Embark on an extraordinary journey through Colombia’s exotic and well-preserved regions, offering countless opportunities to marvel at unique species and capture breathtaking images. From vibrant wildlife to spectacular landscapes, this tour is designed to provide you with the perfect setting for creating stunning photographs.
With an astounding 1,937 bird species, Colombia is a bird photographer’s paradise. Discover 141 colorful tanagers, 160 glittering hummingbirds, and a diverse array of species, including trogons, antpittas, flowerpiercers, orioles, and chlorophonia. This is a rare chance to photograph nearly 80 endemic and 135 near-endemic species—a dream opportunity for any bird lover.
Colombia’s dramatic and diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your photography journey. Towering mountains, snow-capped volcanoes, misty cloud forests, expansive savannas, and rich rainforests create a visually striking canvas. The country’s extraordinary birdlife includes everything from shimmering hummingbirds to vibrant parrots, toucans, and fruitcrows.
Beyond birdlife, Colombia’s wildlife is equally captivating. National parks and protected reserves shelter an incredible variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Keep an eye out for colorful poison dart frogs, Andean bears, tayras, howler monkeys, ocelots, and the elusive olinguito. Each moment presents a unique opportunity to capture the rich biodiversity of this remarkable destination.
Highlights
Get ready for birding experiences like no other, with the chance to spot more than 20 hummingbird’s species, the amazing Multi-coloured Tanager, Toucan Barbet, Purple Bibbet Whitetip and many more.
Our journey will take us to various breathtaking locations, from high-altitude Andean landscapes to lush rainforest, coffee regions and the western slope of the Choco region, one of the most diverse regions in the world; each teeming with unique wildlife and beautiful sceneries.
Visit Laguna Sonso, an old oxbow wetland with an interesting selection of water birds and species typical of drier forest. In addition to waterbirds, a few key species here include Greater Ani, Striped Cuckoo, Dwarf Cuckoo (irregular), Dark-billed Cuckoo, Spectacled Parrotlet (near-endemic), Grayish Piculet (endemic), Bar-crested Antshrike (near-endemic), Jet Antbird, Cinereous Becard, Mouse-colored Tyrannulet, Apical Flycatcher (endemic).
Explore the forests of Montezuma and Tatamá National Park, vibrant areas with a rich natural history. These sites have long served as research hubs for ornithologists, biologists, botanists, and other scientists, where ongoing studies continue to uncover the diverse species of the Chocó-Pacific rainforest.
Combine the experience of photography with ornithology, natural history, and local flavors throughout the journey. You’ll have the chance to spend time in one of Colombia’s coffee-growing regions, offering a rich, multi-sensory experience that engages all your senses!
The journey takes you through some of Colombia’s top bird watching destinations, home to a remarkable variety of migratory, endemic, and near-endemic high Andean bird species.
Colombia’s rich biodiversity offers endless opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned birder, wildlife lover or a photography enthusiast, this adventure promises incredible encounters.
We operate with personalized service in small groups, catering to birdwatchers and photographers of all levels.
Extend your adventure in Colombia by exploring other captivating, biodiverse regions. We’ve designed fabulous, innovative trips: Llanos, Unlocking Nature’s Secrets, Santa Marta Endemics & Caribbean Coast.
Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CALI AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL
Welcome to Colombia! Arrive today at the Cali Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO). You can arrive at your leisure; a representative from local operator transfers you from the airport to our hotel in Cali. Dinner tonight is on your own. Overnight at Movich Hotel.
DAY 2-3: FINCA LA MINGA ECOLODGE
Early morning, we go up driving for a short time. On western Andes at 2.000 m.a.s.l. (cold weather) and just 50 minutes from Cali, with more than 20 hummingbird’s species and the amazing endemic Multi- coloured Tanager, we start exploring the other side of Colombia at La Minga Lodge, we will spend our time for the Blue headed Sapphire, Brown Violetear, Booted Racket- Tail, Andean Emerald, Purple-Throated Woodstart, Steely-vented Hummingbird, Long-tailed Sylph, Green and Tawny-bellied hermits, White-necked Jacobin, Bronzy Inca, and Speckled and Steely-vented hummingbirds. Aside from this amazing species, the list of wonderful birds found here will drop your jaw! Starting with toucanets, motmots, other birds like Red- headed Barbet, Saffron-crowned, Flame-rumped. The bird list also includes equally colorful birds such as Bluewinged Mountain-Tanager; Saffron-crowned, Golden, Scrub Golden, Golden-naped and Black-capped tanagers; and Green Honeycreeper as well as Rusty and Masked flowerpiercers.
Overnight at Araucana Lodge. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: ANCHICAYA – DOÑA DORA FEEDERS
On the old way to Buenaventura (important city beside the Pacific Ocean) we will visit the Alto Anchicaya at Doña Dora feeders, a nice and friendly family living beside the route where they installed hummingbird ́s and Tanager ́s feeders. We will have a full day to enjoy this pleasant area. Among the hummingbirds, we may see White-necked Jacobin, Rufous-gaped Hillstar and the impressive Empress Brilliant. There might also be a pair of Toucan Barbet as well as Lemon-browed Flycatcher, Tricolor Brush-Finch, Lemon-rumped Tanager, Black- chinned Mountain Tanager, Golden-faced Tyrannulet, Black Solitaire, Golden, White- lined and Silver-throated tanagers, Thick-billed Euphonia, Roufous-throated Tanager, Green Honeycreeper, and the conspicuous Bananaquit will be observed wandering around. We will spend the night at Araucana Lodge. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: EXPLORE THE FAMED KILOMETER 18 (KM 18) AREA – FINCA ALEJANDRIA
Finca Alejandria is located on a quiet road in the middle of Kilometer 18 regional reserve near to Cali. This location also hosts hummingbird feeders and you will find yourself deciding whether to look at one or another species. Some birds are relatively common and visit most of the feeders but others, like the Blue-headed Sapphire, will take time to locate. Finca Alejandria is a photographer’s and bird lover’s paradise. You will never get tired of seeing so many hummingbirds buzzing around the garden, all in great plumage and showing a distinctive territorial behavior. You will also have the chance to photograph the amazing Multi-coloured Tanager and different Tanager species. In the afternoon we drive two hours to Buga and spend the night at Guadalajara Hotel. (B, L, D)
DAY 6-7: LAGUNA SONSO – MONTEZUMA AND TATAMÁ NATIONAL PARK
After having breakfast at 6:00, we kick off our morning with a drive to Laguna de Sonso, a protected wetland. This area holds significant ecological value since the Cauca River was once surrounded by lush moist forest, now threatened by the expansion of the sugar cane industry. Designated as a protected site in 1987, it has become a reliable spot to find species like Black-bellied and Fulvous Whistling-Ducks, Snail Kite, Limpkin, various egrets, and both Bare-faced and Glossy Ibises. We’ll also be targeting specialties such as the Apical Flycatcher and the striking Spot-breasted Woodpecker, which often appears to explore decaying tree branches. With luck, we might hear the calls of a Little Cuckoo, which could even make a rare appearance in the open! There will be excellent chances for bird photography, including sightings of a small flock of Spectacled Parrotlets or a Bar-crested Antshrike flicking its tail as it sings near the forest’s edge.
We will return to the hotel to pick up our luggage and drive for three hours to Montezuma. This new destination is located on the western slope of the Chocó region, one of the most diverse areas in the world. We will stay at the base of the mountain at Montezuma Rainforest Lodge. The main birding road starts at the lodge at an elevation of 4,600 ft (1,350 m.a.s.l.), and the hummingbird and fruit feeders attract many birds right around the lodge building and dining area. The climate here is pleasant but distinctly humid, as this region receives high rainfall (>4,000 mm) fairly evenly distributed throughout the year.
Here, we’ll find feeders full of hummingbirds at any time of the day. A sampling of species includes Purple-bibbed Whitetip, Velvet-purple Coronet, Violet- tailed Sylph, Empress Brilliant, Green-crowned Brilliant, White- tailed Hillstar, Blue-tailed Emerald, Buff-tailed Coronet, White-necked Jacobin, and others.
This reserve is located at the edge of Cerro Tatamá National Park, and almost all of our birding will take place within the park itself. Cerro Tatamá holds a significant place in the history of Colombian ornithology, as it was an early and important collecting site with a long list of Chocó-Pacific birds first discovered in this area. This is a rainy region, lying on the cusp of the famously wet Chocó-Pacific zone. Mornings here tend to be clear, but the weather can change quickly, so we’ll leave very early for the approximately one-hour drive to the end of the road, where we’ll begin our birding activities.
The road has deteriorated considerably in recent years, and if we are unable to use a vehicle to reach the upper elevations of Cerro Montezuma, we may need to walk to access higher areas (around 2,400 m; 7,874 ft). Reaching the top is likely to be an adventure, but there will certainly be birds along the way.
On the second day, we will likely focus on the lower and middle elevations of the reserve at approximately 1,350–1,650 m (4,429–5,413 ft). The list of birds in both the upper and lower zones is almost a complete catalog of montane Chocó-Pacific species, including many that have been seen by only a small number of birders. Among them are two endemic Bangsia tanagers—the Black-and-gold Tanager and the Gold-ringed Tanager. At the very highest elevations, the Munchique Wood-Wren (endemic) has also been reported—a species first discovered in southwestern Colombia by Hilty in the late 1970s but not formally described until 2003—as well as the endemic Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer, a species previously known from only a handful of high-elevation sites in the Western Andes. (B, L, D)
DAY 8-9: DRIVE TO MANIZALES AND EXPLORE THE COFFEE REGION’S BIRDLIFE
After breakfast, we leave the lodge at 9:00, we need to drive 3 hours to Tinamú Hotel, it is a nice place for tanagers and hummingbirds, right in the heart of the coffee region, several feeders in good light conditions, friendly family, excellent food and nice views of the Coffe Region, we will spend two days for Steely-vented Hummingbird, Western Emerald, White-necked Jacobin, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, White-vented Plummeleteer, Green, Rufous-breasted and Striped throated Hermits, Black-throated Mango, Clay-coloured Thrush, Andean Motmot, Thick-billed Euphonia, Crimson- rumped Tanager, Colombian Chachalaca and others.
Tinamú Birding Nature Reserve’s conservation efforts began over 40 years ago, thanks to the Londoño Jaramillo family’s passion for nature. They allowed former coffee and banana plantations to transform into a semi-natural forest by planting native trees, which attracted and supported a rich variety of wildlife. This created a thriving oasis surrounded by agricultural fields.
Located in Caldas, just 18 km (30 minutes) from Manizales in San Peregrino, Tinamú Birding sits within the Coffee Cultural Landscape and a tropical rainforest spanning 11 hectares at an elevation of 1,200 to 1,300 meters. With a warm climate averaging 25°C, it is home to over 260 species of birds, as well as mammals, reptiles, butterflies, and diverse plant life. Since 2014, Tinamú has offered a high-quality birdwatching experience, with comfortable, bird-themed rooms, traditional Colombian cuisine, and welcoming local staff. Visitors can explore 3 km of private trails and observe birds in lush gardens and at feeders. Tinamú Birding is a true haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering a unique and enriching experience. (B, L, D)
DAY 10-11: DRIVE TO TERMALES DEL RUIZ HOTEL – LOS NEVADOS NATURAL PARK
Located in the buffer zone of Los Nevados National Natural Park, at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level, Hotel Termales del Ruiz lies just 10 km from Nevado del Ruíz and 36 km from Manizales. Its privileged setting offers breathtaking high-Andean scenery, with sweeping views over Manizales and the surrounding páramo landscape.
The climate is cold and refreshing, and although access is open year-round, the elevation may require guests to take standard medical precautions if needed. This location is ideal both for enjoying nature and for discovering the remarkable biodiversity of the high Andes.
During our visit, we will have time to explore the property and take in the unique mountain environment. Guests may choose to relax, explore the gardens, photograph the surroundings, or, if they wish, enjoy the naturally heated thermal pools while admiring the views.
The area offers excellent for birdwatching opportunities, with outstanding species such as Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucan, Black-thighed Puffleg, Golden-fronted Redstart, Golden-breasted Puffleg, Shining Sunbeam, Viridian Metaltail, Tyrian Metaltail, Great Sapphirewing, Buff-winged Starfrontlet, Collared Inca, Mountain Velvetbreast, and the impressive Rainbow-bearded Thornbill. The endemic Buffy Helmetcrest is also possible just a few kilometers above the hotel.
Caldas is widely regarded as a prime destination for high-Andean birding, with nearly 200 migratory, endemic, and near-endemic species recorded in its elevated ecosystems.
We will also make a dedicated visit to Los Nevados National Natural Park itself. This vast protected area encompasses glaciers, snow-capped volcanoes, páramo grasslands, high-Andean forests, and unique volcanic landscapes shaped by ice and fire. It is one of Colombia’s most important conservation regions, safeguarding critical water sources, endemic flora, rare mammals such as the spectacled bear and the páramo tapeti rabbit, as well as specialized high-elevation bird communities. Our visit will give us the opportunity to experience these dramatic landscapes up close and observe a unique assemblage of species adapted to life near the snowline.
We will be staying at Paraíso Verde Hotel (B, L, D)
DAY 12: EXPLORE RIO BLANCO RESERVE
Río Blanco Reserve is located three kilometers from Manizales city, is the perfect place for Andean hummingbirds, tanagers and almost 4 antpitta species, we will be there for Long-tailed Sylph, Speckled Hummingbird, Lesser and Sparkling violetears, Collared and Bronzi Incas, Buff-tailed Coronet, Wedge-billed Hummingbird, Brown banded Antpitta (endemic) Slate-crowned Antpitta, Bicolored Antpitta (near endemic) Chestnut crowned and Chestnut-naped Antpittas, Buff-breasted and Blue-winged Mountain Tanagers, Masked and White-sided Flowerpierces, Blue-capped and White- capped Tanagers, Slaty, Ash-colored Tapaculo, White naped and Grey-browed Brush Finch and Green and black Fruiteater. The reserve protects forest over a wide elevation range from 2,000 to 3,400 m. (circa 6,600-11,200 ft.) and is regarded as one of the top birding spots in the central Andes of Colombia. Generally at mid- elevations (2,200-2,600 m.; 7,218-8,530 ft.). Antpittas, however, are only a part of the appeal of this reserve; many rare and other infrequently-seen species also occur here, including Rusty-faced Parrot, Golden-plumed Parakeet (rare), Black-collared Jay, Powerful Woodpecker, Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, Black-billed Peppershrike, Golden-faced Redstart, Plushcap, and two prize species, the Red-hooded Tanager and Masked Saltator. These last two are local in distribution and much sought by birders. Paraíso Verde Hotel (B, L, D).
DAY 13: BIRDING AT PARAISO VERDE – TRANSFER TO CALI – DEPARTURE
We enjoy a leisurely, last morning, at our lodge with short walks getting in a few more birds around the area and that we have missed. This peaceful reserve is a true haven for birders and nature enthusiasts alike. After soaking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant ecosystem one last time, we pack up and make the four-hour drive to Cali Airport, our plan is to arrive in time for connections to Bogota for evening flights out. Plan on flights departing Cali around 4:00 PM or after. For those not finding a good match up, you can return to Bogota and overnight, or simply overnight at a hotel we regularly use in Cali and start fresh the following day. (Hotel accommodations and flights not included). (B)
Optional Extensions
Extend your adventure in Colombia by exploring other captivating, biodiverse regions. We’ve designed fabulous, innovative trips: Llanos, Unlocking Nature’s Secrets, Santa Marta Endemics & Caribbean Coast.
Terms and Conditions
Please thoroughly review these Terms and Conditions of Neblina Forest Ltd
MAXIMUM TIME IN NATURE
Our goal is to maximize the time spent in nature, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the environment and appreciate its beauty. This often means long days filled with exploration, adventure, and unique experiences that provide a deeper connection to the natural world. While it can be physically demanding at times, these extended days offer the opportunity to observe wildlife, discover hidden landscapes, and truly engage with the surroundings in a meaningful way.
ITINERARY ROUTE
Our itinerary is subject to change due to factors beyond our control, such as adverse weather, road conditions, safety concerns or other circumstances. While we aim to follow the planned route and excursions, adjustments may be necessary to ensure the best experience. The itinerary is prepared months in advance, but unforeseen circumstances may arise. In such cases, the tour leader will determine suitable alternatives. Any additional costs will be the participant’s responsibility, and no refunds will be issued due to changes in the itinerary.
USE OF DRONES / UAVs ON TRIPS
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, are not suitable for use on NEBLINA FOREST’s trips due to logistical constraints and in many cases, local and national laws or regulations. When visiting National Parks, Wildlife Refuges, Biosphere Reserves, etc. we operate under environmental regulations that ban the use of recreational drones. Do not bring a drone on a trip without contacting us first.
CANCELLING YOUR BOOKING
You may cancel your booking at any stage, provided you do so in writing.
If cancellation is received between the date of booking until 61 days prior the date our services are due to begin, we will charge 15% as a cancellation fee. This deposit cannot be transferred to another booking.
If cancellation is received between 60 and 0 days prior the date our services are due to begin, we will charge 100% as a cancellation fee.
All services will be subject to the policies and conditions established by each operator and/or supplier (airline, hotels, sightseeing locations or other).
Third Party Products (Galápagos, Amazon rainforest, etc.)
In this case, all services will be subject to the policies and conditions established by each operator.
PRICING
Pricing, itineraries and availability may change without notice. NEBLINA FOREST Ltd. reserves the right to charge you for any increase in trip costs. You agree that NEBLINA FOREST is not responsible for any errors or omissions in any quotes, advertisements, including on our website, or information from third parties.
PAYMENTS
REFUNDS
No refunds will be made if you leave a trip for any reason whatsoever. No refunds will be made either for any accommodations, transport, sightseeing locations, meals or services not utilized.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
TAXES, FEES, EXCHANGE RATES AND FUEL SUPPLEMENTS
Fees
• GER-EXPEDITIONS reserves the right to pass on to its guests (including fully paid and deposited guests) any taxes and fees imposed by government or quasi- government agencies that relate specifically to a guest’s itinerary. “Taxes and fees” include any and all fees, charges, surcharges, tolls and taxes imposed by governmental or quasi-governmental authorities including, but not limited to, customs fees, per person berth taxes or fees, embarkation and/or disembarkation fees at ports, airline transportation fees, dockage fees, and wharfage fees. This condition also applies if exchange rates and other local costs vary substantially after you receive your quote.
Prior to your departure, if we have to make such changes we will advise you as soon as is reasonably possible. We also reserve the right to change any of the services or other particulars contained in the confirmed itinerary at any time.
Fuel supplements or surcharges
• GER-EXPEDITIONS reserves the right to charge a per person fuel supplement if the price of fuel increases any time prior to the travel date.
• GER-EXPEDITIONS may collect any taxes, government fees/quasi government fees and fuel supplement (the “Surcharges”) at the time of booking or prior to travelling, even if the trip fare has been paid in full. Surcharges will be invoiced accordingly.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
You assume sole responsibility to confirm all requirements for passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry and/ or travel requirements of all locations along your route and final destination. You release GER-EXPEDITIONS . from responsibility for any and all damages incurred as a result of your failure to comply with applicable requirements.
INSURANCE
To safeguard against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance, that covers trip cancellation/interruption, as soon as possible after making a deposit.
GENERAL ITINERARY OR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
° Itinerary arrival and departure times are always subject to change without notice.
° Airfare GER-EXPEDITIONS . may book for you: Review your trip itinerary for flights GER-EXPEDITIONS . may book on your behalf. GER-EXPEDITIONS. acts simply as an intermediary between you and the airline, and airline tickets are highly restrictive, non-refundable, and non-transferable. Modification of names, dates, times, routings, or departure/ arrival airports is at the sole discretion of the airline and, if permitted, will likely be subject to a change fee, and you are responsible for any such fees. Credit will not be given for any unused airline ticket unless the airline’s terms and conditions allow it.
° Accommodations are defined as lodgings in living quarters afforded to travelers including, but not limited to, hotels, resorts, lodges, ship cabins, and campgrounds. If the accommodation sought are unavailable, GER-EXPEDITIONS . will do its best to reserve comparable accommodations. Note that the accommodation options described in our itineraries are for reference only and are subject to change based on availability. GER-EXPEDITIONS has no special knowledge regarding the suitability for disable persons of any portion of any trip. For information concerning the suitability for disable persons for any portion of our trips, contact GER-EXPEDITIONS
° Due to the circumstances of operating inside National Parks and/or protected natural reserves, whose rules and regulations can be changed by the park or reserves authorities and/or land owners, and due to any operational constraints, GER-EXPEDITIONS., reserves the right to cancel, alter, advance, postpone or substitute any scheduled itinerary, or substitute or cancel scheduled visiting sites, which, in its sole judgment and discretion, is justified for any reason, and to do so without liability for any loss whatsoever to guests as a result of said change(s).
DATA PROTECTION
GER-EXPEDITIONS. may ask for certain personal information, such as dietary requirements, disability /medical information, etc. GER-EXPEDITIONS. will keep this information confidential except to provide necessary information to authorized persons to carry out GER-EXPEDITIONS obligations to you.
LIABILITY CLAUSE
GER-EXPEDITIONS. and its agents act only as agents for passengers in all matters pertaining to transportation, accommodations or services not provided directly by NEBLINA FOREST Ltd., which are not subject to its control and therefore assume no liability. As agents, all tickets, exchange orders or vouchers issued by independent suppliers are subject to any and all terms and conditions under which such means of transportation, accommodations or other services are offered or provided GER-EXPEDITIONS. . and its agents will not be liable for injury, death, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be occasioned either by reason of defect in any vehicle furnished by any such other party, firm or corporation or through the acts of default, whether negligent or willful, of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out or failing to carry out the arrangements previously agreed upon, nor for the negligent misconduct of any such other party, firm or corporation.
In the same way . GER-EXPEDITIONS is not responsible for the loss, theft, or robbery of luggage while it is in charge of the airline or hotel, as is outside the control, surveillance and direct supervision of the company. The passenger contract in use by the airlines concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the airline and the purchaser of these and/ or passengers.
GER-EXPEDITIONS. will not be held responsible and will assume no liability for injuries, losses or additional expenses due to delays or interruption of travel, changes in schedules, lost/ damage/ delayed luggage and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which neither we nor our suppliers could avoid, examples of which are acts of God, sickness, war or threat of war, riots, strikes, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disaster, fire or adverse weather conditions, level of water in rivers, technical problems of any aircraft, vehicle, vessel or other means of conveyance, illness and/or death of a co-traveler including members of the trip group, or any cause or other similar events beyond the control of .. GER-EXPEDITIONS We suggest that you book an insurance policy with your Travel Agency. Visiting remote destinations can be thrilling, but it is essential to understand and accept both medical and logistical risks. While minor health issues can often be managed during the journey, access to medical care may be delayed due to the remoteness of the locations. In the event of an emergency, immediate treatment or evacuation may not be possible. Therefore, anyone who require close medical supervision should not consider going on our trips.
NEBLINA FOREST reserves the right to withdraw or refuse service to a customer at its own discretion, prior to or during the trip, if in GER-EXPEDITIONS opinion that they could endanger the health, safety, and enjoyment of other on the trip. Under such circumstances, no refund will be given for any unused portion of the trip.
MODIFICATION OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The Terms and Conditions may be amended by GER-EXPEDITIONS. at any time without notice, so it is essential that you review these each time you book a trip with GER-EXPEDITIONS . in case they have changed. The Terms and Conditions you sign now are the Terms and Conditions that will apply to you and your trip regardless of amendments made after you’ve signed.