Until
the mid 1980's, Gorgona Island was Colombia's Alcatraz style high
security prison. The prison is now derelict, complete with swinging
monkeys and a range of other animal and plant life, and makes for an
interesting visit. Gorgona Island also has a few unspoilt sandy beaches
(there's much better beaches elsewhere on the Pacific coast though),
and the area is great for nature tours, birdwatching and snorkelling.
The whole travel experience is like none other. Gorgona Island is also
one of Colombia's best spots for whale watching - the best months are
from July to September, when killer whales, amongst others, are often
seen. Gorgona is also great for scuba
diving.
Pretty
much everything is forbidden on Gorgona Island - you're not even
allowed to drink alcohol, and your bags will be searched for it upon
arrival.
In terms of visiting Isla Gorgona,
it's simplest to contact Aviatur, who manage many of Colombia's
National Parks. They'll book an all inclusive package that includes
flights to nearby Guapi, a two hour boat transfer plus the food and
accommodation - there's one beautiful lodge in which to stay,
click here for info.
The cost of such brief packages is a rather expensive 1 million pesos
per person. Alternatively, determined independent travellers could
either fly to Guapi (with Satena, from Cali or Popayan) or go overland
to Buenaventura, and arrange boat transport from either.
