Upon landing in Nuquí, Colombia, it becomes evident that a community lives there in constant contact with the environment. This destination in the Colombian Pacific is enclosed by the jungle to preserve it as a treasure where the songs of animals, the roar of waves, and the whisper of leaves swayed by the wind are a gift.
This is the land of tranquility, one that pays homage to the name of the sea that bathes it, although its beaches can be rough and turn into waves. Far from everything, it forces you to disconnect from the outside world and sharpen your senses to feel the vibrations of nature.
Land of ethnicity and culture
Children run around in Nuquí. / Photo: Natalia Gómez Carvajal.
Drawn by rubber and its commercial potential, several groups of Black communities moved to the beaches of Chocó, a department in the Colombian Pacific. Today, they are fishermen or dedicated to tourism, one of the region's main economic activities.
Upon arrival, they encountered various indigenous communities belonging to the Embera ethnic group. Their settlements are located in jungle areas and are very far apart. Meanwhile, Black communities grouped into larger communities, giving rise to the largest populations in Chocó. People from other regions such as Medellín and Cali can also be found here.
Nuquí is one of the most interesting populations on the Pacific coast because it brings together these two ethnic groups. Among dusty streets and zinc and wood constructions, indigenous people move from one place to another, bringing life with their crafts made from wérregue, tagua, and even totumo.
Waves and sea for surfing and diving
The strong winds of the Pacific Ocean produce the best waves for surfing. Nuquí is fortunate to have its coasts on this immense sea, making it a very attractive place for athletes from around the world.
There are beaches like Terquito, where the waves are perfect for learning: constant and strong enough to ride without it being an ordeal. If you are an experienced surfer, Cabo Corrientes, Pico de Loro, Pela Pela, Juan Tornillo, and El Derrumbe are the natural choice as they represent a true challenge.
Between July and October, humpback whales and turtles migrate to the Colombian Pacific to mate and give birth.
Beneath the waters, the environment is filled with color: schools of fish, dolphins, turtles, and even humpback whales, which arrive at the Colombian Pacific coasts between July and October. When deep-sea diving, it is advisable to go with a certified diver or obtain the PADI certification due to strong marine currents.
This wealth of marine life makes whale watching and (controlled) sport fishing two of the favorite activities for travelers. During a fishing session, fish such as dorado, sailfish, blue marlin, various tunas, sawfish, snappers, and grouper can be caught.
