In the heart of Colombia’s Caribbean region, there’s a tree so magnificent, it feels almost unreal. Known to locals as “The Tree That Walks,” this towering giant isn’t just a single plant—it’s an incredible fusion of six fig trees, interwoven over decades to create a living structure that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. This natural wonder, found near the small town of San Marcos, spans an awe-inspiring 75 meters in diameter, and its aerial roots act as pillars, supporting the tree’s massive canopy and giving it the appearance of a cathedral made of living wood.
The story of this colossal fig tree begins in 1964 on the Alejandría farm. A small yellow cedar sapling, planted to protect it from grazing cattle, was surrounded by six fig trees. Over the years, the fig trees thrived, growing faster and stronger than the cedar, eventually absorbing it entirely. As time passed, their roots stretched down to the ground, merging and intertwining to create a living fortress of roots and branches.
The result? A tree so vast, it’s often mistaken for a hill from a distance. With its canopy sprawling over 30 meters in height, this “Giant Fig of San Marcos” is truly a marvel of nature’s creativity. Beneath its leafy expanse, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a surreal, tranquil cathedral, where the sunlight filters through the green canopy, casting dappled shadows on the earth below.
But there’s more magic to this tree than just its size. The Giant Fig’s aerial roots are more than just support pillars—they are the key to the tree’s incredible resilience. Known as “feet,” these roots help the tree “walk” by finding new ground to support itself, allowing it to expand further and reach for new resources. Locals have come to call it “The Tree That Walks” for this very reason, as it is constantly shifting, adapting, and growing.
If you’re fortunate enough to visit Colombia’s Atlantic coast, don’t miss the chance to see this incredible tree in person. Its shade offers a welcome respite from the tropical heat, and its immense presence will leave you in awe. The Giant Fig of San Marcos stands as a testament to nature’s strength, adaptability, and creativity—an enduring symbol of Colombia’s natural beauty and heritage.
For centuries to come, we can only hope that this remarkable tree continues to thrive, inspiring all who visit with its sheer magnificence and reminding us of the power of nature to adapt, evolve, and stand tall.
