Have you ever imagined being on a safari adventure, not in Africa, but in one of the most vibrant countries of South America? It is possible to experience an authentic sustainable safari in Colombia, specifically in the breathtaking region of Los Llanos.
This region boasts enchanting landscapes with the Amazon rainforest to the south and the Andes mountains to the west and also near the Orinoco River. Due to that, it is home to different animal species, rich culture, and vast jungle and savanna scenery.
Casanare is the ideal destination for a safari-style experience in this region, it focuses on eco-friendly practices, community involvement, and wildlife conservation efforts.
How to get there?
Traveling from Bogota to Casanare can be an exciting journey for those looking for an adventure trip in Colombia. The most convenient option is taking a one-hour flight from Bogota to Yopal, the capital of Casanare. Several airlines operate daily flights on this route. Upon arrival in Yopal, you will continue a road trip of approximately 2 to 3 hours through the Orinoquia region on 4×4 jeeps, until you arrive at your selected accommodation. During the journey, you will appreciate the rich biodiversity, vast plains, open grasslands, small towns, and rural landscapes.
What to do?
Every day travelers will have guided expeditions across the savannas, where they will witness a spectacle of diverse wildlife such as herds of capybaras, graceful deers, anteaters, and caimans resting along the riverbanks or a special occasion for birdwatching and photography tours. Also, take advantage of nocturnal safaris, where travelers can spot pumas with some luck.
Beyond wildlife spotting, safari tours offer additional experiences closer to nature, such as campfires accompanied by tales of local legends and llanero’s cultural dances. Besides, it will be a worthwhile experience for nature lovers seeking a truly cultural immersion that contributes to fauna conservation.
What makes it an eco-friendly experience?
Choosing this experience offers the opportunity to enjoy a meaningful trip through the region’s unique flora and fauna while promoting its conservation.
Travelers can become part of the Cunaguaro Foundation’s team to learn firsthand the initiatives for preserving five anteater species that live mainly in the Orinoco and Caribbean regions. They will accompany a team of veterinarians and biologists during their work and install camera traps to investigate the status of giant anteater populations.
Additionally, a specialist scientific researcher from the Cunaguaro Foundation will give you an insightful lecture about the conservation of anthills, felines, and other endangered species such as the river turtle.
As part of the experience for travelers in Casanare, they can learn about pumas conservation initiatives with Panthera, an international NGO, and join a local researcher to set up camera traps to track pumas.
Travel recommendations
- Find accommodation options for all budgets, from basic rustic accommodation in Hatos (local ranches) to luxury all-inclusive eco-lodges that offer unique sustainable experiences to traditional gastronomy alternatives.
- It is recommended to plan two days for tracking activities, as it can only be done between 5:00 to 8:00 and 16:00 to 19:00, due to species behavior and veterinary restrictions.
- The best time for a safari in Casanare is all year round, due to its incredible biodiversity and landscapes. However, from December to March it is a suitable climate across all Colombian regions.
- Pack essentials for a safari in Casanare: Bring practical long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect you from mosquito bites; also, a hat, hiking shoes, repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, a light raincoat jacket will be helpful.
Start offering your clients an unparalleled adventure that supports local communities and conservation. Contact Pure! Colombia, your reliable local tour operator, and let’s craft extraordinary sustainable travel experiences!
Published in May 2024
