Considered by the World Wildlife Fund as the epicenter of bird watching in Colombia, this reserve is an ornithological paradise. With 372 species of birds identified to date, including 33 species of hummingbirds, every corner of this enchanted forest offers a unique opportunity to view winged beauty. Entering the Río Blanco Natural Reserve is to immerse yourself in a world of plumage and varied songs. The Reserve is part of the Río Blanco and Quebrada Olivares Protective Forest Reserve, a vast area of 4,943 hectares that protects a unique natural treasure in Manizales.

Hacienda El Bosque, located in Manizales, is a magnet for birdwatching lovers. This historic family farm, located in Manizales, extends across altitudes between 2,800 and 3,900 meters above sea level. Its diverse ecosystems include grasslands, Andean forests and moors, all safeguarded for more than 40 years. It is a renowned destination for bird watching, with more than 293 recorded species, such as Andigena hypoglauca, Grallaria rufula, Grallaricula lineifrons (near threatened), Pipreola arcuata, Ramphomicron microrhynchum, Chalcostigma herrani, Ensifera ensifera, Anisognathus igniventris, Acropternis orthonyx and Chlorophonia pyrrhophris. The cabins in the high Andean forest offer unique experiences to observe forest life.

Glamping El Color de Mis Revés has earned a notable reputation as a premier birdwatching destination. An astonishing variety of over 489 bird species have been recorded within the forest boundaries, and 142 of these species arrive at the glamping site, creating captivating viewing opportunities. It serves as a sanctuary where urban distractions disappear, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a genuine nature experience. Self-contained luxury glamping not only offers comfortable accommodation, but also gives guests the opportunity to fully enjoy the forest surroundings.

The Hotel Termales del Ruiz, located in the impressive cloud forest of the Central Andes Mountains, is a paradise for lovers of bird watching. Located at an altitude of 2,850 meters above sea level, it offers a magical environment with more than 167 species of birds, such as Aglaeactis cupripennis and Myioborus ornatus. The trails will take you to waterfalls and springs, where you can enjoy the symphony of colors and bird sounds. In addition, the hotel provides comfort and charm with its services, such as hot springs and delicious meals. This natural sanctuary will connect you deeply with nature, leaving you with unforgettable wildlife memories.

On a sixth day in Colombia you will have visited the main bird photography reserves in the Coffee Region, now you will go to Valle del Cauca, a department located in the Western Andes where a large number of bird species live. The most interesting thing is that you will be covering a wide range of ecosystems during this tour, therefore, you will see totally new species in this department.

You will begin your tour of Valle del Cauca at the La Florida bird watching reserve, recognized for being specialized in bird photography. Its hosts have built and enabled spaces so that photographs turn out spectacular and visitors take away unique memories. It is also recognized for its great variety of bird species, since more than 330 have been recorded, including the endemic Pied Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima).

On the one hand, San Felipe Birding is a nature reserve located in the cloud forest of Cali. In 2004, this region was declared by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Conservation Area (AICA/IBA). Due to its geographical location, the property is part of one of the most biologically important hydrographic basins in southwest Colombia. In San Felipe NR you not only plan to spend a very special day observing or photographing a wide variety of birds in the region, but also enjoy a magical and relaxing experience around a beautiful and natural reserve of 22 hectares, of which 13 are forest virgin. And on the other hand, Finca Alejandría “Hummingbird Paradise” is a unique experience for bird lovers. This farm is a pioneer in bird watching in Colombia. Which makes it one of the most important reserves in the entire country.

First thing in the morning you will go to the Doña Dora bird watching farm to spot the Andean Cock-ofthe-Rock. This farm is recognized for the large number of species that reach the garden of the main house, occupying the number one position in the entire department of Valle del Cauca, with more than 500 registered species. Among the birds that we can observe in this place we find the famous and iconic Compass (Semnornis ramphastinus), Cock of the Rock (Rupicola peruvianus), the endemic Tufted Bean (Habia cristata), and even the Emerald Tanager (Chlorochrysa phoenicotis).

You will start this day with a delicious breakfast on the Hotel Campanario, which you will then navigate in search of waterfowl. The Sonso Lagoon is a true paradise for lovers of bird watching. With its lush wetland environment and diverse ecosystems, Laguna de Sonso is home to an extraordinary variety of bird species. From beautiful herons and elegant kingfishers to majestic eagles and captivating ducks, the lagoon is home to an abundance of migratory and resident birds, each one more fascinating than the last.

Curigua Ecolodge is a true paradise for bird watchers. With a privileged location in the imposing central mountain range, it offers an exceptional natural environment where bird diversity comes to life. From the moment you arrive, you are immersed in a world where the song of the birds becomes the soundtrack of the experience. Every moment in this special place is designed to connect visitors with the grandeur of the Andes and its winged inhabitants.

The Hacienda El Diamante is an ideal place to enjoy nature and watch birds in Buga, Valle del Cauca. Buga is a territory rich in biodiversity and has more than 300 registered bird species. The Hotel Hacienda El Diamante is located between 1,000 and 2,700 meters above sea level, making it an ideal home for many birds.

Dear Friends.

It has been a true pleasure to share with you this animal photography safari in Colombia. Over the past few days, we have had the opportunity to explore some of the most spectacular landscapes in this beautiful country and photograph some of the most beautiful and rare animals in the world. We want to thank you for your participation and company on this trip. His enthusiasm and passion for photography and nature has been a source of inspiration for us. We hope this experience has been as memorable and enriching for you as it has been for us. 

Additionally, we want to highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and the protection of the natural habitats of these animals. In Colombia, as in many other parts of the world, these species face constant threats due to habitat destruction and illegal hunting. We hope that the photos achieved and this experience can help raise awareness of these issues and inspire others to protect and preserve wildlife. We would love to have you again on future animal photography safaris and explore more natural wonders together. 

Once again, thank you very much for participating in this trip and we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.