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Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares: A Natural Escape in Manizales

Discover Manizales' Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares: Hike scenic trails, spot diverse birds, and immerse yourself in Colombia's natural beauty.

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Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares is a serene nature preserve nestled in Manizales, Colombia, offering visitors a tranquil escape into lush greenery and diverse wildlife. With well-maintained walking trails winding through varied ecosystems, it's an ideal spot for birdwatching and immersing oneself in the stunning landscapes of the Colombian highlands.

A brief summary to Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares

  • Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on potentially slippery, moss-covered steps.
  • Bring a camera to capture the diverse flora, fauna, and scenic views.
  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the climate can be humid and the temperature averages around 15°C.
  • Take advantage of the ecological tours offered by local guides to learn about the park's biodiversity and environmental practices.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus terminal in Manizales, Terminal de Transportes, take a bus heading towards 'Los Alcázares' or 'San Sebastián'. These buses depart frequently. After approximately 30 minutes, ask the driver to let you know when you reach the stop for 'Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares'. From the bus stop, it is about a 10-minute walk to the entrance of the park. Bus fare is approximately 2,500 COP.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    From the city center, a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber will take approximately 15-20 minutes to reach Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares, depending on traffic. The drivers are generally familiar with the location. A taxi ride will cost approximately 8,000-12,000 COP.

  • Walking

    From Plaza de Bolivar, walk west. Head towards Carrera 22 and continue until you reach the Alcazares neighborhood. Continue up Carrera 22 until you reach the park gate. The walk is approximately 5 kilometers and will take about 1 hour.

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Discover more about Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares

Ecoparque the Arenillo Alcázares, a fragment of an isolated forest, stands as one of Manizales' green lungs, declared a protected area of environmental interest in 1995. Spanning 36 hectares of humid premontane forest, the Ecoparque is located in the western part of the city in the lower part of the Alcázares neighborhood. The park aims to safeguard the environment by fostering awareness among local and international visitors. The park features trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with gentle slopes and educational signage highlighting the ecological importance of the area. Bird lovers can find over 140 species from 34 families. The park's vegetation includes Yarumo Negro and Blanco trees, Arrayán, Balso, and Colombian Pine. Visitors can explore ecological tours led by local guides, promoting good environmental practices. Shelters, viewpoints and a two-story house with colonial architecture called La Quinta Colonial can be found within the park. The average temperature is 15 degrees Celsius, but camping is allowed for those who want to stay overnight.

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