Whale Watching in Colombia: A Magical Experience in the Pacific
Every year, between July and October, the warm waters of Colombia’s Pacific coast become the stage for an unforgettable natural spectacle: humpback whale watching.
Today, on World Whale and Dolphin Day, we celebrate this natural wonder that makes Colombia one of the top nature tourism destinations in Latin America.
Why Do Whales Come to Colombia?
Humpback whales migrate over 8,000 kilometers from Antarctica in search of warm, safe waters to mate and give birth. The Colombian Pacific coast offers the perfect environment for this natural process.
From late June through October, you can spot mothers with their calves swimming, breaching, and slapping their fins in a display that is as powerful as it is moving.
📍 Where to See Them?
Bahía Solano (Chocó): Surrounded by jungle, untouched beaches, and rich biodiversity, it offers a raw and authentic experience.
Nuquí (Chocó): Known for its hot springs and Afro-Colombian and ancestral communities that now lead sustainable tourism efforts.
Gorgona Island (Cauca): A protected national park. In addition to whales, you can dive, hike, and observe sharks, snakes, and birds.
Tumaco (Nariño): A lesser-known destination that offers a peaceful and genuine whale watching experience.
What’s the Experience Like?
Tour packages usually include boat rides with expert local guides—typically in the morning when the sea is calmer.
Eco-lodging options are available, as well as jungle hikes, visits to local communities, and natural hot springs.
Many of these experiences are led by local communities promoting responsible tourism, with practices that minimize environmental impact and protect wildlife.
