International Surfers Come to Colombian Pacific

Inaugural Latin American Competition in Nuqui, Choco

Oct 21, 2008

From November 13-17 2008 the Chocó coast on Colombia's Pacific seaboard will host its first ever surfing tournament.

For too long the Colombian Pacific coast has remained a secret known only to intrepid surfers pushing the boundaries and extending the surfing map into these waters. Few mentions are made of this region in internet surfing forums due to all too obvious issues associated with Colombia. This stigma is due to change with the first ever surfing tournament to be hosted in these waters, "Surfing the Jungle" in the Pico de Loro area from November 13-17.

The Competition - Surfing the Jungle

More than 60 participants from 12 countries are signed up and committed to competing and testing out the balmy green swells that seemingly lift up out of the jungle that is so dense it appears to tumble straight down onto the driftwood strewn beaches. Organised for the most par by the people from El Cantil Lodge and in turned backed by Colombia Es Pasion - a part Government financed entity set up to promote investments in Colombia - Surfing the Jungle bears all the hallmarks of an event destined to be a success.

Chocó - Where?

The department of the Chocó is one of the most bio diverse regions n the planet and also one of the most overlooked in Colombia. Birdwatchers, whale watchers, divers, surfers, hikers and adventurers head here drawn by its natural attractions. With both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, the opportunity to view the annual migration south of Humpback Whales and hike to crystalline waterfalls the Chocó should not be missed.

How to Get to Nuqui

There is no secure overland passage to Nuqui. You are recommended to make your way by air or land to the city of Medellin and from there catching a connecting flight to Nuqui. Should you wish to come by sea then you are looking at a 20-24 hour journey on a cargo boat out of the southern city of Buenaventura.

Where to Stay

There are a number of high quality eco-lodges in the area that will book up fast. Check out El Cantil, Piedra Piedra and the Pijiba Lodge.

Security Issues

Visitors are right to be concerned about security issues in the Chocó since in the interior it is a lawless place fought over by all of Colombia's warring factions in the country's unfortunate and seemingly never ending conflict. There have been reassurances from the Navy and security forces that there will be increased security in the region during this competition to make sure that it takes place without any problems.

The copyright of the article International Surfers Come to Colombian Pacific in Colombia Travel is owned by Richard McColl. Permission to republish International Surfers Come to Colombian Pacific in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.