Railway Trolleys and River Tubes: A Day in San Cipriano’s Green Heart
Tube the jungle, ride a motorcycle trolley, and eat fresh fish: an 8-hour escape from Cali
The day begins before the bus lets you off: a ribbon of rail tracks disappears into a gorge of banana palms and towering ceiba trees, and the air smells like wet earth and citrus. You step onto a makeshift platform, and there—more curious than engineered—comes la brujita, a low-slung wooden trolley powered by a motorcycle, humming across abandoned rails. It moves with the casual insistence of something that belongs to the place: part transport, part folk invention, wholly Colombian. Ten minutes later you are in San Cipriano, where the river dares you to strip down, climb into a tube, and let the current sketch a lazy, bright path through the rainforest.
Trail Wisdom
Bring a waterproof bag
Keep your phone, documents, and extra clothes dry during the brujita ride and while tubing.
Wear sturdy sandals or river shoes
Trails and riverbeds can be slippery—closed-toe water shoes protect your feet while allowing you to swim comfortably.
Reserve morning departures
Earlier starts usually mean calmer water and softer light for photos.
Tip locally and eat on-site
Support the community by buying lunch from local vendors and tipping guides who manage the brujita and river sections.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short jungle walk to a secluded pool upstream of the main float
- •Local vendors who sell fresh coconut water and handmade snacks near the brujita access
Wildlife
Kingfisher, Howler monkey (occasionally heard in canopy)
Conservation Note
Visitors should minimize plastic waste, follow guide instructions along fragile riverbanks, and support local businesses to ensure tourism benefits the community.
The brujita originated as a local adaptation to keep rail transport functioning after official services declined—motorcycles were mounted to wooden platforms to move along the rails.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Lush foliage, Birdwatching
Challenges: Intermittent rain, Stronger current after storms
Spring is green and alive—expect wet-weather spurts and heightened river flow; bring quick-dry layers.
summer
Best for: Stable river floats, Warm swimming
Challenges: Higher visitor numbers in holiday weeks, Hotter midday sun
Summer offers warm water and reliable floats, though weekends can be busy—book ahead.
fall
Best for: Photography, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Possible rain events, Muddy approaches
Fall balances greenery with thinner crowds; be ready for showers and slippery trails.
winter
Best for: Calmer water windows (dry periods), Clearer skies
Challenges: Rainy stretches depending on the year, Cooler mornings
Winter’s dry spells are ideal for tubing, but local weather patterns vary—check forecasts.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof dry bagEssential
Protects electronics and extra clothes during the brujita ride and river tubing.
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Grip on wet rocks and comfort while walking river trails.
Light quick-dry clothingEssential
Dries fast after swims and keeps you comfortable under the canopy.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Enables action shots and river photography without risking devices.
Common Questions
How do I get to San Cipriano from Cali?
Most tours include round-trip transport from Cali—expect roughly a 2-hour drive and short transfers to the brujita access points. Confirm pick-up points with your operator.
Is the brujita safe?
Brujitas are locally operated and common; reputable tours use maintained equipment and provide safety guidance—follow your guide’s instructions and avoid standing on moving platforms.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Basic swimming ability is recommended since the activity includes river tubing and optional swimming stops; life jackets are typically provided.
What should I wear?
Quick-dry clothes, a swimsuit, and closed-toe water shoes are ideal; bring a light rain layer in the wet season.
Are there restrooms or facilities in San Cipriano?
Facilities are basic—expect small community restrooms and local eateries rather than developed infrastructure.
Can I bring children on the tour?
Families with older children who can swim are welcome; check age and safety policies with the tour operator before booking.
What to Pack
Waterproof bag (protect valuables), water bottle (stay hydrated), water shoes (protect feet on rocks), quick-dry clothes (comfort after swims)
Did You Know
La brujita is a locally invented, motorcycle-powered rail trolley adapted by communities when official train services declined—a uniquely practical tradition still in use at San Cipriano.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a tour with Cali pick-up, carry small Colombian pesos for local purchases, bring insect repellent, and keep valuables in waterproof cases
Local Flavor
After your float, sit down at a local comedor for fried fish, patacones, and coconut rice; vendors often sell fresh coconut water and local fruit—support these small businesses to keep tourism benefits local.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Santiago de Cali (CLO); Typical driving time: ~2 hours from Cali; Cell service: intermittent in the reserve; Permits: none typically required—book a guided tour for transport and brujita access
Sustainability Note
This river corridor relies on community stewardship—pack out trash, avoid single-use plastics, and eat locally to help ensure long-term benefits for residents.