The bridge's main span measures 211 meters, allowing it to clear the steep canyon of the Otún River.
It is named after former Colombian President César Gaviria, who was a native of Pereira.
The design utilizes a symmetrical cable-stayed system to balance the load across the deep river gorge.
At the time of its inauguration, it was one of the largest cable-stayed bridges in Colombia.
The project was essential to bypass the historically congested and steep roads that previously linked Pereira and Dosquebradas.
The Viaducto César Gaviria Trujillo is a cable-stayed bridge spanning the Otún River valley, connecting the cities of Pereira and Dosquebradas in Risaralda. Opened in 1997, it stands 55 meters above the valley floor with a total length of 440 meters. The structure is supported by two 115-meter tall central pylons anchored by steel cables. It serves as a vital transportation artery for the Eje Cafetero region, accommodating heavy vehicular traffic daily. The bridge is recognized for its engineering impact on regional connectivity and its silhouette against the Andean landscape. It is currently fully operational as of June 2026.
From the residential hillside slopes in the Las Camelias neighborhood of Dosquebradas looking back toward the pylons.
View the bridge from the dedicated pedestrian observation points on the Dosquebradas side for the best scale perspective.
Traffic on the bridge can be intense; utilize the side walkways cautiously if walking across.
Bring a light jacket as the valley wind currents can be strong, even on sunny days.
Attempting to take photos from the middle of the roadway; use the designated sidewalks and nearby overlooks instead.
No specific dress code, but stay within designated pedestrian pathways to avoid high-speed traffic.
