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Hacienda Nápoles
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Hacienda Nápoles is an expansive estate located in Puerto Triunfo, Antioquia, which was famously the private property of drug lord Pablo Escobar and has since been transformed into a theme park and wildlife sanctuary. Following the estate's decline in the 1990s, it was redeveloped as an ecotourism hub that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The park features a significant animal sanctuary housing various species, most notably the herd of hippopotamuses that descended from Escobar's original imports and are now considered an invasive species in Colombia. Attractions include sprawling water parks, a butterfly conservatory, and a memorial museum that critically explores the location's complex history. Despite its notorious past, the project now emphasizes education, conservation, and family-oriented entertainment. The Hacienda has become a powerful symbol of Colombia's transformation, moving away from the violence of the cartel era toward a future focused on peace and sustainable tourism.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Hacienda Nápoles · Hipopotamos · Tunel del Capo
- Nearby: Girardot (48 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 24 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 60 | 66 | 116 | 178 | 188 | 128 | 119 | 125 | 128 | 189 | 164 | 89 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The theme park and zoo on the former estate of Pablo Escobar is open daily to visitors. Tickets can be bought on site or online, entry is fee-based.
Typical hours
The park typically opens at 9 am and closes around 5 pm. Weekends and holidays can be crowded, so arriving early is recommended.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park, though flash may be prohibited in some animal enclosures. Selfie sticks and drones may not be permitted.
Time needed
Plan at least half a day to explore the park and its attractions and animals. For a full visit including shows, three to four hours are realistic.
Combine with
Combine the visit with nearby Puerto Triunfo town and Rio Claro Nature Reserve. The region also features rafting and caving adventures.
Getting there
The park is about a three-hour drive east of Medellín on the highway to Bogotá. A rental car or organized tour are the best options.
Insider tip
Visit the hippo enclosure and the former Escobar mansion for historical context. Bring swimwear as there is a water park.
Geography
Facts
- The estate covers an area of nearly 20 square kilometers in Puerto Triunfo.
- It is home to the only wild hippopotamus herd in the world outside of Africa.
- A dedicated museum documents Colombia's history of fighting drug trafficking.
- The site was officially repurposed and opened as a theme park in the late 2000s.
- The park includes several water attractions, such as the famous Octopus pool.
- Visitors can still see the original plane used for Escobar's first cocaine shipments.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Hacienda Nápoles (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the main attraction of Hacienda Nápoles?
The hippos, the water park, and the historical museum are the most popular.
Do you need swimwear?
Yes, definitely, as the park features several large pool areas and slides.
What is the weather like in Doradal?
It is very hot and humid. Drink plenty of water and use sun protection.
Can you stay overnight inside the park?
Yes, there are several themed hotels located directly within the park grounds.
Are there wild animals there?
Yes, it is a biopark with zebras, elephants, tigers, and the famous hippos.
Hacienda Nápoles: where is it located?
Hacienda Nápoles is located in Colombia.
Hacienda Nápoles: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hacienda Nápoles, Hipopotamos, Tunel del Capo.
Hacienda Nápoles: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Hacienda Nápoles: why is it worth visiting?
Hacienda Nápoles is an expansive estate located in Puerto Triunfo, Antioquia, which was famously the private property of drug lord Pablo Escobar and has since been transformed into a theme park and wildlife sanctuary.
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