Reaching Nuquí, Colombia, is stepping into a natural paradise of dreamlike beaches, dense rainforests, and incredible biodiversity. This wonderful natural destination is located in the Chocó department, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
In this travel guide, based on our experience, we will tell you how to get to Nuquí from Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, what activities you can do in this place, where to stay, and recommend a package that includes beachfront accommodation, activities, and all necessary transportation.
Let’s start planning your trip to Nuquí, Colombia:
Where is Nuquí, Chocó?
Nuquí is a Colombian municipality located in the Chocó department, nestled between lush rainforests and the Pacific Ocean coastline. It is an ecotourism destination that offers stunning landscapes, secluded beaches, and the opportunity to witness the humpback whale watching season.
Is Nuquí dangerous? Although Chocó has historically been one of the areas most affected by internal conflict, Nuquí is one of the safest and most tourist-friendly municipalities, welcoming many travelers from all over the world each year. However, as in any other place, it’s important to stay cautious and keep up with the news.
Recommended: 5 Must-See Destinations in the Colombian Pacific
How to Get to Nuquí from Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali
Nuquí is a destination that is completely isolated from Colombia’s main cities, which adds to its unique charm. However, this means that there is no land access from the country’s major cities. The only way to reach Nuquí is by air from Bogotá, Medellín, and occasionally from Cali.
The airport serving Nuquí is Reyes Murillo Airport. Flights are available from Bogotá and Medellín. It is important to purchase tickets in advance, as there are no daily flights, availability is quite limited, and seats sell out quickly, especially during the whale-watching season and the end-of-year holidays.
Upon arriving at Nuquí Airport, keep in mind that the most beautiful beaches and main eco-tourism attractions are located outside the urban center, specifically in the neighboring districts of Guachalito, Termales, and Arusí.
Here you can get a quote for the trip to Nuquí, including flights
In the districts of Guachalito, Termales, and Arusí, you will find the most beautiful beaches in Nuquí, perfect for ecotourism and cultural enthusiasts. There you can venture into the jungle, discover freshwater waterfalls and go on expeditions in search of whales, birds, frogs, butterflies and many other species.
To reach these districts, you will need to walk from Nuquí Airport to the tourist dock and then take a boat for 30 to 60 minutes along the coast. However, it is important to note that public boats have limited schedules, so it’s best to book a travel package that includes these transfers.
Now that you know how to get to Nuquí, it’s important to mention that booking flights, coordinating public boat schedules, accommodations, and local guides can be a complicated task. That’s why we suggest requesting more information about this all-inclusive plan:
Travel Package: 4-Day Getaway to Nuquí for Total Disconnection
Traveling to Nuquí is much more than a vacation: it’s immersing yourself in dreamy landscapes and completely disconnecting from the world. This plan is perfect for those seeking secluded beaches, tropical rainforests, and the opportunity to observe the incredible flora and fauna of the Colombian Pacific.
The plan includes accommodations in a private room at a beachfront hotel, all meals, a beach walk to discover the charming Cascada del Amor (Love Waterfall), and a visit to the relaxing hot springs.
Scheduled dates (outside whale season): October 31-November 3 (Holiday), November 7-10, November 14-17 (Holiday), December 5-8 (Holiday), and December 26-29.
Price per person from: $1,320,000 COP
🔥 (Take advantage of the 2025 rate to book your 2026 trip)
Things to Do in Nuquí, Colombia:
1. Enjoy the Humpback Whale Watching Season
One of the main activities in Nuquí is to enjoy the humpback whale watching season, where these giant cetaceans partake in one of the most impressive migrations in the world. They travel about 19,000 kilometers from Antarctica to the warm waters of Chocó to give birth, feed, and teach their calves their first life lessons.
Humpback whales visit Colombia annually, and Nuquí, along with Bahía Málaga, Bahía Solano, and Isla Gorgona, are some of the best places to see them. However, it’s important to remember that whale watching is a natural phenomenon, and often only their backs and tails are visible.
When is the whale season in Nuquí, Colombia? Generally, the whale season on the Colombian Pacific starts in July and ends in October. Based on our experience, the best months for whale watching are typically August and September. If you plan to travel during these months, be sure to book your trip several months in advance.
If you want to organize your trip to Nuquí on your own, we recommend considering these accommodations that stand out for their location and value for money: Cabañas Refugio Salomon, Posada El Esfuerzo, El Retoño del Negro Gozón, Casa Colibrí, Popochos Beach Eco-Lodge, and Punta Brava.
Tips for finding great and affordable accommodation: The best way to secure the lowest prices is to book early. If you wait until the last minute, the cheapest and highest-rated places will likely be sold out, and you’ll have to settle for what’s left.
Our favorite platform for finding hotel deals is Booking.com. By booking through this link, you can save up to 15% on your next stay. The best part is that, in many cases, you can pay directly at the property, and cancel for free if your plans change.
Plus, if you book frequently, you’ll reach Genius Level 3, Booking’s highest loyalty tier, which gives you exclusive discounts, free breakfasts, and room upgrades — helping you save even more.
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2. Relax on the Best Beaches of Nuquí, Colombia
Many people choose to travel to Nuquí, Colombia for its stunning black and golden sand beaches, which contrast beautifully with the green tones of the jungle and the Gulf of Tribugá. A marvel of this destination is that most of the southern towns, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia, are connected by trails.
Whether you stay in Guachalito, Termales, or Arusí, you have the option to walk to the neighboring towns from any of these districts in Nuquí. If you start in Guachalito, you can first visit the Cascada del Amor and then head to the beaches of Terco, Piedra Piedra, and Termales, where you can enjoy the thermal waters.
The walk along the beaches of Nuquí, Chocó, from the town of Guachalito to Termales can take between 2 to 3 hours, and it’s important to consult with local guides about the tide conditions before starting the hike. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best activities.
Request information about available plans to travel to Nuquí
3. Enjoy the Thermal Waters of Nuquí, Chocó
About a 45-minute walk from Guachalito beach is the charming town of Termales, another must-visit destination in Nuquí. There, in addition to exploring the lush jungle, you can enjoy secluded beaches, learn to surf, and relax in the thermal waters.
The thermal waters are located in the heart of the Chocó jungle, next to a small river of crystal-clear water that flows directly into the ocean. To make the most of this spot, it’s advisable to visit early in the morning when it’s virtually empty, giving you the entire place to yourself.
By the way, here are some links for you to check the flight prices to Nuquí on the dates you need and purchase if it suits you (you can change the currency and language from the button in the top right corner):
✈️ Cheap Flights from Medellín
How to find cheap last-minute flights Although it’s always best to book in advance, we know that’s not always possible. In those cases, Skyscanner is a great tool for finding the best fares and deals worldwide.
This platform compares prices from hundreds of airlines and agencies to show you the most affordable options. Simply click here, enter your departure city, destination, and travel dates, and filter by price, time, or stopovers to find the perfect flight.
Is it safe to book flights on Skyscanner? Yes, it is. Just keep in mind that Skyscanner doesn’t sell tickets directly — it redirects you to the airline or travel agency’s official site. For extra peace of mind, we recommend booking through the link that takes you straight to the airline’s website.
4. Visit Ensenada de Utría National Park
The Ensenada de Utría National Natural Park is located between the municipalities of Nuquí and Bahía Solano in Chocó. This reserve is one of the natural gems of the Colombian Pacific, where calm, warm waters welcome various migratory species such as sea turtles, birds, and whales.
Within the cove, there are several trails for ecotourism, our favorites being the Mangrove Path and Playa Blanca. On the first, you will learn about the importance of this mangrove ecosystem, while at the second, you can access several areas designated for snorkeling, freediving, and scuba diving.
It’s important to note that to reach the Ensenada de Utría from Nuquí, you will need to hire a speedboat. The sea journey can take between 1 and 2 hours. Upon arriving at the park, you will need to pay the entrance fee and receive an induction talk from the National Park officials.
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5. Release Sea Turtles: Best things to do in Nuquí
Every year, in addition to the humpback whale season, the beaches of Nuquí witness the return of sea turtles that come back to the place where they were born to nest and lay their eggs. Witnessing this event is a gift of nature, but it also requires respect from both local communities and travelers.
Sea turtles play a crucial ecological role as natural predators of jellyfish. Unfortunately, however, they have a high mortality rate when they are young. It’s estimated that, out of an average of 100 eggs, only 1 will reach adulthood. Therefore, releasing turtles is more than just a tourist activity—it’s a conservation initiative.
When is the sea turtle season in Nuquí? The sea turtle nesting season in Chocó usually runs from July to November, while the hatching season lasts from September to January. However, this is an entirely natural event.
Hotels in Nuquí, Colombia: Cabañas Refugio Salomon, Posada El Esfuerzo, El Retoño del Negro Gozón, Casa Colibrí, Popochos Beach Eco-Lodge, and Punta Brava.
? Search for accommodation deals in Nuquí
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Tips for Traveling to Nuquí, Colombia
When planning your trip to Nuquí, keep in mind that Chocó is one of the rainiest places in the world. Therefore, prepare for a humid tropical climate by bringing lightweight, quick-drying clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a raincover.
Any time is good to visit Nuquí, but if you want to go humpback whale watching, you should travel between July and October, which is the migration season and also the high season in the Colombian Pacific.
If you decide to visit Nuquí, whether with a tour package or on your own, remember that it’s important to book your reservations several weeks in advance. Here are some useful links to help you plan your trip:
Get a quote for a trip from Bogotá or Medellín
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Nuquí by land? You can only reach Nuquí by plane from cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Quibdó, and occasionally from Cali. There is no road through the rainforest that connects this destination to the interior of the country.
What to do in Nuquí? The top activities include: 1) Watching humpback whales from July to October, 2) Relaxing on secluded beaches, 3) Participating in a sea turtle release program from September to January, 4) Enjoying the hot springs, and 5) Exploring the Ensenada de Utría National Park.
Now that you know how to get to Nuquí and what to do in this natural paradise, remember to be a responsible traveler: take care of the nature around you, respect local traditions, and support initiatives that promote peace and social inclusion.
Other Travel Packages You Might Be Interested In:
Top pick: A nature escape to Bahía Málaga – 3 days / 2 nights
Visiting Bahía Málaga National Park is a sensory experience in the heart of the Colombian Pacific, ideal for couples or families seeking adventure while exploring one of the country’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
The excursion includes round-trip transportation from the Buenaventura pier, accommodation in a hotel with a pool and ocean view, full meals, an ecological tour through estuaries and mangroves, a local guide, and travel insurance.
End-of-year dates (outside whale-watching season): November 1-3 (Holiday), November 7-9, November 15-17 (Holiday), December 6-8 (Holiday), and December 27-29.
Price per person from: $802,000 COP
Recommended: 4-Day Trip to Bahía Solano from Bogotá or Medellín
Experience an incredible escape from the routine with this trip to Bahía Solano. Immerse yourself in a unique natural and cultural environment that will allow you to discover the biodiversity of the Chocó Biogeographic Region and enjoy the magic of seeing native flora and fauna.
The plan includes accommodations just a few meters from the sea, meals, a sea turtle release, an excursion to the beaches of El Valle, Huina, and Playa de los Deseos, as well as a hike through the rainforest and a visit to the Juná Streams.
Available dates (outside whale season): October 31-November 3 (Holiday), November 7-10, November 14-17 (Holiday), December 5-8 (Holiday), and December 26-29.
Price per person from: $1,697,000 COP
Isla Gorgona: 4-Day Adventure & Culture Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Colombian Pacific! Discover Gorgona Island, a natural paradise with pristine beaches and fascinating marine life, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Guapi.
The plan includes accommodation in Guapi, meals, a cultural tour through Guapi and the communities of Joanico and Quiroga, visits to handicraft and marimba workshops, and an excursion to Gorgona Island to explore the former prison and go snorkeling at Yundigua Beach.
Scheduled dates for the end of the year (outside of whale season): October 31-November 3 (Holiday), November 7-10, November 14-17 (Holiday), December 5-8 (Holiday), and December 26-29.
Price per person: $1,987,000 COP
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