Humpback whale in Gorgona
(Photo : Pixabay)

Gorgona Island is a snake infested, prison island that sits on Colombia's Pacific coast. It's beauty remains largely unexplored. The  government of Colombia hopes to turn into a tourist hotspot, however, luring the people to explore the treacherous island is a lot easier said than done.

Gorgona was actually the Spanish equivalent of Gorgon, which the island was named after. Gorgon was a mythical female figure with a head full of snakes, very similar to Medusa. The island was proclaimed a World Heritage Site in 1984. The Colombian government treated it as a National Park the year after. 

There are poisonous snakes on the island, on top of its reputation as Colombian Devil's Island. Back in the 1960s to 1980s, criminals who committed heinous crimes were housed in Gorgona Island, similar to the infamous Alcatraz Island off the California coast

There are several options to go to the island. One can take a boat to from Guapi which takes about one a half travel time. Another option is to ride a speed boat from the port of Buenaventura. The last option is to take a boat from the same port although it would take half a day to get to the island via this method. 

On the other hand, there are more to the island than sightseeing. For thrill-seeking adventurers, here are some of the activities that can be done when visiting Colombia's hidden gem.

1. Whale watching

Humpback whales go to the waters near the island when it's mating season. Per NPR, the unique topography allows the male whales to conduct their mating calls while also providing a safe place for the female humpback whales to give birth. It is best to visit from June to November in order to see the whales relax, reproduce and even give birth to offspring.

2. Hiking

There are three trails which tourists can explore: La Chonta, Pan and Playa Palmeras. However, it is advised that there should be guides with hikers due to the presence of wild snakes in the area. There are fresh water springs and rivers to freshen up the tired explorers.

3. Museum visit

The richness of the history of the island makes it a perfect destination for an archaeological trip. The Archaeological Museum houses the petroglyphs, stone tools and sculptures, and some artifacts believed to be found in 1300 BC., claims a report from Colombia Travel.

4. Food trip in Guapi

Visitors are advised not to miss the gastronomical adventures Guapi has to offer. The ceviche guapense ( combination of mayonnaise, cooked seafood and ketchup) is a must-try.

5. Snorkeling and diving

Get ready to meet other marine life such as sharks, stingrays and rare fishes. Fishing is banned in the waters surrounding the island, which means marine life thrives there. The ecological diversity in Gorgona can be compared to a "mini Galapagos". 

As always, tourists are advised to take the necessary precautions when exploring the island. Travel by boat can be a challenge due to heavy waves. Take the necessary vaccinations for yellow fever, tetanus, and hepatitis B as visitors cannot enter the park without it. Bringing a first aid kit for snake or insect bites is highly encouraged. 

Taking shells, corals or other minerals from the protected area is prohibited. Littering is not allowed and non-biodegradable trash must be taken away from the island. Organic wastes are placed in special containers found all over the island.