Colombia: The Heart of Disney’s Encanto
Colombia boasts an incredible diversity of over 3,600 butterfly species, making it a unique backdrop for Disney’s animated movie Encanto. The iconic yellow butterflies in the film draw inspiration from author Gabriel García Márquez, known for utilizing these creatures as symbols of love, hope, and peace in his enchanting novels.
The Setting of Encanto
The story unfolds in the charming village of Encanto, inspired by the real-life Valle de Cocora in Colombia. The film begins with the tragedy of Colombia’s troubled past and seamlessly transitions into a celebration of the country’s warmth and beauty. Colorful bougainvillea tumbles over historical buildings painted in bright tropical hues like guava, papaya, and tangerine. Toucans flit above verdant landscapes while palm trees reach skywards amidst cobbled plazas alive with local culture.
Key visual elements of the film are deeply connected to Colombia’s rich biodiversity. When directors Byron Howard and Jared Bush explored the Valle de Cocora in 2018, they felt it was the ideal location for the Madrigal family’s magical home, or casita. The valley, framed by mountains, showcases the Quindío wax palms, which soar to a remarkable height of 200 feet.
For adventurers, vintage Willys Jeep taxis offer thrilling rides to Cocora, where visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and dining at centuries-old farms such as Donde Juan B Bosques de Cocora, famous for its garlic-bathed pink trout.
Butterflies… Endless Butterflies
The heartfelt song ‘Dos Oruguitas,’ about two caterpillars in love that transform into butterflies, encapsulates the transformative beauty of these creatures. Colombia’s own butterfly species are on full display in locations like the Jardin Botánico de Quindío, with around 50 species fluttering within its netted enclosures.
To truly immerse yourself in the butterfly experience, visit during spring or fall when millions of Phoebis philea migrate through the country.
Animals and Birds
The character of Antonio Madrigal in Encanto has the magical ability to communicate with local wildlife. His rainforest-inspired room features capybaras, jaguars, toucans, and hummingbirds. The diverse wildlife of Colombia includes around 1,920 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Many companies, such as Penelope Birding, offer guided tours to locate endemic species, including the critically endangered Yellow-eared parrot in the Valle de Cocora.
Music and Dance
The film features a rich musical score that highlights Colombia’s vibrant musical genres like cumbia, guaracha, and vallenato. ‘Colombia, me encanto’ serves as an anthem celebrating the country’s cultural richness. Vallenato music, which originated in Valledupar, offers a lively experience for visitors, especially during the annual vallenato festival held every late September.
Food Experiences
Colombia’s culinary scene is equally magical, as showcased in the film’s scenes featuring arepas and ajiaco. Ajiaco, a hearty chicken soup, is a popular dish around Bogotá, available at numerous restaurants including the charming La Puerta Falsa.
Explorers can further their gastronomic journey by participating in culinary classes with Colombian Cooking Experience, where they can learn how to prepare traditional dishes just like the Madrigal family.
Flowers of Colombia
Encanto showcases the breathtaking floral beauty of Colombia. Inspired by the colorful bougainvillea found in Barichara and the enchanting scenes in Cartagena, the film captures the essence of Colombia’s lush landscapes. Notably, locations like Caño Cristales, known for its vibrant streams, further affirm the country’s reputation as a tropical paradise.
The Flower Festival in Medellín, held in early August, celebrates this floral abundance with stunning parades and vibrant flower arrangements, further reflecting Colombia’s rich cultural heritage.
Colombia is a remarkable destination for travelers seeking both adventure and comfort. With its natural beauty, diverse cultural experiences, and culinary delights, Colombia embraces visitors with open arms. The release of Encanto serves as a heartwarming herald for the enchanting adventures awaiting in this beautiful land.
