Farallones de Cali National Natural Park is a biodiverse mountain sanctuary near Cali, Colombia, known for its lush cloud forests, rich wildlife, and stunning Andean landscapes offering numerous outdoor adventure opportunities.
Farallones de Cali National Natural Park, established in 1968, spans over 150,000 hectares in the Cordillera Occidental of the Colombian Andes. It protects a remarkable range of ecosystems from tropical rainforests at lower elevations to paramo grasslands near its peaks, with altitudes reaching over 4,000 meters. This park is a crucial water source for the city of Cali and contains some of the richest biodiversity in Colombia, including endemic and endangered species such as the spectacled bear, cougar, and a wide variety of bird species like the gold-ringed tanager and the Andean cock-of-the-rock. The park’s dramatic terrain features steep cliffs, deep canyons, waterfalls, and rivers that carve its rugged landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to its extensive hiking trails, wildlife watching, birding, and freshwater fishing opportunities. Key landmarks include the Tres Cruces peak, offering panoramic views over the Cauca Valley, and pristine high-altitude paramo ecosystems. The park is a vital natural refuge and a place of cultural significance, providing opportunities for eco-tourism and scientific research. Visitors value the park for its remote, unspoiled wilderness and challenging hikes that require preparation and respect for conservation rules. Access is mainly from Cali and nearby rural towns, with local guides recommended due to complex trail systems and rugged terrain.
Tres Cruces Peak – panoramic summit with views over Cali and the Cauca Valley
Diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforest to high paramo
Spectacled bear and Andean cock-of-the-rock wildlife viewing
Remote waterfalls and crystal-clear mountain rivers
High-altitude tropical biome characterized by frailejones plants, unique to the northern Andes, crucial for water regulation.
The highest point of the park offering breathtaking views of the Andes and the city of Cali.
Lush, mist-covered forests hosting diverse plant species, epiphytes, and endemic wildlife.