Llanos
Juan Solito Lodge
Hato La Aurora has been in the same family for almost half a century and is divided up among siblings. The cattle operation is run by Nelson Barragan from the Hato, which is also the base for the Fundacion Jaguar Project, whilst Juan Solito Lodge is run by Nelson Barragan with assistance from Julio Barragan when required.
The lodge has 7 simple rooms of various bedding configurations with ensuite bathrooms (cold water showers, though usually lukewarm!), fan, plenty of shelving, and a plastic chair! The rooms are screened and mosquito nets available if preferred. There is also a large area (unscreened) with tables and chairs, hot water for tea and coffee, and an honesty fridge with cold beers and Coca Cola. The dining room (unscreened) is located a short walk away by the river. The birdlife is plentiful all around the grounds, and there are also capybara ambling around. Giant otters can occasionally be seen in the Ariporo River which flows alongside the lodge.
The food served is simple but plentiful and tasty, fresh fruit juice is provided at meal times, and there is also filtered water (from a well) for filling up water bottles. Small pouches of mineral water are also carried by the local guides on the excursions. Rubber boots are available for guest use, and good quality ponchos. WiFi is available near the dining area/kitchen.
Facilities
Screened ensuite rooms with mosquito nets, large common area (unscreened) with tables and chairs, hot water for tea and coffee, and an honesty fridge with cold beers and soft drinks, and separate dining room (unscreened) a short walk away by the river. WiFi is available near the dining/kitchen area.
Local Wildlife
Wildlife might include giant otter, giant anteater, jaguar, the critically endangered orinoco crocodile, spectacled caiman, green anaconda, scarlet ibis, Orinoco goose, roseate spoon bill and plenty more!
Optional Activities
Safari drives, wildlife walks, boat trips, horse rides.
John Melton
Area Specialist
If you have any questions regarding our Colombia tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965