Amacayacu National Park

Introduction

This is one of the best reserves in Colombia, and is a must for anyone wishing to visit the Amazon region of South America. Situated on the Banks of the Amazon, at the mouth of the river Matamata, the reserve encompasses swamp, varzea and terra firme forest. It is worth spending at least a week here and making the most of the excursions offered by the park. It is not possible, however, to wander through the forest by yourself. The park has strict guidelines and state that all visitors must be accompanied by a guide. The rates for accommodation and food are excellent, with reductions being made available out of season.

Getting there

To get to the reserve you need to take one of the launches that travel between Leticia and Puerto Nariño. They will drop you off on route. Getting back to Leticia is, however, more difficult. It is worth speaking to the Reserve Director about booking the return journey the day before you leave. They will speak to the Boatman has he passes and book your ticket. However, if they then decide to fill the boat in Puerto Nariño you are left stranded.

Birds to look for

Isla Mocagua: this is the best place to see Hoatzin, though at the end of the dry season it can be very difficult to locate. This island is one of the few sites in Colombia where Wattled Currasow has been seen. Also look for Rufescent Tiger-heron, Black-collared Hawk, Horned Screamer, Long-billed Woodcreeper, Greater Ani, Greater Yellow-headed Vulture and Chestnut-eared Aracari.

Mocagua Village: it is well worth a look in the trees and bushes around the school. Here it is possible to see Plain-breasted Piculet, Orange-backed Troupial, Plum-throated Cotinga and Spotted Tody-flycatcher.

Reserve Centre: the centre is built on stilts as this area of the forest is seasonally flooded. An excellent variety of species can be seen from here. Look for several parrot species including Blue-and-yellow Macaw flying over, Bay Hornero, Scarlet-crowned Barbet, Golden-tailed Sapphire, Black-fronted Nunbird, Black-crested Antshrike, Boat-billed Flycatcher, Southern Beardless-tyrannulet, Black-capped Donacobius, Buff-breasted Wren, Silver-beaked, Masked Crimson and Hooded Tanagers and Russet-backed Oropendola.

Terra firma Forest: There a several trails from the reserve that take you to terra firma forest.

Green-and-rufous Kingfisher (John Gale)

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