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Otún Quimbaya
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Animal habitat
The Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary is tucked away in the Central Cordillera of Colombia, approximately 14 kilometers east of Pereira in the Risaralda department. Established in 1996, the sanctuary protects 489 hectares of Andean cloud forest, which is critical for safeguarding the Otún River watershed, the primary water source for the city of Pereira. A unique aspect of the sanctuary is its management by 'Yarumo Blanco,' a local community-based organization, making it a globally recognized model for sustainable community ecotourism. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails to spot a wealth of biodiversity, including red howler monkeys, mountain tapirs, and over 250 bird species, such as the endangered Cauca Guan. the flora is equally impressive, featuring massive Andean oaks, wax palms, and numerous orchid species. The sanctuary provides lodging and educational tours aimed at teaching the importance of maintaining the delicate ecological balance of high-altitude forests. It serves as a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and a hub for scientific studies on the biodiversity of the Colombian Andes.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Molino · Cascada Frailes View Point · Oceano
- Nearby: Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 87 | 104 | 145 | 193 | 168 | 113 | 90 | 92 | 110 | 194 | 191 | 146 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time to observe howler monkeys and endemic birds in Otún Quimbaya is during the drier months from December to March, when animals gather near remaining water sources. Sightings are also possible in the rainy season, though denser vegetation and lower activity make observation harder.
Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are prime times for spotting howler monkeys as they call and move through the canopy. Midday heat drives animals into shade, so plan your visit around dawn or dusk for best results.
Etiquette
Stay on designated trails to avoid disturbing the fragile undergrowth and always maintain a distance of at least ten meters from any wildlife. Feeding is strictly prohibited as it alters natural behaviour; silence increases your chances of sightings.
What to bring
Bring a good pair of binoculars for scanning treetops and a telephoto lens for your camera. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential as trails can be muddy, and a lightweight rain jacket is advisable due to frequent showers.
Getting there
The reserve is located near the town of Pereira in Colombia's Coffee Axis; you can reach it by car via a paved road that leads to the entrance. Local buses run from Pereira to the nearby village, from where you can hike or take a taxi to the park gate.
What to expect
Howler monkeys are often heard long before they are seen - listen for their deep roars and then wait quietly for them to appear. Birdwatching requires stillness and patience; sit beside a clearing and let the forest come alive around you.
Geography
Facts
- Officially designated as a sanctuary in 1996 by national decree.
- Protects a total land area of 489 hectares of cloud forest.
- Managed by the local community association Yarumo Blanco.
- Essential for protecting the water supply of the city of Pereira.
- Home to more than 250 bird species, including the Cauca Guan.
- Features an eco-lodge with capacity for 32 guests on-site.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Otún Quimbaya (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Otún Quimbaya?
A flora and fauna sanctuary located near Pereira.
Which animal is often heard there?
Red howler monkeys are known for their loud calls.
Is it good for bird watching?
Yes, it is one of the best destinations in Colombia for birdwatchers.
Can you stay overnight?
Yes, there is an eco-lodge for visitors within the sanctuary.
What is the difficulty level of the trails?
Mostly easy to moderate, on well-marked paths.
Otún Quimbaya: where is it located?
Otún Quimbaya is located in Colombia.
Otún Quimbaya: what is there to see?
Highlights include Molino, Cascada Frailes View Point, Oceano.
Otún Quimbaya: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Aug.
Otún Quimbaya: why is it worth visiting?
The Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary is tucked away in the Central Cordillera of Colombia, approximately 14 kilometers east of Pereira in the Risaralda department.
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Nearby cities
Pereira
The most important economic center of the coffee axis.
Dosquebradas
Industrial sister city of Pereira in the coffee axis.
Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal
Famous hot springs surrounded by lush green mountains and spectacular waterfalls.
Filandia
Filandia is a charming and colorful village in the Coffee Triangle, known for its impeccably preserved traditional architecture.
Manizales
Center of the Colombian coffee growing region.
Armenia
Central city in the famous Coffee Triangle.
Jardín
A picturesque coffee town celebrated for its brightly painted balconies and relaxed plaza culture.
Jericó
A spiritual and deeply traditional Antioquian town, home to Colombia's only canonized saint.
Cartago
Known as the city of the sun with colonial architecture.
Ibagué
Often referred to as the musical capital of Colombia.
Envigado
Municipality bordering Medellín to the south with a high quality of life.
Medellín
The second largest city, the city of eternal spring.
Bello
Significant industrial center north of Medellín.
Rionegro
Important city in eastern Antioquia with the international airport.
Neiva
Capital of the Huila province on the Magdalena River.
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César Gaviria Trujillo Viaduct
The César Gaviria Trujillo Viaduct is an impressive cable-stayed bridge connecting the cities of Pereira and Dosquebradas.
Atanasio Girardot Stadium
The Atanasio Girardot Stadium is the main sports complex in Medellín.
Santa Fe de Antioquia
One of the oldest cities in Colombia, famous for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture in a warm tropical climate.
Rock of Guatapé
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Tatacoa Desert
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