Colombia's Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is the world's highest coastal mountain range, rising from Caribbean beaches to snow-capped peaks at 5,775 meters in just 42 kilometers. This isolated massif contains every climatic zone found in tropical America, creating extraordinary biodiversity. The mountains are sacred to four indigenous groups who consider themselves guardians of the Earth. The Sierra Nevada harbors 600 bird species (35 endemic), spectacled bears, jaguars, and tapirs. Different elevations support distinct ecosystems from coral reefs to páramo. The Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), built 650 years before Machu Picchu, demonstrates sophisticated pre-Columbian civilization. Indigenous peoples maintain traditional ecological management practices. Conservation is led by indigenous communities, particularly the Kogi, who restrict access to sacred sites while sharing their environmental wisdom. Limited ecotourism supports indigenous autonomy and forest protection. The Sierra Nevada demonstrates how indigenous worldviews and traditional practices can guide modern conservation efforts.

Water Features

Mountain streams, waterfalls

Ecosystem

This destination features a coastal & marine ecosystem.