Ukumari Biopark, located in Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia, is a premier wildlife park dedicated to conservation, education, and immersive animal experiences. Spanning over 80 hectares, the park is home to more than 200 species from Colombia and around the world, offering visitors a chance to explore diverse ecosystems and learn about biodiversity.
How to Reach Ukumari Biopark, Pereira
Getting to Ukumari Biopark is straightforward:
- By Car: From downtown Pereira, head towards the 'vía Cerritos' road. Continue until you reach km 14, where you'll find the entrance near the Santa Barbara service station.
- By Public Transport: Take a bus heading to Cerritos from Pereira's main terminal. Inform the driver to drop you off at km 14. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance.
- By Taxi: A taxi ride directly to the park is convenient and takes approximately 20 minutes from the city center.
Weather in Pereira
Pereira enjoys a tropical climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year. The current weather is:
- Temperature: 23°C (73°F)
- Conditions: Cloudy with afternoon showers
- Forecast: Expect similar weather with occasional thunderstorms in the coming days.
Why Ukumari Biopark is Famous
Ukumari Biopark is renowned for its commitment to environmental education and conservation. Unlike traditional zoos, the park features expansive habitats that closely mimic the animals' natural environments. Visitors can explore themed areas such as the African Savannah, Amazon Rainforest, and the Colombian Andes, providing an immersive experience that educates and entertains.
Entry and Visit Details
Admission fees are as follows:
- Adults: COP 38,000
- Children: COP 28,000
- Seniors and People with Disabilities: COP 28,000
Ticket prices include access to the park and a self-guided tour of approximately 3 hours, during which visitors can observe over 90 species of animals and 6,000 types of plants. The park also features a collection of life-size dinosaur replicas, adding an educational element to the visit.
History and Architecture
Ukumari Biopark was established with the goal of promoting biodiversity conservation and environmental education. The park's design emphasizes naturalistic habitats, allowing animals to live in environments that closely resemble their native ecosystems. Architectural elements are integrated seamlessly into the landscape, ensuring that structures do not detract from the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Things to Do at Ukumari Biopark
- Explore Themed Areas: Wander through the African Savannah, Amazon Rainforest, and Colombian Andes to observe diverse wildlife.
- Attend Educational Talks: Participate in informative sessions about conservation efforts and animal behaviors.
- Interact with Animals: In designated areas, visitors can safely interact with certain species under the guidance of trained staff.
- Enjoy Bird and Mammal Shows: Watch scheduled presentations that showcase the intelligence and agility of various animals.
- Visit the Dinosaur Exhibit: Learn about prehistoric life through a collection of life-size dinosaur replicas.
Facts and Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle, as the park covers a large area and walking distances can be significant.
- Respect the Wildlife: Do not feed or disturb the animals; observe them from a safe distance.
- Photography: Photography is allowed, but flash photography can disturb some animals; use discretion.
