Hi there! I’m Nicholas, an American living in the beautiful country of Colombia, and today I want to take you on a virtual journey to San Cipriano, a charming little village nestled in the heart of Córdoba, near Buenaventura. This place is a must-visit if you’re exploring the Valle del Cauca region.
Unique Journey to San Cipriano
The journey to San Cipriano is an adventure in itself. The village is a few kilometers off the nearest highway and is accessible in a rather unique way. The ingenious locals devised a means to connect San Cipriano with Córdoba, repurposing an old railway track that links Cali and Buenaventura.
Enter the “brujitas” – motorcycles fitted onto wooden trolleys running on four bearings, gliding perfectly over the rails. This nearly 7-kilometer ride is nothing short of spectacular, offering an exhilarating start to your San Cipriano adventure. ️
Natural Beauty Awaits
San Cipriano boasts some of the most delightful and fun natural landscapes in the region. The resplendent natural reserve, encompassing the San Cipriano and Escalerete rivers, is known for its pristine and crystal-clear waters, ranking as the second purest river globally in 1981.
Prepare to be mesmerized by towering waterfalls, deep natural pools, and numerous ecological trails perfect for a nature retreat. The reserve offers well-marked paths, bird and mammal watching, river tours, and the serenity of a safe and well-equipped tourist spot.
Things to Do in San Cipriano
San Cipriano is a playground for nature lovers and adventurers. One popular trek is to the La Ventiadora waterfall, a stunning cascade in the midst of the jungle, leading to a natural 3-meter deep pool ideal for a refreshing dip.
For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the Green Deer Ecological Park is a must. Although a bit further from the village, it’s a great place to spot sloths, hummingbirds, hawks, and to enjoy more breathtaking waterfalls and natural swimming pools.
If time is limited, don’t miss out on tubing, a simple yet fun activity. Rent a “tube” and embark on an exciting journey along the river, with the Tortugas lake being a prime spot for this water adventure. ️
Also, take time to explore the San Cipriano Butterfly Garden, a magical place to get up close with these beautiful creatures.
Culinary Delights and Accommodation
In San Cipriano, you’ll find a variety of seafood and river dishes to savor. A must-try is the encocado de muchillá, a river shrimp delicacy served in a rich coconut and spice sauce.
Accommodations range from camping areas, quaint hotels, cabins, to hostels, ensuring a comfortable stay in the heart of nature.
How to Get to San Cipriano
Reaching San Cipriano is straightforward. From Buenaventura’s terminal, take a bus to Córdoba, close to the main highway connecting Buenaventura and Cali. From there, hop on a brujita to San Cipriano.
Weather in San Cipriano
Expect warm and humid conditions with an average temperature of around 30°C. Although sunny, occasional rain showers are common, providing a refreshing break from the heat. ☀️ ️
Travel Tips
- Swimwear is essential – you’ll be spending a lot of time in the water.
- Bring waterproof gear for your electronics.
- Apply sunscreen generously.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for trekking.
- Cash is king – there are no ATMs in San Cipriano.
- The area gets busier during holidays and weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
That’s a glimpse of what San Cipriano has to offer. Stay tuned for more hidden gems in Colombia’s Pacific region!