Introduction
As digital nomads, we often pride ourselves on embracing freedom and exploration, but how often do we consider the environmental footprint of our journeys? Colombia, with its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, offers an incredible opportunity to explore responsibly. From the lush Amazon to the soaring Andes, the country invites us to tread lightly and preserve its natural beauty.
When I first arrived in Colombia, I was captivated by its stunning diversity, but it didn’t take long to realize the importance of sustainable travel here. From learning to reduce plastic waste in remote areas to supporting eco-friendly businesses, my journey evolved into more than just work and travel—it became a mission to leave a positive impact.
In this article, I’ll share practical tips for embracing eco-friendly digital nomadism in Colombia, along with destinations that highlight the country’s commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re working from a solar-powered coworking space or exploring conservation-focused eco-lodges, Colombia has everything you need to travel responsibly.
Practical Tips for Sustainable Travel in Colombia
As a digital nomad, making eco-friendly choices doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By adopting small, intentional practices, you can reduce your impact on Colombia’s environment while still enjoying its incredible offerings. Here are some practical steps to travel sustainably:
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Where you stay can have a significant impact on the environment. In Colombia, there are a growing number of options for eco-conscious travelers.
• Stay at Eco-Lodges: Many eco-lodges in Colombia are designed to minimize environmental impact and support local communities. For example:
• El Almejal Eco-Lodge (Chocó): Nestled in the lush Pacific rainforest, this lodge uses solar energy and supports turtle conservation programs.
• Ecohabs Tayrona (Santa Marta): Located in Tayrona National Park, these accommodations are built with natural materials and prioritize water conservation.
• Support Green Hostels: Look for hostels with sustainability initiatives, such as recycling programs or renewable energy sources. For example:
• The Dreamer Hostel (Santa Marta): Offers eco-friendly practices while catering to digital nomads with fast Wi-Fi and communal workspaces.
• Book with Locals: Staying in family-run accommodations or Airbnb homes reduces the need for large-scale resorts and directly benefits the local economy.
2. Reduce Plastic Waste
Single-use plastics are a major environmental challenge in many parts of the world, including Colombia. Here’s how you can do your part:
• Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water is safe to drink in cities like Bogotá and Medellín, but for rural areas, use a water filter or purification tablets.
• Carry Reusable Bags: Markets and grocery stores often provide plastic bags, but bringing your own cloth bag is a simple way to cut down on waste.
• Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Opt for bamboo or metal utensils for takeaway meals, and say no to plastic straws.
3. Travel Responsibly
How you get around in Colombia can significantly impact your carbon footprint:
• Use Public Transport: Colombia’s bus network is extensive and eco-friendly, offering connections to most cities and towns. For example, the Bogotá TransMilenio system is efficient and affordable.
• Walk or Bike: In walkable cities like Cartagena or smaller towns like Salento, explore on foot or rent a bike to reduce emissions while staying active.
• Choose Shared Rides: Apps like BlaBlaCar connect travelers for carpooling, helping to cut down on individual vehicle use.
4. Support Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
Contributing to local, eco-friendly tourism projects helps protect Colombia’s natural and cultural heritage:
• Visit Conservation Projects: In Leticia, join tours that support Amazon rainforest conservation efforts or wildlife protection initiatives.
• Take Guided Hikes: Choose certified eco-guides who follow responsible practices, such as in Cocora Valley, where guides help preserve the wax palm ecosystem.
• Buy Local: Purchase souvenirs from artisans and avoid products that exploit wildlife or endangered species.
5. Minimize Energy Use While Working
As a digital nomad, working from your laptop consumes energy, but there are ways to reduce your impact:
• Use Solar-Powered Devices: Invest in portable solar chargers for your devices.
• Cowork in Green Spaces: Seek out coworking hubs that prioritize sustainability. In Medellín, spaces like Selina Medellín incorporate eco-conscious design and practices.
• Turn Off Devices When Not in Use: A simple yet effective way to save energy during your stay.
6. Eat Sustainably
Colombia’s rich culinary heritage includes many locally-sourced and sustainable dishes. To minimize your impact:
• Eat Local: Choose meals made with seasonal ingredients. Visit local markets like Plaza Minorista in Medellín for fresh, organic produce.
• Avoid Overfishing: When near the coast, ask if the seafood is responsibly sourced to prevent contributing to overfishing.
• Embrace Plant-Based Options: Many Colombian dishes, such as arepas de choclo (corn cakes) and ajiaco (potato soup), are vegetarian or can be adapted to plant-based diets.
7. Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Given the carbon emissions associated with flights, consider ways to offset your travel:
• Participate in Reforestation Programs: In Colombia, projects like Saving the Amazon allow travelers to fund the planting of trees.
• Calculate Your Carbon Impact: Use online tools to measure your footprint and donate to organizations that support renewable energy or forest conservation.
8. Respect Protected Areas
Colombia is home to some of the world’s most stunning national parks and reserves, but these areas are fragile. Here’s how to explore them responsibly:
• Stick to Designated Trails: Wandering off-trail can damage delicate ecosystems.
• Follow Park Guidelines: Whether visiting Tayrona or Los Nevados, respect rules on waste disposal, noise, and wildlife interaction.
• Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash and avoid picking plants or disturbing animals.
By implementing these tips, you can enjoy Colombia’s incredible landscapes and culture while ensuring they remain intact for future generations.
Top Eco-Friendly Destinations in Colombia for Digital Nomads
Colombia is a treasure trove of natural beauty and sustainability-focused destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the serene Amazon, the bustling Caribbean coast, or the tranquil Andean highlands, these eco-friendly spots offer unique experiences for digital nomads committed to leaving a positive impact.
1. Chocó Region: Rainforest Bliss
Located on Colombia’s Pacific coast, the Chocó region is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant wildlife make it a dream destination for eco-conscious travelers.
• Why Go: Home to eco-lodges like El Almejal, this region is perfect for remote workers who want to combine productivity with nature immersion. Solar power, sustainable architecture, and conservation efforts are hallmarks of this area.
• What to Do:
• Visit Utría National Park to explore mangroves and spot humpback whales (in season).
• Participate in turtle conservation programs along the coast.
• Work-Friendly Tip: While remote, some eco-lodges offer decent Wi-Fi. Consider downloading work files in advance for uninterrupted productivity.
2. Tayrona National Park: Coastal Serenity
One of Colombia’s most famous national parks, Tayrona blends idyllic beaches with lush jungle. It’s an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking a retreat where they can reconnect with nature.
• Why Go: Accommodations like Ecohabs Tayrona emphasize sustainable living, with natural materials and minimal impact on the environment.
• What to Do:
• Hike to Playa Cristal or Cabo San Juan, renowned for their turquoise waters.
• Learn about indigenous cultures such as the Kogi, who advocate for environmental stewardship.
• Work-Friendly Tip: While Wi-Fi is scarce in the park, nearby Santa Marta has coworking spaces and cafés for working days.
3. Salento and Cocora Valley: Coffee and Conservation
Nestled in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, Salento is a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills and coffee farms practicing sustainable agriculture.
• Why Go: Stay at eco-friendly coffee fincas like Hacienda Venecia, where you can learn about sustainable coffee production while enjoying remote work amenities.
• What to Do:
• Explore the Cocora Valley and its towering wax palms, the national tree of Colombia.
• Visit local coffee farms for organic coffee tastings and workshops.
• Work-Friendly Tip: Many coffee fincas offer high-speed internet, making them great for digital nomads who want a quiet, scenic workspace.
4. Leticia and the Amazon Rainforest: A Green Frontier
Leticia, the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, offers unparalleled biodiversity and opportunities to engage in conservation efforts.
• Why Go: Eco-lodges like Calanoa Jungle Lodge are designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, using renewable resources and employing local communities.
• What to Do:
• Explore the Amazon River on guided eco-tours.
• Visit indigenous communities to learn about their sustainable way of life.
• Work-Friendly Tip: Wi-Fi is limited, so plan for a digital detox or work ahead before diving into the rainforest experience.
5. Villa de Leyva: Colonial Charm Meets Sustainability
This historic town in Boyacá is known for its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and commitment to eco-tourism.
• Why Go: Many accommodations in Villa de Leyva, such as Hotel Casa Terra, focus on renewable energy and local sourcing.
• What to Do:
• Visit the Pozos Azules, a series of vibrant blue lagoons.
• Hike in the nearby Iguaque National Park, believed by the indigenous Muisca to be sacred.
• Work-Friendly Tip: Villa de Leyva offers a few quaint cafés with reliable internet, perfect for work sessions.
6. San Andrés and Providencia: Eco-Friendly Island Living
While San Andrés is more developed, Providencia stands out as a sustainable Caribbean paradise. These islands are committed to preserving their natural beauty through eco-tourism.
• Why Go: Stay at eco-friendly lodges like Deep Blue Hotel, which supports marine conservation projects.
• What to Do:
• Snorkel in the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest marine protected areas in the Caribbean.
• Explore Providencia’s traditional Creole culture and sustainable fishing practices.
• Work-Friendly Tip: Internet on Providencia is limited but sufficient for basic tasks. Plan work hours around your island adventures.
7. Guatapé: A Colorful Escape
Known for its colorful zócalos (decorative tiles) and the iconic El Peñol Rock, Guatapé offers a mix of vibrant culture and eco-conscious initiatives.
• Why Go: Eco-conscious accommodations like Bosko Eco-Lodge feature glamping domes that merge comfort with environmental responsibility.
• What to Do:
• Climb El Peñol Rock for panoramic views of the surrounding lakes.
• Take a boat tour with operators focused on preserving the local ecosystem.
• Work-Friendly Tip: Wi-Fi is widely available in town, making it a great spot for combining work and leisure.
Why These Destinations Matter
Each of these eco-friendly destinations in Colombia not only highlights the country’s commitment to sustainability but also demonstrates how digital nomads can thrive while respecting the planet. From rainforests and beaches to mountains and coffee farms, these locations offer unique experiences that align with eco-conscious values.
Conclusion
As digital nomads, we have the privilege of exploring beautiful destinations like Colombia, but with that comes the responsibility to travel sustainably. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, reducing waste, and supporting local conservation efforts, we can ensure these stunning landscapes remain intact for future generations.
Ready to start your sustainable journey? Pack your bags, bring your reusable water bottle, and get ready to work and explore responsibly. Continue to follow us on Colombia Digital Nomads for more guides like this.
