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Puerto Nuevo (Coal Port)
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Port
Puerto Nuevo is a state-of-the-art coal export port located in the municipality of Ciénaga, Magdalena Department, on Colombia's Caribbean coast. Commissioned in 2013, it was specifically designed to meet strict Colombian environmental regulations regarding direct coal loading. The port serves as the primary export point for coal mines operated by Prodeco and Glencore in the Cesar Department. With impressive loading capacity and deep-water facilities, it allows for the efficient loading of massive cargo vessels. The direct loading system replaced the outdated barge method, drastically reducing pollution of the marine environment. Puerto Nuevo is a prime example of 21st-century Colombian infrastructure modernization and contributes significantly to the country's competitiveness in the global energy market. Beyond its economic importance, it supports social projects in the surrounding fishing communities.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Templete Plaza del Centenario · The Devil's House · Coliseo Monumental
- Nearby: Tayrona (11 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 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 3 | 11 | 34 | 109 | 78 | 63 | 84 | 110 | 170 | 97 | 29 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Puerto Nuevo is a modern hard coal export port in Colombia, using a direct loading system to minimize environmental impact. It serves as a central hub for exporting Colombian hard coal to international markets.
Visiting
The port is a fenced industrial site not open to the public. However, from surrounding roads or nearby coastal viewpoints, the large conveyor belts and coal stockpiles can be seen.
Where to view it
The best view is from the coastal road northeast of the port, where the loading equipment and incoming bulk carriers are clearly visible. The hills in the hinterland also provide a good overview of the entire terminal.
Local products
The port exclusively exports hard coal mined in the nearby La Guajira mining areas. Direct local products are not available, but traditional handicrafts from the mining region can be purchased in surrounding villages.
Active season
Coal exports run continuously throughout the year, with seasonal peaks when global demand rises. The main activity is most intense during the cooler months from November to March.
Nearby
A visit to Puerto Nuevo can be combined with a trip to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, offering an impressive backdrop. The beaches of Riohacha are also worth a detour, adding relaxation to the industrial visit.
Geography
Facts
- The port was opened in April 2013 following an investment of over $500 million.
- It features a 1.7-kilometer-long pier equipped with direct loading technology.
- The maximum coal handling capacity is 45 million tons per year.
- Capesize vessels of up to 180.000 tons can be loaded at this facility.
- An enclosed conveyor belt system prevents coal dust from entering the atmosphere.
- The port is linked to the national railway network serving mines in the Cesar basin.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Puerto Nuevo (Coal Port) (9)
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Frequently asked questions
What is Puerto Nuevo?
A state-of-the-art coal export port in the Ciénaga municipality.
Why was it built?
To enable direct coal loading and protect the environment.
Is the port open to visitors?
No, it is a closed industrial facility.
Where is it located exactly?
Between Santa Marta and Barranquilla, on the Caribbean coast.
What is mainly shipped here?
Exclusively thermal coal from the mines of the Cesar department.
Puerto Nuevo (Coal Port): where is it located?
Puerto Nuevo (Coal Port) is located in Colombia.
Puerto Nuevo (Coal Port): what is there to see?
Highlights include Templete Plaza del Centenario, The Devil's House, Coliseo Monumental.
Puerto Nuevo (Coal Port): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Puerto Nuevo (Coal Port): why is it worth visiting?
Puerto Nuevo is a state-of-the-art coal export port located in the municipality of Ciénaga, Magdalena Department, on Colombia's Caribbean coast.
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