Its capital is Mitú, which can be reached by plane from Bogotá or Villavicencio with the passenger airline Satena.
This beautiful department has more than 54 thousand square kilometers of well-preserved jungle that borders Brazil to the east and southern Colombia.
The Best Experiences are in Vaupés
Protected by more than twenty-five indigenous villages belonging to the Eastern Tukano, Middle Tukano, and Arawak linguistic groups, communities such as the Tukano, Piratappuyo, Carapaná, Tatuyo, Cubeo, and Carijona, among many others, Vaupés welcomes travelers seeking adventure, ancestral knowledge, and nature-filled experiences with open arms.
The Vaupés, Apaporis, Isana, Papurí, Querarí, and Taraira rivers are the most representative settings of a territory bathed in crystal-clear waters, in a world where this natural resource is becoming increasingly scarce.
Thus, navigating these rivers provides visitors with an experience where birdwatching and observing other unique flora and fauna species is a must-do activity.
This region has an ecosystem that is hardly comparable to any other place on the planet, with 586 species of wildlife, 96 fish species, and 550 bird species.
Nature-Filled Plans
Embarking on the Vaupés River offers an experience where you can explore - just seven hours away - the powerful Yurupary rapids, as well as numerous waterfalls along the way. Similarly, the Jijirimo rapids on the Apaporis River is one of the natural wonders where the strong sound reveals the power of the waters.
Along the way, you’ll encounter the Apaporis Tunnel, a stone gallery over deep, dark-colored calm waters, with walls reaching five or six meters high, serving as a passage for thousands of swallows migrating southward.
Other rapids or “cachiveras” that can be visited in Vaupés include Villa Fátima, Waracapuri, Onduriña, and the Paujil River, among others.
Continuing with water adventures, Caño Sangre is a bathing spot whose color comes from the algae growing in the river, a earthy hue that attracts attention for its intensity. On the Mirror Island, you can go canoeing and even diving. Other caños for a good bath while learning about the indigenous communities living nearby include Caño Ceima, Caño Cucura, Caño Mituseño.
In Vaupés, visiting the hills or “tepuyes” while hiking is a true adventure, with the goal being to reach the top of these rock formations and enjoy the stunning view of the jungle. You can reach the Vay Reariku hills, which rise 620 meters high and pass through numerous caves; the Urania Hill, where you can observe unique bird species in the region; and the Tipiaca Hill, also rich in biodiversity.
Natural Wonders in Vaupés
The Yaigojé Apaporis National Natural Reserve is a protected area where the life, customs, and traditions of seven indigenous communities are respected. For them, the Remanso del Tigre is a place with spiritual characteristics that provides knowledge about nature and humanity.
Here, you can observe 382 bird species and hundreds of reptile, amphibian, and fish species, as well as a significant number of butterflies and various types of mammals. In Lake Taraira, you can spot manatees and two species of freshwater dolphins.
Plans with Ancestral Communities to Experience the Culture
What enriches a trip to Vaupés and gives full meaning to the visit is experiencing the natural wonders from the perspective of the ancestral communities living there. Therefore, sharing experiences with the ethnic groups is essential.
Visiting the Malocas or “Houses of Origin” is a central recommendation, as the indigenous people share their knowledge and culture with visitors there. The Maloca Ipanoré is the largest in the region and opens its doors for conversations, music, dances (carrizo), rituals, crafts, knowledge, and gastronomy.
Here, social fabric is reconstituted, and human existence is given meaning from its own cosmogony. Everyone is important in the Maloca; everyone has a mission and a role, including those who come to learn.
The Vaupés Festivals are related to the traditions of indigenous cultures and mestizaje. In December, offerings such as fish, fruit, and artisanal crafts are made. The Integration of the Colonies Festival, which brings together folklore and the gastronomy of the region, takes place in October.
Thus, this region is a unique destination where adventure and nature promise to make you reflect on the true meaning of humanity. Visiting Vaupés is a refreshing and original experience.
