Salamanca Island Natural Park: to the rescue of the mangrove forest

This is a thrilling trip through a mangrove forest, large beaches, and beautiful lagoons. The park, which is called Vía Parque Isla de Salamanca, is located between Barranquilla, the capital of the department of Atlántico, and the jurisdiction of Sitio Nuevo, in the municipality of Ciénaga, in the department of Magdalena. This is the ideal place for getting acquainted with mangrove ecosystems and engaging in turtle and bird watching during a day that will turn out to be unforgettable.

An exhilarating trip through mangrove forests, broad beaches, and beautiful lagoons.

The Isla de Salamanca, is an exceptional complex of large beaches, swamps, and mangrove forests along the road that connects Barranquilla and Santa Marta. Thus, it can be admired from the road as well. The area was declared by RAMSAR a Wetland of International Importance and a Man and Biosphere Reserve.

Characteristics

• The biodiversity of the Vía Parque ecosystems led UNESCO to declare it a Biosphere Reserve, thus protecting one of the most productive natural, scientific, and cultural riches in the Caribbean.
• Diversity of mangrove species
• Its landscapes are an ideal site for university and academic fieldwork.

Access

Reaching Isla Salamanca is easy from Barranquilla. Visitors arriving by air can take a taxi from the airport to Kilometer 11 on the Caribbean trunk road. This is where Los Cocos administrative center is located (municipality of Sitio Nuevo, department of Magdalena).

Communities

Its area of influence is inhabited by fishermen and artisans who live in palafitte houses.

Fauna

The existence of 33 mammal species is an indication of great diversity; 200 species of bird species have been registered so far. This is one of the most important habitats for migratory birds in the entire Caribbean area.

Flora

Mostly, it has the flora of the tropical dry forest, although a narrow strip has the flora of the very dry tropical forest.

Activities

• Hiking
• Photography
• Birdwatching
• Cultural contact
• Educational and scientific activities

Attractions

• Strolls on the interpretive paths over the mangroves and canoe trips through the intricate network of swamps.
• Tours on the beaches for watching marine turtle activity.
• Visits in the area of influence include the city of Barranquilla, with its carnival in February; the town of Ciénaga, with its caiman festival in January; and the city of Santa Marta, with its Sea Feasts in July.

Access to the park

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