Los Guácharos Cave: The mysterious south of the department of Huila

El The Cueva de los Guácharos National Natural Park, located in the municipality of Acevedo, is one of the last extensions of well-preserved Andean forest where endangered vegetable species are protected. It is ideal for hiking and exploring caves and waterfalls.

The park is also notable for its canyons and mazes and its countless caves carved by the waters of the Sauza River and its tributaries over the course of centuries. The park is home to the guacharo (Steatornis caripensis) , a medium sized bird that uses a radar-like system to move around caves and caverns.

Characteristics

• With its 9,000 hectares, this territory was the first to be declared a National Natural Park, with the purpose of protecting a geologically valuable set of caves and the nocturnal bird that gave it its name.
• Naturally, the main eco-tourism activity is the exploration of caves.

How to get there

From Bogotá, by air or land to Neiva; then by the Neiva-Pitalito-Palestina-La Mensura road (5 hours by car) and on to the park.

Communities

A silent adventure in the depths of the earth.

The area was occupied by pre-Columbian settlers. Following the Spanish conquest, survivors took refuge in the Guácharos Cave. According to their legends, the souls of warriors became these birds, whose cries evoke their laments. Today, peasants and artisans reside in the area.

Fauna

The emblematic species is the guácharo, the mythical bird that has magical connotations for several American tribes. Species like the spectacled bear may be seen, as well as corn monkeys during harvest time.

Flora

The emblematic species is the guácharo, the mythical bird that has magical connotations for several American tribes. Species like the spectacled bear may be seen, as well as corn monkeys during harvest time.

Activities

• Hiking
• Bird watching
• Caving
• Cultural contact

Attractions

• Cueva del Indio.
• Cueva del Hoyo.
• Cabaña La Ilusión.
• Cueva de los Guácharos.
• Waterfall of Los Cristales stream
• Natural bridge over the Sauza River, the oak forest, the observation point, and carro punta.

Surroundings: San Agustín Archaeological Park, the Magdalena River Strait, the Obando Indian cemetery, and the Pitalito handicraft center.

Access to the park

Consult your travel agent or visit http://www.parquesnacionales.gov.co