Colombia’s Ukumari Biopark Calls Tourists Back to Pereira as Earthquake Fallout Hits Wildlife Tourism

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Colombia’s Ukumari Biopark is hoping visitors will come back to the city of Pereira following the August earthquake that badly hit tourist numbers, which was putting the tourism economy’s vital revenue stream that feeds and cares for the animals at risk. The wildlife attraction has been back open since 18 August, after post-earthquake safety checks, but footfall has not returned to normal levels. Ukumari is now appealing to its tourists to help sustain tourism by visiting it on a regular basis rather than sending emergency food donations.

Why Is Colombia’s Ukumari Biopark Asking Tourists to Return

Ukumari Biopark, one of Pereira’s major wildlife attractions, faces continued financial pressure following the earthquake that struck Colombia on 10 August 2026.

The earthquake affected parts of the Coffee Region and forced the attraction to suspend operations temporarily while authorities assessed its facilities.

The biopark resumed operations on 18 August after inspections found no significant structural damage. However, the interruption and its aftermath discouraged many visitors.

August reports indicated that attendance declined by more than 50%, with some estimates placing the reduction above 60%.

Park manager Raul Murillo Betancur has since shifted attention towards rebuilding tourism demand.

The facility no longer prioritises emergency donations of animal food or other supplies. Instead, management wants visitors to purchase admission tickets and help maintain its regular operations.

The recovery matters because the attraction depends partly on tourism revenue to sustain animal welfare, environmental education and conservation activities.

How Did the August Earthquake Disrupt Tourism in Pereira

The quake hit Colombia on 10 August and was centered in Chocó department. It also was felt throughout the Coffee Region, especially in Pereira.

Liability for the disaster created uncertainty amongst travellers and negatively impacted tourism companies.

Ukumari was closed in the meantime to carry out safety audits, though it will re-open to the public.

Even though the ride was back in business within a few days, visitors visits failed to reach those of the past.

This disruption exemplifies an important challenge for tourism destinations following natural disasters.

Whenever certain sites reopen, travellers might postpone their trip due to worries about transportation, infrastructure or safety.

This may mean that Pereira re-builds its confidence, which would be a boon to hoteliers, restaurants and other tourism-serving businesses that rely on tourist spending.

Travellers should check local conditions and safety advice before making journeys through areas affected by the earthquake.

What Wildlife Experiences Await Tourists at Ukumari Biopark

Ukumari combines wildlife observation with conservation education, giving visitors an opportunity to explore different animal habitats.

The attraction cares for hundreds of animals and introduces visitors to wildlife from Colombia and other regions.

Its principal visitor routes include Sabana Africana, Bosques Andinos and Matecaña.

The African savanna section features animals such as giraffes, elephants, rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses and meerkats.

Other habitats introduce visitors to species associated with South America’s natural environments, including spectacled bears and jaguars.

The park also provides educational activities that explain biodiversity, wildlife protection and responsible environmental behaviour.

Its official website highlights birdwatching, interactive learning opportunities and specialist animal-care experiences.

Families can combine recreation with learning, while wildlife enthusiasts can explore different habitats during a single visit.

How Much Do Ukumari Biopark Tickets Cost in October 2026

Ukumari’s official admission information lists different prices according to visitors’ ages.

The biopark does not provide refunds under its published admission policy.

Travellers can review prices and purchase admission through the official Ukumari ticket website.

What Are Ukumari Biopark’s Opening Hours and Location

The attraction welcomes visitors seven days a week, making it suitable for weekday excursions and weekend family trips.

Opening hours: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Last admission: 2:30 pm.

Location: Kilometre 14, Pereira–Cerritos Road, near the Santa Bárbara service station, Risaralda, Colombia.

The biopark’s official corporate information places it approximately eight kilometres from Matecaña International Airport, with an indicative journey of 15–20 minutes. Travel times depend on traffic.

Travellers should arrive early to allow sufficient time for the different wildlife sections.

What Should Travellers Know Before Visiting Ukumari

Visitors can make their trip easier by checking the biopark’s admission rules and planning for additional expenses.

• Food: The park prohibits visitors from bringing outside food and drinks but operates food outlets inside.
• Parking: Cars cost COP 18,000, while motorcycles cost COP 6,000.
• Lockers: Visitors can rent storage lockers for COP 7,000.
• Pushchairs: Families can hire a pushchair for COP 18,000.
• Pets: The park does not allow pets.
• Special experiences: The Sunday Behind the Bio tour costs an additional COP 25,000 and requires a reservation at the information point.
• Official visitor information: Bioparque Ukumarí.

The biopark recommends comfortable footwear, sun protection and suitable clothing for outdoor activities.

Visitors should confirm special activities before travelling because schedules and availability may change.

Why Could Returning Tourists Help Colombia’s Wildlife Conservation

Ukumari’s revival cannot be limited to the number of visitors.

No matter how many people visit in one day, the attraction is required to keep supporting animals, keeping habitats, delivering veterinary treatment and running its conservation programmes.

B. The main spheres of activity, institutional, statutory information of the park, include conservation of biodiversity, care for animals, education and research.

It could also help to generate income on a regular basis to fund these activities and build a broader visitor economy for Pereira.

If travelling to the Coffee Region on a holiday then Ukumari can be a guaranteed attraction that has a set opening times and an entry fee.