Bahía Solano

Splendid mountains covered by an impenetrable mantle of tropical jungle and the warm waters of the Colombian Pacific provide shelter to Bahía Solano, an ideal retreat to pause and explore everything the rich nature of Chocó has to offer.

Although it is the largest settlement in the region, the vegetation is so predominant that it makes the only multi-story building almost unnoticeable, giving the feeling of being in an enclave beyond which virgin lands await exploration.

The surroundings of Bahía Solano never disappoint, regardless of the direction you choose. Both the deserted beaches stretching beyond the bay’s capes and the waterfalls cascading down the mountains behind offer a natural spectacle that any documentary filmmaker would love to capture.

The charm of Bahía Solano is such that, in addition to captivating travelers, it also attracts humpback whales that undertake a long journey from Chile to give birth and raise their calves in this secluded water sanctuary.

However, whales are not the only wildlife to be admired in these latitudes: various species of sea turtles seek refuge in these untouched landscapes, and the same beaches where they were born, near El Valle, are the ones they choose to lay their eggs.

The magical coastal landscape does not overshadow the marvels of the jungle, another natural wonder of Bahía Solano. The guides from the Emberá community of Mecana accompany tourists eager to venture into the dense forest and observe a variety of species such as monkeys, sloths, and even the occasional elusive jaguar. Birdwatching enthusiasts will also have the challenge of identifying the countless aquatic species and colorful birds that inhabit the jungle.

For those who prefer activities that don’t involve binoculars and insect repellent, Bahía Solano has much more to offer. The Afro-Colombian heritage coexists with indigenous traditions, making this place a destination of fascinating cultural richness. The gastronomy deserves a special mention. Regional products combine to create delicious dishes, making dining in Bahía Solano a unique experience. Freshly caught seafood and exotic fruits abound, and processed foods are virtually unknown here.

El Valle Attractions

The riverside village of El Valle awaits at the end of the only road departing from Bahía Solano. Its relaxed atmosphere, expansive beaches, and natural riches within reach make it a highly sought-after destination for independent travelers. Playa Almejal steals the spotlight with its wide stretch of sand, big waves, and dramatic rocky outcrops. Surfers will be in paradise, but those who just want to swim should be cautious, as the currents can be dangerous. Almejal is also a favored nesting site for turtles.

The Valle River is another excellent option for observing the region’s astonishing wildlife. Tourists can take boat excursions from the village to the upper reaches of the river, surrounded by jungle. There are also exciting hiking trails, one of which leads to Utría National Natural Park.

Beach, Wildlife

El Tigre Waterfall

The Colombian Pacific is home to numerous waterfalls, but few are as breathtaking as El Tigre, which plunges onto a secluded beach framed by the dense jungle separating El Valle from Bahía Solano. At its base, a natural pool forms where visitors can cool off, while the smaller pools higher up provide a relaxing massage from the cascading water.

The best way to reach the waterfall is by boat from El Valle. It is also possible to hike there along a scenic coastal path between El Tigre and Playa Almejal, but due to the difficulty of the trail, hiring a guide is recommended.

Waterfall, Hiking

Playa Huina

With golden sands and calm waters, this beach, located on the cape west of Bahía Solano, is the most popular in the area. Palm trees adorn this perfect spot for a relaxing break amidst exciting activities. Here, you can bring your own refreshments or enjoy delicious seafood from the beachside stalls. There is a constant offer of boats and small vessels transporting travelers from Bahía Solano to Huina, but the more adventurous can hire a guide and trek through the jungle-covered mountains to reach it.

Beach

Experiences

Whale Watching Excursions from Bahía Solano

The tour operators in Bahía Solano organize the best excursions to observe whales up close, as they approach this activity from a scientific and specialized perspective. During the trip, biology experts provide details about the behavior of these majestic mammals and the unique journey they undertake to reach the region. In many cases, it is also possible to listen to the whales’ sounds in detail thanks to underwater microphones. Hearing the music they create in such a setting is a truly magical experience.

Wildlife

Playa Cuevita

Although at first glance it may look similar to nearby beaches, this long stretch of sand south of El Valle holds a special secret: during the second half of the year, at night, its deserted shores become the chosen nesting site for thousands of green, loggerhead, and hawksbill turtles.

Tourists can join one of the many community projects dedicated to protecting these species and participate in activities that allow them to observe the mothers arriving on the beach as well as witness the tender journey of the newborns making their way to the water.

Playa Cuevita is also a great place for hiking, and towards the south, snorkeling can be enjoyed among the rocks.

Wildlife

Practical Information

Accommodation

Bahía Solano offers options for all budgets. There are a variety of budget and mid-range hotels, ideal for those looking to explore the entire region. However, if you seek comfort and proximity to the beach, it is best to choose one of the eco-hotels located along the bay.

In El Valle, different accommodations can be found, especially near Playa Almejal, which has hostels and lodges but also offers one of the most exclusive eco-resorts in the entire region.

Getting There

Flights to Bahía Solano are available from Olaya Herrera Airport in Medellín. During peak seasons, flights also arrive from Bogotá. Another option is charter flights that periodically depart from other cities such as Cartago, near Cali.

It is possible to reach Bahía Solano by sea from Buenaventura, but the journey is long, and comfort is not guaranteed, as the boats are primarily used for cargo transport.

Useful Tips

During whale watching season, it is essential to book in advance due to high demand.

Bahía Solano has only one ATM, which is often out of service, so it is advisable to carry cash.

The best clothing for jungle walks consists of lightweight cotton garments that cover the arms and legs, as they are the most suitable for coping with humidity and the insects prevalent in the area.