Travel Blog Five Unique Birds to Spot on an Colombia Amazon Tour

If you're a birder always chasing that next unforgettable destination, let me tell you: the Colombian Amazon blew me away. Many travelers have crossed continents with binoculars in hand, but few places will leave you as awestruck as this remote, wild corner of Colombia. Home to over 700 bird species, the region is a true paradise for birdwatching. From the prehistoric-looking Hoatzin to the dazzling Paradise Tanager, the diversity here is simply unmatched. Add in dense rainforests, winding rivers, and rich Indigenous culture, and you’ve got the ultimate birding experience.

Easily accessible through Leticia, the Colombian Amazon offers more than just birds. With the right birdwatching gear, knowledgeable local guides, and a bit of patience, you're in for lifers and magical sightings. And here’s a bonus tip: if you’re into reptiles and amphibians too, the herping opportunities here are just as wild and wonderful.

So, let’s get started:

Five Unique Bird Species You Might Encounter

Whether you're a seasoned birder or a passionate traveller expanding your life list, these five species are some of the most fascinating birds to spot during your Amazon journey:

1. Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin)

With its blue face, punk-style crest, and dinosaur-like behaviour, the Hoatzin is often described as a prehistoric bird. It’s one of the Amazon's most unusual residents, both in appearance and biology.

• Where to find it: Swamps and oxbow lakes, especially near Amacayacu National Park
• Birdwatching gear tip: Use binoculars with good close-focus for spotting birds at varying distances in dense foliage.

Hoatxin bird, Amazon Colombia. Credit Ecodestinos

2. Amazonian Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus ornatus)

Massive, black, and mysterious, this bird is known for its umbrella-shaped crest and deep, echoing calls. Spotting one takes patience and luck, but it's a truly rewarding sighting.

• Where to find it: Remote canopy areas and mature forests
• Pro tip: Use a sound ID app or guide to track its booming calls through the jungle.

3. Paradise Tanager (Tangara chilensis)

Like a flying rainbow, the Paradise Tanager flashes brilliant hues of green, blue, and red as it moves through the treetops. One of the Amazon’s most beautiful birds.

• Where to find it: Mid-canopy near fruiting trees, often in mixed flocks
• Pro tip: Wear neutral-colored, quick-dry shirts help you stay comfortable and avoid alerting skittish species.

4. Blue-crowned Trogon (Trogon curucui)

This vibrant trogon with a calm demeanor is a dream for bird photographers. Its stillness allows for great observation and crystal-clear photos.

• Where to find it: Along forest trails and water edges
• Travel essentials tip for birdwatchers: A compact camera with a telephoto lens and rain protection is a must.

5. Wire-tailed Manakin (Pipra filicauda)

These tiny performers are famous for their courtship dances. Males gather in leks and perform acrobatic moves to attract females—an Amazon highlight for any birder.

• Where to find it: Forest clearings and shaded understory areas
• Birdwatching gear tip: If filming, bring a small tripod to capture their fast movements.

Essential Tips for Birding in the Colombian Amazon

Now that you’ve met some of the region’s most extraordinary species, here’s what you need to know before planning your birding adventure:

When and Where to Go

The dry season (June to October) offers the best conditions: clearer trails, more visibility, and more bird activity in the mornings. Some of the top birding spots are:

• Tanimboca Reserve: Great for lowland forest birds

• Amacayacu National Park: Excellent biodiversity near Leticia

• Puerto Nariño: A car-free village surrounded by pristine forest

• Mocagua: Indigenous-led ecotourism and top birding trails

What to Pack for Birding Trips

• Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) with rain protection

• Waterproof hiking boots

• Breathable long-sleeved shirts and pants in neutral colors

• Wide-brimmed hat and insect repellent

• Field guide app for Colombian birds (offline version recommended)

• Small dry bag or ziplock for electronics

Final Thoughts

The Colombian Amazon isn’t just a destination, it’s an invitation to reconnect with the wild. Between the prehistoric calls of the Hoatzin and the colourful flash of a Paradise Tanager, every moment in the rainforest brings new surprises. So pack your binoculars, prep your birdwatching gear, and get ready for one of the most extraordinary birding experiences on Earth.

If you're looking for a reliable, bird-focused experience in the Colombian Amazon, it’s worth choosing a specialised birding tour led by local experts. One great option is the Amazon Birding Tour, by Uncover Colombia, which combines expert guiding, access to top reserves, and comfortable logistics, ideal for both beginner and advanced birders.

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