El Topacio Nature & Wildlife Hiking Tour – Cali, Colombia

Just 30 minutes from Cali, the El Topacio Environmental Center welcomes you into one of the city’s most accessible and enchanting nature escapes. Nestled at 1,676 meters above sea level and surrounded by lush cloud-forest vegetation, this protected reserve offers the perfect break from urban life: crystal-clear streams, cool mountain air, and peaceful green canopies that immediately reset your spirit.

Topacio is considered one of the region’s richest biodiversity hotspots, home to more than 150 bird species, colorful butterflies, orchids, medicinal plants, and wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, bats, and forest rodents. Every step along its trails reveals something new, making it an ideal destination for hikers, birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone seeking an authentic connection with Colombia’s natural heritage.

Once used for cattle and agriculture, the area has been carefully restored by the CVC, transforming Topacio into an important conservation zone and environmental education center. Fed by the La Chorrera and Los Indios streams, Topacio’s mix of Andean ecosystems creates vibrant, living pathways filled with birdsong, greenery, and fresh mountain aromas.

During your visit, we’ll share a brief and engaging talk about the history of the reserve, the recovery of the forest, and the key species that depend on these ecosystems. This blend of nature and meaningful learning makes the experience truly special.It’s the perfect setting for a half-day tour, offering tranquility, discovery, and a refreshing connection to the land — all just minutes from the city.

What to Expect on This Nature & Wildlife Tour

This immersive experience is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone curious about Colombia’s incredible biodiversity. Along well-marked trails such as El Barranquero and La Naturaleza, you’ll encounter:

• Over 150 species of birds, including the emblematic Cock-of-the-Rock

• Sloths, howler monkeys, squirrels, bats, and forest rodents like the guatín

• Reptiles such as the Lomo de Machete snake (non-aggressive)

• More than 40 butterfly species

• Orchids, ferns, bromeliads, giant trees, and medicinal native plants

• Crystal-clear streams and waterfalls up to 135 meters high

What to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable tour:

• Close-toe shoes with good traction (will get wet)

• Towel, hat, and sunblock, (biodegradable, also consider clothes to aid with wind and sun protection).

• Bug Spray

• Changing Clothes

• Bathing suit

• Reusable water bottle, Gatorade

• Camera or binoculars

Practical Information

• Duration: 7 hours

• Hike Distance 9-12 km

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Private or small-group

• Location: Pance, south of Cali

• Suitable for families & nature enthusiasts

Meeting point and end point : Hotel Intercontinental Cali, Av. Colombia #2-72, Normandia Sebastian de Belalcazar, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

We offer pick-up service if you're staying in the San Antonio, Granada, or Peñon neighborhoods. If you're outside these areas, please arrive at the meeting point 15 to 20 minutes before the tour begins.

Ecosystems: Tropical Moist Forest (between 200 and 1,200 meters above sea level), Humid Sub-Andean Forest (between 1,200 and 2,000 meters above sea level)

Availability: Year-round, We ask, however, that you email us or WhatsApp us to verify availability before making your purchase.

Book our Topacio Hiking Tour with us today!

From $79.99 us