Colombia Birdwatching Tour

Embark on an exclusive 12-day birdwatching expedition through Colombia’s unparalleled ecosystems, meticulously crafted for bird lovers. Begin in Chicaque Natural Park, a cloud forest near Bogotá, home to vibrant hummingbirds like the golden-bellied starfrontlet. Continue to Manizales and the Río Blanco Nature Reserve, a hotspot for elusive antpittas and over 350 bird species. At Los Nevados National Park, explore high-altitude páramo ecosystems to spot the endemic buffy helmetcrest and the majestic Andean condor. In the Santander region, the Cerulean Warbler Reserve offers sightings of migratory warblers alongside endemic gems. Transition to the Caribbean coast and the lush foothills of the Sierra Nevada with a visit to Minca, a haven for hummingbirds and tanagers. Climb higher to the renowned El Dorado Nature Reserve, where endemic species such as the Santa Marta parakeet and white-tailed starfrontlet await. At the Cuchilla de San Lorenzo, perched at 2,650 meters, marvel at breathtaking views while spotting yellow-crowned whitestarts and rusty-headed spinetails. Finally, immerse yourself in the tropical beauty of Tayrona National Park, where forest trails meet sandy beaches, and coastal birds thrive alongside howler monkeys. This curated birdwatching tour across Colombia’s diverse habitats promises encounters with rare species, expert-guided excursions, and unforgettable moments in nature. The tour can be tailored further and its length can be changed, depending on your available time.

09 Days – From £3,700 per person

*equivalent in USD, EUR accepted

Itinerary: Chicaque, Manizales, Río Blanco, Los Nevados, Cerulean Warbler, Minca, El Dorado, Cuchilla de San Lorenzo, Tayrona

Included

Price is per person, based on two people sharing in a double/twin room
Mentioned hotels with breakfast
All the excursions mentioned in the itinerary
All transfers by car and boat on a private basis
All entrance & guiding fees
All mandatory local taxes

Excluded

Visa, where applicable
International Flights (See Flights to Colombia)
Domestic Flights
Personal Expenses
Insurance
Tips & Gratuities
Meals not mentioned in the description

Flights

International flights are not included in the package price. We give you the freedom to book the flights yourself, use miles and choose your preferred airline, and if you are stuck we can help you find the right connections. Catch a flight to Bogota (BOG).

How to Book

Send us an email to check availability, discuss your preferences and get a quote.

This is a sample itinerary and prices are correct at the time of writing. We can tailor the trip up to your plans and book other hotels. You can also combine this trip with other regions. For more Colombia travel inspiration check these itineraries.

When to Visit

Best time to visit: Year-round, with optimal birdwatching conditions from December to March and July to October.

To avoid unpleasant weather surprises, we recommend to check our Colombia Weather Guide to plan your trip in the right season.

Day 1 - Chicaque Natural Park

Early in the morning, depart from Bogotá for the breathtaking Chicaque Natural Park ( 1 hour), a cloud forest sanctuary rich in biodiversity and exceptional birdwatching opportunities. This Andean gem is home to over 200 bird species, including the dazzling golden-bellied starfrontlet and the elusive moustached puffbird. Embark on a guided hike through the park’s mist-laden trails, where the lush forest canopy reveals vibrant tanagers, toucanets, and endemic hummingbirds flitting among ancient trees and cascading streams. Enjoy a picnic lunch, surrounded by nature, before continuing to explore its diverse habitats, from dense woodlands to open grasslands, teeming with avian life. Later on, return to Bogotá. Overnight at Hotel de la Opera.

Day 2 - Fly to Manizales

Today, fly to Manizales (MZL), where you’ll be met and transferred to Hacienda Venecia, a charming coffee plantation located in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle. Take an engaging tour to discover the intricate processes behind coffee cultivation, while soaking in the picturesque scenery of lush rolling hills. After lunch, dive into a birdwatching experience on the estate’s grounds, home to vibrant species like the striking crimson-rumped toucanet, colorful tanagers, and colourful hummingbirds. Later, continue to Rio Blanco Nature Reserve (1 hour), a world-class birding destination, featuring rare and endemic species such as the chestnut-crowned antpitta and masked saltator. Rest in anticipation of an early morning birdwatching adventure. Overnight at Owl’s Watch.

Day 3 - Río Blanco & Tinamú

Early morning visit Río Blanco Nature Reserve. This biodiverse hotspot boasts over 350 bird species. Join a guided session to spot rare and striking species such as the elusive masked saltator, the vibrant rusty-faced parrot, and various antpittas, including the elusive brown-banded antpitta, often lured into view at feeding stations. After lunch, explore additional trails in the reserve to encounter more avian treasures like hummingbirds, tanagers, and woodcreepers. In the afternoon, travel to the Tinamú Birding Nature Reserve (1 hour), a haven for both birdlife, for an evening birding session that promises sightings of colorful species against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. Conclude the day with a transfer to the picturesque lodge (1,5 hours). Overnight at El Nido del Condor Ecolodge.

Day 4 - Los Nevados National Park

Early morning travel to Los Nevados National Park (3 hours), a stunning natural wonder, with unique páramo ecosystems and dramatic high-altitude landscapes. This biodiverse park offers a birdwatching experience like no other, with the chance to spot rare high-altitude species such as the buffy helmetcrest, an endemic hummingbird found among the striking frailejones plants, and the iconic Andean condor, soaring gracefully against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Immersing yourself in the park’s incredible biodiversity, surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes. In the afternoon, unwind in steaming thermal waters of Termales del Ruiz. Return to your extraordinary Andean retreat for the night (3 hours). Overnight at El Nido del Condor Ecolodge.

Day 5 - Cerulean Warbler Bird Reserve

Today, transfer back to Manizales Airport (1,5 hours) and fly to Bucaramanga (BGA), the gateway to Colombia’s Santander region. You will be met on arrival and transferred to your lodge in Cerulean Warbler Bird Reserve (Reserva Reinita Cielo Azul), located on the western slope of the Colombian Eastern Cordillera in the town of San Vicente de Chucuri, Santander department, near the mountains of Yariguíes (3,5 hours). The local altitudinal range is between 1600 to 2500 m above sea level. The scenic drive takes you through lush landscapes of coffee plantations and forests. Among the birds recorded in the area include the gorgeted wood-quail, the black inca, the chestnut bellied hummingbird, the white-mantled barbet, the parker’s antbird, the brown-rumped tapaculo and mountain grackle. Overnight at the Cerulean Warbler Eco-Lodge.

Day 6 - Cerulean Warbler Bird Reserve

In the morning, embark on a guided birdwatching treking, focusing on endemic and endangered species such as the cerulean warbler, gorgeted wood-quail and mountain grackle. The reserve is absolutely stunning and the bird density and variety is endless! The guides know all the birds by their song! Learn about conservation efforts supported by this unique reserve. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene forest surroundings. Later, explore the trails to spot more of the reserve’s 300+ bird species, including hummingbirds, tanagers, and antpittas. At night, participate in a guided nocturnal birding excursion to observe night-active species like owls and nightjars. Overnight at the Cerulean Warbler Eco-Lodge.

Day 7 - Minca

After breakfast, transfer back to Bucaramanga Airport (3.5 hours) for your flight to Santa Marta (SMR) via Bogotá, heading to the vibrant Caribbean coast of Colombia. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and driven to the picturesque village of Minca (50 min), nestled in the lush foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range. Known as a haven for birdwatchers, Minca offers a glimpse into Colombia’s Caribbean avian paradise, where verdant landscapes and breathtaking vistas abound. Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink as you unwind from your journey. Spend the rest of the day immersed in the serene environment, surrounded by tropical flora and the calls of exotic birds. Relax in a hammock, soaking in the panoramic views. Overnight at Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge.

Day 8 - El Dorado Nature Reserve

Early morning depart to El Dorado Nature Reserve, a premier birdwatching destination perched at ~ 1,900 m in Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (2,5 hours by 4×4). This sanctuary is a haven for endemic bird species, offering an unparalleled opportunity to spot treasures like the Santa Marta parakeet, Santa Marta warbler, and other rare species. Take a guided birdwatching session led by expert ornithologists, navigating lush cloud forest trails alive with the songs of vibrant tanagers, hummingbirds, and flycatchers. Enjoy lunch with panoramic views of Sierra Nevada peaks and the Caribbean Sea. In the afternoon, discover more trails of the reserve. In the evening, unwind at the beautiful lodge, inspired by the indigenous Kogui architecture. Overnight at El Dorado Nature Reserve Lodge.

Day 9 - Cuchilla de San Lorenzo

Early morning visit Cuchilla de San Lorenzo (1,5 hours), a ridge perched at an altitude of ~ 2,650 m in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, another birdwatcher’s paradise. This biodiverse hotspot is a haven for endemic species, offering a chance to observe avian gems such as the shimmering white-tailed starfrontlet, the elusive rusty-headed spinetail, the vibrant Santa Marta parakeet, and the striking yellow-crowned whitestart. Explore this ridge’s unique high-altitude ecosystems with a guide, where breathtaking vistas enhance the thrill of spotting rare birds. After a rewarding birdwatching session, return to Minca for a delicious lunch. In the afternoon stroll through the charming village, visit local coffee farms or relax by the river. Overnight at Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge.

Day 10 - Tayrona National Park

In the morning, depart to Tayrona National Park (1,5 hours). Arrive at the El Zaino entrance of Tayrona National Park and embark on a guided hike through the park’s trails, observing coastal and forest bird species such as the lance-tailed manakin and Royal flycatcher. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the park’s natural surroundings, then continue exploring the park’s diverse habitats, with opportunities to spot additional avian species and learn about the area’s ecology. Later you will be taken to your lodge located near Cañaveral Beach, within the park. Relax on the nearby beach or unwind in your ecohab, enjoying the tranquil environment. Overnight at Ecohabs Tayrona.

Day 11 - Departure

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Santa Marta Airport (SMR) for your flight to Bogotá, where you can spend the afternoon exploring the city or preparing for your departure home. You can also continue discovering other parts of Colombia, by exploring its hidden gems, such as the colorful rivers of Cano Cristales, the rustic untouched Pacific Coast, the wonders of Antioquia such as Guatape or the lush rainforest of the Amazon Rainforest in Leticia. You will find more travel ideas on our Colombia Itineraries Page. We will tailor your trip according to your preferences and available time.

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