Nuquí is a remote town on Colombia's Pacific coast, in the Chocó region of South America. It is reached only by plane or by boat, and that isolation is much of its character: the pace is slow, the forest comes close to the houses, and the sea is never far away.
The town serves as a gateway to the rainforest beaches around it. Here the sand is dark, the shoreline is largely undeveloped, and the surrounding Chocó rainforest is rich in wildlife. Visitors who come for the natural setting tend to spend their days walking, swimming and watching the water rather than moving between sights.
Whale watching
Nuquí is known as one of the best places to watch whales. Humpback whales pass along this coast during their annual migration, and boat trips leave to look for them. Whether you see whales depends on the season and the sea, so it is wise to go with flexible plans.
Who it suits
- Travellers who want quiet beaches and a close connection with nature
- Wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts interested in the Chocó rainforest
- Visitors planning a trip around the humpback whale season
Because the town is remote, a visit calls for some preparation. Allow time for travel by air or boat, and bring what you need, as the setting is far from large shops and services. For those who enjoy untouched places and time spent outdoors, Nuquí offers a rare kind of trip on Colombia's Pacific coast.