How to get to Pizarro

Situated in a picturesque region of Colombia, the town of Pizarro attracts travellers with its authenticity and proximity to the wildlife of the Pacific coast. It is not a bustling metropolis, but rather a secluded retreat where visitors go for a unique experience and deep immersion in local culture.

When planning how to reach Pizarro, be prepared for a real adventure: the route most often involves a flight to the country's major hubs followed by a transfer to light aircraft or water transport, as direct land routes here are limited.

Since the town of Pizarro does not have its own major airport receiving regular commercial flights, the journey usually begins with a flight to one of the country's main hubs. Tourists most frequently arrive in Bogotá, Medellín, or Cali, which serve as the primary air gateways to Colombia.

From these metropolises, the onward journey often lies through regional airports of neighbouring cities or departments. Light aviation and charter flights play a key role in connecting with this region, allowing for significantly reduced travel time compared to complex land routes.

Reaching Pizarro by train is impossible, as railway infrastructure is completely absent in this region. Railways in Colombia are poorly developed and are used primarily for cargo transport or short tourist routes in the central part of the country.

Travellers are advised to exclude this mode of transport from their plan and rely on air travel or a combination of buses and water transport to reach their destination.

Direct bus service to the town of Pizarro is unavailable due to the complex geographical location and lack of access roads in the coastal zone. Experienced travellers usually travel by intercity buses to major regional transport hubs, such as Quibdó or the port of Buenaventura.

Travel time to transfer points can be significant, and the distance is covered slowly due to the mountainous terrain. The final leg of the journey after the bus almost always requires a transfer to speedboats or launches cruising along the rivers or the coast.

Travelling to Pizarro by private car or taxi is an extremely difficult task, as the town is not connected to the main road network of Colombia by direct highways. Roads often end in port cities, where the car will have to be left in a secure car park before continuing the journey by water.

If you still decide to drive to the nearest accessible point, consider that travel time can vary greatly due to weather conditions and the state of unpaved roads. A taxi for such long distances will be expensive and will require prior arrangement with a driver ready for complex routes.

A trip to this remote corner requires careful preparation to ensure your holiday is comfortable and safe. Here are a few recommendations to help you plan your visit to Pizarro.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is humid and hot, so pack modest, light, breathable clothing, a reliable raincoat, and comfortable quick-drying shoes.
2. Transport. The main mode of transport in the region is boats (launches); be mentally prepared for sea and river crossings.
3. Currency. Be sure to carry a sufficient supply of cash pesos, as ATMs may be absent or non-functional, and cards are not accepted everywhere.
4. Health and Safety. Stock up on insect repellent, sunscreen, and assemble a basic first aid kit; drink only bottled water.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Spanish; knowledge of English among the local population is minimal, so learn basic phrases or download an offline translator.
6. Local Etiquette. People here are open and welcoming; it is customary to greet others when entering a room and always ask for permission before photographing local residents.
7. What to Avoid. Do not display expensive jewellery and technology on the street, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark.
8. Dining Advice. Try local dishes made from fresh seafood and coconut — this is the hallmark of the region's gastronomy and offers delicious halal-friendly options.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Pacific coast.