Tours
Colombia Birding Tour
Colombia Birding Photo Tour
Join an impressive journey through the diverse ecosystems of Colombia, capture the fascinating beauty of its avian wonders and live an unforgettable experience on our tour, made by a Colombian photographer passionate about birds.
9 Days of Bird Photography Across Colombia’s Top Spots
Small Groups Enjoy a more personalized experience
Led by expert guides who share insider knowledge and photography tips
Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what our clients have to say
Live an exclusive experience
Tour information
Colombia, home to nearly 2,000 bird species, is one of the world’s premier destinations for birdwatching. Growing up surrounded by this incredible diversity, I developed a deep passion for birdwatching that I now share through exclusive, carefully curated tours.
Over the past 5 years, I’ve explored Colombia extensively, discovering the best birding and photography spots. I’ve handpicked top local guides and excellent accommodations to ensure an authentic and rewarding experience.
These tours offer unmatched access to Colombia’s top birding locations, from private nature reserves to hidden gems in public areas. Led by experts, you’ll refine your photography skills and capture stunning images of Colombia’s vibrant birdlife.
Limited-Time Offer!
Get 20% OFF for the first 2 guests who book!
Secure your spot today and enjoy incredible savings!
Colombia is the first country with the most species of birds in the world.
We have raised more than $350,000 for bird conservation efforts in Colombia and USA. Partnered with organizations like the Ornithological Society of Córdoba, American Bird Conservancy, Minnesota Valley Refuge, Carpenter Nature Center, Friends of Sax Zim Bog and others.
Our commitment to giving back to the communities and ecosystems that enrich our experiences drives everything we do. We support local conservation efforts and sustainable practices.
Join our bird photography tours and support conservation! We donate 10% of tour profits to bird nonprofits in Colombia, helping protect and preserve the avian habitats. Thank you for making a difference.
For whom it is directed
Our Colombia Bird Photo Adventure is perfect for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers looking to capture stunning images of Colombia’s avian wonders while exploring its breathtaking landscapes.
*Travel with us and join the conservation effort
Bird Conservation Journeys: Stories from the Field
Explore our interviews with bird conservation leaders, starting with Hugo Herrera, president of the Ornithological Society of Córdoba. Learn about impactful projects preserving avian biodiversity and supporting communities.
Join a select group of people on a 9 days trip photographing the most beautiful birds in Colombia
TOURS DATE
What's included
- Lodging as specified.
- 3 meals a day
- Stainless steel flask for water.
- Private transfers to and from hotels on first and last days.
- Professional driver/photo/nature guide and private transportation in spacious tour bus.
- Guide and Photography Skipper services
- Entrance fees for all described activities.
- Taxes on all services listed above.
What's not included
- Non-mealtime snacks
- International/personal airfare
- Insurance
- Phone calls
- Laundry
- Tips
- Cost of hospitalization and evacuation, if necessary
- Any Domestic flights
Basic information
MEDICAL
Prior to your travels, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor for advice on general travel vaccinations. For more comprehensive information, please refer to the CDC website.
INSURANCE
We highly advise securing trip insurance that encompasses trip cancellation and comprehensive medical coverage during your time abroad for added peace of mind. For Travel Insurance Quotes visit: www.heymondo.com.com
INTERNET ACCESS
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in most lodges within the reception and dining areas for your convenience,
AIRPORT
Upon arrival, you'll land at Cali’s Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) and depart from Aeropuerto Internacional Matecaña (PEI). Our representative will be ready to offer private transfer services to our designated hotel accommodations in both locations.
CERTIFIED
We ensure all our services are delivered by licensed and certified travel, lodge, and transport operators. This commitment underlines our dedication to ensuring a professional and trustworthy travel experience for all our guests.
ELECTRICITY
Our electrical outlets are of the US-style. Guests arriving from Europe or Asia may require travel adapters for compatibility. Further information will be provided after sign-up for your convenience.
Itinerary
Airport Pickup and Hotel Transfer. Upon your flight’s arrival in Cali, our team will provide transportation to your chosen hotel. Settle in and join us for an informative briefing during dinner, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.
LODGING: Cali
Join us in exploring the most beautiful area for birding in Cali- Kilómetro 18. This area is an integral part of the renowned San Antonio cloud forest. Arrive at Finca La Florida. Immerse yourself in the vibrant scenery of tanagers and hummingbirds that call this enchanting forest home.
Targets: It’s important to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of wildlife. Here are some of the targets:
- Little Tinamou
- Multicolored Tanager
- Scaled Antpitta
- Chestnut-wood Quail
- Greenish Puffleg
LODGING: Cali
Enjoy another captivating experience in the Queremal area, delving deeper into its rich avian scenery to seek out the elusive birds we may have missed on the previous day.
Targets: It’s important to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of wildlife. Here are some of the targets:
- Toucan Barbet
- Rufous-gaped Hillstar
- Andean-cock-and Rock
- Silver-throated Tanager
- Rufous-throated Tanager
LODGING: Cali
We spend the morning at Doña Dora to photograph targets that we couldn’t get or depending on if we change the location to another place in KM 18. We have an early lunch and leave for Manizales..
LODGING: Manizales
Venture on an exploration to Rio Blanco Nature Reserve, nestled just above Manizales. In the morning, view various antpitta feeders. With a touch of patience, catch glimpses of the vulnerable and endemic and a host of other captivating species.
Targets: It’s important to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of wildlife. Here are some of the targets:
1. Bicolored antpitta
2. Rufous crowned antpitta
3. Slate crowned antpitta
4. Brown banded antpitta
5. Green-and black fruiteater
6. Black-billed Mountain-toucan
LODGING: Manizales
Explore the enchanting surroundings of Hacienda El Bosque, nestled near the CHEC forest reserve. This idyllic spot invites you to discover the beauty of nature, providing splendid moments against a backdrop of mountain landscapes, where surprises await at every turn. At 1 pm, we head to PNN Los Nevados.
Targets: It’s important to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of wildlife. Here are some of the targets:
- Crescent-faced Antpitta
- Gray-breasted Mountain- Toucan
- Hooded Mountain Tanager
- Golden-fronted Whitestart
- Sword-billed Hummingbird
LODGING: Manizales
Embark on a captivating morning birding expedition in PNN Nevados and its buffer zone. Explore the treasures of the high Andes, discovering the unique wildlife that calls this region home. The morning promises encounters with remarkable species.
As the afternoon unfolds, indulge in leisure at Hotel Termales del Ruiz, where inviting hot springs offer a perfect setting for relaxation. Enjoy delightful sightings at the feeders, showcasing an array of mountain wildlife.
Targets: It’s important to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of wildlife. The birds here often shy away from feeders, making this type of photography more elaborate and rewarding in its intricate detailing. Here are some of the targets:
1. Buffy helmetcrest Hummingbird
2. Tawny Antpitta
3. Great sapphire wing hummingbird
4. Shining sunbeam hummingbird
5. Andean duck
LODGING: Manizales
Immerse yourself in a full day of exploration within the Tinamú Reserve. Capture excellent photographic moments as you observe species at the feeders. Traverse scenic trails that provide opportunities to encounter a variety of fascinating wildlife. This day promises a visual feast of diverse and enchanting creatures in the heart of Tinamú’s natural haven.
Targets: It’s important to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of wildlife. Here are some of the targets:
- Grey-headed Tanager
- Scrub Tanager
- Guira Tanager
- Golden-collared Manakin
- Moustached Puffbird
LODGING: Pereira
Your exploration through Colombia’s rich birdlife has come to an end. We hope the memories created during this exploration will linger as cherished moments of connection with nature’s wonders. Safe travels on your onward journey!
Are you a birdwatching enthusiast?
Discover Colombia, the world’s premier birding hotspot. Let us craft your ideal birdwatching adventure in the country with the most bird species. Contact us today to start planning your custom tour!
Frequently asked questions
What are your payment and cancellation terms?
Booking and Payment:
Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of USD 1,500 secures your spot for the tour.
Remaining Balance: The full balance is due 90 days before the tour starts. If you prefer installment payments, please inform us in advance.
Currency and Amounts:All amounts are in USD per person.
Payment Timeline: Failure to meet the payment deadline may lead to the cancellation of your tour reservation.
Deposit Clarification: Please note that the deposit confirms your commitment to the photo tour. These funds are not held separately but are utilized for initial expenses like hotel reservations, park permits/fees, and guided tour deposits.
Refund and Cancellation Policy: Due to the nature of incurred costs, deposits are non-refundable. Tour payments are subject to a cancellation fee.
In the event of a cancellation initiated by you
Cancellation Policy:
More than 60 Days Before Tour: Refund of the photo tour payment (excluding the deposit). Deduction of a $100 convenience fee.
Between 60 and 45 Days Before Tour: 50% refund of the photo tour payment (excluding the deposit). Deduction of a $199 convenience fee.
Less than 45 Days Before Tour: Unfortunately, no refunds will be granted, and all payments will be forfeited.
Full payment is mandatory no later than 45 days before departure. You will be notified via email if full payment isn’t received by this date.
Failure to respond within 3 business days will result in forfeiture of your spot, which may then be offered to participants on the waiting list.
Important Note: The date of written (email) communication indicating the intent to cancel is considered the date for calculating cancellation fees.
Cancelled Photo Tour: If, for any reason, we are compelled to cancel a photo tour, your entire payment will be transferred to another comparable photo tour within one calendar year.
Can I Share the Adventure? Bring Along a Friend or Family Member!
If you’re a solo adventurer, we’ve got you covered! While some of our partner lodges and hotels may charge single supplements, we provide two personalized options tailored to your preferences.
Option 1: Dedicated Single Room. We can reserve a private single room for you, with the single supplement price clearly specified for each tour.
Option 2: Adventure Companionship. If you’re open to sharing your adventure, we’ll make an extra effort to match you with the perfect roommate based on your gender, age, and interests.
In the rare event that a suitable roommate isn’t available, the single supplement will be applied.
Rest assured, our calculation for the single supplement is transparent and fair. We determine this cost by deducting half the expense of a double room (plus any applicable taxes) from the actual cost of a single room. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we’re committed to ensuring your travel experience is as enjoyable as possible.
Solo Adventure Enthusiast? No Worries!
As most of the lodges and hotels we partner with do charge single supplements, we offer two personalized options to cater to your preferences.
Option 1: We can reserve a dedicated single room for you, with the single supplement price specified for each tour.
Option 2: If you’re open to sharing your adventure, we’ll go the extra mile to find you the perfect roommate based on your gender, age, and interests. In the event a suitable roommate is unavailable, the single supplement will be applied.
It’s important to note that our calculation for the single supplement is transparent and fair. We derive this cost by subtracting half the expense of a double room (plus any applicable taxes) from the actual cost of a single room. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we’re dedicated to ensuring your travel experience is as enjoyable as possible.
Arriving Early? We've Got You Covered!
Absolutely! If you plan to arrive a day early, we’re here to make it effortless for you. We’ll handle your reservations to ensure you stay in the same hotel booked for the official first night of the tour. The cost of your extra day will be seamlessly included in the final payment, streamlining the process for your convenience.
With inclusive airport transfers, whether you arrive a day early or depart a day later, you can trust that all your travel arrangements are taken care of. We eagerly anticipate providing you with a seamless and enjoyable experience from the moment you touch down!
What Camera Gear and Essentials Should I Pack for the Adventure?
Your Digital SLR full-frame camera
- Longest telephoto lens, preferably 300mm or more
- Wide-angle lens for capturing landscapes
- Flash with a flash bracket
- Ample supply of memory cards
- Highly recommended: Macro lens
- Required: Sturdy tripod or monopod
- Release cables
What Type of Luggage is Most Appropriate for the Journey?
Optimal Luggage Suggestions for Your Journey:
To ensure convenience during your adventure, we recommend packing light, as you’ll be carrying your belongings with you. Here’s a suggested luggage arrangement:
Camera Gear Bag:
Dedicated bag for your camera gear.
Clothing Bag:
Separate bag for your clothes.
Handbag or Backpack:
Essential items within easy reach.
Small Satchel:
Ideal for personal items or important documents needed frequently.
This organized approach allows you to navigate comfortably, ensuring you have what you need at your fingertips.
Essential Medications to Pack for Your Journey:
We strongly recommend carrying a personal medical kit, including a first aid kit, to ensure your well-being throughout the trip. Consider including medications for common ailments such as colds, coughs, fever, diarrhea, altitude sickness, headaches, heartburn, and sore throats, among others.
For those with regular medical needs, including hypertension, blood sugar, allergies, or asthma, it’s crucial to bring an ample supply of necessary medications. Given our penchant for exploring remote destinations, having your medicines readily accessible is the best approach.
While our journeys typically require moderate stamina, ensuring you are in good health and high on energy will enhance your overall experience. Please note that this information is general, and we strongly recommend consulting with your physician or healthcare professional to determine the specific medications you should carry based on your individual health needs. Your well-being is our priority, and we want you to embark on your adventure fully prepared.
Internet and Mobile Coverage: What to Expect?
While many countries support International Roaming, local numbers for voice calls can be easily obtained at airports. It’s crucial to be aware that certain birding areas we explore may lack mobile networks. Additionally, internet access is limited at most lodges and, when available, is typically confined to dining areas. Please plan accordingly and stay connected through alternative means during your adventure.
Have Unanswered Questions? We're Here to Help!
Feel free to email any questions or concerns you may have to [email protected]
Our dedicated team is committed to providing prompt and helpful assistance, ensuring you have all the information you need for an enriching experience.