Indigenous Villages

Location:
Puerto Narino, Colombia

Other Activity Types:
Village

By Lorraine Caputo

Accessible by path or by boat from Puerto Nariño are several indigenous villages you can visit and where you can buy artisan work. Sendero Interpretativo Puerto Nariño San Martín leads to the Tikuna hamlet of San Martín, not too far from Parque Nacional Natural Amacayacu. Unfortunately, it has become affected by number of tourists arriving and people are now charging for photos. Mocagua, another Tikuna settlement near the national park, is more traditional. A traditional Tikuna village, 20 de Julio is known for its artisan work and with a mirador. San Juan del Socó on Río Loretoyacü is another village you can boat to.

Getting There
San Martín and 20 de Julio are accessible by path from Puerto Nariño; follow the signs from Carrera 6. The other two, check with villagers about a canoe to take you there, or go with one of the regular thrice-daily boats.

Travel Tips: Be respectful of local customs. This is not a circus side show. Always ask before taking a photo.

Some of these hamlets, like Mocagua, allow overnight stays; speak with the curaca if you are interested.

Travel Skills: None

You Need to Bring: Use insect repellent and sun block, water, snack; wear light weight, light-colored clothing, good walking shoes and hat; camera.

The various museums in Puerto Nariño; walks on the various interpretive paths to the lookout towers; Lago Tarapoto; Parque Nacional Natural Amacayacu.

Currencies accepted
Colombian Peso