Every 24th of August, we celebrate the International Day of National Parks, which can be thought of as natural treasures that have helped preserve landscapes, ecosystems, and species throughout the planet.
The Woman Post | Catalina Mejía Pizano
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The designation of a park as a National Park implies the obligation of non-alteration of the territories as well as a respectful presence of human beings in the area. It is worth highlighting that national parks are known for being home to several species of flora and fauna that are all important for purposes of science, education, and recreation.
In Colombia, we have over 59 protected areas that can be classified as part of the National Parks of the country. In total, these parks represent a total area of 17,541,489. They are located throughout the Colombian territory and they serve as a means to preserve the different ecosystems in each specific region, such as the Caribbean, the Andean, the Pacific, the Orinoquia, and the Amazon. Let's explore some of the beautiful national parks that you can visit in Colombia.
1. Amacayacu National Park
This jungle ecosystem is home to more than 5,000 plant species and its forests have the widest variety of primates in the world. Additionally, more than 468 species of birds have been registered during bird-watching.
2. Iguaque Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
This place is home to the Sacred Lagoon of Iguaque that according to Muiscan mythology was the place where humanity was born. They believed that Bachué, the mother of all humans, was born there.
3. El Cocuy National Park
This is the biggest glacial mass in Colombia, and it is composed of more than 25 peaks covered in ice and snow, located in two mountain chains of 25 km in length by 4 in width. The National Park includes moors as well as a large strip of Andean forest and basal jungle. It is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora.
4. Otún Quimbaya Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
Almost 90% of the protected area within the park is composed of natural forests. The remaining land contains small wetlands and forest plantations.
5. Los Nevados National Natural Park
This land was designated as National Park, to contribute to the preservation of one of the most important ecosystems in the world, since it has one of the three glaciers that are located in the country. Los Nevados Park is home to Nevado del Ruiz, Nevado de Santa Isabel and Nevado del Tolima.
6. Galeras Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
This National Park is located in the province of Nariño. The Galeras Volcano is its main attraction since it is one of the most active volcanoes on the continent. Some of its boilers constantly emit gases and others are inactive but serve as a reminder of the volcano’s activity in the past.
7. El Tuparro National Natural Park
This park contains a large and green Savannah, surrounded by large rivers with strong streams and sandy beaches with crystalline waters. More than 320 species of birds inhabit the area.
Today seems like a great date to be thankful for nature and to think of ways of taking good care of the diverse ecosystems that surround us. Lets us not forget that each of us has the responsibility to protect and preserve nature. The future generations will be thankful!