How to get to Casuarito

Casuarito is an authentic settlement in the Vichada department, located on the banks of the great Orinoco River, attracting wildlife and ethnography enthusiasts. Getting to Casuarito is an adventure in itself, as the route usually involves a combination of flights to regional hubs followed by travel by water or land. It is an ideal destination for those wishing to escape the city bustle and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the true Colombian countryside.

Since there is no airport within the settlement itself, travelers will need to use the air gateways of neighboring cities. The most convenient option is a flight to Puerto Carreño (PCR), which is just 59 km away and serves as the main transit hub for this region. The airport receives regular flights and ensures the fastest connection with the rest of the country.

An alternative could be the airport in the city of Arauca (AUC), however, it is located significantly further away, at a distance of 373 km. Choosing this option will require a longer subsequent transfer, so it is more suitable for those planning a complex composite route through the department.

Rail service to Casuarito is completely absent, as passenger trains do not operate in this remote part of the country. There is no active railway infrastructure in the region, so it is impossible to get here by rail.

The nearest major settlements, such as Puerto Carreño and Arauca, also do not have train stations. Tourists should exclude this mode of transport from their plans and focus on aviation or road routes.

Direct scheduled buses to Casuarito from the central regions of the country are a rarity due to the specific nature of the road network and the location's remoteness. Most often, travelers have to get to major transport hubs in the department and cover the remaining part of the journey on local transport or shared taxis.

When planning a trip by bus, be prepared for transfers and the lack of a fixed schedule. Be sure to check seat availability and departure times with local carriers directly on the spot, as logistics here depend heavily on seasonal and weather conditions.

Traveling by car to this region requires endurance and a reliable SUV. The route from the city of Arauca is about 735 km and will take approximately 11.5 hours, passing through picturesque but sometimes difficult sections of the Llanos plains.

Regarding the trip from the city of Puerto Carreño, despite the geographical proximity (about 59 km in a straight line), standard navigators may plot a huge detour route over 2000 km long due to the lack of direct bridges and quality roads. In reality, a combined method of travel or river crossing is often used on this section, as the direct land road may be impassable.

A trip to Casuarito requires preparation, as it is a remote region with a hot climate and specific logistics. To ensure your journey is comfortable, familiarize yourself with these key recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Opt for light clothing made from natural fabrics that covers the body to protect against the sun and insects. Be sure to bring a head covering, comfortable shoes, and a raincoat.
2. Transport: You can move around the village on foot. For trips to the surroundings and neighboring towns, motorboats ("voladoras") are often used — this is the fastest method.
3. Finances: Stock up on cash (Colombian pesos), as ATMs may be unavailable, and cards are not accepted everywhere.
4. Health and Safety: Use insect repellents, drink only bottled water, and carry a personal first aid kit with necessary medications.
5. Communication: The main language is Spanish. English is practically not used, so an offline translator or knowledge of basic phrases will be very useful.
6. Local Etiquette: Be polite and greet local residents ("Buenos días", "Buenas tardes"). This helps establish contact and receive assistance if needed.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph people without their consent and avoid discussing political topics or security issues with strangers.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to ask locals about the opportunity to see the ancient petroglyphs — this is the region's main historical pride.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to safely and pleasantly explore this unique corner of Colombia.