Audio Guide of Hacienda Bélgica on the Guatapurí River

As a public natural attraction, access is open 24 hours a day, but for safety it is recommended to visit the Hurtado bathing area between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. It is just 10 minutes from downtown Valledupar, and you can easily get there by taxi or local transport.

No, access to the river and the linear park is completely free for all visitors. However, keep in mind that renting chairs or tents, or buying food at the nearby restaurants, does involve an extra cost.

Ideally, you should allow between 2 and 3 hours for your visit. This will give you enough time to cool off in the icy waters, take photos with the Mermaid Monument, and try a typical regional snack.

The Guatapurí is considered the 'father' of vallenato folklore, and its waters rise in the Sierra Nevada. Its most famous legend is that of Rosario Arciniegas, a girl who turned into a mermaid for bathing during Holy Week, a story immortalized in the golden statue you will see on the riverbank.

The best time is during the dry season, from December to March, when the waters are crystal clear and less forceful. If you are looking for a quieter experience, we suggest going on weekday mornings; weekends and holidays are much livelier and more crowded.

The waterfront promenade and the paved areas of the linear park are accessible and allow wheelchair users to enjoy the view and the breeze without difficulty. However, direct access to the water is rocky and uneven, so it is not suitable for people with limited mobility without assistance.

Right next door you will find the iconic Vallenato Legend Park, home of the famous festival. You can also take the opportunity to visit Alfonso López Square in the historic center, which is a short drive away.

The water is quite cold and the current can be strong, so always stay within the marked safe areas. Do not leave without trying green mango with salt or a shaved ice treat from the local vendors, and bring biodegradable sunscreen to help protect the ecosystem.