Colombia, a country renowned for its diverse landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural heritage, has provided the magical backdrop for Disney‘s animated film ‘Encanto‘.
These must-see Colombia places inspired Disney’s ‘Encanto’
The film, which tells the enchanting tale of the Madrigal family and their extraordinary abilities, drew inspiration from various locations throughout Colombia that capture the country’s unique charm and vibrant identity.
Cultural Coffee Landscape, Western Andes Region
One such place is the Cultural Coffee Landscape, situated in the Western Andes Region. This breathtaking region, adorned with lush coffee farms and verdant crops, served as the backdrop for the Madrigal family’s house.
Visitors to this area can immerse themselves in a world of natural wonders, exploring national parks teeming with rich flora and fauna. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in exhilarating activities like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, quad biking, and paragliding.
For those seeking relaxation, the hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal and San Vicente offer a tranquil retreat, while the picturesque coffee farms provide an opportunity to experience the country’s renowned coffee production firsthand.
Salento, Quindío
The colonial town of Salento, located in the department of Quindío, is another must-see destination that served as an inspiration for ‘Encanto‘.
This paradise suspended in time captivates visitors with its stunning streets and charming old houses. Local markets offer a glimpse into Colombia’s rich artistic heritage, featuring handmade products like totumo bowls, bamboo ornaments, and weaves.
A visit to the nearby Valle del Cocora is highly recommended, where tourists can embark on a morning Jeep ride from the Plaza in Salento, taking them to the awe-inspiring Cocora Valley.
This valley is home to the towering wax palm, reaching heights of up to 197 feet, making it the only place on Earth where palms grow at such altitudes. The Cocora Valley truly breathes life into the mythical ‘Casita Madrigal‘ and its surroundings.
The Coffee Belt
The Coffee Belt, spanning across several departments including Caldas, Risaralda, Quindío, Valle del Cauca, and north-western Tolima, offers a sensory experience not to be missed.
This region, where some of the world’s smoothest coffee is grown, provides an opportunity for tourists to immerse themselves in the art of coffee production.
Visitors can explore coffee plantations while interacting with growers dressed in traditional attire, who passionately explain the intricacies of the coffee-making process.
Other locations that served as inspiration for ‘Encanto‘ include the captivating Valle del Cocora, with its unique wax palms, the beautifully preserved heritage town of Barichara, and the awe-inspiring Caño Cristales, known as the ‘Five Colour River‘.
Caño Cristales, located in the Colombian Massif, showcases a mesmerising display of vibrant colours during August and September when water flowers called Podostemaceae bloom.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this natural wonder is where the characters Abuela Alma and Mirabel share an emotional moment, bringing the miracle of ‘Encanto’ to life.
Lastly, the vibrant city of Cartagena, situated on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, provides a backdrop of warm weather, stunning beaches, and well-preserved colonial mansions. With its historical walls, excellent museums, and fascinating cultural festivals, Cartagena offers a treasure trove of experiences for visitors. This World Cultural Heritage Site has long inspired artists and writers, including Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez, whose masterpiece ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ drew inspiration from the city’s narrow stone walkways and balconies adorned with yellow butterflies and blooming flowers.
As ‘Encanto’ takes audiences on a magical journey, the film pays homage to the diverse and captivating locations found in Colombia.
