Chiribiquete National Park: Colombia’s Hidden Gem
Deep in the Colombian Amazon, where the dense canopy stretches endlessly toward the horizon, lies Chiribiquete National Park—a place of extraordinary beauty, ancient history, and untold mysteries. This UNESCO natural and cultural World Heritage is not just one of Colombia’s most significant ecological treasures but also a living testament to the resilience of both nature and the human spirit.
Important Note: If you are planning a trip to Colombia and wish to explore this remarkable region, it's crucial to know that Chiribiquete National Park is closed to public access to protect its biodiversity and the indigenous communities residing there. However, you can visit the Serranía de la Lindosa, known as the gateway to Chiribiquete, where you can explore the cave paintings at Cerro Azul and hike among the Tepuis to see the Orion Gate.
A Glimpse Into Chiribiquete’s Vast Wilderness
Chiribiquete National Park is a colossal sanctuary, covering over 4.3 million hectares (10.6 million acres), making it the largest national park in Colombia and one of the largest in South America. This vast wilderness in the Amazon region is a sanctuary for an extraordinary range of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and the elusive harpy eagle. The park’s unique landscape, characterized by its towering tepuis (tabletop mountains), flowing rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls, creates an ecosystem unlike any other on Earth.
But Chiribiquete’s natural beauty has not always been safeguarded. During Colombia’s decades-long armed conflict, this region faced significant deforestation as guerrilla groups cleared vast areas of jungle to cultivate coca plants. Thousands of hectares were put at risk, and even today, expansive livestock farming poses a threat to this fragile ecosystem. In response, the Colombian government designated Chiribiquete as a national park, a move aimed at curbing deforestation and protecting this invaluable territory for future generations.
Guardians of the Lost World: The Indigenous Communities
Amidst this expansive wilderness, isolated indigenous communities have thrived for centuries, living in harmony with the land. These communities, largely untouched by modern civilization, reside in some of the most remote areas of Chiribiquete, where no one is permitted to enter. They are the true custodians of the park, maintaining traditions and knowledge that have been passed down through generations.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Chiribiquete is the presence of ancient rock art on the outer walls of its tepuis. These towering sandstone cliffs, some rising as high as 50 meters (164 feet), are adorned with thousands of vivid depictions of animals, humans, and mysterious symbols. Unlike traditional cave paintings, these artworks are in the open, exposed to light and sight. It’s believed that the isolated indigenous communities still use these tepui walls as canvases for their artwork today. These paintings, some of which are estimated to be over 20,000 years old, were “discovered” by the outside world relatively recently due to the region’s inaccessibility.
During our visit to Cerro Azul in the Serranía de la Lindosa—one of the few publicly accessible areas—we met a researcher from the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH). He shared with us that there may be hundreds of these painted walls, some even larger and more intricate than those at Cerro Azul, hidden deep within the park and not open to the public. This discovery adds to the mystery and allure of Chiribiquete, where history is still being uncovered.
The Shadow of Conflict: A Hidden Paradise Revealed
For many years, Chiribiquete’s treasures remained concealed, hidden by the shadow of Colombia’s armed conflict. The war between the FARC guerrillas, paramilitaries, and the national army isolated this region from the rest of the country. Ironically, it was this isolation that protected Chiribiquete from widespread exploitation, preserving its pristine condition. However, the war also brought devastation to the surrounding areas, leaving scars that are only now beginning to heal.
The designation of Chiribiquete as a national park was a crucial step in protecting the area from further harm, especially from the expanding coca cultivation and livestock farming. It represents a commitment to safeguarding the park’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage, ensuring that the beauty of Chiribiquete can be enjoyed by future generations.
A New Era of Peace and Discovery
San José del Guaviare is typically the starting point for visiting the Serranía de la Lindosa, where you can also gain deeper insights into Chiribiquete. This region,once caught in the crossfire of war, now looks toward a future that celebrates and preserves its natural and cultural heritage. With the end of the Colombian armed conflict, the area has entered a new era of peace, where tranquility and joy are once again visible in the streets of nearby communities.
Our visit to this remarkable region was made even more meaningful by the stories shared by our guide, a local woman who once cultivated coca plants. Now, she dedicates her life to teaching others about the breathtaking landscapes of her homeland. She told us with a smile, “Nobody gave importance to these hills and the cave paintings. They were always there, but none of us would ever imagine that people from different parts of the world would come exclusively to see them.”
Chiribiquete: A Living Legacy
Chiribiquete National Park and its surrounding accessible areas are more than just natural wonders—they represent a living legacy of culture, history, and the enduring power of nature and human resilience. As you explore this incredible region, you'll be captivated by its beauty and intrigued by its mysteries. Whether you're admiring ancient rock art on the tepuis or marveling at the rich biodiversity of the rainforest, this area offers a unique window into a world that has remained largely untouched by time.
This magical and mysterious place inspired us to create Tepui Table Lamp, our first lighting sculpture. Its incredible beauty, along with the inspiring story of Mama Orbe and the splendor of the Andean moor, also fueled us to develop Salvaje Tropical—a simple yet profoundly meaningful collection of art prints. This collection aims to raise funds to support projects dedicated to the preservation and protection of nature.
If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, consider venturing into the heart of the country to discover the secrets of Sierra de la Lindosa for yourself. As you explore, take a moment to reflect on the park’s journey—from a hidden sanctuary during times of conflict to a symbol of peace and renewal today.
