Colombia’s Sacred Cerros de Mavicure: A Journey Through Indigenous Heritage and Amazonian Landscape

In eastern Colombia’s Guainía department, the Cerros de Mavicure—three granite outcrops of the Guiana Shield—rise above the Inírida River and forest. The hills, sacred to the Puinave and Cubeo peoples, are linked to creation myths, family, and ecological stewardship. Mongabay’s recent field report followed journalist Daniela Quintero Díaz and Puinave guide Oilber Díaz, who climbed Mavicure with Cubeo guide Dreyk. The steep granite trail revealed narrow forest seams and pockets of soil, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding canopy and river. After sunset, the descent was illuminated by frogs and geckos, underscoring the region’s rich biodiversity. The visit highlights the cultural and ecological significance of these untouched landscapes.