The orchids caress the fields of the different regions of Colombia. They are the queens of the jungle, but also a natural treasure that adorns with their beautiful flowers the most special places of the second most biodiverse country in the world.
Orchids, Colombia's Natural Wealth
Colombia is the country with the most types of orchids in the world. It is no surprise that the Cattleya flower, commonly known as the May flower, is considered our national symbol. This orchid, native to Colombia, has a great variety of shapes and colors and is a display of the biodiversity that exists in a unique country.
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Of the 4,270 species of orchids registered in Colombia, 1,572 are endemic. Additionally, 274 genera of orchids are distributed across the different regions of Colombia. What is the reason for this privilege? Mainly due to the geographical position the country occupies in the northwest of South America and its environmental diversity.
Flowers that Enhance the Regions of Colombia
Orchids of different colors, scents, shapes, textures, and sizes grow in the various thermal floors of Colombia. Their stunning beauty accompanies everything from tropical jungles and humid forests to the most ordinary places in the country.
Although orchids are present in all regions of Colombia, the Andean region is the area with the highest number of endemics. According to the Plan for the Study and Conservation of Orchids in Colombia, 2,542 species of orchids are cultivated in departments such as Antioquia, Boyacá, Caldas, and Cundinamarca.
Secondly, the Colombian Pacific is where 533 species of orchids adorn the department of Chocó, as well as the coastal areas of Valle del Cauca, Nariño, and Cauca. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Plains, 143 species of orchids are part of one of the best landscapes and sunsets in Colombia.
There are approximately 260,000 species of flowering plants in the world, Colombia is home to - on average - one-tenth of this wealth.
Cattleya quadricolor, white orchids of the Andean region
Orchid cattleya quadricolor.
This endemic orchid of Colombia, also known as cattleya candida, has petals and sepals of light pink, almost white. Its labellum possesses the other three colors: mauve (lilac) in the tube, yellow in the throat, and a purple spot on the disk. Unlike other orchids of this species, its flowers are slightly open and slightly tilted, also possessing an exquisite aroma.
Nature and Adventure Activities in the Andean Region
More than 800 species of birds and 20 natural parks attract different tourists every year in this region. Additionally, it is especially attractive for bird watching and for practicing ecotourism activities, which include visiting Andean páramos such as Chingaza and Sumapaz, as well as the Nevado del Ruiz.
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Acacallis cyanea, purple orchids from the Amazon
Orchid acacallis cyanea.
These orchids grow only between the humidity and heat of the Amazon jungle and the Eastern Plains. They are generally found at the edge of rivers where part of the plant remains submerged in water, with only their blue-violet flowers and petals emerging, which appear solely blue under sunlight.
Nature and Adventure Activities in the Colombian Amazon
Its amazing biodiversity is the best showcase of the most exotic nature in the world. It is also the gateway to some natural reserves such as the Chiribiquete National Natural Park - where you can take tourist overflights- and even practice activities like rappelling or kayaking in the world's longest river.
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Dracula platycrater, orchids in the Colombian Pacific
Orchid dracula platycrater.
This small-sized plant is part of the Dracula genus, which includes 118 species of the most curious orchids. Each stem develops a large, thin, beak-shaped leaf that, when seen together, resembles the face of a monkey. They are found very close to streams and near the ground, as they need high levels of humidity to stay hydrated and with the flower open.
Nature and Adventure Activities in the Colombian Pacific
This is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, where you can witness the humpback whale watching. A natural spectacle that occurs between July and November each year. Additionally, it is a unique opportunity to practice hiking amidst mangroves or the jungle.
Odontoglossum naevium, orchids growing in the Colombian Caribbean
Orchid odontoglossum naevium.
These white orchids, belonging to the genus Odontoglossum which comprises about 300 species, have countless intergeneric hybrids. Their flowers are incredibly striking due to their round crimson or reddish spots that are distributed over their tepals. They are exclusive to cloud forests and cold, high-altitude mountains, which is why they are found exclusively in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Nature and adventure activities in the Caribbean region
Cities like Santa Marta offer memorable moments and experiences such as Diving in its wonderful crystal-clear waters or appreciating bird species in the various national natural parks in the area and visiting a magical place: the Tayrona Park.
Cycnoches haagii Barb, wild orchids of the Colombian Orinoquía
Orchid Cycnoches haagii Barb.
This small to medium-sized plant is found in the Orinoquía region, even in the northern part of the Amazon region. It is considered an epiphytic orchid, meaning it grows on another plant or object using it only for support. They are known as swan orchids, because they resemble a small swan with folded wings and a long neck curved backward.
Nature and adventure activities in the Orinoquía
One of the best attractions of the Llanos Orientales is Caño Cristales, one of the most beautiful rivers in the world located in the Parque Nacional Natural Sierra de La Macarena. A place where you can contemplate the wonders of nature, because through its crystal-clear waters you can see up to five colors. Without a doubt, an experience you cannot miss.
Brassavola nodosa, a natural privilege of San Andrés Island
Orchid Brassavola nodosa.
Its name nodosa, means “with nodes” and refers to its articulated white flowers, which grow on erect or pendulous racemes and are adapted to live in variable environments from wet to dry. Also known as the “lady of the night,” because at night it emits a very strong citrus fragrance.
Nature and adventure activities in the Insular region
The crystal-clear waters of the islands of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina have been recognized as a natural aquarium, ideal for activities such as snorkeling. You can also visit their Botanical Garden in the center of the island, a place where you can also appreciate other types of species.
Where to see orchids in Colombia
Below, we suggest some places where you can find and admire various species of orchids.
Flora Sanctuary Isla de la Corota
Located on Isla de la Corota, inside the Laguna de la Cocha in Pasto, Nariño. The sanctuary houses around 1,500 species of plants, including bromeliads, orchids, and anthuriums. Also a variety of birds, butterflies, amphibians, some small mammals, and bats.
Parque Nacional Natural El Tuparro
Located in Puerto Carreño, (1.5 hours from Bogotá by plane). This natural reserve records more than 20 species of orchids, as well as 112 species of birds, 74 species of mammals, and 26 species of fish. It has a three-kilometer trail for observing wildlife and flora.
Orquideorama José Jerónimo Triana
This large open hall located in the center of the Botanical Garden of Medellín groups different plants such as orchids, calatheas, anthuriums, bromeliads, ferns, and palms. It is considered a symbol of the renovation process of the Botanical Garden and an architectural reference of the transformation of the city of Medellín.
Discover the stunning beauty of orchids and, at the same time, the biodiversity of a unique destination like Colombia.
Colombia is not only home to 10% of the world's flower diversity but also has the largest variety of orchids. 1,572 of the 4,270 species that adorn our country are found only in our regions, and they are the perfect companions to discover each landscape and experience that Colombia has to offer. To learn about those that adorn the whole world, check out our Exportable Offer Catalog.
