When the international spotlight focused on the protection and conservation of natural resources, national parks started to be founded all across the planet. Ecotourism fans did justice to the labor of environmentalists, and visiting nature reserves has become very popular among travelers from all countries. Some are attracted by high mountains and flower valleys; others, by rivers, lakes and waterfalls; and the third dream of picturing a rare bird or plant for their collection.

The sights of the Puracé National Natural Park, which is located in the vicinity of the Colombian city of Popayán, can satisfy any tourists' needs, whatever were their reasons for going to this land. Its protected land, with an area of 830 square kilometers, was established in 1968 and is only 50 kilometers from the city center. Waiting for climbers, there stands the tallest mountain ridge of the Columbian Andes, the Cordillera Central. The country's three biggest rivers take their origin in these mountains, and the number of natural lagoons counts about thirty. There are a couple of small waterfalls, a picturesque cave, but the park's main attraction is its seven volcanoes, two of which are currently active. The most favored by tourists is the Puracé Volcano, after which the park is named. It is about 5 000 meters high, and its peak is covered with snow and surrounded by dozens of hot springs.

For those coming here for a unique photo, the park hides numerous surprises and discoveries. The rich flora of the Puracé reserve is presented by rare extinct tree sorts, including the Columbian pine and wax palm, Ceroxylon. Besides, more than 200 varieties of orchids grow within the area of the park.

No less diverse is the local fauna. Here, you can see rare spectacled bears and red deer, cougars and armadillos, howler monkeys and mountain tapirs, as well as about 160 species of birds. But the Andean condors are considered the most valuable inhabitants. The Puracé National Natural Park is the only place in Columbia where you can see them in their natural habitat.