THE SCOOP

Let’s take a walk with Mother Nature and allow her to nourish our minds and bodies with the sweet scent of life. Move yourself through the soft breeze and get lost in the beauty that humans often forget, because there is no greater gift than nature and no better gift that the one nature gives us.

 For decades, humans have been captivated with nature; they have explored its depths, to the point of being amazed by such beauty. However, the charm we often find in it makes us greedy and selfish, that is why we often waste and destroy it for the reward of money. Nevertheless, I invite you to right the wrongs of humanity and enjoy the awesome existence of mountains, rivers, animals and outstanding landscapes.

 Even though it might be hard to find a place full of green in a city built in cement like Bogota, I am here with the mission to introduce you to the place where nature claims every inch of the ground and it is just 30 minutes away from the city! It is the Natural Park of Chicaque.

LOCATION

This reserve is located in the outskirts of Colombia’s capital in the kilometer 21-route La Mesa- Soacha.

FAUNA AND FLORA

Chicaque offers a marvelous humid-forest ecosystem full of birds, butterflies, llamas, sloths, deer and more animals. All of this creates an incredible atmosphere, not only for experienced scientists, but also for enthusiastic explorers like you.

LODGING

You might be planning a one-day visit to the reserve but, still, I bet one day will leave you wanting more. I mean, you can also choose to spend a wild night camping in specific sites inside the park. There are two camping areas you can choose from: the “Porteria site” or the “Refugio site”. The second site is a perfect place for those beginner campers that prefer to be a little more comfortable.   Moreover, for those that prefer the coziness of a bed, there is a mountain hostel called “El Refugio”. It is located at the heart of the reserve and it can accommodate over 35 people. This place is entirely made of wood and it includes a restaurant, TV room and a balcony viewpoint; however, the most curious place is the library.

Besides the camping site and the mountain hostel, there are other thrilling choices for lodging, like the cabins. They are perfect for couples looking for peace and privacy. There is also the possibility of choosing to stay at the nests. Yes, they are literally nests! Wooden houses, 8 or 25 meters above the ground, where you can experience a unique night in the top of the trees. The nests are cozy, yet also a total challenge. In case you are considering sleeping in these places, remember to take with you camera, because the view from above is totally breathtaking.

ACTIVITIES

Activities include bird watching, horse-back riding and hiking. There is also the amazing experience of climbing and walking through beautiful tracks. Who wouldn´t like to do all these amazing activities?

Finally the reserve has a 1,115 feet zip-line that allows you to fly above the forest at a maximum height of 328 feet.

Chicaque is a total must-see destination and it can be enjoyed alone or with your whole family. If you are interested in finding out more about the park visit the web page www.chicaque.com