Pance hiking tour near Cali: Waterfalls and Andean wildlife

Forest trails, hidden waterfalls and a swim in the Pance River

A guided hike through Farallones de Cali National Natural Park starting in Pance, following Andean forest trails to spot tropical birds, orchids and native wildlife, ending with a swim in the Pance River at a hidden waterfall. The tour runs 8 to 9 hours, includes a bilingual naturalist guide, private transportation, breakfast and hiking poles. Minimum age is 17. A group of at least three participants is required.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike and swim in nature

• Explore forest trails and wildlife
• Swim in Pance River

The experience

Pance sits at the edge of one of Colombia's most biodiverse protected areas, and this tour uses it as the starting point for a full day in the Western Andes. A bilingual naturalist guide leads the hike through forest trails thick with towering trees, wild orchids, colorful wildflowers and native plants including rare Black Oak. The walk is designed to move at a pace that lets you watch for wildlife: motmots, tanagers, guacharacas and other tropical birds, plus butterflies, lizards and frogs along the way.

After several hours on the trail, the route reaches a hidden waterfall surrounded by forest where the Pance River pools in clear water. You can swim here or sit beside the river and take in the mountain scenery. Private transportation picks you up and brings you back to Cali, and a traditional Colombian breakfast (arepa or bread, eggs, coffee or hot chocolate, and fresh fruit) fuels the morning before the hike begins.

What’s included

• Private transportation from Cali.
• a traditional Colombian breakfast with arepa or bread, eggs, coffee or hot chocolate, and fresh fruit.
• hiking poles.
• all fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day except Thursday and SundayDeparts at 07:00

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (17 to 70 years) · Under 17: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 11 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Ecotourspuravida

Is this one for you?The hike covers rugged forest terrain over 8 to 9 hours, so it suits travelers with moderate fitness who are ready for a full day of walking and water entry. A minimum of three participants is required for the tour to run.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What kind of wildlife will I see on the Pance hike?

Tropical birds like motmots, tanagers and guacharacas are common sightings, along with butterflies, lizards and frogs. The forest also holds wild orchids and rare Black Oak trees as part of the Andean ecosystem.

Can I swim in the Pance River waterfall?

Yes, the hike ends at a hidden waterfall where the Pance River pools in crystal-clear water. You can swim or simply relax beside the river and enjoy the surrounding landscape.

What's included in the tour price?

Breakfast (arepa or bread, eggs, coffee or hot chocolate, and fresh fruit), private transportation to and from Cali, hiking poles, and all fees and taxes are included.

How long does the tour take?

The tour runs 8 to 9 hours from start to finish, including the hike through the forest, time at the waterfall and the return journey to Cali.

What's the minimum fitness level required?

You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour involves hiking through rugged terrain and is not recommended for travelers with low fitness levels, spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health or pregnancy.