Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
post
Playa Soledad, entre Capurgana et Sapzurro, Choco caribéen en Colombie

Playa Soledad: the most beautiful beach in the Caribbean Choco

Table of contents

No ATMs! Sapzurro and Capurgana have no ATMs, so make sure you have enough cash to cover all your needs: accommodation, meals, activities and transport.


In brief


To visit Sapzurro is to go to the end of the map, where Colombia gently fades away between lush jungle and the Caribbean Sea. Located in the far north of the department of Chocó, right on the border with Panama, this small, isolated village can only be reached by boat from Capurganá or after a tropical hike. As soon as you arrive, one thing is clear: here, time no longer has the same value.

Sapzurro unfolds around a peaceful bay with turquoise waters, lined with colorful houses, palm trees and hills covered in primary forest. There are no roads, no cars, no big hotels. Life revolves around fishing, exchanges with the locals and the slow rhythm imposed by nature. We move around on foot, chat at the bend in the path, watch the pirogues return at sunset.

The village is also the starting point for many unique experiences: hike to the Panamanian beach of La Miel, explore Cabo Tiburón, snorkel in the crystal-clear sea or stroll through the jungle, where monkeys and tropical birds accompany you on your way. This unspoilt region offers a raw, wild and deeply authentic Colombia.

Far from mass tourism, Sapzurro appeals to travelers in search of disconnection, gentle adventure and unspoiled Caribbean landscapes. A rare, almost confidential place, where the jungle plunges into the sea and the luxury of simplicity is rediscovered.

Sapzurro

  • County: Chocó (Caribbean)
  • Founded: 1889
  • Altitude: 0 m
  • Climate: rainy intertropical
  • Population: 570
  • Safety: very safe
  • Length of stay: 4 nights
  • Direct access (by boat): Capurgana, Acandi, Trigana,

Our verdict: an ideal place to relax and forget★★

Sapzurro is a tiny, humble and deeply isolated village that won’t appeal to everyone – and that’s precisely what makes it so charming. This is a far cry from conventional tourist standards. The pace of life is slow, dictated by the weather, the state of the sea and the comings and goings of the boats. When the sea is calm, everything works; when it’s not, we adapt. There’s no hurry, no excess, just a simple life, focused on nature and everyday life. Wedged between dense, unspoilt jungle and the Caribbean Sea, Sapzurro offers total immersion in a raw environment. Several hikes take less than an hour to reach beaches and viewpoints, while more remote sites can be discovered by boat. This constant proximity to nature is ideal for travelers seeking disconnection, calm and authenticity, but can be unsettling for those seeking comfort and structured activities. Sapzurro provides access to some of the most beautiful wild beaches in the Caribbean Chocó, such as La Miel and Cabo Tiburón. But you’ll have to adjust your expectations: the beaches are small and natural, sometimes littered with driftwood or vegetation brought in by the currents. Nothing like the long, smooth white sandy beaches of the touristy Caribbean. Finally, the year-round heat and humidity can be tiring. Getting up early to hike or explore is often the best option. Sapzurro is a destination to be experienced slowly, for what it is: raw, true and timeless.

When to visit Sapzurro Sapzurro can be visited all year round, but the best time to go is from December to April, during the dry season, to enjoy the beaches and hikes without heavy rain. We went at the end of September, in the middle of the rainy season, but that didn’t stop us enjoying sunny days and all the activities on offer.

Tourist numbers in Sapzurro: Sapzurro’s tourist numbers are still modest, but are clearly on the rise. The village appeals above all to travelers in search of authenticity and tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle of big cities or busier seaside resorts. Visitor numbers are seasonal: the high season, from December to April, coincides with the dry months, offering ideal conditions for sailing and hiking, while the low season, from May to November, corresponds to the rainy period and welcomes far fewer visitors. Whatever the season, the number of tourists remains reasonable, preserving the natural charm of the area. This makes Sapzurro an ideal destination for those wishing to discover the ends of the earth, far from mass tourism.

Climate in Sapzurro: Sapzurro’s climate is humid intertropical, characterized by warm, stable temperatures all year round, generally between 25°C and 32°C. The region enjoys a dry season, from December to April, when sunshine dominates and rainfall is scarce (but not non-existent), offering ideal conditions for exploring the jungle, hiking trails and beaches. The rainy season, from May to November, brings frequent and sometimes intense showers, especially in the late afternoon and evening, but the heat and humidity remain constant. This tropical climate favors lush vegetation and rich biodiversity, making Sapzurro an ideal destination for nature lovers and travelers in search of exuberant landscapes, even during the wet season.

Legend: Blue: transport terminalYellow: activities & visitsGreen: accommodationOrange: restaurants


History of the village of Sapzurro


Sapzurro is a small Colombian coastal village nestled in the extreme north-west of the country, in the department of Chocó, on the border with Panama, on the shores of the Gulf of Urabá. Isolated and protected by the Serranía del Darién, it is the last Colombian territory on the Caribbean coast before the passage to Central America. With its pristine beaches and unspoilt nature, Sapzurro has long been a haven for local people and, more recently, for travellers seeking tranquillity.

Pre-Columbian origins and foundation

Before the arrival of European settlers, the Sapzurro region was inhabited by indigenous peoples, mainly the Kunas, now mostly settled in Panama (Islas San Blas), also known as the Guna. These communities lived in harmony with the sea and surrounding jungle, deriving their livelihood from fishing, hunting, gathering and small-scale farming. The village’s original name, Sapurro, means “shallow bay” in their language, and perfectly reflects the natural geography of the place: a small bay protected by hills and bordered by dense tropical forests. This location offered natural shelter from storms and currents, as well as easy access to the sea for fishing and transport.

The arrival of the Spanish in the XVIᵉ century brought upheaval, but this remote region has remained relatively isolated, allowing local people to preserve their traditions, language and connection with nature. The Kunas have handed down a unique craftsmanship, notably in the manufacture of molás, colorful embroidered textiles, and in the use of shells and local seeds for handicrafts and rituals. Some of these traditions are still alive today in Sapzurro, testifying to the cultural continuity of the indigenous peoples.

The modern village was founded in 1889 by Afro-Colombian families from the Barú peninsula, attracted by the natural resources and the opportunity to settle in a sparsely populated area. Among the first settlers were Gumersindo Medrano and Juana Caraballo, who moved here with their children, building the first wooden houses along the bay. They were soon joined by other families, including Feliciano Berrío and Caridad Casiano, Juan de Dios Meza and Bonifacia Bravo, as well as Eliseo Zúñiga, Mariano Pereira and Ascención Pertúz. These families, originally from Bocachica or other Afro-Colombian regions on the Caribbean coast, are the origin of the main family trunks still present in the village today.

Boat, Sapzurro (Caribbean Choco), Colombia

Isolation and strategic role

Sapzurro’s history has been profoundly shaped by its geographical isolation. Wedged between the Caribbean Sea and the dense Serranía del Darién, the village is not connected to any of Colombia’s main roads, which has long limited contact with the outside world. This situation forced the inhabitants to develop lifestyles based on self-sufficiency, community solidarity and ingenuity. Fishing, subsistence farming and small-scale trade with neighboring villages were the mainstays of the local economy.

Its proximity to the Panama border has also given Sapzurro strategic importance. Historically, locals have taken advantage of this position to trade goods with neighboring communities, often via trails through the jungle or by boat. These exchanges ranged from food to handicrafts, and sometimes, in more troubled times, the passage of people or resources on an informal basis.

Old-timers tell us that some of the jungle paths now used by hikers were once “secret routes” used to transport crops discreetly or to link Sapzurro with Capurganá and Panamanian communities, thus avoiding patrols or periods of conflict. These paths, still intact, are dotted with resting points and abandoned huts where settlers and fishermen protected themselves from the rain or bad weather. In the 1990s, during the period of armed conflict in Colombia, local residents also hid travellers or families fleeing the violence in the dense jungle around the village. Local guides still tell these stories as examples of courage and solidarity, illustrating how the community organized itself to protect those seeking refuge.

Despite these challenges, isolation has also enabled Sapzurro to preserve its culture and natural environment. The rainforest and local flora and fauna remain largely intact, and the bay still protects the marine life essential for fishing. Community life is based on close cooperation: fishing is often done in family groups, harvests are shared, and culinary and craft traditions are handed down from generation to generation.

Rue de Sapzurro (Caribbean Choco), Colombia

Community life and modernity

Until the XXᵉ century, Sapzurro remained an isolated fishing village, with few public services and limited infrastructure. Daily life was punctuated by the sea, the seasons and the surrounding jungle: the inhabitants fished early in the morning, cultivated cassava, bananas and cocoa, and exchanged their harvests with neighboring villages or, occasionally, with Panamanian communities. Isolation, though restrictive, has enabled the community to maintain a strong cultural identity, based on mutual aid, oral tradition and respect for nature.

With the emergence of adventure tourism at the end of the XXᵉ century and the beginning of the XXIᵉ, Sapzurro gradually began to welcome travelers who came to discover its unspoilt beaches, hiking trails and authentic culture. Tourism has become an additional source of income for the inhabitants, while remaining on a small scale, preserving the village’s quiet, authentic atmosphere.

In the 1990s and 2000s, Sapzurro was mostly frequented by backpackers and adventure travelers, attracted by the jungle and proximity to Capurganá. Access was mainly by boat or on foot via jungle trails, which naturally limited the number of visitors. Over the years, small inns and hotels have sprung up, often run by local families, allowing tourists to stay for several days and take part in activities such as hiking, snorkeling or excursions to neighboring Panama. Ecological and community tourism has also developed: some families offer home-cooked meals, guided tours of the forest, etc., offering visitors an immersive experience while generating direct income for the community.

Today, Sapzurro has a population of around 570, mostly Afro-Colombian and indigenous. Despite the opening up to tourism, the village retains a simple, authentic way of life, deeply linked to the sea and the jungle. The balance between tradition and modernity is palpable: locals welcome visitors with warmth and pride, while protecting their natural and cultural heritage.


What to see and do in Sapzurro


In Sapzurro

In Sapzurro, there are no emblematic sites or monuments to discover in the village itself. It’s not a heritage destination like Barichara, Santa Fe de Antioquia or Jericó, renowned for their architecture and history. The main attraction of Sapzurro lies around the village: wild beaches, jungle, paths and coves accessible on foot or by boat. First and foremost, the village is an ideal place to set down your luggage and explore the surrounding area at nature’s pace.

The main area of Sapzurro is organized around the central square, located at the level of the port’s main pontoon (the muelle) and the church. This is where village life, boat arrivals, some accommodation, restaurants and small shops are concentrated, and where you get the best feel for the local atmosphere on a daily basis.

Sapzurro has two small beaches. The main one is at thenorth end of the village: it’s the busiest, as it’s conveniently located close to accommodation, restaurants and the muelle. Further south is Playa La Diana, a smaller, more discreet beach, generally less crowded, ideal for those seeking greater peace and quiet.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that many tourists staying in Capurganá come to Sapzurro for the day. Depending on the day and the season, the crowds can vary greatly: the beaches can be quite calm… or, on the contrary, more crowded, especially in the middle of the day, before returning to their tranquility in the late afternoon.

Around Sapzurro

In Sapzurro, the main sites of interest are to be found around the village, and especially along the coastline. The region is renowned for its wild beaches, accessible on foot or by boat, often bordered by jungle and far from any urbanization. The real charm of Sapzurro is to be found in the surrounding area: secluded coves, coastal paths and crystal-clear waters, much more so than in the village itself.

You can take a short stroll to Playa Frontera, following a coastal path that passes through Playa Ica, La Playita and Cabo Tiburón. From Sapzurro, the round trip to Playa Frontera takes around 1h30, not including swimming breaks.

Playa Ica

Playa Ica is a small, tranquil beach, ideal for those seeking a quiet, unspoilt spot away from the hustle and bustle of the village. Bordered by golden sand and rocky outcrops, the clear waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing. On the sides, near the rocks, it’s possible to observe small fish. Within walking distance of the town center, Playa Ica boasts an intimate, untamed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the sun and nature.

Free beach, a 5-minute walk from the village.

Playa La Playita

Playa La Playita is a charming little cove, ideal for those seeking tranquillity and unspoilt nature. The beach is lined with rocks in the water, which may not be to everyone’s taste, but does offer perfect areas for spotting small fish. Within walking distance of the village, La Playita has a peaceful, unspoilt atmosphere, ideal for relaxing away from the crowds and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Free beach, 8-minute walk from the village.

Cabo Tiburón

Cabo Tiburón is a small promontory offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding coastline. The area is home to a rock-free, uncrowded beach, ideal for swimming and relaxing in peace and quiet. Accessible on foot from the village via a coastal path, Cabo Tiburón is perfect for lovers of hiking, scenery and tranquillity.

Free beach, a 20-minute walk from the village.

Playa Frontera

Playa Frontera is the most north-westerly beach in the whole of Colombia. It’s quiet, wild and virtually deserted, with golden sands and calm waters perfect for swimming. Small fish and local marine life can be observed on the rocks at the sides. Within walking distance of the village, Playa Frontera is ideal for enjoying the sea and nature in complete tranquillity.

Free beach, 25-minute walk from the village.

Playa Soledad

Playa Soledad fully deserves its name. Wild and isolated, it exudes a peaceful atmosphere and, in our opinion, is the most beautiful beach in the Caribbean Chocó. Bordered by mangroves and forests, it is set in private grounds with a hotel-restaurant and swimming pool, and regularly hosts organized excursions. In spite of this, the beach remains spacious and airy, making it easy to feel at ease. Rocky areas also offer attractive snorkeling spots, ideal for spotting small fish.

Access by lancha from Sapzurro in about 35 minutes. Or opt for a combined tour of Playa Soledad and Bahía Aguacate, priced at around 120,000 COP per person, including boat transport and lunch.

Bahía Aguacate

Bahía Aguacate, or “Avocado Bay”, is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the villages. This pebble beach with its Caribbean calm reveals a small bay with emerald waters, different from the usual turquoise blue, with snorkeling areas. You can stay here, sleep here and enjoy a few bars and restaurants in a bucolic atmosphere. Ideal for spending a pleasant afternoon, access is on foot via the coastal path, with a possible return by lancha for a gentle, relaxing getaway.

Access by lancha from Sapzurro (25 minutes) or on foot via Capurganá, an option not recommended as it takes almost 2h30 to walk. There’s also a combined tour of Playa Soledad and Bahía Aguacate, at around 120,000 COP per person, including boat transport and lunch.

Playa la Miel (Panama)

Playa la Miel, in Panama, can be reached from Sapzurro after a 45-minute walk up and down a small mountain via stairs. Its turquoise waters and peaceful beach appeal to visitors, but at weekends it comes alive with tourists. There are several bars and restaurants to enjoy, as well as the “Las Delicias” store, ideal for buying alcohol at reduced prices. Perfect for swimming or sunbathing, this beach combines adventure, wild beauty and a friendly atmosphere.

Tax of 4,000 COP / pers to be paid at La Miel village.
To use the chairs, you must purchase them from the restaurant. A 45-minute walk from the village.

La Coquerita

La Coquerita, between Sapzurro and Capurganá, is a small hut nestled in the rocks, with the jungle on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. Accessible via a lovely coastal walk from Capurganá’s central beach, the trail offers superb scenery and, with a little luck, the chance to spot local wildlife. On site, hammocks, snacks and natural pools await you: fresh spring water, a warm seawater pool and waves to make you feel like a child again. A must for an authentic relaxation break.

Admission to the Coquerita costs around 3,000 COP.

Mirador Capurgana-Sapzurro

The Capurganá-Sapzurro viewpoint is a must for admiring the wild beauty of the Caribbean Chocó. From Sapzurro, it’s about a 1-hour walk to the summit: first climb a small mountain via wooden steps, then follow a path through the jungle. Getting there early, around 7 a.m., increases the chances of spotting animals. For the more adventurous, an extra hour takes you back down the other side to Capurganá, with the option of returning by boat or on foot. The reward: spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding villages.

It’s important to take water with you, as the heat and humidity quickly tire you and quench your thirst.

Scuba diving

The Caribbean Chocó is ideal for scuba diving. Its crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility and astonishing biodiversity: colorful corals, tropical fish, starfish, and the occasional ray or turtle. Several local centers offer outings suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike. Around Sapzurro, unspoilt reefs and spectacular underwater scenery allow you to explore an unspoilt ecosystem while enjoying the calm and authentic atmosphere of this secluded village.

Provider: Ciudad Marina Dive Center
Official websiteInstagramFacebook

Leatherback turtle egg-laying

In the Caribbean Chocó, it’s possible to observe sea turtles, especially leatherbacks(Dermochelys coriacea), also known as tortugas cana, which come to lay their eggs on certain beaches. Areas such as Playona/El Playón, near Acandí, are particularly famous for nesting. Observation of these giant tortoises – among the largest in the world – takes place mainly at night, always accompanied by local guides, in strict respect of their environment.

Season: February to June


Agencies and Guides


In Sapzurro, it’s generally not necessary to hire an on-site guide, as most beaches, trails and places of interest can be explored on your own. For more remote sites, such as Playa Soledad or Bahía Aguacate, it’s best to talk to your host one or two days in advance: they know the best local contacts and can easily organize the excursion for you.


How do I get to Sapzurro?


Getting to the Caribbean Choco and Sapzurro requires a bit of organization, as this remote village is not accessible by road from the interior of the country. In all cases, access by sea is essential, and it’s advisable to plan ahead for transport, especially in high season.

Depending on the accommodation you choose and the services offered, the resort can sometimes organize boat transfers for you. We strongly advise you to make use of it, because without being on the spot, it’s pretty complicated to manage on your own.

From Capurgana

By boat: From Capurgana, Sapzurro can be reached by lancha in around 15 minutes, once a sufficient number of passengers have gathered. Don’t hesitate to ask your host, who will be able to give you all the information you need and help you organize the transfer.

On foot: the journey takes you along a path through the jungle and over a small mountain, for a walk of around 1 h 30 to 2 h. This option is not recommended with heavy luggage, even in the form of a backpack. With suitcases, the route is simply impassable.

From other Choco-Caribbean villages (Acandi, Trigana, San Fransisco)

From other coastal villages further south, such as Acandí, Triganá or San Francisco, the only option is by boat. Departures are usually in the morning, and depending on the season and the shipping company, you may have to travel in two stages: to Capurganá, then on to Sapzurro. For our part, we took a direct boat from San Francisco / Triganá to Sapzurro, with simple stops at Acandí and Capurganá to pick up and drop off passengers. Approximately 2 hours from San Francisco / Triganá, and 45 minutes from Acandí. Here again, don’t hesitate to talk to your host: he’ll be able to give you all the information you need and help you organize the transfer.

From the rest of the country

There are 2 options for getting there. Either by bus then boat, or by plane then boat.

Option 1: bus + boat

From inland, take the bus to Necoclí or Turbo. The nearest airports areApartadó and Montería, from where you can continue by road to the coast. Once in Necoclí or Turbo, take a boat to Capurganá, or sometimes directly to Sapzurro, depending on the season and connections. If you arrive in Capurganá, a short lancha ride will take you to Sapzurro in just a few minutes.

Option 2: plane + boat

To get to Sapzurro from the interior of Colombia, one of the quickest options is to fly to Acandí with Satena, which offers direct or stopover flights from many cities, including Apartadó, Arauca, Bahía Solano, Barranquilla, Bogotá, Caucasia, El Bagre, Medellín (EOH), Mitú, Mompox, Montelí, including Apartadó, Arauca, Bahía Solano, Barranquilla, Bogotá, Caucasia, El Bagre, Medellín (EOH), Mitú, Mompox, Montelíbano, Montería, Quibdó, San Gil, Tolú, Valencia, Villavicencio and Yopal.

The aircraft has only twenty seats and imposes weight restrictions: 10 kg included, with a charge for each additional kilo. It is therefore advisable to book in advance, especially in high season, and to plan your luggage accordingly.

As there are only 1 to 3 flights a week, it’s essential to prepare your schedule carefully so that your outbound and inbound schedules coincide. Once in Acandí, take a lancha to Capurganá or directly to Sapzurro, then, if necessary, a short boat trip from Capurganá to the village.


Where to stay in Sapzurro?


Finding a place to sleep in Sapzurro is an integral part of the experience. There are no large hotel complexes or international chains here, just simple, warm accommodations, often run by local families. Whether you’re looking for a small, friendly inn, a hotel overlooking the bay or more rustic accommodation closer to nature, Sapzurro offers several options suited to travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility. In this section, we’ll help you choose the accommodation that best suits your travel style and budget.

Hostal Hilltop, Sapzurro, Colombia

$ – Economical budgeting

Hostal

Hostal Hilltop

Hostal Hilltop in Sapzurro is a youth hostel renowned for its beachfront location and superb views. Customer reviews are generally positive, highlighting the warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and comfortable rooms. On the other hand, installations remain simple, less suited to those seeking greater comfort.

LEARN MORE

La Posada Hostal, Sapzurro, Colombia

$ – Economical budgeting

Hostal

La Posada Hostal

Posada Hostal is highly rated for its seafront location, cleanliness and relaxed atmosphere, with friendly hosts who help organize activities and excursions. The camping areas and rooms are considered clean and well-equipped, and the catering is appreciated. A few reviews mention variable interactions with staff, but the overall picture remains very positive.

LEARN MORE

Casa Hotel La Mariela, Sapzurro, Colombia

$$ – Average budget

Hotel

Casa Hotel La Mariela

Casa Hotel La Mariela is highly appreciated by travelers for its cleanliness, comfort and convenient location, just a short distance from the beach. Reviews praise the warm welcome, clean rooms and good continental breakfast, as well as help in organizing local activities. Some travelers note, however, that access to some beaches is just a short walk away.

LEARN MORE

Cafe del Mar, Sapzurro, Colombia

$$ – Average budget

Hotel

Cafe del Mar

Cafe del Mar in Sapzurro is appreciated for its seaside location, the cleanliness of its rooms and thewarm welcome of its hosts. Visitors love the home cooking and the tranquil atmosphere overlooking a little-used beach. A few reviews point to minor local power cuts, but overall it’s an excellent option for a quiet, authentic stay.

LEARN MORE

Hotel Boutique Cabañas El Paraíso, Sapzurro, Colombia

$$$ – High budget

Hotel

Hotel Cabañas El Paraíso

Hotel Boutique Cabañas El Paraíso is well noted for its location opposite Ica beach, offering direct access to the turquoise waters of Sapzurro and a peaceful tropical ambience. Reviews highlight the cabañas’ comfort, air conditioning and Starlink Wi-Fi, as well as the on-site restaurant. It’s located next to the Sapzurro military base, where music can sometimes be heard late at night on certain weekends.

LEARN MORE

El Fin del Estrés, Sapzurro, Colombia

$$$ – High budget

Hotel

El Fin del Estrés

El Fin del Estrés is a glamping site appreciated for its secluded seaside location outside the village, its clean, comfortable cabañas and the warm welcome offered by the staff. Guests praise the peaceful ambience, Jacuzzi and direct access to the beach. Access may require a short walk from the landing stage, but it’s an excellent option for an authentic, relaxing stay.

LEARN MORE


Where to eat in Sapzurro


If you visit Sapzurro, you’re in for a treat! Freshly caught fish and seafood dishes, tasty local recipes and a warm atmosphere make every meal an experience in itself. In this section, we present our recommendations for unmissable restaurants, where you can sample the authentic flavors of the region while enjoying the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of this end of the world.

We also recommend the Paraíso Cangrejalesone of the best restaurants in the Caribbean Chocó, combining Colombian and Peruvian cuisine. Ideal if you want slightly more elaborate dishes, with options for vegetarians or those who don’t eat fish. Don’t forget to give the owners at least one day’s notice of your arrival date, the number of guests and the dishes you’d like to enjoy.

Chilapa way restaurant in Sapzurro, Colombia

$ – Economical budgeting

Colombian

Chilapa way

Cafe del Mar restaurant in Sapzurro, Colombia

$$ – Average budget

Colombian

Cafe del Mar

LEARN MORE

Paraíso Cangrejales restaurant in Sapzurro, Colombia

$$ – Average budget

Peruvian

Paraíso Cangrejales*

LEARN MORE

* You need to contact the owners at least a day in advance to let them know when you’ll be arriving, for how many people, and what dishes you want to eat.


Notes & tips


Tasa portuaria: local tax

Virtually every village in the region applies a port tax, known as tasa portuaria. The fee is quite modest, generally between 4,000 and 5,000 COP per person, and is paid in cash only at the muelle in each village, i.e. the main pontoon where you embark or disembark. We advise you to keep the receipt until you leave. This tax applies not only to Sapzurro, but also to Capurganá, Acandí, Trigana, San Francisco and Playa la Miel in Panama.

Ask the locals for advice

To organize your activities, excursions and transfers, the easiest way is to talk to the locals. The hosts of your accommodation are often in the best position to put you in touch with other people, organize what you want or advise you according to your wishes and the weather. Here, you have to accept that you can’t plan everything in advance: the ideal is to adapt and decide on the spot, as you meet new people and take advantage of new opportunities.

Watch out for snakes!

It’s important to be on your guard against spearheads, known as mapaná in the region. This highly venomous rattlesnake species is well represented in the Caribbean Chocó, although it generally stays in the jungle and avoids inhabited areas. It’s most active at night, which is why it’s important to walk with a light, stay on trails and avoid walking barefoot or in tall grass.

No ATM!

Sapzurro and Capurgana have no ATMs, so make sure you have enough cash to cover all your needs: accommodation, meals, activities and transport.

Take mosquito repellent with you

Remember to take mosquito repellent with you, essential for jungle walks and as soon as the sun goes down, when mosquitoes become more numerous.

Bring sunscreen

Ultraviolet rays are very strong: remember to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for effective protection from the sun.

Bring a bathing suit

Of course, don’t forget your bathing suit: you’ll need it to take full advantage of the region’s many beaches and bathing opportunities.

Bring your own mask and snorkel

If you have a mask and snorkel, take them with you to snorkel in the rocky areas of some beaches, where small fish are the most common sight.

Pants + long sleeves for hiking

Remember to wear pants and long sleeves when walking in the forest, to protect you from insects, thorns and dense vegetation.

The best accommodation in Colombia

Looking for a place to stay that’s out of the ordinary? Boutique hotels, lodges, youth hostels, haciendas or hatos: discover our selection of exceptional addresses.

eSIM: 5 to 15% discount!

Discover all our exclusive eSIM discounts here and stay connected in Colombia (and everywhere else) without having to buy a local SIM card.

Useful purchases for travelling in Colombia

Plan your trip like a pro: here you’ll find all the products and services you need to travel abroad, tried and tested.

Picture of The authors: Caro & Romain
The authors: Caro & Romain

We are a French-Colombian couple who want to share our love of Colombia. 💛💙❤️

Read more

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may also be interested in these articles

Practical travel guide Colombia

The articles below may also be of interest to you in preparing your trip.