En el Chocó, la riqueza está en su gente y su naturaleza.
In Chocó, the wealth lies in its people and its nature.
Chocó, Colombia
- The Chocó region, located along Colombia's Pacific coast, is one of the country's most biodiverse areas, boasting lush rainforests, mangroves, and pristine beaches.
- It is home to the Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities, whose rich cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the natural environment.
- The Chocó region receives some of the highest levels of rainfall in the world, contributing to its vibrant ecosystem and abundant wildlife, including numerous endemic species.
- This region is a hotspot for whale watching, with humpback whales migrating from the Antarctic to give birth and nurse their calves in the warm waters off the coast of Chocó.
- Despite its natural beauty, the Chocó region faces challenges such as deforestation, illegal mining, and armed conflict, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect its unique ecosystems and support local communities.
Reyes Murillo Airport, NuquÃ
Flying to edge of the world
Accessing Colombia's remote Pacific coast, like Chocó, requires taking small propeller planes from cities like Medellin. These flights not only transport passengers but also vital supplies that cannot be found locally, serving as a lifeline for coastal communities. Flying over lush landscapes, passengers experience the region's isolation and the resilience of its inhabitants, making the journey an integral part of the adventure.
From the two main towns, which are Nuquà and BahÃa Solano, the only way to travel around and to reach the surrounding hamlets is by boat.
iPhone pictures
Termales, a remote hamlet nestled between the dense jungle and the azure waters of the Pacific. With no road access and electricity limited to just four hours a day, Termales felt like a world apart. Its population of around 200 inhabitants consisted predominantly of Afro-Colombian locals, whose lives revolved around the bounties of the ocean.
Termales, Chocó
Immersing oneself in the local culture
For the residents of Termales, tourism was a recent phenomenon, with most visitors hailing from Colombian cities like Medellin. Yet, despite the influx of outsiders, the village retained its authentic charm, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
The shot vs Behind the scenes
Nestled within the verdant embrace of Colombia's Chocó region, El Valle exudes the tranquility of a hidden gem. This small village, connected by a solitary road to the harbor city of Bahia Solano, embodies the essence of coastal living. With its vibrant Afro-Colombian culture, lush rainforest backdrop, and proximity to pristine beaches, El Valle offers visitors a glimpse into a way of life untouched by the passage of time—a serene haven waiting to be explored.
First steps
It was nothing but pure luck that brought me into this magical moment. Capturing this toddler's first steps, guided by his proud mother. We celebrated this milestone as complete strangers and I was deeply touched by the mother's gratitude for immortalizing this precious memory
Miracle of life
These tiny warriors imprint the location of their birth, ensuring they return to the exact same spot years later to continue the cycle of life, laying eggs and nurturing the next generation
This national park stands as a testament to Colombia's commitment to preserving its natural treasures. Nestled along the country's Pacific coast, this protected area is renowned for its breathtaking biodiversity and pristine landscapes. One of its most captivating attractions is the annual visitation of humpback whales, who journey thousands of kilometers from the frigid waters of Antarctica to the warm embrace of Colombia's Pacific waters to breed and nurse their young. These majestic creatures are not only treated to a spectacle of nature's grandeur but also reminded of the importance of conservation in safeguarding our planet's delicate ecosystems.
Into the jungle
Our expedition into Parque Nacional Natural Utría was a raw and unforgettable adventure in one of Earth's most biodiverse realms. With just three companions—Captain Opsolom and his apprentice—we navigated the vastness of this nature reserve. From harpoon fishing and swimming with humpback whales to snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, each moment unfolded with a sense of wonder. Trekking through dense jungle, where jaguars roam and hunt for sea turtles, we reached a secluded waterfall, a hidden treasure in the heart of the wilderness. This day of exploration will forever be etched in my memory as a true testament to the beauty and diversity of our planet's natural wonders.
The Hermit Crab's Surreal Sanctuary
A hermit crab finds its makeshift home within a discarded piece of plastic—a stark reminder of the pervasive impact of human activity on even the most remote corners of our planet. It serves as a powerful testament to the ubiquity of plastic pollution and its profound consequences for wildlife, underscoring the urgent need for collective action to protect our environment.
UtrÃa, Chocó
Harvesting Sustainably: Fishing Only What You Need
Embarking on a culinary adventure is often the most immersive way to delve into the heart of a culture. In our journey, guided by Opsolom, we discovered the essence of his community's traditions through the art of cooking. With a trusted harpoon in hand, Opsolom demonstrated the age-old practice of fish hunting, offering insights into his people's deep connection with the ocean. In the humble surroundings of his outdoor kitchen, hidden on the park's shoreline, we witnessed the meticulous preparation of a meal infused with history and tradition. A true moment of genuine sharing that transcended language barriers
Many Thanks !
Thank you so much for joining me on this Photo Journey through Colombia's Pacific coast, it means the world to me! If any of the photos caught your eye and you'd like to support me, you can purchase high-quality prints by clicking the button below.
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