Tejanu is a cloud forest regeneration project based in the Eastern Cordillera of the Colombian Andes, near Bogotá. Through a program of rewilding, planting and watercourse restoration, it aims to restore 20 hectares of land to native forest.

Although this is a relatively small amount, we are partnering with a number of other reserves in the area, which together aim to create a conservation corridor running through the region. Its main aims are the regeneration of biodiversity, climate change mitigation, promotion of sustainable land use, education and cultural advocacy.

Welcome

Tehanu - a cloud forest reserve

Key elements

Regenerating a globally important ecosystem

Humid montane forest (or cloud forest) is an essential part of our planet's ecosystem. The trees capture moisture directly from the clouds, whch in turn feed the groundwater supply, so forming a major source of water for our rivers. Cloud forests are under threat across the equatorial regions of the planet, mainly due to intensive livestock farming. Globally we have lost around 80% of these crucial habitats, and in Colombia up to 95%, with devastating consequences for biodiversity.

At Tejanu, we are initiating a rewilding and tree planting program that will restore the whole site back to native forest. This in turn will regenerate the springs and help to restore and protect wildlife and plant diversity.

Seeking partnership + cultural advocacy

The majority of cloud forest loss has occurred since the 1970s, within just one or two generations. Protecting what remains, regenerating the ecosystem and converting land use to more sustainable activities such as eco-tourism have become critical.

We are partnered with Red Tasqua, a growing network of natural reserves that span the region. We are also officially recognised as a nature reserve through the Colombian Civil Society (RNSC). Through networks such as these, we hope to participate in programs of educational, cultural and political intervention that aim to galvanise change on a wider scale.

Green building

Regenerative architecture and ecological design are becoming pivotal for environmental protection and resilience to climate variablity.

Traditionally, building practices in the Andean region used locally sourced and crafted materials such as adobe clay bricks. We are restoring and building a number of cabins at Tejanu, using a blend of traditonal techniques and modern innovations such as green roofs. In the process, we are eliminating non-native species that have been introduced such as eucalpytus and pine - these species drain the ground water supply, but are ideal for building.

About

About Tejanu

At an altitude of around 2900m, Tejanu forms the top end of a tributary valley in the Bobadilla Arriba neighbourhood of Choachi. Over 50 acres, it consists of a mosaic of primary and secondary forests, shrublands and grasslands in various states of rewilding. There are three springs, with potentially many more waiting to be regenerated. It is home to a rich tapestry of native trees, mosses and bromeliads, orchids, birdlife, reptiles and mammals. Among them are threatened species such as the black billed toucan, the brazilian rabbit and the mountain paca (the latter under pressure from hunting).

Currently only accessible by a 40 minute hike on foot, or by horseback, the reserve is a remote and peaceful place, hidden in the clouds for the majority of the time. The steep rocky walls and dense forest that enclose it lend it a hushed, magical feel. The name Tehanu (written Tejanu in Spanish) comes from Ursula K Le Guin's character and novel of the same name. It is inspired by the themes of transformation, renewal and healing that the character embodies.

In time there is potential for camping or cabin stays, retreats and workshops. The beautiful, thriving town of Choachi is a 15 minute drive away, itself just an hour from the capital of Bogota.