Plains, rivers, mountain ranges, and canyons, along with the mighty Orinoco—the third-largest river by volume in the world—take center stage in Reto Aventura Orinoquia, a captivating documentary series. Led by TNC’s ambassador and Colombian ultraman, Mauro Salazar, the series offers an in-depth exploration of the Orinoquia, a biodiverse corridor connecting the Andes to the Amazon
TNC invites you to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of Colombia’s Eastern Plains. This vast region, which covers 22% of Colombia’s territory, is home to diverse ecosystems including piedmonts, floodable savannas, high plains, and the Andean-Orinoco-Amazon transition zone. It also serves as a sanctuary for over thousand bird species and countless other wildlife.
“If you love nature, adventure, and witnessing animals in their natural habitat, Reto Aventura Orinoquia will reveal landscapes and experiences beyond imagination”, says Mauro Salazar, who has conquered some of the planet’s most extreme challenges.
Over the course of six thrilling episodes, Mauro Salazar embarks on a series of extraordinary journeys. He navigates the winding Güejar River, rides across the endless savannas, and joins local Llanero cowhands in their daily activities. Mauro also ventures on nocturnal expeditions to monitor the critically endangered Orinoco crocodile, and tracks iconic species like the charapa turtle, white-tailed deer, capybara, anaconda, jaguar, and soldier stork—a bird that can reach over a meter in height.
Episode 1: Orinoquia Expedition
Follow Mauro Salazar as he explores the second most biodiverse basin on Earth, delving deep into this ancient landscape and experiencing the ancestral rituals of its people.
Episode 2: Water, Adventure, and Life
The Orinoco crocodile, an endemic species in critical danger of extinction, is the star of this episode. Witness stunning footage of this giant reptile, learn about its ecological importance, and discover the Orinoco Basin, which holds 32% of Colombia’s freshwater and sustains over 10 million people.
Episode 3: Llanero Safari
Meet the "Big Five” of the Orinoquia: the green anaconda, the majestic soldier stork (the tallest flying bird in Central and South America), the elusive jaguar, the mighty Orinoco crocodile, and the friendly capybara, the largest rodent in the region.
Episode 4: Llanos Work
This episode celebrates Llanero culture—its cowhands, their songs, their deep connection with nature, and their role in preserving the region’s biodiversity through traditional cattle herding.
Episode 5: San Martín Squads
Discover the history behind the traditional equestrian ballet of San Martín de los Llanos, a festival dating back to 1735. Every November, locals reenact horseback confrontations from the colonial era, evoking the cultural roots that gave rise to the Llanero way of life.
Episode 6: Orinoquia, Reality or Legend?
Be inspired by the pride and resilience of the people of Orinoquia. From the strong-willed cowboys to the determined women who honor the land, this episode showcases the enduring spirit and biodiversity of this remarkable region.
Through Reto Aventura Orinoquia, you’ll witness breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of Colombia’s Eastern Plains—a region where nature and tradition meet in stunning harmony.