Expeditions Colombia Endemics Birding tour

Arrive at any time. We'll meet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel in Bogotá, just a short 7-minute journey from the terminal.

Bogotá, Colombia’s largest city, sits high in the Andes at 2,640 metres above sea level. Thanks to this elevation, the city enjoys spring-like weather all year round, with crisp mornings and pleasantly warm afternoons.

A vibrant cosmopolitan hub, Bogotá seamlessly blends colonial charm with modern skyscrapers. The city offers a rich mix of cultural experiences, including museums, art galleries, and theatres. It’s also surrounded by natural areas ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and outdoor adventures—making it a perfect destination for the intrepid traveller.

Note: Check-in after 3pm

Overnight: Bogota – Habitel Prime or Similar
Meal Plan: None

Our birding experience begins at La Florida Park, a small yet biodiverse wetland considered the best place to spot the elusive Bogotá Rail, along with other endemic species such as the Silvery-throated Spinetail and Apolinar’s Wren.

We’ll leave La Florida around 7:30 a.m., heading towards Laguna de Guarinocito. Located just 30 minutes from Victoria, Laguna de Guarinocito offers a unique opportunity to explore its scenic waters by boat. As we glide across the lagoon, we'll watch for standout aquatic species including the White-faced Whistling Duck, Limpkin, Boat-billed Heron, and Ringed Kingfisher. The top highlight, however, is the chance to spot the Northern Screamer, a highly sought-after and iconic Colombian bird. We may also encounter notable species like the Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Black-capped Donacobius, and Black-collared Hawk. With over 90 bird species recorded in the area, Laguna de Guarinocito is truly a birding paradise.

After enjoying a delicious local lunch, we’ll continue our journey to a cosy hotel near Río Claro, where we’ll rest and recharge for the next day’s adventure.

Overnight: Puerto Triunfo - Ecoparque Los Colores
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Río Claro Nature Reserve, situated in the Antioquia department of Colombia, is a breathtaking private reserve along the clear waters of the Río Claro. The landscape features lush greenery, striking cliffs, and turquoise waters while protecting remnants of lowland tropical forests at elevations ranging from 1,148 to 1,968 feet (350 to 600 meters) above sea level. The reserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endemic bird species such as the Antioquia Bristle-Tyrant and the Magdalena Antbird. 

We will embark on an early morning flight over the nature reserve to observe a variety of bird species, including the Oilbird, Saffron-headed Parrot, Colombian Chachalaca, White-mantled Barbet, Beautiful Woodpecker, and Sooty Ant-Tanagers. After some time for lunch, we will continue our birdwatching in the afternoon by exploring the trails of Río Claro Nature Reserve, a place renowned for its biodiversity and lowland tropical rainforest habitats.

This time of day is ideal for observing birds that become more active as the heat decreases. If we’re lucky, we may spot near-endemic species such as the Sooty Ant-Tanager and the Beautiful Woodpecker, both rare and elusive. Additionally, the surroundings offer the chance to find other notable birds like the Chestnut-backed Antbird, Magdalena Antbird, Antioquia Bristle-Tyrant, and White-mantled Barbet, all recorded in the reserve and of great interest to birdwatchers.

Overnight: Puerto Triunfo - Ecoparque Los Colores
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, we’ll enjoy our final birdwatching tour through the Río Claro Reserve. Afterwards, we’ll begin our 4.5-hour journey to San Rafael, stopping along the way for a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant.

Upon arrival at the hotel, you'll have the rest of the afternoon to unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. San Rafael is nestled within the lush Andean foothills of Antioquia, characterized by a mosaic of cloud forests, rivers, and fertile valleys. The area enjoys a warm, comfortable climate with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 23°C.This diverse ecosystem supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, including numerous bird species some endemic to the region making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. The peaceful environment offers a perfect setting to relax and soak in the beauty of Colombia’s mountainous landscapes.

Overnight: San Rafael - Ecolodge Raices
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

San Rafael, located just 102 km from Medellín, enjoys a warm climate ranging between 18 and 23°C and is home to more than 350 bird species. During this tour, we will visit several strategic spots to observe endemic birds of the area, such as the White-mantled Barbet. The itinerary begins with a birdwatching session just 3 minutes from the hotel, followed by breakfast at the hotel. We will then continue to the next observation point, about a 10-minute walk away, where we’ll stay until approximately 10:00 a.m.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Finca El Toche, a site known for its excellent spots to observe the Red-bellied Grackle. Here, we’ll have lunch and spend time exploring the natural surroundings. Afterward, when we return to the hotel around 5:00 or 6:00 p.m., there is an option for a nighttime birdwatching session. With some luck, you may observe nocturnal species such as the Oilbird and various species of owls, offering a unique opportunity to experience the reserve’s rich biodiversity after dark.

Overnight: San Rafael - Ecolodge Raices
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

We’ll start the day with an hour of birdwatching around the hotel in San Rafael. After breakfast, we’ll begin our journey to Tinamu Reserve in Manizales. The drive will take approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic conditions, and will offer scenic views along the way. We will make scheduled stops, including one for lunch at a local restaurant where we can savor regional cuisine and stretch our legs. 

In the afternoon, as we approach our destination, the changing landscapes will showcase the natural beauty surrounding Tinamu. Upon arrival, we’ll make the most of the remaining daylight by doing some birdwatching along the nearby trails. Afterwards, there will be time to relax and settle in before the adventures planned for the next day.

Overnight: Manizales -Tinamu Reserve or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We will spend the day birdwatching at the Tinamu Reserve, a sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and excellent birding opportunities. Early in the morning, after enjoying a coffee or tea to kick off the day, you will join your guide to begin the birdwatching experience. 

Soon after, you’ll explore one of the reserve’s scenic trails, taking advantage of the soft morning light to spot some of the area’s most iconic bird species. After returning for breakfast, the adventure will continue along well-maintained trails and observation points that provide ideal conditions for birdwatching. Around midday, we’ll take a break for lunch and enjoy the beautiful gardens of the lodge, which are the perfect spot to relax and continue observing birds in a more tranquil setting. 

Throughout the day, we’ll have the chance to see a variety of fascinating species, including the Little Tinamou, Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, Sickle-winged Guan, Colombian Chachalaca, Western Emerald, Greyish Piculet, Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant, and Marble-faced Bristle-Tyrant, among many others.

Overnight: Manizales -Tinamu Reserve or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Very early in the morning, we will depart for the Río Blanco Reserve, one of Colombia’s premier birding destinations and a designated Important Bird Area (IBA). Upon our arrival, we’ll begin exploring the reserve’s well-maintained trails, enjoying the early morning bird activity. After an hour of birding, we’ll pause for breakfast before continuing our walk along the ecological trails.

Río Blanco protects vital cloud forest and páramo ecosystems, which are home to over 350 bird species, including the endemic Brown-banded Antpitta and the near-endemic Bicoloured Antpitta. We may also spot five species of Tapaculo, along with other wildlife such as armadillos, spectacled bears, and butterflies. Around midday, we’ll stop for lunch and appreciate the peaceful surroundings of this essential watershed, which provides water to the city of Manizales. 

In the afternoon, we’ll continue our birding expedition, heading to a strategic viewing point that’s perfect for observing forest-dwelling species and taking in the beauty of this remarkable conservation area.  At the end of the day, you can relax and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Overnight: Manizales - Rio Blanco Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, we’ll travel to the birding area near the Páramo del Ruiz, a protected region at the base of the Ruiz Volcano. The landscape here is a striking mix of paddocks, elfin forest, bamboo patches, and high-altitude páramo. This area is an excellent spot for observing two near-endemic hummingbirds: the Black-thighed Puffleg and the Golden-breasted Puffleg.

By midday, we’ll arrive at a hummingbird observatory, where a variety of species can be seen, including the near-endemic Black-thighed Puffleg, Rainbow-bearded Thornbill, Viridian Metaltail, Glowing and Golden-breasted Pufflegs, and the Great Sapphirewing. Feeders at the observatory also attract colourful highland species such as Lacrimose and Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanagers, Pale-naped and Grey-browed Brush-Finches, and the striking Buffy Helmetcrest.

We'll spend the afternoon here, fully immersed in the beauty of the landscape and its birdlife. You'll also have the opportunity to relax in natural thermal hot springs before heading to your accommodation to unwind after an exciting day of birdwatching.

Overnight: Manizales - Termales del Ruiz or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your tour guide will meet you at the hotel to begin the journey. Breakfast will be provided by the hotel before departure. Upon arrival at Montezuma, you will have time to settle in and enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local cuisine.

Montezuma is located on the Western Andes Choco slope. It is part of the Chocó bioregion, one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. This is one of the few places where the endemic Bangsias, Gold-ringed and Black-and-Gold Tanager, are present. In total, 11 endemic and at least 37 near-endemic species can be seen along the road.

In the afternoon, you’ll head out for a birding excursion along the lower Montezuma Road, a route known for offering some of the best opportunities to observe rare and endemic bird species in their natural habitat.

Later in the day, you will return to the reserve to rest.

Overnight: Risaralda - Montezuma Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We will spend the day birdwatching along a road that runs through nearly 13 kilometers of pristine forest, with altitudes ranging from 1,400 to 2,200 meters. During our time in this area, we may encounter the endemic Munchique Wood-Wren and Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer. Additionally, we will have the opportunity to see several beautiful species, including the Flame-faced Tanager, Glossy-black Thrush, Barred Fruiteater, and various Tanagers such as Black-and-gold, Rufous-throated, and Golden-chested. 

Late in the afternoon, we will return to the lodge.

Overnight: Risaralda - Montezuma Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, we will visit the highest part of the reserve, where we will look for the endemic Buffy Helmetcrest hummingbird. It’s also possible to see other interesting birds such as the Tawny Antpitta, Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant, and Andean Siskin, as well as enjoy a beautiful view.

Overnight: Risaralda - Montezuma Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, we will go birdwatching near the hotel. After breakfast, we will embark on our journey to a lodge near Otún Quimbaya, which takes about 2.5 hours.

Once we arrive, we will explore the surrounding area, which is full of excellent birding opportunities. One of the best stopping points is the first bridge, located just before the gate over the Otún River. From this location, we have a good chance of spotting species such as the Torrent Duck, Torrent Tyrannulet, and Black Phoebe. It's an ideal spot to pause and observe these birds in their natural habitat.

Overnight: Pereira - Hotel Casa Kumanday
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

We will spend the day birding in Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary. This sanctuary is a national protected area covering 1,208 acres of Andean cloud forest, located between 1,740 and 2,200 meters above sea level. The sanctuary is part of the larger Otún River watershed, which makes it an important place where more than 300 bird species have been spotted, including the Torrent Duck, Cauca Guan, Wattled Guan, and the Chestnut Wood-Quail.

Overnight: Pereira - Hotel Casa Kumanday
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, we will start with a birdwatching session near the hotel. After breakfast, we will embark on a journey of approximately 2.5 hours to Anaime, in Cajamarca, passing through varied landscapes that include montane humid forests and Andean páramos. These ecosystems are known for their great biodiversity and are home to many endemic and threatened species.

In Anaime, we will visit the Retorno de los Colibríes Nature Reserve, a protected area vital for the conservation of emblematic birds. We will spend the day exploring its trails in search of species such as the Tolima Blossomcrown, an endemic hummingbird; the Yellow-eared Parrot, which nests in the reserve; and the Apical Flycatcher, a flycatcher native to the region.

At the end of the day, we will head to the hotel, located about 30 minutes from the reserve, to rest and prepare for the next day.

Overnight: Cajamarca - Cantos del Rio Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

We will spend the morning birding in the surroundings of the hotel. After breakfast, we will begin our journey to Buga, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. Upon arrival, we will visit the Sonso Lagoon and spend the afternoon birding in the surrounding tropical dry forest.

We will walk along a trail lined with tall trees that are home to a variety of bird species, including the Laughing Falcon, the Apical Flycatcher, the Spot-breasted Woodpecker, and other woodpecker species possibly even the smallest woodpecker in Colombia and the world.

At the end of the day, we will head to our hotel to rest and get ready for the next day.

Overnight: Cali - Hacienda El Diamante
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

We will depart at 6:00 a.m., heading to a true natural paradise: Sonso Lagoon and the El Vínculo Biological Station, two ecological reserves located in the town of Buga.

There, we will take a boat tour along the majestic Cauca River, the second most important river in Colombia, exploring its channels surrounded by vibrant nature, perfect for contemplation and birdwatching.

Laguna de Sonso, covering approximately 2,045 hectares, and the El Vínculo Biological Station, with 1,200 hectares, are key sites for observing both aquatic birds and those of the dry forest. These ecosystems are rich in biodiversity and attract migratory and resident species, each hosting more than 180 bird species, including herons, ducks, and birds of prey.

Recognised as a RAMSAR site, Laguna de Sonso is the last major wetland in Valle del Cauca and serves as a vital refuge for endemic and migratory species.

We will go to Doña Dora Birding to spend the night there. This location is approximately 2.5 hours by car.

Overnight: Cali - Doña Dora Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Anchicayá River Canyon, located within the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park, is one of Colombia’s top birdwatching destinations. Nestled on the western slope of the Andes, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, this area is home to an incredible variety of flora, fauna, and endemic species. Nearby, Doña Dora offers a hidden birding paradise in the Andean forest, where visitors can spot everything from hummingbirds to tanagers while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of the local community.

The experience at Doña Dora Birding begins very early, at 5:00 a.m., with a walk to the Cock-of-the-rock lek, where the brightly colored males perform their incredible courtship displays in the heart of the Andean forest, a breathtaking natural spectacle that's well worth the early rise.

Upon our return, we start birdwatching from the lower-level balcony, which offers an excellent vantage point to observe various hummingbirds up close. From the first floor, visitors can also spot tanagers, euphonias, woodcreepers, and many other bird species typical of the premontane humid forest.

At midday, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant that features traditional dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In the afternoon, we head up to the third floor, where we can enjoy a stunning view of the canopy of a massive Ficus tree—an ideal location for photography and elevated bird observation.

We will spend the night at Araucana Lodge, which is located approximately 50 minutes away by car.

Overnight: Cali - Araucana Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we will visit La Florida – Bosque de Aves, a beautiful birding spot located just 20 minutes from our hotel. We’ll spend part of the day exploring the forest trails, where strategically placed feeders provide excellent opportunities to observe various bird species.

Highlights include several endemic birds such as the Multicolored Tanager, Booted Racket-tail, Blue-headed Sapphire, Purple-throated Woodstar, and Bronzy Inca. We’ll also have the chance to see a variety of stunning tanagers, including the Golden-naped Tanager, Golden Tanager, Saffron-crowned Tanager, Flame-rumped Tanager, Scrub Tanager, and the Green Honeycreeper. Other possible sightings include the Chachalaca and the Toucanet.

At the appropriate time, we will head to the Bosque de Niebla near the reserve, where we will spend the rest of the afternoon birdwatching.Afterward, we will proceed to Aracuna Lodge.

Overnight: Cali - Araucana Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

At the requested time, we will transfer you to Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport in Cali so you can catch your flight to Bogotá. Here the tour ends. In Bogotá, you will be able to take your international flight back home, which will be managed independently by you.

Note: Check out before 12pm

Overnight: Breakfast
Meal Plan: None