It is a unique space not only for its extraordinary natural wealth, but also for its importance for the region in environmental and biocultural terms.
Colombia News.
Located between the departments of Risaralda, Valle del Cauca and Chocó, the Tatamá National Natural Park is one of the most important protected areas in the country.
With an area of 43,036 hectares, this park extends from 1,165 meters to 4,250 meters above sea level, reaching the top of Tatamá Hill, in the western mountain range of Colombia.
It is a unique space not only for its extraordinary natural wealth, but also for its importance for the region in environmental and biocultural terms.
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The park is home to three types of orobiomes, including the Andean and sub-Andean páramo, making it a territory with exceptional environmental characteristics.
This area is essential for bird conservation, being a refuge for various endemic and migratory species. In fact, its success in conservation management has been recognized with the distinction of the IUCN Green List standard, an honor that only protected areas that meet the highest management standards possess.
In addition to its biodiversity, Tatamá provides crucial environmental goods and services for the region, such as water regulation and carbon capture, which reinforces its role in the fight against climate change and the protection of key ecosystems.
Recommendations for visitors
Tatamá National Natural Park is a majestic place, but it also requires precautions. Due to its climatic variability, visitors are advised to plan their trip based on the rainy seasons, which run from April to June and from October to December.
During these periods, there is a higher risk of sudden floods and landslides, so it is essential to pay attention to weather warnings and follow the recommendations of local guides.
The area is also home to poisonous snakes, which highlights the importance of carrying appropriate equipment to protect against snakebites and moving carefully on trails and in natural areas. It is also suggested to always carry a first aid kit and clothing suitable for cold and humidity.
Safety and risk prevention recommendations
Climate conditions and variability must be taken into account (rainy season, from April to June and from October to December) due to the risk of sudden floods and mass displacements. In addition, there is a presence of poisonous snakes in the area, so it is important to have protection against snakebites and to be cautious when moving around and interacting in the natural environment.
To carry out ecotourism activities within the protected area, visitors must have appropriate clothing for mountain activities, preferably waterproof and/or windproof thermal base layer clothing, UV-filtering sunglasses, and footwear with good grip and thick soles. Visitors must always:
- Be accompanied by a heritage interpreter or guide certified and endorsed by the Park, and follow all their instructions.
- Stay on roads and trails at all times.
- Keep quiet and enjoy the sounds of nature.
- Respect the trail signs.
- Do not alter or intervene in the notices, fences, signage or communication signs existing in the Area.
- Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.
- Do not leave any type of garbage (including organic).
- Physiological needs must be met in the bathrooms designated for that purpose.
For cyclists, the following must be provided:
- Mountain bike, gloves, reflective appliqués or safety lights on clothing or bike, helmet, emergency tool kit (at least puncture repair kits and basic wrenches), trauma kit (one for every five cyclists), camelback or small backpack that can carry hydration and road food, and glasses with UV specifications.
- Groups must be accompanied by Park staff and at least one 4×4 accompanying vehicle for 16 cyclists and two vehicles for 32 cyclists.
- Respect and comply with the rules and instructions of the guides or interpreters of the Protected Area.
- Bicycles must have front and rear lights.
The moor is not open to any public, taking into account that it is a Conservation Sanctuary with special characteristics, without human alteration and is vital for biodiversity.
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