Mavicure: The Best Kept Secret of the Amazon
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- Mavicure: The Best Kept Secret of the Amazon
- Mavicure, Guainía
Towering above the Amazon jungle in the heart of Colombia lies a hidden gem- Mavicure. Located in the Guainía Department, this remote destination offers unparalleled adventure for those seeking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature and indigenous mythology.
Getting There:
Reaching Mavicure is an adventure in itself. The only way to get there is to fly into Bogotá and then catch a domestic flight to Puerto Inírida, the capital of Guainía Department. Satena is the only airline to fly there. From there, travelers can take a 2.5 hour boat ride along the Inírida River to reach Mavicure.
Transportation and lodging should be arranged in advance, English is not widely spoken and cell phone service is not always available. We believe in open information and no gatekeeping so travelers can plan their own trip if they desire. However, this destination presents logistical difficulties, which is why we recommend planning this trip with an agency or expert.
Main Attractions:
- The Three Brothers: Mavicure is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes dominated by the majestic Mavicure Hills, also known as the “Three Brothers”. These towering monoliths offer breathtaking views and are a unique spot for hiking and photography.
- Chilling On the (quartz) Beach: During the dry season, when the waters are low, white quartz sand beaches emerge from the river. You know what to do next.
- Canoe Ride with Pink Dolphins: River dolphins are incredibly curious and friendly. After taking a river bath in the surreal wine-colored river, canoe back to camp and welcome a possible surprise visit.
- Botanical Walk: Hike through the jungle with a local indigenous guide who knows all about the region’s plants, all the way from hair growth medicine to vegetal viagra.
- Local Culture: There are 6 different indigenous peoples with their unique traditions and myths in Guainia. There is much to learn from their way of viewing the world and traditions.
How the hell? (Geological Side Note)
Mavicure is located on the The Guiana Shield, one of the oldest geological formations on Earth dating back over 2 billion years (Earth is 4.5 billion years old and the universe 13 billion).
The formation spans across northeastern South America. This massive geological formation has created some of Earth’s most alien landscapes, like Angel Falls (the world’s highest waterfall) and Canaima National Park in Venezuela and Caño Cristales, Guaviare and of course Mavicure in Colombia. It is also home to many unique ecosystems, including pristine rainforests, vast savannas, and impressive table-top mountains known as tepuis.
The imposing rock formations of Mavicure were formed over millions of years through the slow erosion of the ancient rocks that make up the Guiana Shield, resulting in the dramatic cliffs and peaks that define Mavicure’s striking scenery. Mavicure stands as a testament to the enduring geological forces that have shaped the landscapes of the Guiana Shield over countless millennia.
Seasons and Best Time
to Travel:
Mavicure experiences a tropical rainforest climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year and has two seasons:
Dry season: from November to April, water levels descend and uncover white sand beaches made from ancient quartz and mysterious cave and rock paintings. Days are mostly sunny with an average temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit, minimum of 70 and maximum of 90. This is the best time to visit, but there alternative also has its charm.
Rainy season: from May to October you can expect sunny days as well but rain is more likely and plans may be moved around to account for the weather. It is possible to visit Mavecure during these months, and although the water levels rise and some beaches disappear, you can now navigate through the beautiful flooded jungles. During this time of the year expect similar temperatures to that of the dry season, but greater relative humidity.
4-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Mavicure, and grab a speedboat up the river for 2.5 hours. Settle into the camp, and explore your surroundings. Rest and save energy for the following days.
Day 2: Hike to the summit of one of the Mavicure Hills for panoramic views of the surrounding area and catch the sunrise at the top. In the afternoorn relax and unwind, perhaps with a leisurely stroll along the riverbank.
Day 3: Take a boat tour along the Inírida River, visiting nearby indigenous villages and experiencing local culture. Take a dip in Caño San Joaquin and take a canoe ride with pink dolphins.
Day 4: Take the speedboat back to Inírida to catch your flight.
What to Pack:
- Trekking shoes
- A spare pair of sneakers
- Flashlight
- Biodegradable mosquito repellent
- Fast-drying clothes (preferably light color and long sleeved)
- Swimwear
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Reusable water flask. Help us reduce plastic use.
- Light waterproof jacket or windbreaker
- Water-resistant backpack
- If you're allergic to insect bites, bring your own medication.
- Cash for souvenirs (there are limited ATMs)
- Personal power bank
Accomodation & Food:
Accommodation options in Mavicure are limited and will often be in communities and lodges away from the main city of Puerto Inírida. During your trip you’ll most likely stay at the community of Venado, where a big and beautiful indigenous house (or maloka) was built to accommodate travelers. Bathrooms and rooms are shared among travelers. Explore the region further and travel downriver to Moru, a nature reserve on the banks of the Orinoco river. The beautiful eco-lodge has a stunning view of the sun rising over the river and offers giant tree canopy walks.
The region’s gastronomy is based on many of the locally sourced exotic ingredients. Freshly caught fish is delicious and prepared in many ways (some unexpected but very tasty). Chicken, legumes and grains are a big part of local gastronomy too. And chillies are a huge part of Amazonian cuisine (don’t worry, they serve it on the side). However, most traditional of all are mañoco and casabe, two ways of preparing yucca brava, an Amazonian root vegetable.
Health and Safety Guidelines:
Travelers to Mavicure should ensure they are up to date on routine vaccinations and consider getting vaccinated against diseases such as yellow fever and typhoid. It’s also important to take precautions against mosquito bites to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria. Additionally, travelers should be mindful of their surroundings and respectful of the local culture and customs.