Colombia Birding Tours
Introduction to Birding Magnificent Colombia
Colombia is home to over 1,950 bird species, more than any other country on earth. On this tour, we’ll explore the capital region of Bogotá and the lush coffee area of Colombia, providing an introduction to the birds of the Eastern and Central Andes. We’ll visit high-elevation ecosystems like the Andean forest, cloud forest, and páramo, while also transitioning to lowland forests between the mountain ranges. With around 300 bird species expected, including 20 endemics and dozens of hummingbirds and tanagers, this journey is a must for bird enthusiasts!
Highlight and Target Birds
- Endemic and near-endemic species like the Green-bearded Helmetcrest and White-mantled Barbet
- Over 30 species of hummingbirds, including Sword-billed Hummingbird and Buffy and Green-bearded Helmetcrests
- 50-60 dazzling tanager species, from Multicolored Tanager in the lower elevations of our trip to Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanager in the cloud forests
- Legendary Andean birds like Torrent Duck, Andean Condor, Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, and several antpitta species
- Cloud forest specialties like the Rufous-fronted Parakeet, Many-striped Canastero, and Noble Snipe
KEY LOCATIONS
Chingaza National Park, Enchanted Garden, Tabacal Lagoon, Bellavista Natural Reserve, Río Blanco Reserve, Páramo del Ruiz, Termales del Ruiz, Hacienda el Bosque, Otun Quimbaya, Salento, Cocora Valley
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore Bogotá’s historic district, including La Candelaria and the Gold Museum.
- Take a scenic hike in Cocora Valley to witness towering wax palms and look for the endangered Yellow-eared Parrot.
- Indulge in a traditional coffee tour at a working Colombian coffee farm.
- Soak in the therapeutic thermal waters at Termales del Ruiz after a day of birding.
- Enjoy authentic Colombian meals and explore the cultural charm of towns like Salento.
More Details
Accommodations
Hotel Lusitania Bogotá (2 nights), Boutique Posada Las Trampas (1 night), Recinto del Pensamiento (2 nights), Termales del Ruiz (1 night), Hotel Kumanday (1 night), Salento Plaza (1 night), Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Bogotá (1 night)
Weather and climate
Colombia experiences a mix of climates due to its varied altitudes. Bogotá and higher elevations like Páramo del Ruiz will be cool, with daytime temperatures between 50-65°F (10-18°C), and chilly nights. The coffee region and mid-elevation areas will be milder, averaging 60-75°F (16-24°C), while lower elevations may see warmer, more humid conditions. Rainfall is less frequent in July, but occasional showers are common, especially in cloud forests.
Tour Details
Price: $5,118 per person, double occupancy
Single Supplement: $500
Included: Lodging, meals, in-country transportation, guide, park entrance fees.
Not Included: Passport Fees, Visa Fees, International Airfare, alcoholic beverages, personal items, tips, travel insurance.
From: Bogota
Minimum Participants: 6
Participant Limit: 10
Activity Level: Moderate
Deposit: $1,000 per person is required to hold your spot on this tour (with your registration form)
Tour Leaders: Olbin Bejarano and local guide