Nirvana a nature park in Bruitrera

If you love to hike, love beautiful views and enjoy nature Nirvana is a must see when visiting the Valle de Cauca. Located in the mountains of Palmira, this natural reserve starts with an enchanting entrance and does not disappoint as you continue your journey. As you walk the steep road through the restaurants and home at the beginning of the climb the sounds of nature are calling! There are two choices for participants who hike this reserve, you can choose the long path or a shorter less strenuous path. This reserve is privately owned and is a sanctuary for rescued parrots and also has a nursery where plants can be bought. Look for the natural pool with fish that are caught and eaten in the restaurant. It is truly a beautiful journey worth taking.

I choose the longer path, and it was well worth it. Along the way I stopped to watch the parrots whom are in huge enclosures, the natural pool and the nursery. The plants and trees all around are well maintained. I was in running shoes, but the ground was slippery, so I suggest a pair of shoes that have a good grip! The path is winding and steep with benches along the way to rest. I was very grateful for those benches. The altitude can make you breathless as you climb. I felt like I was climbing sideways at times. Sometimes going through dense foliage and long vines. As I continued up the views were outstanding. I had walked later in the day, with the sun slowly going down. I was able to see magnificent views with the sun as the backdrop!.

The path winds around and goes up at the same time. The trees have dropped leaves which cover the path at points. I found myself being super careful, and once again thought a different pair of shoes would have been nice! Everytime I heard a bird call, or the wind rustle the trees, I felt like this was what the Rainforest of Colombia would be like. I made a mental note to see it soon! It is a long way to the top with lots of spots to take a break and observe the views.

view on the way to the top

Once at the top , the long hike is well worth the effort. An observation area is waiting to relax after your hike to Nirvana. The view has to be why it is named Nirvana! A lovely home is at the top, with flowers and natural landscaping. A small store is available to buy snacks and beverages, beer included!  Just standing and looking out over the valley below is breathtaking and peaceful combined. The breeze is fresh, para gliders can be seen (http://migelitaincolombia.blogspot.com/2012/01/decision-parapente-para-gliding-is-like_23.html take a look at my recent blog), birds fly by, and the sounds of nature abound! A stay of 20 to 30 minutes enjoying a beer and the view, allows enough rest for your travel back down the mountain. Going down is (of course) much easier and the restaurant is added incentive to return to the bottom! My mouth was watering at the thought of fresh fish to eat! The walk is brisk and quick going down, the natural surroundings never boring. Local workers on the reserve have little homes and come out and say "buenas" to the park's visitors. A truly charming way to spend 3 hours of your time! I had a chuckle as I left, as this carving is large and one of the last things you see after you leave the hike and make your way to the restaurant. I encourage all to stay and enjoy the local dining. The food is quite tasty! A wonderful way to end a hiking adventure and leave with a full belly and rememberance of enchanting views! Maybe you will see an eagle on your hike!