Magdalena River, which originates from this lagoon, is Colombia’s largest source of freshwater and sustains millions of people along its 1,500-kilometer journey to the Caribbean Sea. Its significance lies not only in water supply but also in its role in agriculture, fishing, and navigation. The Páramo de las Papas, where the lagoon is located, acts as a natural sponge, storing rainwater and mist and gradually releasing it into rivers and streams. This natural connection highlights the importance of protecting the area. Indigenous communities have long passed down the understanding that water is a sacred gift that must be preserved and respected. Threats and Conservation Needs Despite its ecological and cultural importance, the Laguna del Magdalena faces challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and illegal mining, which threaten the delicate balance of its ecosystem. Changes to the páramo landscape impact not only local biodiversity but also the supply of freshwater for downstream communities. The loss of traditional knowledge and disconnection from natural cycles is another challenge. Integrating the practices of indigenous communities into conservation efforts is essential to ensure the sustainability of these ecosystems. Chaska Tours and Our Commitment At Chaska Tours, we strongly believe in the importance of protecting ecosystems like this one. Our commitment goes beyond promoting sustainable tourism; we aim to raise awareness of the need to care for our natural resources and respect the ancestral traditions that teach us how to live in harmony with nature. We invite our visitors to explore the Laguna del Magdalena and join the efforts to preserve its natural and cultural splendor. Our tours include guided experiences with local communities, who share their ancestral knowledge and provide a deeper understanding of this special place. How Can You Help? Practice responsible tourism:  Follow the guidance of local guides during your visit and avoid leaving any waste. Support local initiatives:  Participate in reforestation projects and environmental education programs led by indigenous communities. Promote environmental awareness:  Share the importance of the Laguna del Magdalena and its role in Colombia’s sustainability. The Laguna del Magdalena is not just the source of a river; it is a source of life, hope, and ancestral wisdom for present and future generations. At Chaska Tours, we invite you to explore this wonderful place and join us in the mission to preserve it.

Puracé National Natural Park: The Strength and Magic of the Earth in the Heart of Cauca and Huila The Puracé Volcano is located in the Cauca department, along the Central Andes mountain range. It stands as a symbol of nature and an entity imbued with mythological and ancestral power. Its name, derived from Quechua, means “the mountain of fire,” directly referencing its volcanic nature and the numerous sulfur springs that emerge from its depths. Moreover, it is the cradle of several of Colombia’s most important rivers, including the Magdalena, Cauca, Patía, and Caquetá, whose waters originate in its valleys and mountains. It is part of the UNESCO-declared Biosphere Reserve since 1979, a unique biodiversity area home to some of the planet’s richest ecosystems. On the night of Sunday, January 19, and the early hours of Monday, January 20, the Puracé Volcano showed increased seismic activity and emitted significant ash that reached the city of Popayán. According to monitoring of the Los Coconucos volcanic chain, the Colombian Geological Service (SGC), an entity under the Ministry of Mines and Energy, reported that on the afternoon of January 21, 2025, there was an increase in the energy of the seismic signal. Additionally, degassing continues through the fumaroles of the Puracé Volcano and new vents formed at the Curiquinga Volcano.   According to the SGC, after conducting an aerial survey of the volcanic chain, a yellow alert was declared, and preventive measures were activated for residents of nearby areas, particularly in the municipality of Puracé. This natural phenomenon led to the cancellation of hundreds of excursions to Puracé National Natural Park. Sensors installed at the top of the Puracé Volcano continue to record significant levels of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions into the atmosphere. As a result, residents of the municipalities of Paletará, Puracé, and Popayán (Cauca) have reported strong sulfuric odors—a natural reaction caused by the interaction of sulfur dioxide from the volcanic structure with ambient water. The last major eruption of the Puracé Volcano occurred in June 1956. That year, the volcanic event was clearly visible, with ash reaching the city of Popayán, covering roofs, streets, and gutters. Photographs from that time also show the old façade of the Sanctuary of Belén, which was destroyed by a strong earthquake years later. The vastness of the Los Coconucos volcanic chain includes 11 volcanoes and offers a spectacular landscape of craters, fumaroles, and otherworldly scenery. Among its natural wonders are the San Juan hot springs, whose warm waters provide a haven of well-being amidst volcanic power. Nature enthusiasts will find Puracé a paradise that awakens the senses with every step. Towering waterfalls over 50 meters high, the song of endemic birds such as the Andean condor, and the fresh air of the páramos make this place a unique corner of Colombia. Here, amidst the volcano's fury, life flourishes, and the earth reminds us of its ancestral power. Currently, access to the park is allowed with some restrictions, such as the use of face masks, hydration, and sunscreen.

Birdwatching doesn’t let you fly, but it gives you wings to keep dreaming. Colombia, the land of birds, is home to more than 1,900 species—an impressive number that attracts birdwatchers from all over the world. This natural paradise not only enchants those seeking exotic birds but also captivates those charmed by its landscapes, unique biodiversity, and, above all, the warmth of its people. Tangara chrysotis As a passionate birdwatcher, my adventure began in San Agustín - Huila, an important archaeological destination, and took me to the El Encanto Reserve, located in the municipality of Palestina. This endearing and lively place is home to the Molina family, who could easily have stepped out of a Disney movie, much like the Madrigal family from Encanto. When I arrived at the reserve, I realized their countryside home and stunning gardens surpassed Disney’s fiction. The Molina family welcomed me with a smile, a cup of coffee, and the soothing sound of birds. After exploring the reserve’s trails, I tasted their famous and delicious plantain lasagna. Here, not only the birds feast on this prized tropical fruit. While enjoying dinner, I had the chance to talk with birdwatchers from different countries and regions of Colombia. Even though we spoke different languages and came from different worlds, our conversations always revolved around our love for birds and the biodiversity that connects us beyond borders. Kochbananen-Lasagne Those who know the wonderful world of birdwatching understand that this activity begins very early. The next day, we woke up at 4:30 a.m., enjoyed a cup of coffee made from wild-grown trees at El Encanto, and then headed in a 4x4 vehicle to the La Gralaria Reserve, located near the borders of the Cueva de los Guácharos National Park. This reserve spans over 60 hectares of forest and is home to 310 bird species, 7 of which are endemic: Anthocephala berlepshi, Atlapetes fuscoolivaceus, Red-bellied Grackle, Magdalena Tapaculo, Chestnut Woodquail, Tolima Dove, and Drymophila caudata. Grallaricula cucullata. Hooded Antpitta, Mike. After hiking the trails, breathing fresh air, and listening to the birdsong, we were lucky enough to spot a family of woodquails - a female, a male, and three chicks that, according to our guide, had likely been born the day before. For birdwatchers, there is no greater reward than seeing and photographing the birds they have traveled so far to find. Odontophorus hyperythrus, Chestnut Woodquail, Toñitas. At the end of the tour, I took a moment alone to hydrate, regain energy, and marvel at the majestic view of the Central and Western Andes. Suddenly, a female hummingbird (*Heliodoxa leadbeateri*) landed on my hand. I looked at it and thought how this small, vibrant, and lively being would make the perfect tattoo as a birthday gift to myself for my 33rd year. Violet-fronted Brilliant, Heliodoxa leadbeateri, Helio. Dare to travel to southwestern Colombia and let yourself be amazed by Huila’s natural beauty and the countless bird species you can discover in its nature reserves! Photos: Courtesy of Reserva El Encanto

Christmas is more than just a date; it’s a moment to connect, give thanks, and celebrate the magic that unites us as a family. At Chaska Tours, we feel this spirit in every moment, and this year, our celebrations were a true expression of love and gratitude.   An Evening of Togetherness, Joy, and Music Our Christmas celebration was a dream come true at the Casa Blanca restaurant, together with our partners from Finca El Maco and Club Maco . From the very beginning, magic was in the air: each guest was greeted with a warm smile, a refreshing drink, and a lovingly prepared package of Christmas cookies—a small symbol of our appreciation. The evening was accompanied by live music featuring traditional Colombian songs that touched everyone’s hearts. Even though, as a Swiss person, I couldn’t sing along to all the lyrics yet, I deeply enjoyed the joy, energy, and sense of togetherness that resonated in every note. The delicious food, the familial atmosphere, and the unique team spirit made this evening an unforgettable celebration.   An Extraordinary Team None of this would have been possible without the amazing people who make up Chaska Tours. Every guide, driver, logistician, and member of the office team holds a special place in our family. They are not just colleagues—they are the heart of our work, making our guests’ dreams come true. Our dear “Santa” David made sure that everyone in Bogotá received a special Christmas gift, personally delivering them. In the coming days, we will extend this joy to our other locations. For us, each team member is unique, irreplaceable, and invaluable.   A Heart Full of Gratitude We would like to sincerely thank everyone who makes this journey so special:• To our team, whose passion and dedication transform every tour into an unforgettable experience.• To our clients, who trust us to bring the beauty of Colombia closer to them. Your joy is our greatest reward and motivation! Thanks to you, we are more than just a travel company—we are a family creating memories, connecting cultures, and sharing the magic of travel. A Project That Fills the Heart One of our greatest achievements this year was the growth of the Magdalena Music School in San Agustín. This dream, funded by tourism revenue, allowed us to grant scholarships to 16 young talents and provide them with instruments, facilities, and qualified teachers. During the Christmas season, these wonderful musicians gifted us with a moving concert in Pitalito. Seeing their dedication, passion, and joy fills our hearts and reaffirms our commitment to supporting projects that change lives.   A Toast to the Future As we bid farewell to this year full of unforgettable moments, we look forward to 2025 with excitement. We aim to continue growing, creating magical experiences, and showcasing the unparalleled beauty of Colombia to the world. Thank you for being part of this journey. May this holiday season be filled with love, peace, and hope! We look forward to welcoming you back with open arms to create more unique memories together. With much love,The team at Chaska Tours ❤️by Delia & Yolanda

We are very excited to feature a truly special travel report from Günter Engelhart on our blog. Günter has captivated us with his experiences and impressions from an extraordinary journey, offering not only his personal perspective but also many fascinating details and anecdotes. We hope this extensive report inspires you as much as it did us, providing a unique insight into local life and the beauty of the destinations. Enjoy reading and discovering! Hola! „5 pics a day 1/25“ Today (and for the next 24 days), I’m fueling the fire for everyone who claims that I/we are "always away." Because this time, it’s true (for once 😅). Meanwhile, the departure whisky in the airport lounge has become my most frequent photo subject. By the way, I’ve seen—no, I have—my dream hand luggage suitcase. I’ll need to do some research to find out where it’s available. As true traditionalists, we don’t stray from our vacation pattern and stick to the regularity that has become customary. After Tina’s “black continent” last year (can you still say that?), it’s my South American preference again this time. We’re heading to a country named after a very famous Italian navigator from the 15th century whose first name was Christopher but who never visited the country named in his honor. Well, he died at the age of 55—probably too soon—because I had to wait until 62 to set foot in Colombia. Although that’s not entirely accurate, as "visit" would be more precise. I "entered" the country two years ago during a layover at Bogotá airport. Incidentally, it was the vibrant colors in the shops and souvenir stores there that made me decide to see more of this country than just Terminal 1 of BOG. Whether this decision was the right one or not will be revealed here over the next three weeks. See you soon! Hola! „5 pics a day 2/25“ What a warm welcome at Bogotá Airport: Johnnie Walker himself, dressed in Colombia’s national colors, personally greeted me. And yet, J.W. is far from being my favorite brand. But, as the saying goes, desperate times call for desperate measures, right? Anyway, enough about strong spirits. Let’s move on to something more spiritually uplifting. Today, the Salt Cathedral was quite literally the “salt” in the soup of our Colombian vacation. I’m not particularly drawn to places of worship, but this one is truly special. While churches, cathedrals, and basilicas typically reach skyward, the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá does the exact opposite. It’s entirely underground, with a maximum depth of 190 meters. And, as the name suggests, it’s made of salt. It was created just over 30 years ago through the extraction of 250,000 tons of salt. The resulting spaces—vaults, naves, and chapels—are now illuminated in colorful lights, and together with the 14 artistically designed Stations of the Cross, they deliver some truly sacred “wow” moments. Our destination today, Villa de Leyva, is said to be one of Colombia’s most beautiful historical towns. Whether that’s actually true, we’ll find out tomorrow. For today, though, we were “tied” to our mojitos on the Plaza Mayor, where we watched the interplay of clouds and sunlight, whose final disappearance was gently accompanied by the taste of lime and mint. See you soon! Hola! „5 pics a day 3/25“ How great that Latin and Biology (back then: Natural History) were my favorite school subjects. Although, with Latin, I only realized this decades later. Anyway, I was able to immediately identify the Monastery "Ecce Homo" with the translation "Behold the Man." And due to my religious interest, which is limited to Jesus Christ Superstar, I know these words were used by Pontius Pilate when presenting Jesus to the crowd after the scourging. Less because of my high school biology knowledge and more due to my curiosity, I was fascinated by the Museo El Fósil near Villa de Leyva. I had never heard of the fascinating "Kronosaurus boyacensis" found and displayed there. One could almost call this a gap in my biological education. Anyone who wants to close this gap can turn to Dr. Google. And since I liked math, even though my academic success curve resembled an adventurous roller coaster, I got mixed up and processed eight photos instead of five. Three additional photos snuck in during the very relaxing stroll through the rather white colonial town of Villa de Leyva, to stick with the math, "cheating." See you soon! Hola! „5 pics a day 4/25“ Today, I felt a bit like Odysseus on his wanderings. When, on the plane – a 60-seat twin-engine propeller aircraft – high above the clouds, after an announcement in Spanish (and therefore also sounding Spanish to me) by the dark-haired flight attendant, suddenly about 50 Spanish-speaking people begin talking as if on command, and anyone who knows Spaniards knows what happens when they start talking, and a noticeable sense of chaos starts to spread through the cabin, something must be going on. When, at the time of the planned landing (pretty much on schedule with the takeoff), a cloud layer far below the aircraft still blocks the view of the ground, then something really must be going on. And when the plane finally lands with almost an hour's delay, and it takes great effort and a lot of imagination to interpret this patch of land as an airport, then it can’t be the place you were supposed to go. Even if you were asked to leave the plane. This has nothing to do with navigation knowledge, but with gut feeling. To keep it short: we didn’t land where we were supposed to. I haven’t (yet) managed to answer the question of where and why, hijacking wasn’t involved, as that would’ve been noticed in the cramped cabin. Plus, we were asked to return to our seats for a restart. And where we then landed after about half an hour had even less to do with an airport. But: it was where we wanted to go. The place and area are called La Macarena, and it’s quite far south in the country, in the tropical belt near the equator. Which, by the way, means: higher temperature mixed with higher humidity. In short: it was hot and sweat-inducingly humid. A short hike with a quick stop to warm up in the water (and cooling down could not be mentioned, not even by the loosest interpretation of the term) ended with a rather "wild" finish. See you soon! Hola! „5 pics a day 5/25“ Today was "hiking in a steam bath," or as it's called here in Colombia: "Caño Cristales Hiking." To put it in numbers: 34°C, 90% humidity, and 12 km over rocks and stones, ideally in long sleeves and pants, because here, for environmental reasons, conventional sunscreen cannot be used (you can swim in certain parts of the river, but you want to avoid an "oil film" on the water's surface to protect the ecosystem). And you feel the power of the sun in the evening, when you're sipping your Guayaberaso on the lodge terrace. Of course, you could have this cheaper if you spent six hours fully adjusted in the steam bath at a hotel spa. But, first, I think that would get boring pretty quickly, and second, it would look, let's say, a bit strange. Caño Cristales is a body of water in the South American Orinoco River system, also known as the "River of Five Colors" or "Liquid Rainbow." The colors come from the vegetation on the riverbed and range from yellow, green, blue, black, and red. I'd add purple and orange, then we'd have the full rainbow. Caño Cristales is a highlight here in Colombia if you're interested in nature. The pictures today, despite their vibrant colors, might paradoxically seem a little monotonous. But they dominated today's day. See you soon! Hola! „5 pics a day 6/25“ Forty years ago, this morning I would have ended up in a time vacuum. Because I would have had to wake up earlier than I usually got home. Chronologically speaking: 3:45 AM instead of 4:00 AM. The day started with a boat ride from the darkness of the night into the sunrise, which was forecasted for 5:37 AM, as the kickoff (of the otherwise sparse) program for today. So, in the light of a flashlight, we descended a makeshift ladder down the riverbank into a somewhat unstable raft powered by 50 Yamaha horsepower, heading straight into the black hole. Every now and then, the boatman checked with the flashlight to ensure the boat still had water beneath it. From the boat, tied to a tree branch on the shore, populated by many birds and a few alligators, we waited for time to do its thing and watched the sun slowly rise from behind the horizon. Basically, it's a sunset with reversed signs. After that, it was just a flight back from La Macarena to Bogotá, and now I know the reason for our odyssey on the outbound flight (see "5 pics 4/25"): Since La Macarena Airport only has space for one commercial aircraft, we couldn’t land because that space was occupied due to a takeoff delay. So, we circled around until our fuel was running low, and finally flew the remaining 300 km back to Villavicencio to refuel. The second attempt was successful. The highlight of the evening in Bogotá was dinner: A six-pack of Club Colombia from the supermarket, along with empanadas and arepas from the street vendor, all enjoyed in the hotel room with a view of the city lit up at night through floor-to-ceiling windows. See you tomorrow. Hola! „5+ pics a day 7/25“ Surprisingly, I was able to find something endearing and sympathetic in Bogotá, a city I initially approached with some skepticism due to its 10 million inhabitants. The reason for this was the La Candelaria neighborhood, the picturesque old town of the metropolis with its colorful houses, some from the colonial era, and the artistic graffiti. I don’t know much about art or its history (both old and modern). It’s neither my job nor my hobby. As they say in the countryside: "Oh, what a beautiful picture!" or "Oh, how awful!" In my view, the paintings by Colombian artist Fernando Botero don’t fall into the first category. Although these works, with their "out of proportion" style, are worth millions of euros, I wouldn’t hang one in my living room. Still, the visit to the Botero Museum wasn’t a waste of time. Being interesting and being liked don’t necessarily go hand in hand. El Dorado – that’s not only the name of Bogotá’s airport but also the mythical city of gold in the Colombian Andes, often searched for but never found. What is certain is that the pre-Columbian peoples and tribes were excellent goldsmiths. Many of these finds are on display at the Gold Museum, which, although monochromatic (unlike the old town), shines with authentic gold. And in the evening, we were already on the plane to Neiva. See you tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 8/25“ My peers probably still recognize the term "Klapperl." Younger members of my audience might want to look it up. There are useful results. Today I brought out my "Klapperl," of course in the advanced and modern version "hiking sandals." The ones with the rubber cap as a bumper for the toes. But the two hiking trails through the Tatacoa Desert were perfect for that, considering the terrain, temperature, and weather. Rain would have been bad luck, as it’s a dry area, partly in private ownership. The Colombian woman who passed away recently was 120 years old and one of the landowners, a proud mother of twelve children. This "dozen" in turn produced an above-average number of descendants, resulting in 80 grandchildren. For a current thought, I wondered what a Christmas celebration would look like in such a large family. How would the grandparents choose gifts for 80 grandchildren? When would they start buying them? And how would they manage the financing? And what about the feast – the cooking and the dishes? Ah, to avoid misunderstandings: the "current occasion" is the upcoming Christmas, not the idea of being grandparents with 80 grandchildren. To bring it back to the Tatacoa Desert: Two one-hour walks through the gray and red parts of the desert left no doubt that I hit my step goal. Until tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 9/25“ "You don't have to do anything, except die" – this popular retort from my youth in response to a parental "You have to..." usually didn't bring much joy to the one giving the command, and it shaped today's day. We dealt with death, dying, and, specifically here, burial rituals. Not just any rituals, but those of pre-Columbian cultures. For this, we had to rewind time by 1000 to 2000 years, back to the period from 100 BC to 900 AD. This was easily achieved with a visit to the archaeological park in San Agustín. In this UNESCO World Heritage site, a number of sculptures are displayed, which were found in the area and, to put it simply, served as tombstones. We were given an interesting explanation about the meaning of eagle, crescent, and jaguar eyes, the tusks, or the different hand positions. It was – since we couldn’t visit the family graves back home for All Saints' Day – a rather unique cemetery visit. We were convinced that only about 30% of these historical remains were uncovered, the rest still lies beneath our feet (and, as planned, should stay there). It was a bit scary. The mental leap from death to football during our walk through San Agustín may seem a bit arbitrary, but it only seems that way if you don’t know that the city's original colors are green and white, my favorite colors in the local football scene. Although now, more and more colors are being added to the houses, making the original color scheme harder to find. Until tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 10/25“ "We were there" – who knows how much that will be worth in ten or fifteen years when they break through and conquer the stages, concert halls, and stadiums of the world. Maybe not as "Estación 1950," but with a catchier name, like "Rodando Piedras" (DeepL can translate it). And if not, no worries. So we were there when six boys and one girl, aged 14 to 17, gave a quite enjoyable concert as "Estación 1950" at Club Maco in San Agustín. Many rhythms, many styles, lots of variety. "Estación 1950" is a product of the "Escuela de Música - Magdalena Music School" in San Agustín. This music school is special because it was created last year as a social project by our local tour operator, Chaska Tours. The children of the community can attend for free, and part of the tourism revenue helps fund the school. I really hope the students can make a living with their music. Some already had great charisma, confidence, and some impressive moves, even though their mom with the "snack bread" during the break was very much appreciated. Later, we crossed through a landscape in a comfortable Hyundai van that, though a bit cloudy, reminded me of southern Styria, but with signs warning of tapirs, jaguars, or spectacled bears crossing the road. That’s when you know where you are (at least if you paid attention in natural history class). The day’s destination was Popayán, a still little-known tourist destination but with a much whiter cityscape. Even the white of our Hyundai looked a bit gray there. I'm writing this journal entry early in the evening for a good reason, as Popayán is known as the gourmet capital of southern Colombia. And who knows if after a full stomach and a head full of beer, I’ll still be able to hit the right letters on the phone keyboard (it’s already a challenge as it is). Hasta mañana. Hola! „5 pics a day 11/25“ Today we met Silvia. Silvia is a beauty from the Colombian mountains with a very special character. Silvia is unique, and with a bit of imagination, one could almost give her the last name Misak. However, Silvia can’t move, but she keeps growing bigger and bigger. Silvia is a town in the southwest of Colombia, and it's the center of the Misak, one of the country’s most traditional indigenous groups. Here, the world really does turn a little differently, and traditions, culture, and customs from earlier days are still kept alive. We were lucky to be there on market day. One thing that isn’t originally from the Misak but has a certain charm is the repurposing of vehicle tires, in violation of traffic regulations, into design furniture. While it may not be economically successful in our regions, it does have a certain appeal. And there are expensive designer chairs where you’d feel much less comfortable sitting. Until tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 12/25“ I’m always happy when I plug something in, flip the switch, and the device starts working, whether it’s lighting up or running. I also feel satisfied when it doesn't work and I find the problem (like a broken lightbulb or only pressing one of the two switches, like with a saw or hedge trimmer). In that sense, being an electrician could be my dream job. But that would only work in Austria. Things are a bit different in South America. There are a thousand jobs I would rather do here just because I enjoy life so much. Although it’s not completely unfamiliar to me due to past travels, I am still fascinated by electricity, especially the wiring of the public electrical grid. To survive as an electrician here (and I’m not talking about financial survival), you either need a university degree with honors or, like a cat, seven lives. Today, however, was a rest day. Stage day. After a short morning walk through Cali, we were back on the road again heading north to Armenia, the entrance to the Coffee Triangle. What I’m happy to say I didn’t miss were those “piles of garbage” along the roads. It’s actually a lot cleaner here (at least in the areas we’ve been) than, for example, in Peru. So far, we haven’t seen any car in front of us throwing out unnecessary packaging material (like plastic drink bottles). Of course, there’s still room for improvement, but it’s much less than elsewhere. Until tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 13/25“ The reason for our trip to Colombia was, apart from my strong South America obsession, rather accidental: during a layover at Bogotá Airport two years ago, the shops with colorful souvenirs immediately caught our eye. It was "painful" in the sense that we decided then to add this colorful country to our travel list at some point. That it should happen this year, even though initially we were planning Vietnam, Ecuador, or Scotland, is a story that can’t be explained in a few words. Today, however, we encountered the (architectural, since we had already seen the biological) explosion of colors. Specifically in Salento and Filandia, two towns located in the Colombian Coffee Triangle. To stay true to the title of my journal, I selected only three out of about 10 raised to the 13th power pictures (a few more can be found in my story). The other two pictures of the day are dedicated to the Cocora Valley and its wax palms, the tallest palms in the world. However, the explosion of colors was somewhat limited, as the rich green was mostly complemented by a mystical, foggy gray that filled the horizon. And maybe a bit of horse white and brown, with occasional splashes of red or yellow from flowers. And since there’s no railway here, and even 300 km by car takes quite a long time, we are, once again, in an airport. This time in Pereira, waiting for our flight to Medellín. Until tomorrow.  Hola! „5 pics a day 14/25“ The only thing we haven't heard yet is "Last Christmas." But otherwise, it's already Christmas in Colombia (too). Colorful, blinking lights, overcrowded Christmas trees, shops with thousands of useful and hundreds of thousands of useless decoration and gift ideas. It almost feels a little like home. To escape from that, today was easy peasy – just hopped on a plane and off to the sea with sunshine and summery temperatures. From the destination airport in Nuquí, we took a boat (exclusively) to the Seaside Eco-Lodge "La Kuka." Unfortunately, I wasn’t brave enough to take a photo or video of this adventurous "hell ride" over the Pacific. I was too scared to lose my phone (and ideally, myself along with it). "Storm boat" at the Prater (or whatever amusement park it is)? In comparison, no more than a dinghy ride in a swimming pond. Soaked to the bone is dry compared to what we were. But with trust in our captain at the gas throttle of the Suzuki outboard and in the crash resistance of the polyester hull of our boat, we arrived at the intended destination, where our bungalow with an outdoor shower, hammock, and other comforts was reserved: In the front yard of paradise called "La Kuka Eco Lodge," powered exclusively by solar energy. Hasta Mañana. Hola! „5 pics a day 15/25“ I’m somewhat of a water person. Not just because of my zodiac sign (Cancer). Whether it’s the 50-meter pool in the southern part of town, the dreamy beaches of the South Pacific, or a "flaming" cocktail served by the bartender. So, it’s no surprise that I admire yachts. But anyone can own a 350-million-dollar boat like Roman Abramovich’s (if they’ve won the EuroMillions at least twice). The real vessel for the water is the slim Colombian dugout canoe. Reduced to the essentials, without unnecessary frills. So, we rented one of these – with a captain = first officer = helmsman – to explore the jungle by waterway. First, the captain had to ensure the boat was ready by scooping out water from the passenger cabin. The question of whether the water was entering due to rain or a possible leak in the hull remained unanswered, as I didn’t even ask. Fortunately, this dugout canoe was just the transport boat to the actual one, which was a bit larger but much drier. As for seating comfort, there were some deductions, but our helmsman moved the heavy canoe with a wooden stick as gracefully as Olympic champion Giovanni de Gennaro steering his canoe through the whitewater course. Otherwise, today was for relaxing, and that was also the plan of the lodge cat, who visited our bungalow and made herself comfortable with us. She is the subject of the sixth picture of the day. See you tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 16/25“ I was quite shocked when I looked in the mirror this morning. I had two completely different eyes. Not because my right eyelid has been swollen for a while; no idea why, but as long as it doesn't hurt and I can still see, it can't be that bad. No, one eye had been crying a lot today, while the other could barely stop laughing. Today was the day to say goodbye to Nuquí, a visual gem in Colombia, after just two days by the (Pacific) Sea. And as you could read yesterday, I am a person of water. So, sadness accompanied by tears spread across one half of my face. At the same time, my cerebral central lobe knew there was still a bit of Caribbean ahead. And that made the other half of my face delight in joy. A last morning walk on the beach with quite low tide made for a fitting farewell to the Pacific, before we took the "storm boat" (though with calm weather) across the water to Nuquí airport. If "Aeropuerto" hadn't been written on the building, I would have thought it was a fairly decent private property by local standards, with police protection, and I would have walked past it. Before my Caribbean holiday finale, though, there are two days in Medellín, the city of "eternal spring"; a name that's quite sweet, but doesn't do justice to the second largest city in the country, as its character is marked by a dark past. I'll tell you more about that tomorrow. See you tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 17/25“ Pablo Escobar and I have almost nothing in common. Except maybe that we both were willing to go over bodies (in his case, he already did). And we did so in very different ways: while in my case it’s limited to cemetery visits, he did it literally. But how can such an evil person also be so warm-hearted? One could also ask the question the other way around. Today, we dedicated the day to this man and visited the four most important places related to his life: the memorial at the site of his former house; "La Catedral," his self-built prison; "Cancha El Dorado," the football stadium he built; and his final resting place at the cemetery in Itagüí. "Fascinating" might not be the right word, given the scale of his atrocities, but there is a certain eerie fascination surrounding his personality. I recommend anyone who’s a bit interested in the history of South American drug trade to Google it and read the details about him and the "Medellín Cartel" on Wikipedia. Here are two short quotes from it: "Pablo Emilio Escobar Gaviria (also known as 'El Doctor,' 'El Patrón,' or 'Don Pablo,' born on December 1, 1949, in Rionegro, and died on December 2, 1993, in Medellín) was a Colombian drug lord, drug trafficker, and terrorist. Through large-scale and first-ever industrialized drug trade, he became the head of the Medellín Cartel and one of the richest people in the world. He is considered one of the most powerful and brutal drug lords in history." "Escobar was also socially engaged: he financed hospitals, social housing, and schools, and thus enjoyed a good reputation among the poorest part of the population in his hometown of Medellín. The football stadium of his local team in Envigado was built with his funds. Escobar founded office and apartment complexes in Medellín, nightclubs, and numerous restaurants, and his traces are still visible today." And here’s a quote from our guide: "In the 1980s, Escobar put a bounty of $1,000 for each police officer killed. As a result, a bounty hunter blew up a bus with 50 police officers, making a quick $50,000." Interested? Then don’t forget to close your mouth while reading. A quick note about the pictures, as not all of them are self-explanatory: Pablo’s gravestone; the view from his grave over Medellín; the El Dorado stadium; La Catedral, his self-built "prison" with game halls, an entertainment center, and other amenities (like, for example, an escape route), which a prison requires; and the helicopter landing pad on the La Catedral grounds. See you tomorrow. Hola! „5 pics a day 18/25“ The organization of last night, which mostly consisted of watching the NFL game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs on my phone via DAZN during dinner, inspired me toward the end of the game to write today's journal entry: I’m taking a (literary) time-out. Today, I’ll just let the five pictures of "Inside Medellín" speak for themselves, increasing them to ten and adding captions. I ask for your understanding, but the fact that in one week, I’ll be back on a plane heading back to Austria is slightly inhibiting my creative flow. Tomorrow will be better, so... ...Hasta Mañana. Hola! "5 pics a day 19/25" I worry about humanity. It is responsible for the ever-smarter Artificial Intelligence, which I find concerning. But what worries me even more is that, at the same time, its Natural Intelligence seems to be heading towards zero, gaining speed. An example? From the moment a plane lands to when the doors open, it takes at least five minutes. Even while the plane is still slowing down, a third of the passengers jump up and rush to the aisle, which only has space for one person per row. The other half of those still seated only do so because they begrudgingly realize the aisle is hopelessly full, yet they still try to get up. Those who succeed end up trapped like a question mark, stuck between the seat in front, their own seat, the overhead compartment, and (usually) a nervous seatmate. About half of the remaining two-thirds have resigned themselves to the “not-aisle seat” fate, and only the other half remains cool, waiting (usually engrossed in their phone display) until the doors open and then getting up when it's their turn. (On an A320 with about 150 seats, that means the reasonable (intelligent) fraction is just 25 people.) This inevitably made me think of Alex Kristan, who addresses this situation in one of his comedy programs, ending with the line: “Bet we all get off the same plane?” And I add: “Before (God and) the baggage claim belt, we’ll all be the same again.” The crowding at the baggage claim is another story. Maybe I’ll get to that one day. Exactly 20 years ago, we visited the Caribbean for the first and only time (Dominican Republic). Today, it's time again: Santa Marta on Colombia's Caribbean coast was waiting for us. In the few hours since we landed, this place has shown us a completely different side of Colombia: loud (not only because of the World Cup qualification match against Ecuador, which was playing in hundreds of bars on hundreds of monitors (and Colombia lost 0-1)), hectic, and somewhat dirtier than we’ve been used to. Let’s see what the next two days of hiking bring, but probably no Wi-Fi, so the next diary entry will likely not appear until Thursday (Friday CET). Until (the day after) tomorrow. Hola! "5 pics a day 20/25" Colombia lost the World Cup qualifying match against Ecuador. However, the mood, the hustle, and the noise in Santa Marta barely seemed affected, and so we escaped to the quieter grounds of the Sierra Nevada. We once again explored history and the jungle. First, we passed the Piedras de Donama, stone carvings from pre-Columbian times, which are still used by indigenous people for ceremonial purposes. Then, we ventured into the botanical heart of the region. In about five hours, we covered around 15 kilometers, passing through all imaginable zones of rainforest vegetation, as well as coffee plantations, avocado trees, and cattle pastures. In the midst of it all was the prehistoric stone city of Bunkuany, an archaeological complex that is also known as “the second lost city,” after the more famous but much harder-to-reach Ciudad Perdida. And finally, the rainforest lived up to its name: We not only saw the mystical, low-hanging clouds, but we also felt them. Not for too long, just about half an hour, enough for everything to get soaking wet. Luckily, we had made belts with suspenders, first covering the backpacks with rain covers and then throwing a poncho over everything. Our accommodation today is somewhere in the middle of nowhere in the Colombian mountain range, without a phone network but with electricity and Wi-Fi (which you need as much as a bite of bread when the night begins right after dinner at 7:00 PM). Hasta Mañana. Hola! "5 pics a day 21/25" I had imagined it so nicely: I bought Saucony Goretex trail running shoes, and added 4 mm spikes that I would have screwed into the soles. And just like that, I would have been able to walk safely and steadily over Lake Baikal in Siberia, frozen solid, for 42.2 km. But then, COVID messed up my plans. The following year, a certain Mr. P. came along with an order for his subjects to make an, let's say, unlawful visit to Ukraine, which continues to affect the situation today. So, the Saucony (the spikes still work) have been sitting at home since 2021. I know the bus with the people who are interested in this hasn’t arrived yet, but I can't think of anything better to share today. Today was day two of exploring the Colombian jungle. And now, here’s where the Saucony come into play: after not being able to use them for their original purpose, and knowing I probably won’t be able to anytime soon, I allowed them to accompany me on this journey and, under equally difficult but completely different conditions – 90% humidity and almost 30°C instead of bone-dry cold – they lost their virginity, late but at last. Right away, I can say that they proved themselves (just like the day before) as the ultimate expedition shoes. Grip like there’s no end, like a Formula 1 tire on the A1 Ring, even on wet rocks, a tread that could handle even the muddiest ground, and the water resistance of the upper material only met its limit when it transitioned to the hiking socks. If I ever go back to the jungle or similar botanical terrain, these shoes will again be my connection to the planet. So, between the first and second day of the expedition, I could relax peacefully in the hammock or enjoy floating in the natural pool. Even the mules by the side of the road happily wagged their tails at my newfound surefootedness. After losing an estimated ten liters of sweat over the last two days, we’ve returned to civilization in Santa Marta, and tomorrow we’ll start the final, 180 km stage of our small, lovely round trip to Cartagena by bus. See you tomorrow! Hola! "5 pics a day 22/25" A pretty exciting day today! I invented something, I/we dove into another world, stood on our feet, as they say, and added one more t-shirt to our collection. I invented the “negative tip.” That means: instead of us giving tips for kindness and helpfulness, we receive one for enduring an awful attitude. Our bus driver did his job of safely getting us (and others) from point A to point B, but he had, as they say, a truly unpleasant attitude that would have ruined the day for all his passengers. If I had already figured out how to implement my invention, we would have gotten off the bus more than we got on. So, in the end, it was just a zero-sum game. But I’m still working on ways to make it happen. Upon reaching our final destination, we realized: On one side, there’s Colombia, and on the other, there’s Cartagena. This city is, based on our first impression (we’ll know more tomorrow), an entirely different world. Loud, modern, fairly clean, full of life, colorful, and definitely worth seeing. However, when we checked into our accommodation, we encountered something far worse than the bus driver’s attitude (which was already almost to the floor): we were supposed to end our vacation in a hole! The room was filthy, moldy, in short: a dump. That it was tiny and only had a window facing the hallway was the least of the issues. So, the last memory of Colombia was supposed to be a bad and unpleasant one. But then we remembered the words of our travel expert from Chaska Tours, who had told us to let her know anything that wasn’t right so our trip would be as pleasant as possible. And that’s exactly what we did. Within an hour, we were in a hotel of such quality that we had to close our mouths in surprise. Although that’s part of their job, this level of flexibility, speed, simplicity, and professionalism isn’t always guaranteed, and we want to give special thanks to Delia Koch from the local operator Chaska Tours, a partner of an Austrian company. Thanks to her, the trip now has a good chance of ending with happy memories. To avoid breaking a holiday tradition, we had to visit the Hard Rock Café in Cartagena, where we had a burger and also bought a t-shirt, which has now brought our collection to about 20 similar shirts. PS: I don’t want to blame the tour operator for the unacceptable hotel room, since Google reviews range from one to five stars. Unfortunately, we got assigned one of the bad ones. And those who speak up, like me (which I do far too rarely), end up benefiting. Until tomorrow!  Hola! "5 pics a day 23/25" Following the logic of many "After... is before...", I also apply "After the vacation is before the vacation," although I'm not sure if my version of this saying is the original one. Anyway, times change, and today I decided to give this saying a little dynamism: "The last days of the vacation are already before the vacation." The reason for this is my first-sight love for Cartagena. What started to show yesterday has been confirmed today. This city has seen me for the first time, but surely not for the last. So, during today's walk through the Getsemaní district, we started making plans for a comeback: since Ecuador, a neighboring country of Colombia, ranks among the top five on our world exploration bucket list, we will tackle it with a stop in Cartagena. A possible time could be in 2027. So much for medium-term planning. Anyway, the Getsemaní district has been named one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world by Forbes Magazine, and their idea of "cool" is almost, well, actually, congruent with mine. As proof of that, I’m adding some photos alongside the usual five. In the evening, we headed to La Boquilla, a fishing village on the outskirts with over 200 years of history, and Afro-Caribbean roots. The village youth keeps the tradition alive by offering drumming, singing, and dance performances that reflect the rituals of the three cultures: African, Caribbean, and indigenous Colombian. See you tomorrow. Hola! "5 pics a day 24/25" As if the last day of vacation wasn’t already going by too quickly, we hopped onto a speedboat to speed things up a bit more. In fact, it turned out to be more of a delay, because due to the speed, a lot of life came at us in the last few hours, and the day was still packed with activities. That's what happens when your flight doesn’t depart until 10:30 p.m. So, we hopped from island to island for fun. Five times in total, in the sea off the coast of Cartagena. And since we’re in the Caribbean, we ended with a bit of that Caribbean vibe. You could even say it was a Bacardi kind of feeling. 34 degrees Celsius, and with everyone in the hotter temperature range, it doesn’t exactly make saying goodbye any easier. And since the guys at the mobile bars know how to mix drinks, I might be betting on the number of photos. See you at the graduation entrance tomorrow. Hola! "5 pics a day 25/25 (Last Day) Finally back in Europe, and with that, it's time for some numbers (aside from the 30 degrees less and 6 hours more): Of the 24 nights, we spent 23 in 14 different, geographically very diverse accommodations. Night 24 passed as we were high above the Atlantic. To get to know a fair bit of Colombia, we needed seven domestic flights covering a total distance of about 2,100 km and we spent about 1,700 km in a car. By boat, we covered about 150 km. If it doesn’t rain (or hardly rains, and if it does, it’s hardly disruptive) during the rainy season, you can consider yourself lucky. We had that in considerable measure. We were aware of the risk. However, there’s something to note: If you want to travel through the whole country, due to its size and proximity to the equator, there is no "right" or ideal travel season. Because: If you want to see the famous colorful plants in the water at Caño Cristales, this is only possible when the rainy season is happening in the Caribbean part (and therefore the north) of the country. But if you want to avoid the risk of rain there, you’ll definitely exclude the possibility of visiting Caño Cristales. As our former chancellor F.S. once said: "It’s all very complicated." And Caño Cristales is one of the highlights in Colombia. Colombia doesn’t have extreme tourist hotspots like Peru with Machu Picchu or Bolivia with the Salar de Uyuni, but it still offers a lot of different things to see and experience, whether landscapes, history, culture, or of course the people with their types and characters. Maybe just two more words about safety: Colombia now and Colombia from 20 or 30 years ago are not comparable. By following the minimum standards of caution (which, by the way, are also needed in Vienna), the country is safe. We heard several times that Colombians live in more danger than tourists because even the "bad guys" know that tourism is essential for the country, so a bad reputation isn’t an option, and they prefer to hit each other over the head, as they say. With that, I’ll close my "5 pics a day" diary and start prioritizing where the next posts will come from. See you later!

In the southern region of Colombia, we are privileged to have one of the country’s largest waterways: the majestic Magdalena River. This river is more than just a source of life; it’s a vital intersection of history, nature, economy, and tourism. As a travel agency, we believe it’s essential for travelers to experience, connect with, and help preserve this invaluable natural resource. The Magdalena River flows through 11 departments of Colombia and has historically been a communication route linking the country’s interior with the Atlantic coast, connecting Colombia to the world. The river has facilitated trade and cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impact on the regions it traverses. The Magdalena River is also a journey through Colombia’s history. From the earliest riverside settlements to the development of major cities, its waters have witnessed significant cultural and social transformations that have shaped the country’s identity. This cultural, historical, and architectural heritage deserves recognition, study, and preservation as part of Colombia’s national legacy. For these reasons, we have decided to pay tribute to the Magdalena River by highlighting its importance and celebrating the communities that live along its banks. Additionally, we aim to diversify Colombia’s tourism offerings by promoting sustainable tourism as an economic activity that strengthens the country’s cultural identities. The Magdalena Strait: A Natural and Cultural Icon   One of the most iconic spots along the Magdalena River is The Magdalena Strait , located in the Huila Department. This breathtaking location, where Colombia's most important river narrows to just 2.2 meters wide, offers an unparalleled visual and emotional experience. Surrounded by majestic landscapes, the Magdalena Strait showcases the river’s powerful waters as they begin their long journey to the Caribbean Sea. This site represents the symbolic starting point of the river’s historical and cultural significance in Colombia's development. Visiting The Magdalena Strait  means stepping into a unique natural setting — perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with nature and a better understanding of the river’s importance in Colombia’s history. More than just a tourist destination, this place invites reflection on preserving Colombia’s environmental and cultural heritage. We invite you to be part of this unique experience and discover everything the South of Colombia has to offer. Come and explore the Magdalena River!

The Colombian region of Caldas , located in the renowned Coffee Cultural Landscape , left a lasting impression during our recent inspection trip . As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site , Caldas stands out not only for its coffee plantations but also for its breathtaking nature, sustainable tourism, and authentic cultural experiences. Highlights of Our Experience Manizales The city blends culture and nature seamlessly. The impressive Catedral Basílica Nuestra Señora del Rosario , standing 113 meters tall, is the city’s iconic landmark. Manizales is also the perfect starting point for exploring the Nevado del Ruiz , a must-see destination for nature lovers. Pure Nature: Mountain Routes and Trekking Trekking enthusiasts will be thrilled. From the Otún Crossing  to challenging routes like the ascent to Nevado Santa Isabel , Caldas offers options for all experience levels. Our guided mountain tours  provide an opportunity to explore unique landscapes and páramo ecosystems, blending adventure with sustainability. Thermal Luxury A special recommendation is the Termales La Quinta . This secluded retreat, surrounded by mountains, features private thermal waters, personalized service, and spectacular views—an absolute must for those seeking relaxation and a deep connection with nature​. Unique Accommodations From luxurious eco-lodges  like Nido del Cóndor , which offer a safari-like atmosphere with full board, to traditional fincas in the mountains, the region’s accommodation options are as diverse as its landscape. Authentic Experiences Horseback and mule rides with La Juana , visits to coffee plantations, and encounters with local culture make Caldas a destination that perfectly combines adventure and authenticity . Our Conclusion: Caldas remains a hidden gem for international travelers, far from the crowded tourist hotspots like Salento. For those seeking nature, adventure, and culture, this region delivers a truly unforgettable experience. Tip:  Plan at least 3-4 days to fully immerse yourself in the diversity of Caldas!

Nemocón, a charming small town located just 65 kilometers from Bogotá, is the perfect destination for lovers of history, nature, and tranquility. Surrounded by lush green mountain landscapes, this place combines a picturesque ambiance with a rich cultural and mining heritage. The Nemocón Salt Mine The highlight of Nemocón is its famous Salt Mine – a unique experience that takes you deep into the heart of the Earth. The guided walk through the mine lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, taking you through historic tunnels that date back over 500 years. During the tour, you can: Explore impressive galleries illuminated by lights that enhance the beauty of the salt walls. Learn about mining history through expert guides who explain ancient extraction techniques. Admire natural and artistic wonders, such as the "Heart of Nemocón," a 1,600-kilogram salt sculpture symbolizing love and hope, and the largest salt crystal ever extracted from the mine. Visit the salt mirror, a unique reflection created by the combination of salt and water. Experience an underground chapel where religious ceremonies are held, offering a perfect spot for spiritual reflection. Enjoy an exhibit of replicas of prehistoric fossils, such as a mastodon, enriching the historical aspect of the site. Additional Activities in Nemocón: Stroll around its cozy central square, surrounded by colonial architecture, perfect for taking photos or relaxing. Savor the delicious local dishes in nearby restaurants. Nemocón is a destination that blends nature, culture, and tranquility, making it ideal for a day trip!

Promoting Adventure and Nature Tourism in Colombia The ATTA Summit 2024 , held in Panama, brought together some of the brightest minds in the global adventure and nature tourism sector. As one of the most important events of the year, this summit provided a unique platform for industry leaders, experts, and passionate professionals to explore the future of sustainable tourism, share innovative ideas, and collaborate on a global scale. This year’s summit stood out for its emphasis on sustainability  and responsible tourism , two vital pillars for the future of the industry. Through captivating presentations, workshops, and panel discussions, participants had the chance to delve deep into the latest trends shaping the adventure travel landscape. From new technologies that enhance the travel experience to more eco-conscious ways of exploring nature, the event highlighted the ways in which the sector is evolving to meet the demands of modern travelers. For countries like Colombia , participating in such a prestigious event was an incredible opportunity to showcase the richness of our natural landscapes and their commitment to responsible tourism. Colombia, with its diverse ecosystems and vibrant cultural heritage, has much to offer in the adventure travel space, and its presence at the ATTA Summit 2024 reinforced its growing role as a key player in this global industry. As the summit wrapped up, it was clear that the future of adventure and nature tourism lies in collaboration  and innovation . The exchange of ideas and the connections made during this event will undoubtedly shape the direction of the industry in the years to come. Whether it’s through developing new sustainable travel routes, creating immersive experiences that benefit local communities, or embracing new technologies that reduce environmental impact, the ATTA Summit 2024 has set the stage for a more sustainable and exciting future  in adventure tourism.

Just 15 kilometers from the urban center of the municipality of Isnos, in the department of Huila, lies the Salto de Bordones. This impressive waterfall, considered one of the highest in South America, offers a unique experience for nature and adventure lovers. Upon arriving at Salto de Bordones, travelers are greeted by a dreamlike landscape where lush vegetation and mountains create a magical setting. The waterfall, which plunges approximately 400 meters, is a breathtaking spectacle. The sound of the falling water, along with the birds' songs, transforms the atmosphere into a true symphony of nature. Access to the waterfall is via a trail that invites visitors to enjoy the local flora and fauna. This path stretches for a couple of kilometers, and along the way, you can observe various species of plants, trees, and, if you're lucky, perhaps spot some of the birds that inhabit the region. Once you get near the waterfall, the view is simply spectacular. The Salto de Bordones presents a visual display that not only impresses with the height of the water but also with the way it cascades down in multiple streams. The force with which the water hits the pool at the base of the fall creates a mist that rises into the air, creating a fresh and invigorating atmosphere. Visitors have the option to approach the edge of the pool, where they can feel the power of the water and enjoy an impressive panoramic view. This spot is ideal for taking photographs, but also for enjoying a moment of peace and reflection in the midst of nature.

A Little Piece of Germany Will Arrive in Colombia with the Magic of Oktoberfest Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival, is celebrated annually in Munich, Germany. Its origins date back to 1810, when it was planned in honor of the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria (the future King Ludwig I) and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. On that occasion, the citizens of Munich were invited to celebrate in the fields we now know as Theresienwiese. The event was such an overwhelming success that it was decided to repeat it every year. This year, Oktoberfest is coming to San Agustín, Huila, bringing one of Germany’s most iconic traditions to this charming Colombian town. A group of brewers has decided to share the charm of their culture with the local community, creating a unique experience that blends Germany’s rich heritage with the vibrant culture of San Agustín’s residents. The event promises to be a magical day, where both locals and visitors can enjoy a true cultural fusion. There will be typical games from both traditions, allowing participants to interact and share customs. In addition, it will be the perfect opportunity to savor both local and German cuisine. This day invites everyone to immerse themselves in a celebration of cultural diversity, where the mix of German and Agustinian traditions will create an unforgettable experience for all attendees. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this magnificent fusion of cultures and traditions in the heart of San Agustín. Oktoberfest San Agustín Huila - October 26th, 2024. A Recap of the First Oktoberfest in San Agustín in 2019: https://youtu.be/g5lr6FbUMmk

After nearly an hour of flying over the vast Eastern Plains from Bogotá, we landed in Puerto Carreño, a small town of 20,000 inhabitants located at a corner of the country bordering Venezuela. It is the capital of Vichada, the second-largest department in Colombia, covering 100,000 km²—about the same size as South Korea.The Orinoco River both divides and connects, depending on how you look at it, for about 300 kilometers to the south, forming the border with Venezuela. These same 300 kilometers would be our route, which we would travel by boat on this majestic aquatic highway on our journey to Inírida. There wasn’t much to do in Carreño besides buying roasted chicken for lunch, withdrawing some money from the small central plaza, and then crossing a commercial passage on a motorcycle taxi to reach the “international dock.” The name seemed too grand for the small pier where we boarded the boat that would take us to our first stop: the Tambora camp on the edge of El Tuparro National Park. We made a couple of stops first, one to rest after the initial four-hour boat ride in the town of Casuarito, and another to stretch our legs and begin to enjoy the first of many river and savannah landscapes that we would encounter in the following days. The walk was also a safety measure: the boat couldn’t cross the fierce Atures rapids with us on board, so we observed them from the riverbank.   Though the walk was short (about an hour) and on flat ground, the climate was already making its presence felt. The exhaustion we experienced was due not only to the 30-degree temperatures with over 75% humidity but also to the overwhelming sensation of being in the midst of such a monumental environment. By late afternoon, we arrived at Tambora, a basic and, at first glance, unwelcoming camp located on a point jutting out by the riverbank. There stood a large building—large by the rustic standards of the few constructions we had seen along the way—which housed a primary school founded by the Italian priest Javier de Nicoló. We would spend our first two nights there. The next day, we set out in the morning to explore the surroundings of El Tuparro National Park, one of the largest in Colombia, covering around 550,000 hectares. Less than an hour by boat brought us to Carestía Hill. Here, a trail led us up a rocky hill to reveal, at the top, a spectacular view of the river and the savannah. From the Venezuelan side, we had a perspective of the protected area on the Colombian side, and behind us, an equally impressive view of the Guiana Shield stretching westward.   After descending and taking a short break to drink cold panela water and replenish our energy, we continued to the Maipures Rapids, one of the most iconic sites of this excursion, which Humboldt once described as the eighth wonder of the world.   Aerial photographs and videos show the power and beauty of this rapid system, which spans approximately 8 kilometers. We passively observed it at river level, awaiting the adventure the next day when we would cross it by boat on our way to Matavén. After Maipures and before lunch, we headed to the Tuparro River, where we enjoyed a refreshing swim in the jungle. We spent some time watching a beautiful mirror-like body of water, which was broken by a group of dolphins hunting, taking advantage of the currents where the Tuparro River meets the Orinoco. In the afternoon, we took the boat again to explore the Tomo River. We walked once more through the savannah and forests, listening to the sounds of the river and jungle, and watched the sunset from a rock where several fishermen were gathering and relaxing after their day’s work.   On the early morning of Day 3, we were awakened by a heavy downpour that lasted almost all day. We had to delay our departure by about an hour, waiting for conditions to improve and preparing our gear and boats for a six-hour navigation. After this long journey, we arrived soaked at Mataveni. The most thrilling part of the trip was crossing the Maipures Rapids for about 20 minutes. Our skilled boatman expertly navigated the turbulent currents, finding seemingly impossible paths through the water. We had unrivaled views while experiencing firsthand the river's force, which rocked the boat from side to side and up and down. Usually, this crossing is done by car, but because of the season (the rainy winter), the river’s volume allowed for a faster, direct passage over the water. Despite the long day on the boat, the scenery never became dull. Although we had been sailing for three days, we never got used to the river's grandeur, and it was always a pleasure to watch the forests, water, and rocky mountains, which hinted at what we would see two days later in Mavecure. We counted no more than four or five boats along the entire route, plus the occasional settlement, heightening the sense of awe and solitude in the immense nature surrounding us. This, along with the monotonous sound of the boat’s motor during the long journey, curiously created an almost perfect space for disconnecting, reflecting, and even meditating. We stopped to stretch our legs in a floating settlement where the community's lack of resources was evident. Despite living in an environment of incredible natural beauty and abundance, their lack of connectivity and basic necessities stood out. It seemed this population had been historically abandoned by distant governments that imposed arbitrary regulations on a territory they barely knew.   Around 2 p.m., we left the brown waters of the Orinoco and turned westward, sailing on the black waters of the Matavén creek. We arrived at the Selva de Matavén indigenous reserve, specifically the village of Sarrapia, home to the Piaroa community, located at the transition from the plains to the Amazon. There, we were warmly welcomed with a comforting lunch, and we enjoyed a peace that was very relaxing after the long boat journey. The rest of the afternoon was spent walking around the small village several times, chatting with locals, recovering our energy, and contemplating the river and jungle landscapes. A boarding school and two sports fields stood out among the wooden houses and the community’s gardens. Life there seemed peaceful, and the village’s routine appeared to be marked mainly by the schoolchildren’s schedule.   We awoke on Day 4 rested and ready for a new day. After a brief final tour of Sarrapia to say goodbye, we boarded the boat for a two-hour trip to Inírida, now in the department of Guainía and in the middle of the jungle, as the plains were far behind us. The rain didn’t prevent us from enjoying the stunning natural scenery. Three spots particularly surprised me that day: the altar to the Virgin on a giant rock in the middle of the river, the confluence of the Guaviare, Atabapo, and Orinoco Rivers, and the majestic Mavecure Hills, seen from the Inírida River. We said goodbye to the border with Venezuela and arrived in Inírida, the capital of Guainía. At first glance, the city seemed more dynamic and thriving than Puerto Carreño. We would rest there and have lunch before continuing for another two hours on the Inírida River to El Remanso, an indigenous village where we would spend the next two nights. After the first hour of navigation, with the rain clouds clearing and giving way to the afternoon sun, we saw the Mavecure Hills for the first time. The excitement was immense when Cerro Mono, Pajarito, and Mavecure began to emerge along the river, after so many hours of travel that seemed short compared to the more than 20 years I had waited to finally be there. We arrived at the Piaroa community of Remanso, at the base of Cerro Pajarito, the tallest of the three at 700 meters. There, we were welcomed into a comfortable and cozy lodge. After settling in, we walked with Cerro Pajarito always on our left, searching for the Inírida Flower, an endemic species. We followed a trail through the forest, crossing streams of deep red water and spotting the nests of oropendolas, whose excited songs filled the air before sunset.   The small village of Remanso, with less than thirty houses, appeared organized and efficient. It has a water purification plant powered by solar energy, an electricity generator also powered by the sun, a mobile phone antenna, a multipurpose sports field, and a plot where a large school is planned. We went to bed early, as the next day we would begin our hike at dawn with the goal of witnessing the sunrise from Cerro Mavecure, the only one of the three hills that can be climbed to its summit. With the help of ropes to prevent slipping on the wet rock and a good cup of hot coffee before setting out, we began the climb at around 5:00 a.m. The ascent was just under two kilometers of hiking. Unfortunately, the sky was overcast all morning, preventing us from seeing the sunrise. However, we were not disappointed, as we were fortunate to watch low clouds pass between us, sometimes even below our feet, completely covering the view of the river and the other two hills. In those moments, it felt like we were floating among the clouds.     We spent a couple of hours at the summit of the hill, taking photos and admiring the landscapes repeatedly, as if we wanted to engrain each view into our memory forever. Upon descending, we returned to the lodge for breakfast and put on our swimsuits to explore the San Joaquín Creek, where we took a short hike and enjoyed a refreshing swim with Cerro Mono in the background. We walked through the neighboring community of Venado before returning to rest and prepare our bags for the next day’s departure to Inírida. In the summer, it’s common to bathe on the beaches formed by the dry riverbed under the hills, but this time everything was covered in water, so we took advantage of the opportunity to sail and once again observe another group of dolphins hunting in the Mavecure Rapids. The following morning, we bid farewell to the Mavecure Hills and boarded the boat for another two-hour trip back to Inírida, already feeling the sense of goodbye as we turned our experiences into memories. In Inírida, we had time to explore a bit before our flight back to Bogotá. We first visited the Vitina Creek, whose deep red waters looked perfect for a refreshing swim under the hot, humid weather, just as a group of children joyfully jumped off a bridge into the creek, over and over again.   We also saw a set of petroglyphs, the Inírida River flooding areas that six months later would give way to beaches and paths, and a bit of the town itself, passing through the colorful local market, the bustling central street, and ending at the airport, where we waited for our flight.   Thus concluded a journey that I had personally longed for many years and that, once realized, exceeded my expectations. I can’t find enough words to describe the sense of harmony, awe, and connection with nature I experienced here. My travel companion, a Basque client who became a friend after those six days, also left happy. Both of us took away memories from a place that seemed to belong to another world—a world full of water, greenery, and life. In addition to the monumental landscapes, we reflected on the contradiction of seeing such natural abundance alongside the needs faced by indigenous and settler communities. These communities continue to seek space, respect, and recognition in this other Colombia—untamed and beautiful, yet always on the margins and forgotten by the centralist and indifferent gaze of successive governments. Far from mass tourism, this region offers a perfect environment for travelers seeking natural beauty, disconnection, a bit of adventure, but above all, authenticity. Definitely one of the best trips of my life.

Isnos, San Agustín, and Pitalito are the most competitive in the production of sugarcane for panela.   Sugarcane for panela is one of Colombia's most distinctive crops. This agro-industry is the second most significant at the national level, generating 3.3 billion pesos per year, according to data provided by Agronegocios (2024). According to the report for the second half of 2023, presented by the Rural Agricultural Planning Unit, the southern region of Huila is the most competitive in panela production. Isnos is the largest producer, with 4,200 hectares of cultivated land, followed by San Agustín with 3,213 hectares, and Pitalito with 770 hectares, according to the most recent census in 2020. To date, the National Federation of Panela Producers highlights that Colombia is the second-largest producer of panela in the world, with an annual production of 1.2 million tons, following India, which contributes around 7.5 million tons of panela per year. In the village of La Pradera, in the municipality of San Agustín, you will find the El Pomo farm and the Jojoa family’s sugar mill. Thanks to artisanal panela sugarcane production, this family maintains an economy where Mr. Juan Gabriel Jojoa Anacona and his family work the land to fill the sweet baskets of millions of Colombian families. Their product also crosses borders, sweetening palates in North America and Europe. Hundreds of foreign tourists visit the sugar mills in the region for the first time, where the sugarcane is processed into a flavorful block.   During their journey through Colombia, travelers taste panela in various preparations, such as panela lemonade with lime and mint for a sunny day. We invite you to discover the department of Huila, where you will fall in love with the beautiful mountains of the Andean region, the majestic Magdalena River, the impressive waterfalls, and the vast sugarcane fields.

Biological Corridor Cueva de los Guácharos - Puracé Colombia is known for many things, but its breathtaking nature reserves are definitely among the highlights. These places offer not only stunning landscapes but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, leave the daily grind behind, and take part in exciting ecotourism activities. One of these magical places is the Reserva del Oso, located along the road to the village of Quinchana, near the biological corridor Cueva de los Guácharos - Puracé. The reserve covers more than 4,200 hectares of protected land and is named after the spectacled bear that calls this area home. During our hike through the region, we even spotted the bear’s claw marks on some of the oldest trees. The trail through Reserva del Oso takes you through an impressive variety of trees like Maíz tostao, Molilon, and Pachotillo, past colorful mosses, and a wide range of ferns. It’s also a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers, with wild species such as the Andean bear, lowland tapir, cock-of-the-rock, and Churuco monkey. At the end of the 3 km hike, you’re rewarded with a refreshing dip under the waterfalls Velo de Novia and Brisas del Oso – a perfect conclusion to this nature-filled adventure. Our guide, Manuel Meneses, who is also the guardian of the reserve, led us through the rich vegetation with great passion. He also runs the cozy cabins on site, which are perfect for a relaxing stay for couples or families. Chaska Tours has put together a program that takes you deep into nature, allowing you to relax while having fun at the same time. Discover the beauty of San Agustín and let yourself be enchanted by the Reserva El Oso!