From the desertic areas at La Guajira to the tropical rain forest at the Amazon, birds are present all over Colombia and for all levels of enthusiasts. If you are an expert birdwatcher then this is the place to go, as is the country with most found species on earth, and if this is not the main goal of your visit, but you’re still interested there are many simple options as well. Please enjoy our top-three bird-watching experience choices.
1. Caribbean Region: El Dorado Lodge-Minca
Minca, Campano, Bella Vista, the El Dorado Reserve, La Cuchilla San Lorenzo, are places located in a region with different types of ecosystems, passing through dry forest, humid forest, cloud forest and coffee crops; from sea level to 2,700 meters over the sea level, you will be able to discover one of the sites with the highest concentration of endemism in birds, frogs, reptiles, butterflies, plants and beautiful landscapes. El Dorado is actually one of the most important natural reserves in terms of biodiversity of the world. You can stay longer but we recommend to stay at least two nights at this wonderful reserve so you can really take advantage of the experience.
Some examples you can see here: Sierra Nevada Brush-Finch, Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant, Highland Motmot.
2. Andean Region: RÃo Blanco Natural Reserve-Caldas
The Andes of Colombia has one of the most important ecosystems of the world and its famed for its high level of species diversity. The experiences vary depending on the mountain range area you visit, the exploration options include Andean cloud forest, woodland, páramo, and wetland habitats where you can search for a wide display of species, including flycatchers, hummingbirds, tanagers, toucans, and more. Our recommendation here will be the coffee region in the Central Andes, where you can observe more than 600 bird species. Three miles away from Manizales, you will find the RÃo Blanco Reserve, considered as one of the best birding sites of the country. With an extension of 4,900 hectares ranging from 2,200 to 3,800 meters above sea level, it has ecosystems of high Andean forests and sub-páramos, it is the main water supplier of the aqueduct of the capital of Caldas and, is the habitat of the more than 20 hummingbird species, with a total bird census of 350 species.
Some examples you can see here: Grallaria milleri Masked Saltator, Dusky Piha.
3. OrinoquÃa Region: Hato La Aurora & Coro Cora Camp
Located between the high Andes and tropical rainforest in the most eastern point in the country, the Orinoquia of Colombia is home to many of the best conserved natural treasures. In the vast Eastern plains of Colombia, an ideal place for birdwatching, with over 800 species viewed, there are two options we can recommend. Both located in similar habitats but with different services and lodging. First, and for more adventurous visitors, Hato La Aurora is a spectacular nature reserve, where you will be able to witness a peaceful relationship between man and nature. And also, on our top list but designed to offer superior comfort and service in a remote nature reserve, Corocora Camp is an ideal getaway for those in search of wildlife, nature, culture, and adventure. There are wild horses, capybaras, buffalos, and a variety of exotic bird species; also, legendary animals like the alligator and anaconda will meet you on the road, giving you an adventure, you’ll always remember.
Some examples you can see here: Garzón Soldado, Scarlet Ibis, The Hoatzin.
Don't forget to join our Birding in Colombia Webinar.
Birding in Colombia, the place with the most bird species on earth.
Come learn about birding in Colombia. In this segment of our monthly webinar series, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this experience, the best places to practice it, interesting information, and fun facts about these magical creatures.
Please join Eugeny Yunis (Product Manager) as we explore this important activity in Colombia.
In this webinar, we will cover:
• General information and fun facts about birding in Colombia
• How is it linked with our history and culture
• Main destinations to practice it for all types of visitors.
• Special mention: Global Big Day 2020 and The Birders documentary by Procolombia.
We hope to see you there on June 30th at 10:00 AM.
We’ll also have some time for your questions during the live Q&A session following the presentation.
Can’t make it to this webinar? Sign up anyway! A recording, copy of the slide deck will be sent to all registrants.