How to get to Bahia Solano

Bahia Solano is a secluded tropical paradise on the Pacific coast of Colombia, renowned for its pristine wild beaches and eco-tourism opportunities. Surrounded by dense jungles, this small town serves as an ideal starting point for whale watching and sport fishing. Reaching Bahia Solano is an adventure in itself, as due to its geographical isolation, it can only be accessed by air or sea, bypassing standard land routes.

Air transport is the fastest and most reliable way to reach this remote region. The local Bahia Solano (BSC) airport receives regular flights, connecting the town with civilisation. The airport is located near the centre, making arrival convenient for travellers.

Tourists most often fly here on small aircraft from major Colombian cities such as Medellin or Quibdo. The flight over endless tropical forests and the ocean offers unforgettable views even before landing. Air connections are well-established here, as for many locals and guests, this is the only comfortable option to reach the coast.

In the Choco region, where the town is located, railway connections are completely absent due to the complex terrain and impenetrable jungles. Travellers planning to visit Bahia Solano should not rely on trains as a mode of transport.

The railway network of Colombia is generally underdeveloped and does not cover the Pacific coast. Therefore, for a trip to this region, it is recommended to choose air travel, which will save time and energy.

There are no direct bus routes to Bahia Solano, as the town is not connected by roads to the rest of the country. Dense tropical forests create a natural barrier for land transport.

The only conditional "bus" option is to reach the port city of Buenaventura by bus, and then transfer to a speedboat or ship. However, this route can take a lot of time and depends on the maritime transport schedule, so most tourists prefer the plane.

It is impossible to reach the town by car: no highways or dirt roads lead here from the central part of Colombia. The car journey ends where the impenetrable jungles of the Choco region begin.

If you are travelling around the country in a rented car, the best solution would be to leave it in a guarded car park in Medellin and continue the journey by air. In Bahia Solano itself, there are few cars, and the main means of transport are mototaxis and tuk-tuks.

A trip to Bahia Solano requires special preparation, as this place is removed from standard urban infrastructure. Here are a few tips to make your journey comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The climate here is very humid and hot. Be sure to bring lightweight, quick-drying clothing, a raincoat, and comfortable trekking shoes (rubber boots are often necessary for jungle walks).
2. Local Transport. The main method of moving around the town and its surroundings is by mototaxi (tuk-tuks). It is best to agree on the price with the driver in advance.
3. Cash. ATMs may not work or may be absent, and cards are not accepted everywhere. Ensure you have a sufficient amount of cash in Colombian Pesos (COP) in small denominations.
4. Health. A yellow fever vaccination is recommended. Be sure to bring strong insect repellents for mosquitoes and sandflies, as well as a personal first aid kit with essential medicines.
5. Connectivity and Internet. Mobile signals and Wi-Fi may work intermittently or be very slow. Be prepared for a digital detox and download offline maps in advance.
6. Water and Food. Drink only bottled water. The local cuisine is rich in fresh seafood (an excellent option for travellers seeking halal-friendly choices), but try to eat only thoroughly cooked food in verified places.
7. Whale Season. If your goal is to observe humpback whales, plan your trip from July to October. During this time, the probability of seeing these giants is at its highest.

Following these simple rules will help you enjoy the wild nature of the Pacific coast without unnecessary worries.