One of Colombia’s biggest attractions is the immense variety of flora and fauna adorning all its regions. Consequently, the best way to access this breathtaking magic is by traveling the country.
Discover five amazing animal species in Colombia. Discover Colombia’s biodiversity.
The great Andean king
The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) is the largest bird in the world, with a wingspan of up to 3.4 meters. Considered the national bird, this animal has impeccable vision and can sustain its flight up to one hour without fluttering. Just like all Colombians, the Andean condor is ‘echao pa’ lante (a Colombian expression which is linked to qualities such as determination, resourcefulness, and brazenness).
Pink dolphins do exist!
Colombia is such a cheerful country that even dolphins are pink. They inhabit the waters of the Amazon and the Orinoco rivers, can weigh up to 200 kilos, and be up to 2.50 meters in length. Watching them jump, swim, and interact is a wonderful experience filled with the sabrosura* that Colombia is known for.
The great thing about the Amazon is you are able to visit the lungs of the world and immerse yourself in a thick jungle to discover the most exotic flora and fauna in the world. There you can also connect with the history and magic of the indigenous cultures that still inhabit the region.
Travelling to the Amazon is perhaps the best decision that any Colombian or foreigner could make, as it is an unforgettable experience that triggers all your senses and fills you with emotion. Looking out the plane’s window as you approach to see this cushioned green layer of nature that shimmers under the sun’s gaze is beyond compare.
Although you can grasp part of its immensity from the peaceful skies, being within it and exploring its unparalleled corners is an even more impressive and wild experience. More than 6,800 kilometers of jungle provide shelter to 212 species of mammals and 195 of reptiles that amaze for their beauty and relevance. This will no doubt be an experience that you will never forget.
A tree mammal
Sloths are very cute, furry mammals that spend most of their time clinging to trees. There are two large species in Colombia: two-toed sloths (Choloepus didactylus), that live in cold climates, and three-toed sloths (Bradypus tridactylus), that live in warm climates.
The parsimony of their movements is relaxing. It’s wonderful to see them move or eat with ease and no rush. You can also find them in places such as Caldas and Antioquia.
A bear with spectacles
Andean bears are yet another example of the unique animals that inhabit Colombia.
The spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus) is known for the light spots encircling its eyes. It has black, long hair, a small snout, and a great sense of hearing. This bear loves eating the fruit variety found in this diverse, flavor-filled land. They live in the Andean region and can weigh up to 200 Kg.
A blue lizard that you will only see in Colombia
Endemic to the Gorgona National Park, the blue lizard (Anolis gorgonae) is a small animal that lives in trees and feeds on insects. Its striking blue color attracts visitors to the island, which also houses unique species such as the land snail (Dymaaeus gorgonensis), the freshwater crab (Hypobolocera gorgonensis), the Ananteris gorgonae scorpion, the semi-spiky rat and the antbird.
Other amazing animal species that inhabit our country are the pirarucu (a freshwater fish that can grow up to 3 meters in length), the hummingbird (a bird that flaps its wings up to 80 times per second), and the giant anteater (a large anteater of up to 2 meters long).
It’s worth discovering Colombia’s diversity and magnetism. Experience #TheBestOfColombia through its fauna and culture, which is also an excellent excuse to try its gastronomy and share with locals.
Learn more about Colombia’s biodiversity and discover the appeal of the animals that light up our days and surprise us with their way of living and appreciation for everything that mother earth offers us. Go ahead and buy a ticket to these destinations, where you will breathe the purest air and find fascinating animals—some full of color, and others that will surely dazzle you with their intelligence.
Although there are many more reasons to travel around Colombia, this should be reason enough to plan your next vacation and visit its best destinations. You will see animals, meet its people, and enjoy the best climates and local gastronomy.
