PEREIRA: FULL DAY AT UKUMARI BIOPARK WITH LUNCH

Pereira: Full Day at Ukumari Biopark with Lunch

If you’re visiting Pereira and looking for a way to connect with Colombia’s incredible biodiversity, the Ukumari Biopark offers a compelling option. For $119 per person, you’ll spend around 8 hours exploring a sanctuary dedicated to environmental conservation and animal rescue. The experience includes guided walks through lush habitats, opportunities to interact with animals, and a delicious included lunch.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see more than 200 species of animals from different corners of the world, all in naturalistic settings. The fact that Ukumari is a biodiversity preservation site makes it more than just a zoo — it’s a place that educates and inspires. Plus, the guided nature walks give you insight into each species’ story, which adds depth to the visit.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, it’s a full-day commitment, so if you’re looking for a quick visit or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, families, or anyone curious about Colombia’s native wildlife and conservation efforts. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided educational experiences and want to see animals rescued and thriving in well-maintained habitats.

Key Points

• Educational Experience: Guided tours teach you about species, habitats, and conservation.
• Wildlife Diversity: Over 200 species from Colombia and around the world.
• Natural Settings: The park mimics natural habitats like rainforests and savannahs.
• Animal Rescue Focus: See animals that have been rescued and are under protection.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance, transportation, and lunch are included, offering good value.
• Practical Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and carry water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Ukumari Biopark: A Natural Journey in Pereira

When you first arrive at Ukumari, nestled in the heart of Pereira’s lush environment, you’ll immediately notice the park’s commitment to biodiversity. Spanning naturalistic habitats, it’s clear that Ukumari isn’t just a zoo — it’s a conservation space that cares deeply about the welfare of its animals. As we stepped into the park with our guide, Daniela, we quickly appreciated the effort to recreate the animals’ native environments, whether it was the rainforest, African savannah, or reptile area.

The Itinerary: What to Expect During Your Day

The day kicks off with pickup from your hotel, a smooth process that ensures you won’t have to worry about transport logistics. Once at Ukumari, the experience begins with a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about sharing their expertise. They introduce you to residents that have been rescued from various situations, now thriving in protected habitats.

The park boasts over 200 species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and more. We found the bird shows particularly engaging, with vibrant species flying above and around us, and the mammal exhibits showcasing everything from big cats to smaller primates. Our guide explained their behaviors, what they eat, and how Ukumari plays a role in their survival outside of the wild.

Specific Areas of Interest

• Rainforest Zone: Here, you walk through lush greenery, hearing birdcalls and spotting small mammals and insects. It’s a peaceful space that mimics Colombia’s dense forests, emphasizing the importance of preserving these ecosystems.
• African Savannah: Recreating the African plains, this area features animals like giraffes and zebras, giving you a feel of distant worlds but with a focus on conservation.
• Reptile Exhibit: For those intrigued by reptiles, Ukumari offers a variety of snakes, lizards, and turtles, many of which are part of awareness efforts about reptile protection.

Animal Interactions and Shows

One of the highlights is the chance to observe bird and mammal shows, which are both entertaining and educational. These shows demonstrate the animals’ skills and behaviors, often highlighting conservation messages. Visitors especially appreciated the interactive areas, where you can safely observe animals up close — a rare chance to see wildlife so intimately.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value of Guided Tours

Our guide, Daniela, was exceptionally knowledgeable, providing insights that you wouldn’t get just wandering on your own. She explained the stories behind rescued animals, which added an emotional layer to our visit, making it more meaningful. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guides shared their expertise, making each animal’s story personal and impactful.”

Food and Rest

Lunch is included in the tour, featuring a menu of the day that offers local flavors and hearty options. After a morning of walking and learning, the break to enjoy good food was much appreciated. The park’s layout allows for comfortable rest periods, and the included transportation makes the entire experience seamless.

The Practical Side of the Tour

Transportation is a key component; your hotel pickup and drop-off are taken care of, which saves time and hassle. The tour lasts about 8 hours, so packing comfortable clothes and shoes is essential. Sunscreen, a sun hat, and water are recommended, as much of the day is spent outdoors in the sun. The tour is conducted in Spanish, so some familiarity or a translation app might help if you’re not fluent.

It’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, recent surgeries, or motion sickness. The walking involved, while manageable for most, can be tiring for some. Babies up to 2 years old can ride on a parent’s lap, but this is a largely walking and standing experience.

Cost and Value

At $119, the price includes entrance fees, transportation, guides, and lunch — a fair deal considering the full-day experience and personalized service. The fact that it’s a private group means you’ll get a more tailored experience, with fewer crowds and more direct interaction with guides.

Why This Tour Outshines Other Wildlife Experiences in Pereira

Compared to other activities around Pereira, this tour offers a unique combination of wildlife education and natural environment immersion. Many visitors praise the guides’ knowledge, which turns a simple zoo visit into a meaningful encounter with conservation efforts.

The inclusion of rescued animals makes the experience stand out. You’re not just observing wildlife; you’re witnessing efforts to protect and rehabilitate species that would otherwise face uncertain futures.

The ecological settings are thoughtfully designed to mirror native habitats, making the experience more authentic and visually appealing. Plus, with the included lunch, you can focus fully on enjoying the day rather than looking for food options.

Final Thoughts

For those curious about Colombia’s biological diversity or seeking a family-friendly educational adventure, Ukumari Biopark provides plenty of value. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to learn directly from passionate guides about wildlife conservation and see rescued animals up close.

While it requires walking and some patience in the sun, the opportunity to experience such a broad array of species in naturalistic settings makes it worthwhile. The guided aspect enriches the visit, providing context and stories behind each animal, making the experience memorable and meaningful.

If you’re in Pereira and want a day learning about, engaging with, and supporting wildlife preservation, this tour ranks highly among the local options. It blends fun, education, and responsible tourism in a way that benefits everyone involved — especially the animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy for you to focus on enjoying the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, giving ample time to explore, learn, and relax.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are a must, along with sun protection like a hat, sunscreen, and water.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children need to be able to handle a fair amount of walking. Babies under 2 can ride on a parent’s lap.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is conducted in Spanish, so some understanding of Spanish or translation tools will help.

Are all animals in the park native to Colombia?
No, the park features animals from around the world, but with a focus on conservation and rescue.

What is not included in the price?
Any personal consumption outside of the included lunch and entrance fee is at your expense.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

To sum it up, the Ukumari Biopark day tour is a well-rounded experience that combines wildlife education, conservation awareness, naturalistic habitats, and guided insights. It’s a perfect choice for travelers eager to see Colombia’s fauna in a responsible and engaging setting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a small group, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into the country’s ecological treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby