El Encanto de Guanapalo is a nature reserve located 110 km from Yopal, Colombie, in the Casanare Department. Dive into the culture of the Llaneros and encounter wild nature, the natural habitat of countless animal species.

History

The El Encanto de Guanapalo reserve is built upon the Zambrano family legacy, a renowned family in Casanare. Since 1908, the Zambrano family has been committed to protecting the region's natural wealth, traditions, and llanero culture in Casanare.

Comprised of three traditional cattle ranches, the site spans approximately 9,000 hectares. Cattle ranching has always been central to llanero culture. Thus, Hato Mata de Palma, Hato Altamira, and Hato Montana merged to form El Encanto de Guanapalo. To achieve their shared mission of preserving the environment and llanero heritage, they now focus on ecotourism and family-based operations.

Discovering El Encanto de Guanapalo

An Extraordinary Llanero Safari

Experience a style of safari you won't find anywhere else. Explore every corner of this vast savanna on horseback, by tractor, or in a 4x4. The reserve's unique landscapes will astound you and leave an indelible mark on your journey.

The site is home to diverse wildlife including capybaras, deer, wild horses, anteaters, iguanas, howler monkeys, owls, armadillos, foxes, pumas, and more—creatures you may encounter during your safari.

Discover the Birds

Hundreds of bird species nest in the reserve, delighting ornithology enthusiasts. Over 270 bird species have been recorded here—including endemic species, endangered birds, gregarious species, migratory birds, and species with restricted ranges. Try to spot the remarkable Garcero, where herons lay their eggs; your guide will be happy to help.

Explore Llanero Tradition and Culture

Visiting El Encanto de Guanapalo reserve is the best way to learn about llanero tradition and culture. Familiarize yourself with their customs and the ancestral cattle-ranching practices they have inherited. You'll also have the chance to appreciate their cowboy songs and traditional music style. Cowboy chants have become an emblematic oral tradition that they continue to preserve here in the reserve.

Taste the Region's Typical Gastronomy

Discovering a culture, tradition, and country inevitably passes through savoring local cuisine. One of the region's specialties is "Mamona a la llanera." You can also try typical dishes such as pisillo, hallacas, shredded beef, and more. If you wish, you may even participate in cooking workshops. The Llaneras will be delighted to teach you the recipes of their traditional dishes.

Experience Traditional Fishing

With the help of expert Llaneros, you can enjoy a fishing session. They'll share all the tricks and best practices of traditional fishing techniques. This activity can be combined with a cooking workshop.

Explore the Plains and Forests by Canoe

Discover the reserve's richness from a canoe. Paddle in a traditional boat to admire the plains and authentic scenery of El Encanto de Guanapalo. Keep your eyes open—various animals may surprise you during this excursion, including capybaras, caimans, and perhaps even an anaconda if you're lucky.

Practical Information

Head to Yopal, the main departure point for the reserve. Located about 100 km away, you can enjoy a private vehicle with driver to appreciate the stunning landscape that unfolds before your eyes throughout the journey.

Taxis from Yopal airport also offer 4x4 transport for the trip.

When to Visit

In the region, temperatures remain pleasant year-round, ranging from 21°C to 33°C. Nights can be cool, so bring a sweater or warm jacket. The best time to visit the nature reserve is January, February, and December.

Entrance Fees to El Encanto de Guanapalo Nature Reserve

Visits to El Encanto de Guanapalo are available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For rates, you can choose between:

• $130,000 per person (reserve entrance fee, guide service, guided hike on ecological trails, creole lunch, coffee, and refreshments)
• $204,000 per person (reserve entrance fee, guide service, guided hike on ecological trails, full lunch, coffee and refreshments, Llanero safari on horseback or by 4x4 (2 persons minimum), Llanero safari by tractor (4 persons minimum)).