Visit Gorgona National Natural Park, a stunning tropical island in the Pacific Ocean with a rich history and biodiversity. It was awarded to an Englishman by Colombia’s liberator, Simon Bolívar, before being taken back in the 1900s and used as an island prison.
Arrive in the El Poblado district and stroll along the beach to appreciate the picturesque views. Here, you’ll find the island’s main scuba diving shop and lodging.
Chat with a park ranger about how the island served in the 1900s as a prison, with awful conditions and torture rooms. One such chamber was so small that it forced the prisoner to stand for days. Go on a tour of the remaining section of the complex, the rest of which was converted into a research center.
For a change of setting, head to the dive shop and rent gear to take out on the water. Dive into the ocean and spot a range of aquatic creatures beneath the surface, where you might see whitefin sharks and sea turtles. With luck, you’ll have an encounter with a whale or whale shark. Come to the park between June and July to see migrating humpback whales.
Dine on seafood and rice at the restaurant in El Poblado, which is the only district open to visitors. The island has just one hotel, which provides rubber boots to hikers to protect against poisonous snakebites. Walk through the dense forest and marvel at the bats, monkeys, sloths and the astonishing blue anole, a small lizard.
Gorgona Island is a Pacific Ocean islet located 22 miles (35 kilometers) off the coast of southwestern Colombia. To get here in a few hours, take a dive boat or climb aboard a cargo ship from Buenaventura. Alternatively, fly to Guapi and embark on a shorter boat journey from there. There is a fee to enter the national natural park, with separate costs for your accommodations on the island.
While you’re in the region, consider visiting the island of Malpelo, a bit farther afield.
