Near Buenaventura

Juanchaco and Ladrilleros

Both places are swamped in the whale watching season that runs from late July into the early weeks of October. Every long weekend or public holiday brings with it hordes of vacationers from Cali eager to reach the beach and catch a glimpse of the migrating humpbacks. Juanchaco’s beach is littered with driftwood and is not a place one would spread out a towel in order to catch some sun; Ladrilleros is much more suited to this. When the tide is out the beach widens enormously and vendors set up their stalls providing everything from fortified coconut cocktails to fried fish lunches. There are places to stay here in both areas, many of which are arranged through pre-organized package deals. There are number of smaller residences which let out rooms in both towns.

Gorgona Island

Gorgona used to be a prison island before being converted into a national park. It sits some 30km off the coast and is home to a grand variety of venomous snakes, migrating birds and the waters thereabouts are a favored destination for migrating humpback whales. Diving is of a very high quality with opportunities to see marine turtles, sharks and many species of fish. You can arrange to get to Isla Gorgona from the Muelle Tursitico in Buenaventura. There is a park fee of $10 payable prior to arrival. Most people organize trips to Gorgona through the Aviatur company, which sells packages including meals and transport.