Discovering Bahía Solano

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Discovering Bahía Solano

If you think that rain keeps most people away from Colombia's Pacific coast, you're absolutely right. It pours here, ranking among the top 10 rainiest places in the world. The air is humid, and my backpack even started to smell like a wet dog! But I didn’t come here for sunbathing; I was on a quest for some incredibly rare wildlife experiences.

Bahía Solano is undoubtedly one of the highlights of my time in Colombia. If you're looking for a tranquil spot with sunny blue seas, head to the Caribbean coast. But if you crave adventure and want to immerse yourself in untamed nature, the Pacific coast is the place to be. This is where the rainforest truly comes to life, where you can see rays of sunshine breaking through the clouds during a rain shower. From July to mid-October, majestic whales often make their appearance along the coast.

Is Bahía Solano Safe?

Many people wonder about the safety of Bahía Solano and Nuquí. It’s true that safety maps often depict the entire Chocó province in a less favorable light. However, when you zoom in, you'll find that the danger mainly lies in dense, hard-to-reach jungles. Bahía Solano and its surrounding areas are considered safe for tourists. The community here is very friendly, there is police presence, and I felt much safer than in many larger cities in Colombia.

Getting to Bahía Solano

It's a bit tricky to pinpoint Colombia's Pacific coast, but it's located in Chocó province, close to Utría National Park. I arrived in the town of Bahía Solano, but instead of staying there, I opted for Playa Almejal, a beach near the village of El Valle, about a 45-minute drive away.

This coastal region is dotted with remote villages, with Bahía Solano and Nuquí being the most popular due to their safety and small airports connecting to Medellín. If you fly here, you'll definitely avoid any known danger zones.

Where to Stay in Bahía Solano

If you enjoy eco-friendly accommodations, El Valle is a wonderful choice that’s simple and close to nature. I stayed at Utria Hostel, a friendly spot nestled in the heart of the tropical wilderness. Alternatively, you might want to check out Humpback Turtle Hostel, which offers a thatched-roof atmosphere, a communal kitchen, and rentals for surfboards or kayaks.

Exploring Bahía Solano

The whale season runs from July to November, when the humpback whales come here to breed. During my visit in July, these magnificent creatures were everywhere, from off the coast to close to shore. You could even see them breaching the water while taking a stroll along the beach.

I joined a whale-watching tour organized by local fishermen, and within just 20 minutes, we spotted our first whale. The whales kept surfacing, with a few swimming very close to the shore, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

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