- \n
- Filandia \u2013 Travel Report, Information, and Hotels<\/a><\/li>\n
- Rincon del Mar: A tropical paradise away from mass tourism<\/a><\/li>\n
- Bah\u00eda de Solano vs. Nuqu\u00ed: A Traveller\u2019s Dilemma in Colombia\u2019s Choc\u00f3<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/h2>\n
How to get there?<\/h2>\n
The Rio Claro<\/span> river is located in Puerto Trinufo<\/strong> a small local community\u00a0in Antioquia<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0and is about 3 – 3.5 hours from Medellin the capital of Antioquia<\/strong>. From the capital of Colombia,\u00a0Bogota<\/strong>\u00a0it will take around 5 hours to get to the beautiful scenery of Rio Claro<\/span>.\u00a0From Medellin<\/strong> a one way bus trip cost<\/span>\u00a019,000 Pesos. One of the bus companies that go frequently to\u00a0<\/span>Rio Claro<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0is\u00a0Coonorte<\/span>. In Medellin the busses leave from the\u00a0Terminal Norte<\/span><\/strong>. Make sure to tell the bus driver to advise you once you reach the Refugio which is the natural reserve at Rio Claro and where you basically want to enjoy the river and the nature around.\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n![\"Rio](\"http:\/\/travelastronaut.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Rio_claro.jpg\")
<\/a>Rio Claro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n \nGeological Marvel: The Marble Canyon<\/h3>\n
One of the most striking features of R\u00edo Claro is its stunning marble canyon, which has been sculpted by the river over millions of years. This natural phenomenon has created a series of crystal-clear pools, rapids, and caves that are encased by smooth, marble walls. The varying shades of the marble, combined with the clear water, create a breathtaking landscape that is both serene and majestic.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Biodiversity and Natural Habitat<\/h3>\n
R\u00edo Claro is not just a geological wonder; it is also an ecological treasure trove. The area surrounding the river is a lush rainforest that hosts a diverse array of flora and fauna. This region is a haven for birdwatchers, with many species of birds, including some that are endemic to the area. Additionally, the forest is home to a variety of mammals, reptiles, and insects, making it a vital habitat for wildlife.<\/p>\n
Adventure and Recreation<\/h3>\n
For adventure enthusiasts, the R\u00edo Claro River offers a plethora of activities. Rafting and kayaking through the rapids provide an exhilarating experience, while more serene activities like swimming in the natural pools and exploring the caves offer a peaceful connection with nature. The area also has trails for hiking, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the rainforest.<\/p>\n
Conservation Efforts<\/h3>\n
The R\u00edo Claro Valley is a protected area, with efforts in place to preserve its unique environment. Conservation initiatives focus on protecting the river’s ecosystem from pollution and deforestation, ensuring that its natural beauty and biodiversity are maintained for future generations.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/travelastronaut.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/butterfly_rio_claro.jpg\")
<\/a><\/h3>\nWhy It’s Impressive<\/h3>\n
R\u00edo Claro is impressive for several reasons:<\/p>\n
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- Unique Geological Formation<\/strong>: The marble canyon is a rare and stunning geological formation, offering an otherworldly landscape.<\/li>\n
- Rich Biodiversity<\/strong>: The area’s diverse wildlife and lush vegetation are indicative of the rich biodiversity found within Colombia’s rainforests.<\/li>\n
- Adventure and Tranquility<\/strong>: It offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences.<\/li>\n
- Conservation Significance<\/strong>: Its status as a protected area highlights the importance of preserving natural wonders in the face of environmental challenges.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/h3>\n
Accommodation in Rio Claro<\/h3>\n
I heard plenty of good things about Rio Claro from friends and colleagues and hence I thought it was about time to make my own opinion on how beautiful this place really is. A few days before the trip I booked a small\u00a0Caba\u00f1a with a panoramic view in\u00a0El\u00a0Refugio\u00a0a natural reserve at Rio Claro. One night at the\u00a0Caba\u00f1a\u00a0Panoramico\u00a0cost 130.000 COP. The price includes 3 dishes per day. Obviously there are different options for accommodation available. The cheapest room is a dormitory and start at 75,000 COP in Low season and can accommodate 4-6 persons. Rooms get more expensive according to location and features. There is also the possibility for camping right at the entrance for the park but there are no prices stated on the Refugio website.<\/p>\n
The reservation of the rooms in El Refugio is unfortunately not possible online you can only make some sort of pre-reservation or call the camp and transfer the funds via bank transfer which is a little complicated in case you have no Colombian bank account. But you can also just drop by at the reserve and book it there. This shouldn\u2019t be a problem if you don\u2019t go during Semana Santa the Colombian Easter holidays or other important Colombian holidays. I never had trouble booking on-site. In case you make the reservation online or via telephone the staff will send you some information that should be considered. The most important is definitely to bring a flashlight. If you need more information about El Refugio at Rio Claro just follow the link\u00a0\u00a0http:\/\/www.rioclaroelrefugio.com\/<\/p>\n
![\"Cabana](\"http:\/\/travelastronaut.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cabana_paoramico.jpg\")
<\/a>Cabana El Refugio<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n ![\"El](\"http:\/\/travelastronaut.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/cabana_el_refugio.jpg\")
<\/a>El Refugio<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n My experience<\/h3>\n
When I finally arrived at Rio Claro after 3,5 hours noticed instantly that the clima is way hotter and more humid than in Medellin. This does not come as a surprise when you know that it is located only 150 meters above sea level. After I had to walk another kilometer from the main entrance in the tropical heat I arrived sweaty but happy at the reception of El Refugio. After check-in, the friendly receptionist told me that we still had to plan my activities for the next day. Equally friendly I replied to the nice lady that there wouldn\u2019t be any activities for me as I was only here to relax.<\/span><\/p>\n
- Rich Biodiversity<\/strong>: The area’s diverse wildlife and lush vegetation are indicative of the rich biodiversity found within Colombia’s rainforests.<\/li>\n
- Rincon del Mar: A tropical paradise away from mass tourism<\/a><\/li>\n
![\"El](\"http:\/\/travelastronaut.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/reserva_natural.jpg\")
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