Cahuinarí National Natural Park: Amazonian Biodiversity Hotspot

Cahuinarí National Natural Park, established in 1987, spans 575,500 hectares within the Caquetá-Putumayo river system. This protected area showcases the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, with winding rivers, towering trees reaching over 40 meters, and a stunning array of flora and fauna. The park is home to diverse animal species, including the charapa turtle (the largest freshwater turtle in America), caimans, morrocoy turtles, anteaters, and armadillos. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with opportunities to spot a wide variety of avian species. Visitors can explore the Cahuinarí, Bernardo, and Caquetá rivers, and discover natural pools like Sol creek. Cahuinarí holds cultural significance for indigenous communities, including the Tikuna, Yagua, and Kokama people, who have inhabited the region for centuries. The park also contains petroglyphs, rock carvings of great importance to the indigenous shamans of the Bora and Miraña communities. These communities offer guided tours, sharing their traditions, knowledge of the rainforest, and the importance of the park's ecosystems. Historically, the area suffered from rubber exploitation, which impacted many indigenous groups. Today, the park stands as a testament to conservation efforts and the preservation of both natural and cultural heritage.