Museums of Puerto Nariño

Location:
Puerto Narino, Colombia

Museum Types:
Science and nature, Anthropology, ethnography, Aquarium

By Lorraine Caputo

One of the most astounding features of Puerto Nariño is the museums it has. While you are here, be sure to drop into one of them.

· Casa Museo Etnocultural Ya Ipata Ünchi—Ya Ipata Ünchi (Casa of the Monkeys) has exhibits displaying the artesanía and explaining the cultures of the Tikuna, Cocama and Yagua (Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-noon, 2-5:45 p.m. Carrera 7 and Calle 5, Entry: Free, though tip to the guide is appreciated).

· Casa Artesanal Tachiwagü—A maloka (traditional comunal hut) which teaches the indigenous world vision (Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-noon, 2-5 p.m. Carrera 6 between Calles 5 and 6, Entry: $0.50).

· Fundación Omacha—Taking its name from the Tikuna word for the pink dolphin, this organization works on the conservation of the Amazon’s aquatic denizens. It accepts volunteers; visit its website for more information (Village side of the Quebrada Menoe as it enters the Río Loretoyacü, E-mail: info@omacha.org / moralula@yahoo.com.mx, URL: omacha.org).

· Centro de Interpretación Natütama—Natütama (Underwater World) is another non-profit working on conservation issues and eco-education that welcomes visitors. The center has over 70 life-size carvings of plant and animal species of the Río Amazonas waterways (Wednesday-Monday 8 a.m.-noon, 2-5 p.m., closed Tuesday. One South bank of Quebrada Menoe as it enters the Río Loretoyacü, Tel.: 313-411-2872 / 312-410-1925, E-mail: info@natutama.org / fundacionnatutama@yahoo.com, URL: www.natutama.org).

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.

Walks on the various interpretive paths to the lookout towers and indigenous villages; Lago Tarapoto; Parque Nacional Natural Amacayacu.

Currencies accepted
Colombian Peso