Utria National Park Day Tour

Few places on Earth offer such an intimate convergence and interaction of some of the planet’s most diverse and productive ecosystems—coral reefs, mangroves, rocky shores, and tropical rainforests—as found in Utría National Natural Park.

The bay’s calm, warm waters provide an ideal refuge for a variety of migratory species, including marine turtles, seabirds, and whales. It is also a vital spawning ground for numerous fish species, playing a crucial role in the region’s ecological balance.

Additionally, the landscape is ever-changing—shaped by the ebb and flow of the tides. Meandering estuaries wind through dense mangroves, dramatically rising and falling with the water level, offering a dynamic and immersive experience in one of Colombia’s most unique coastal ecosystems.

Utría National Natural Park, located on Colombia's Pacific coast in the Chocó Department, spans approximately 54,380 hectares (about 134,300 acres). This expansive area encompasses a rich mosaic of ecosystems and cultural heritage. Indigenous communities, notably the Emberá and Kunas peoples, have ancestral ties to the land and continue to inhabit areas within and around the park. Additionally, Afro-Colombian and mestizo communities live nearby, contributing to the region's vibrant cultural diversity. These communities are integral to the park’s conservation efforts, working closely with park authorities to protect both the natural environment and their traditions.

Ecosystems

The park plays a fundamental role in the reproduction and early life stages of numerous species, both marine and terrestrial. It is also home to rare continental coral formations and serves as a nesting ground for endangered species.

Thanks to its climate, high humidity, lush vegetation, and location within the Mesoamerican-Pacific rainforest corridor, Utría hosts an extraordinary diversity of wildlife.

Fauna

Marine Mammals: Humpback Whale, Orca, Sperm Whale
Endangered Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Leatherback
Birds: Chocó Tinamou, Harpy Eagle, Great Green Macaw, Crested Guan
Endangered Mammals: Giant Anteater, Jaguar, Neotropical Otter, Night Monkey, Spider Monkey, Black Howler Monkey, Baird's Tapir, White-lipped Peccary
Other Wildlife: 26 species of bats, diverse rodents, dart frogs (Dendrobates, Ranitomeya), Harlequin Toad, geckos, iguanas

Flora

The park is home to valuable timber species such as Cohíba (the representative tree of the Chocó region), Níspero, Comino, Abarco, Ceiba, Carbonero, Guayacán, Caracolí (used for building coastal boats), and Oquendo (used by Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities to craft traditional handicrafts).

There are also several important palm species, including Chontaduro, Chunga, Naidí, and Mil Pesos, which play a key role in the local diet. Additionally, Iraca (Cyclanthaceae) is used to make pickles and handcrafted goods.

What to bring for this tour

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (long sleeves and pants recommended for sun and bug protection)

• Swimsuit and towel, Comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals

• Rain jacket or poncho (weather can be unpredictable), Hat and sunglasses

• Sunscreen (reef-safe recommended), Insect repellent (eco-friendly if possible)

• Refillable water bottle, Small backpack to carry everything

• Camera or smartphone for photos, Binoculars (for birdwatching or wildlife viewing)

• Dry bag or waterproof pouch (for electronics)

Duration: Full Day (8-9 hours approximately)

Meeting point and end point : Bahia Solano Pier or El Valle

Departure time: Most tours leave at 8:00 am and return at 4:00 pm

Availability: This tour is available year-round for guests staying in either Bahía Solano or El Valle. However, we kindly ask that you contact us via email or WhatsApp before booking to confirm availability and ensure that weather and sea conditions are suitable. Please note that during the rainy seasons (April–June and October–November), tours may be delayed or canceled due to rough tides or heavy rainfall. Your safety and experience are our top priority!

Book our Utria National Park Tour with us today!

From $130.00 us