Laguna de Sonso Nature Reserve

Laguna de Sonso is a protected area covering wetlands, marshes, and lagoons that stretch along the east bank of the Cauca River. The reserve features shallow water zones mixed with vegetation-covered banks and islands that create diverse habitats throughout the year.

Protection began in 1978 to preserve the last major natural wetland landscape in the Cauca Valley. Earlier environmental changes had significantly reduced such habitats throughout the region, making this area essential for conservation.

Local communities engage directly in conservation work and use the area for nature observation and environmental learning. Visitors encounter places where people actively participate in protecting the wetlands through sustainable practices.

The reserve is located roughly 65 kilometers north of Santiago de Cali and can be reached via the Buga-Mediacanoa road. Water levels change throughout the year, which affects how the wetlands look and what activities are possible during your visit.

The wetlands hold the only remaining population of horned screamers in the region, a bird species found nowhere else nearby. This rare bird is one of the key reasons the reserve matters for maintaining regional wildlife.