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Ready to delve into a destination that will steal your heart? Caquetá is a hidden treasure of Colombia! A land of lush natural beauty, rich history, and a cuisine that will leave you craving more.
Located in the heart of Colombian Amazon, this place is a green paradise where the tropical rainforest unfolds in all its majesty. Surrounded by winding rivers, lush forests, and a biodiversity that will leave you amazed, this destination will take you to a world full of wonders to discover. With a history dating back to ancient indigenous civilizations and a legacy of resistance and resilience, every corner of Caquetá is imbued with history and culture.
Why choose this destination?
Caquetá offers a unique experience that combines adventure, nature, and cultural authenticity like no other place. From jungle tours to encounters with indigenous communities, here you will find a genuine connection with the land and its inhabitants.
Caquetá is the cradle of majestic nature, home to jaguars, pink dolphins, and giant otters. Landscapes such as the Amazon rainforest will take your breath away. Explore indigenous culture, taste the delicious local cuisine, and live the adrenaline in adventure plans. This territory, with its friendly people and stunning landscapes, awaits you for a unique and unforgettable experience.
How to get to Caquetá
If you go by car
The municipal head of Caquetá is approximately 534 km south of Bogotá. To get there from the capital, you can opt for the land route, taking the Bogotá - Neiva - Altamira - Florencia route.
Important!
This trip usually takes around 10 hours to complete, and remember to carry cash as you will pass through 7 tolls costing a total of $91,300 approximately.
If you want to go by plane
To reach this green paradise, you can fly to Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes Airport in the capital, Florencia. Several airlines, including Avianca, Clic, and Satena, operate flights from major cities like Bogotá with prices starting from $392,000 COP per trip.
If you prefer to go by bus
From Bogotá to Caquetá
You can take a bus from the south terminal or Salitre in Bogotá heading to Florencia. Keep in mind that the transportation company on this route is Coomotor, with prices starting from $90,000 COP for the approximately 10-hour trip.
From Neiva to Caquetá
If you are in Neiva and want to go to Caquetá, go to the Neiva transportation terminal, where you can take a direct bus to Florencia, Caquetá. The transportation companies operating on this route are: Coomotor and Líneas Verdes, with prices starting from $49,000 COP for the approximately 6-hour trip.
From Medellín to Caquetá
At the Medellín terminal, you can take a bus to Florencia, Caquetá; keep in mind that the companies operating on this route are Coomotor, Bolivariano, with prices starting from $127,000 COP for the approximately 19-hour trip.
From Cali to Caquetá
Go to the Cali terminal and take a bus to Florencia, keep in mind that the price per trip is approximately $107,000 COP, the journey lasts about 16 hours, and the companies operating on this route are: Coomotor and Expreso La Gaitana.
4 interesting facts about Caquetá
It is nicknamed the ‘Giant of the Amazon’ or the ‘Heart of the Amazon’, boasting to be the third largest department in Colombia.
In Caquetá, more than 2,100 species of vertebrates live, including 1,028 types of fish, 150 amphibians, and 260 mammals. If you love nature, this destination will be perfect.
While navigating the Caquetá and Putumayo rivers, there is a chance, with a bit of luck, to observe emblematic dolphins that will captivate you with their grace and beauty.
Venture out and feel the adrenaline of sharing territory with the powerful jaguar and the elusive giant otter, two of the most beautiful mammals in the world.
Hotels in Caquetá and other accommodations
Beyond its untamed jungles and majestic rivers, Caquetá is also home to a variety of accommodations that promise to make your stay an unforgettable experience. Imagine resting in a cabin surrounded by century-old trees, or in a boutique hostel that reflects the authentic character of the region.
From ecolodges immersed in the jungle to comfortable hotels offering all modern amenities, each lodging option in Caquetá is designed to bring you closer to the essence of this natural paradise. Find the best places to stay in Caquetá, among so many accommodation options, you will find one that suits your taste and budget.
Remember that camping and glamping sites are usually located on the outskirts of Florencia, Caquetá, mostly in rural areas, so it is important to ask about access roads.
What is the typical food of Florencia, Caquetá
What better way to get to know a place than through its food? If you have wondered what to eat in Caquetá, you can delight yourself with a delicious variety of traditional dishes that reflect the region's cultural diversity.
Amazonian fruits
Arazá: fleshy fruit with a pulp containing seeds, green in its formation stage and yellow when ready to eat. It is ideal for industrialization.
Uva caimarona: exotic and delicious, this fruit is a fundamental part of the region's fruit offerings.
Copoazú: fruit weighing about 1,200 grams, with yellowish pulp and a strong characteristic aroma. The seed contains an aromatic fat similar to cocoa butter.
Fish
Pirarucú: one of the most prominent fish in the region, which can reach up to three meters in length, thanks to the water richness of Caquetá.
Traditional dishes
Sancocho de gallina: a typical Caquetá dish prepared with free-range chickens and cooked with firewood. Ingredients: free-range chicken, plantain, yuca, water, corn on the cob, vegetable coloring, onion, tomato, salt, potato, and rice.
Pescado muquiao’: ancestral recipe that involves salting the fish, wrapping it in smoked banana leaves, and cooking it underground with the heat of a bonfire. Served with roasted plantain, yuca, and rice, accompanied by chicha as a drink.
Gastronomic offerings in Florencia, Caquetá
The capital offers a mix of typical Colombian food, international dishes, and traditional indigenous recipes, providing a rich and diverse culinary experience for visitors.
What to do in Caquetá
This vast territory offers a wide range of activities for nature and adventure lovers.
Exploration of the Amazon Rainforest
Embark on exciting excursions through the dense Amazon rainforest, where you can discover an astonishing variety of flora and fauna.
Participate in guided walks along natural trails, where you will have the opportunity to spot exotic birds, monkeys, reptiles, and more.
No stress about logistics! This recommended plan will delight you: 4 days of extreme adventure and nature in Caquetá.
Visit to indigenous communities
Delve into the ancestral culture of the indigenous communities of the region, where you can learn about their traditions, crafts, and rituals.
Participate in intercultural activities such as preparing traditional foods, fishing with traditional methods, and making crafts.
Adventure on the river and waterfalls
Experience the thrill of rafting in Caquetá, where you can challenge turbulent waters and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding jungle. You can practice it in the canyons of the Pato and Caguán rivers, which offer an exciting experience.
Take exciting kayak trips along the region's rivers and tributaries, exploring spectacular landscapes and hidden corners.
Take a walk through La Aguililla, where you will find some of the best waterfalls in Caquetá that will leave you speechless due to their majesty. They are located in the municipality of Puerto Rico, La Aguililla rural area.
Visit La Luna waterfall located south of Caquetá, leaving the municipality of San José de Fragua, and marvel at its transparent waters.
Exploring the Caguán Canyon is a spectacular plan. The Caguán River originates on the slopes of the eastern mountain range, south of the Los Picachos National Natural Park, and runs for 700 kilometers. Along its course, it connects with three large lagoons: Chairá, Yaicoge, and La Playa Verde, all of great importance. Its banks are mainly inhabited by the Huitoto tribe indigenous people.
Discover the Pato River, known for being the inaugural site of the National Rafting Championship ‘Paddling for Peace’. This event was significant because it brought together athletes, the rural community, ex-combatants, and the security forces in a unique collaboration.
Save yourself the logistics and say yes to this recommended plan! Deep Caguán Expedition; Rafting, Hiking, and History in Caquetá.
Visit reserves in Caquetá and natural areas
The ecological paradise of the La Avispa Natural and Ecotourism Reserve offers unforgettable experiences, with the exciting activity of torrentism that combines adrenaline with the serenity of the environment. Surrounded by lush landscapes and captivating trails, La Avispa is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the Colombian Amazon while enjoying environmentally friendly activities.
One of the best plans to do in Caquetá is to visit Caño Prado, surely you will love it as it has natural slides and crystal-clear water. This beautiful destination is located in the La Pradera rural area of the El Doncello municipality, Caquetá.
Contemplate a beautiful and fascinating sunset at the Araracuara Waterfalls.
Scenic walks
Take guided walks along the jungle trails, where you can enjoy panoramic views, crystal-clear waterfalls, and the tranquility of pristine nature.
Visit natural viewpoints like the Sacharuna viewpoint, where you can enjoy impressive views of the Amazon landscape and unforgettable sunsets. It is located in the beautiful municipality of Belén.
Visit museums in Caquetá
Explore the cultural and historical richness of the region by visiting the Caquetá Museum, where you can see artifacts and remnants of the ancient civilizations that inhabited the area.
Botanical Garden
At the Botanical Garden of the Amazonia University, in Florencia, you learn about the natural wealth of Caquetá. With a cultural history museum, eight trails display orchids, heliconias, and dried seeds for making accessories. Plants like the cumare palm are preserved in a one-and-a-half-hour tour.
Birdwatching
Embark on exciting birdwatching tours in the protected natural areas of Caquetá, where you can observe an incredible diversity of species, including toucans, tanagers, hummingbirds, and more.
Click here and discover birdwatching routes in Caquetá.
Clothing recommendations and others
Wear comfortable and lightweight clothing suitable for the warm and humid climate of the region.
Use sturdy walking shoes, especially if you plan to do jungle excursions or outdoor activities.
Don’t forget to pack insect repellent and sunscreen to protect yourself from mosquitoes and the tropical sun.
If you plan to visit indigenous communities, bring a long-sleeved shirt and long pants as a sign of respect for their customs.
Be aware of the environmental impact of your actions and avoid leaving trash in nature.
Respect local traditions and follow the instructions of guides and locals for a safe and enriching experience.
Pack a light and functional backpack to carry with you during your adventures, with enough space for water, snacks, insect repellent, and other essentials.
Make sure to carry enough cash, as ATMs may be scarce in some areas.
Consider bringing a hat or cap and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun during outdoor activities.
If you plan to do water activities like rafting or river navigation, make sure to bring clothes and footwear that can get wet and dry quickly.
Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day, especially in tropical climates where dehydration can be a risk.
If you have health issues or allergies, be sure to carry necessary medications and a copy of your medical history in case of emergency.
Learn some basic phrases in Spanish if you don’t speak the language, as this can facilitate communication with locals and in emergency situations.
Familiarize yourself with safety rules and recommendations for jungle travel, including identifying poisonous plants and animals, and procedures in case of encounters with wildlife.
Don’t forget to bring a camera or device to capture the most memorable moments of your trip, but always respect the privacy and customs of local people when taking photos.
Frequently asked questions about Caquetá
Is it safe to travel to Caquetá?
Yes, as long as you follow safety recommendations and stay informed about local conditions.
Is Wi-Fi available in Caquetá?
In some urban areas and tourist establishments, you will find Wi-Fi connection, but don’t expect to have access in remote jungle areas.
What is the climate like in Florencia, Caquetá?
The climate of Florencia Caquetá is warm and humid with an average temperature of 26°C.
Click here and check out the available plans in Caquetá and don’t miss the chance to live experiences of a lifetime!
By: Tatiana García Rivera.
Travel SEO Writer.