Dazzling sunrises, warm sunsets, and starry nights await you in the Colombian Pacific at any time of the year. However, if you want to witness the whales, we recommend traveling between July and November.
After traveling at least 8,500 kilometers from Antarctica, humpback whales arrive in the warm waters of the Colombian Pacific to mate and give birth. The splashes of these giants create a breathtaking spectacle at sea, appearing unexpectedly and surprising tourists watching from boats—though sometimes, a little luck is needed to spot them.
The visit of the humpbacks extends across four departments in Colombia: Nariño, Cauca, Valle del Cauca, and Chocó. In each of these regions, you’ll find tourism service providers offering whale-watching tours, and you can also get information from the National Natural Parks in these areas.
In Valle del Cauca, you can travel from Cali to Buenaventura, a journey of approximately two and a half hours by road. From there, you’ll arrive at the tourist pier where boats depart for Juanchaco, home to a beautiful beach and close to other stunning spots like Ladrilleros and La Barra. This is the gateway to exploring the territory of Uramba Bahía Málaga National Natural Park, considered one of the best places in Colombia for whale watching.
Beyond observing the whales, the Colombian Pacific offers various ecotourism activities, including hiking, wildlife and plant observation, swimming in majestic waterfalls, and exploring the rugged beauty of the mangroves.
The warmth, joy, and rich culture of the local communities add to this unforgettable experience. The region’s cuisine is a true delight, featuring dishes like fish sancocho, crab and shrimp empanadas, spiced rice, seafood casserole, and piangua or tollo encocado, among many others that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
When it comes to beverages, viche is a must-try. This sugarcane-based distilled drink is the foundation of many ancestral and artisanal drinks in the region. Some of the most famous include arrechón, tumbacatre, tomaseca, curao, and crema de viche, each of which is believed to have medicinal or even aphrodisiac properties, according to local oral traditions. Every drink carries a story, deeply tied to family and territory.
Music is another cultural experience that will make you fall even more in love with the Colombian Pacific. The sounds of instruments like the marimba, guasá, and cununo fill the air, inviting you to dance, while the voices of traditional singers tell stories of their ancestors. In the Pacific, magic is everywhere, welcoming you with open arms!
Remember: The success of whale watching depends on factors such as weather conditions, the distance maintained by the boat, caution, and the whales’ willingness to show themselves. Ensure that your vessel has the proper permits and safety measures, always wear a life jacket, and seek guidance from a certified tour operator.