As of this Thursday, August 31st, the Ciénaga de Mallorquín Ecopark will open its doors to the public. The residents of Barranquilla will be able to enjoy the astonishing nature and diversity of species that inhabit this wetland.
In the initial phase, the district plans to open approximately 5 kilometers of trails within Functional Units 1 and 2. Meanwhile, ongoing work is being carried out on various other zones, including the mirador. The aim is to achieve full operational status by October.
What sections of the ecopark can I visit?
Functional Unit 1, includes a Mangrove Trail, mainly consisting of land paths immersed among mangroves and their species. It spans 3,209 meters and features local gastronomic and hydration spots. It also includes a dock for nautical and sports equipment, as well as a birdwatching tower.
Functional Unit 2, includes an Estuary Trail, which is over water with views of the city, wetlands, and surroundings. Here, you’ll find local gastronomic and hydration spots. It also includes a dock for nautical and sports equipment, a natural pool, and a center for innovation and technology.
What days and times can I visit the Ciénaga de Mallorquín Ecopark?
Hours of operation:
Tuesdays to Fridays: 6:00am to 6:00pm
Saturdays 6:00am to 6:00pm (Sendero Estuario)
Saturdays 2:00pm to 6:00pm (Sendero Manglar)
Sundays: 6:00am to 6:00pm
Mondays: Closed. If Monday is a holiday then Tuesday will also be closed.
Each person can visit the Ecopark for a maximum of two (2) hours. Additionally, entry will be through the entrance located on Circunvalar de la Prosperidad towards the La Playa district.
Mayor Jaime Pumarejo stated, “This project will enable us to present the city’s vision, fostering progress and generating employment, improving quality of life, driving economic growth, creating new recreational areas, and providing various benefits for both the city and its residents. All of these aspects will be supported by environmentally sustainable ideas.”
He emphasized that the Ecopark aims to raise awareness and promote environmental responsibility in this ecotourism area.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the national government has now approved the project. It has confirmed the feasibility of designating the Mallorquín wetland as a site of significant natural importance and strategic interest for tourism.
Recommendations
The District offered several recommendations during visits to the Mallorquín Ecopark to ensure the well-being of species and the preservation of this natural ecosystem. Measures for visitors include caring for the trails, avoiding damaging or defacing them. Additionally, always walk on the right side. Protect yourself from the sun or mosquito bites by using repellent. Wear comfortable and covered clothing, like long pants or jeans, and wear flat sports shoes or hiking boots.
We recommend utilizing public transportation to reach the entrance area. Parking vehicles on the road is not permitted due to limited parking availability. Evaluate your physical condition before starting on the trails and ensure you remain on the designated paths throughout your visit.
Please note that both food and smoking are strictly prohibited within this area. Moreover, the use of bicycles, skates, skateboards, and pets is strictly prohibited as well.
Lastly, maintain silence to observe the species and bring water in thermoses. If you encounter an animal on the trail, notify the staff on-site.
Before starting the tour, one should learn about the importance of the wetland and its over 144 bird species, 36 fish species, mammals, reptiles, and crustaceans. The flora consists of red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), white mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa), black mangrove (Avicennia germinans), and buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus), four of the five types of mangroves present in the country.
Project Concept
The construction of the Ecopark arose as an idea from the campaign of Mayor Jaime Pumarejo to conserve, preserve, and defend a highly degraded and globally endangered ecosystem and its species, like the mangrove.
Likewise, this presents an opportunity for the comprehensive restoration of a lagoon complex that had suffered deterioration, addressing the plea for assistance from fishermen who rely on this daily work to support their families.
The construction of the trails and other project components employed eco-friendly materials to ensure sustainability. All of these initiatives align with the core concept of “biodiversity”. This concept was established as the central theme of the district administration’s efforts.
The mayor’s office states that the aim is to encourage the public to take ownership, care, and defense of these ecosystems.
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