Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Cartagena, Bolivar!

National Aviary of Colombia (Aviario Nacional de Colombia)

Why Visit?

Discover the Vibrant Wonders of the National Aviary of Colombia

Embark on an enchanting journey to the National Aviary of Colombia, where the colorful world of avian wonders awaits. This sanctuary, nestled on Barú Island near Cartagena, is a paradise for bird lovers and is fully accessible to visitors on wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

Getting There

Start your adventure with a scenic 60-minute drive from Cartagena. Wheelchair-accessible transportation can be arranged through local tour operators or by renting an adapted vehicle. Upon arrival, smooth pathways and ample ramps ensure a comfortable experience throughout the aviary.

Tour Highlights

1. Entrance and Tropical Forests: Enter through the accessible main gate where the journey begins. The Tropical Forests exhibit, with its wide, flat paths, is perfect to observe toucans and parakeets amidst lush greenery.

2. Coastal Wetlands: Glide along to the Coastal Wetlands area, designed thoughtfully with boardwalks. This zone provides a unique opportunity to see herons and flamingos up close, making it a delightful spectacle.

3. Desert Area: Don’t miss the Desert Area, where you can marvel at the resilience of desert birds. The smooth, hard-packed surfaces here make navigation a breeze.

4. Interactive Feeding Sessions: Participate in wheelchair-friendly interactive feeding sessions, a highlight where you can engage directly with some friendly species.

Practical Tips

- Best Times to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for cooler temperatures and active birds.

- Facilities: Accessible restrooms and a café are available on-site. The café’s deck offers a panoramic view of the Aviary, perfect for a relaxing break.

- Guided Tours: Opt for a guided tour, available in multiple languages, which provides insightful commentary tailored to accessible routes.

Explore the National Aviary of Colombia where inclusivity meets natural beauty, ensuring every visitor experiences the magic of Colombia’s diverse birdlife without limits.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Baru Island

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting adventure to the tropical Baru Island, a gem off Colombia"s Caribbean coast that combines accessible comfort with natural beauty. This wheelchair and mobility scooter-friendly itinerary ensures that everyone can enjoy the paradisiacal landscapes and rich culture of this stunning island.

### Day 1: Arrival in Cartagena

Fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport in Cartagena. From there, it"s a seamless transfer via a pre-arranged accessible shuttle that caters to mobility needs, heading directly to the tourist dock. Board a wheelchair-accessible boat equipped with ramps and ample space, setting sail to Baru Island. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and is a perfect introduction to the serene vibe of the island.

Upon arrival, check into one of Baru’s accessible beachfront resorts, which offer specially designed rooms and pathways that ensure ease of movement for wheelchair users. Spend the afternoon unwinding on Playa Blanca, where portable beach wheelchairs are available to explore the white sands and crystal-clear waters.

### Day 2: Aviario Nacional de Colombia

After a morning by the sea, head to the Aviario Nacional de Colombia. Accessible shuttles are available for the short ride to this bird sanctuary, the largest in Latin America. Here, paved pathways meander through the tropical landscape, making it easy for wheelchairs and scooters to navigate. The aviary is home to over 1,900 birds, representing 135 species. The flamingo pond and the immersive tropical forest exhibit are not to be missed – both accessible and truly captivating.

### Day 3: Local Culture and Cuisine

On your last day, explore Baru"s local culture. Visit a nearby village using an accessible shuttle service. Many villages are equipped with ramps and paved paths. Take part in a cooking class where you can learn how to make traditional coastal dishes like arepas de huevo (egg-filled corn cakes) in an accessible kitchen setup.

Before departing, enjoy a final stroll along the beach or relax by the resort pool with a view of the azure Caribbean waters, reflecting on a serene and inclusive escape to beautiful Baru Island.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.