Protected Areas in Colombia

Hidden Treasures of the Caribbean: The Rosario and San Bernardo Islands

The Rosario and San Bernardo Islands, situated off Colombia's Caribbean coast, are a stunning collection of small islands renowned for their natural beauty and biodiversity. These islands, surrounding coral reefs, and underwater ecosystems form the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park. The islands and their ecosystems support a wide variety of marine life and serve as popular tourist destinations due to their pristine beaches and vibrant underwater landscapes.

La Guajira: Desert, Mountains, and Indigenous Heritage

The La Guajira Peninsula, located at the northernmost tip of South America, is home to the vast and mesmerizing La Guajira Desert, the lush Serranía de Macuira mountain range, and the protected Macuira National Natural Park. This unique region of northern Colombia, extending slightly into Venezuela, boasts a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, indigenous cultures, and significant natural resources.

Malpelo Island: A Marine Sanctuary of Biodiversity

Malpelo Island and the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary are remarkable natural treasures located off the coast of Colombia in the Pacific Ocean. Malpelo Island is a critical biodiversity hotspot, supporting unique marine and terrestrial life despite its small size. The surrounding sanctuary, a vast marine protected area, is recognized globally for its pristine ecosystems and rich biodiversity.

San Agustín Archaeological Park: Gateway to Ancient Marvels in Colombia

The San Agustín Archaeological Park is located near the town of San Agustín in the Huila Department of Colombia. It represents the cultural and artistic achievements of a civilization that existed from the 1st to the 8th century in the northern Andean region. The park consists of three separate properties known as San Agustín, Alto de los Ídolos, and Alto de Las Piedras. It is home to South America's most extensive collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures.

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve: A Natural and Cultural Treasure

Nestled along the northern coast of Colombia, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park stands as a testament to the country's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Colombia's second oldest national park encompasses diverse ecosystems, from pristine beaches to snow-capped mountain peaks. Complementing this protected area is the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Biosphere Reserve, a vast expanse of natural wonder that overlooks the Caribbean coast.

Tayrona National Natural Park: A Symphony of Nature and History

Situated along the captivating northern coast of Colombia, Tayrona National Natural Park emerges as a harmonious blend of pristine landscapes, rich biodiversity, and echoes from ancient civilizations. Drawing its name from the ancient Tairona people, this coastal sanctuary is cradled by the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and embraced by the Caribbean Sea.

The Chicamocha Canyon and National Park: Colombia's Natural Wonder

Nestled within the rugged Andes Mountains of northern Colombia, the Chicamocha Canyon is a testament to nature's awe-inspiring power and beauty. This colossal geological wonder, carved over eons by the relentless forces of the Chicamocha River, is among the largest canyons in the world. Encompassing a vast area, the canyon's immense depths reveal a breathtaking landscape of towering cliffs, winding rivers, and diverse ecosystems. Chicamocha National Park lies within the canyon.

The Cinturón Andino: A Tapestry of Andean Wonders in Colombia

Nestled within the majestic folds of the Colombian Andes, the Cinturón Andino Biosphere Reserve stands as a crowning jewel, a testament to the extraordinary biodiversity and cultural richness that embodies this South American nation. This UNESCO-designated reserve is a harmonious tapestry woven from three distinct national parks: the ancient Cueva de los Guácharos, the volcanic splendor of Puracé, and the towering snow-capped peaks of Nevado del Huila.

The Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor: Safeguarding the Seas

The Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor is a vital marine conservation initiative encompassing several key marine protected areas across the eastern Pacific Ocean. Spanning the waters of Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador, this corridor aims to preserve one of the planet's richest and most diverse marine ecosystems. The corridor serves as a blueprint for international cooperation in marine conservation.

The Icy Giants of the Colombian Andes: Exploring the Sierra Nevada de Güicán, El Cocuy, and Chita

The Sierra Nevada de Güicán, El Cocuy, and Chita is a breathtaking range within the Andes Mountains of Colombia. This range, known for its stunning snow-capped peaks and glacial landscapes, is Colombia's largest glacial mass and the largest in South America north of the equator. This range holds deep cultural significance for the indigenous U'wa people and is a haven for biodiversity. Its awe-inspiring beauty and ecological and cultural importance make it one of Colombia's most treasured natural landmarks.