Quibdó

Quibdó’s skyline is dominated by the immense San Francisco de Asís Cathedral, which towers over the banks of the Atrato River. The river is the city’s most important means of communication, aside from the frequent flights into the airport, since Quibdó remains poorly connected to the world by two ill-maintained roads.

Overall and aesthetically, Quibdó is an unlovely place. Its architecture and infrastructure have suffered from harsh climatic conditions, leaving its streets potholed and buildings stained as if burnt by the humidity. But for the intrepid traveler, these hindrances are minor disadvantages.

Indeed, upon arrival you are sure to be the only tourist, and once this is known, the people here, mainly of Embera Indian and descendants of African slaves, will adopt you as one of their own.

Accommodation is not as developed and established as you would find elsewhere, since Quibdó mainly plays host to soldiers and officials from Doctors Without Borders. Be sure to take a stroll along the riverfront in the early evening and wonder at the bizarre fruits that lack names in English.

,

Other places nearby Quibdó: Bahía Solano, El Valle and Nuquí.