In Santander, Colombia, the Reserva Natural Laboratorio CaminanTr3s is leading a conservation effort to protect the Andean forest through community-based tourism. This 10-hectare reserve in Virolín, Charalá, demonstrates how tourism initiatives involving local communities can effectively protect and restore habitats crucial for numerous flora and fauna species, essential for the water supply of millions.
Recent expeditions have identified over 200 flora and 100 fauna species within the reserve, including endemic species like the Magnolia virolinensis tree and the Andinobates virolinensis frog. The project focuses on engaging local communities in conservation, making nature protection accessible. This aligns with Colombia's broader efforts to strengthen conservation through community involvement and sustainable tourism, highlighted by Colombian towns nominated for the UN Tourism's Best Tourism Villages 2025.
The reserve is developing ecological trails and gastronomic experiences to educate visitors about the region's natural wealth and promote conservation awareness. Future plans include expanding infrastructure and further integrating the community into the reserve's operations, ensuring long-term sustainability and biodiversity protection in the Andean forest.