Colombia - The Western and Central Andes

Welcome to Colombia! Upon arrival today at Cali’s Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO), you will be met by a representative of our local operator and transferred to your hotel in Cali. You may arrive at any time today at your convenience. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and settle in. Dinner is on your own this evening. Overnight at Movich Hotel.

Early in the morning, we will depart from Cali toward the mountainous region, an area recognized as an Important bird and biodiversity area. After a scenic drive, we will arrive at La Florida Farm, located in the cloud forest of San Antonio at 2,000 m.a.s.l., a quiet and lush refuge surrounded by nature.

Once settled into our cozy cabins overlooking the misty forest, we will begin our first walk along the trails and observation areas within the property. This sanctuary is renowned for hosting some of Colombia’s most sought-after species, including the elusive Chestnut Wood-Quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus) and the spectacular Multicolored Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima), both endemic to the Colombian Andes.

The farm also features an outstanding feeder system designed to offer excellent birdwatching and photography opportunities. More than 340 bird species have been recorded here, including up to 39 species of hummingbirds and around 30 species of tanagers. Among the possible sightings are Booted Racket-tail, Violet-tailed Sylph, Golden Tanager, Saffron-crowned Tanager, Masked Flowerpiercer, and many others.

The afternoon will be dedicated to enjoying the natural richness of this remarkable location: listening to bird calls, exploring the forest, searching for mammals among the trees, and gradually absorbing the atmosphere of the cloud forest. Overnight at La Florida Birding. (B, L, D)

On the old way to Buenaventura (an 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, Rufous-throated Tanager, Green Honeycreeper, and the conspicuous Bananaquit will be observed wandering around. Overnight at La Florida Birding.  (B, L, D)

Today we will spend the entire day exploring La Florida Farm and its surroundings, deepening our experience of the extraordinary biodiversity found in this region. Beyond its impressive birdlife, this cloud forest is home to a remarkable variety of mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates, all thriving in this humid and densely vegetated ecosystem.

With some luck, we may encounter species such as the two-toed sloth, Andean armadillo, coati, crab-eating fox, Andean dwarf squirrel, arboreal porcupine, as well as diverse species of fruit bats, large butterflies, frogs, and lizards.

During our walks, we will also observe the botanical richness of the forest, including orchids, bromeliads, giant ferns, mosses, lichens, and towering trees wrapped in low clouds, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.

In the morning, we will focus on birdwatching and photography from strategic platforms and feeding stations. In the afternoon, we will continue exploring slowly along forest paths and streams, in search of new wildlife encounters and scenic viewpoints.

As the evening arrives, we will return to the farm to rest, share experiences, and enjoy the atmosphere of the cloud forest as its nocturnal species begin to awaken. Overnight at La Florida Birding. (B, L, D)

Today you will enjoy an extraordinary birdwatching and nature experience at Bosque de Niebla Birding & Nature, a family-owned reserve created by passionate birdwatchers in the renowned Km 18 area near Cali. This region, located at approximately 2,000 meters above sea level, is considered one of the most important birding destinations in Colombia, within a beautiful Andean cloud forest ecosystem that shelters around 360 bird species.

During your visit, you will explore different observation areas specially designed to maximize the birdwatching experience, including panoramic and forest hides, a birdwatching balcony, and several feeding stations where birds can be observed in their natural habitat. One of the highlights is a hide located at the highest point of the property, offering spectacular 360° views over the cloud forest landscape.

To date, more than 280 bird species have been recorded on the eBird platform within the reserve, including several endemic species unique to Colombia. Among the species that may be observed during your visit are the Colombian Chachalaca, Chestnut Wood-Quail, Grayish Piculet, Apical Flycatcher, and the spectacular Multicolored Tanager, considered one of the most beautiful birds in the country.

In the afternoon we drive two hours to Buga and spend the night at Eco Hotel Hacienda El Diamante. (B, BL, D)

Today we begin with a visit to Laguna de Sonso, a protected wetland of great ecological importance and one of the most important freshwater ecosystems in southwestern Colombia. This area once formed part of the extensive humid forests that bordered the Cauca River, much of which has disappeared due to agricultural expansion, particularly sugar cane cultivation. Established as a protected reserve in 1987, Laguna de Sonso now serves as a vital refuge for resident and migratory birds and is a highly reliable site for species such as Black-bellied and Fulvous Whistling-Ducks, Snail Kite, Limpkin, various egret species, and both Bare-faced and Glossy Ibises.

We will also search for local specialties including the Apical Flycatcher and the striking Spot-breasted Woodpecker, often observed foraging on dead branches. With luck, we may hear the distinctive calls of Little Cuckoo and perhaps enjoy a brief view as it emerges from the dense vegetation. The wetland also offers excellent bird photography opportunities, with possibilities including flocks of Spectacled Parrotlets, Bar-crested Antshrike, and numerous other species associated with marshes, gallery forests, and open habitats.

Following our morning birding activities, we continue to Hacienda Venecia, our home for the next three nights. Nestled among the rolling hills of Colombia’s renowned Coffee Region near Manizales, Hacienda Venecia is a historic working coffee estate with more than a century of tradition in producing high-quality coffee. Surrounded by lush coffee plantations, native forest patches, crystal-clear springs, and beautiful mountain scenery, the hacienda offers an authentic immersion into the landscapes, culture, and traditions of rural Colombia.

The property is also a haven for wildlife, supporting more than 260 species of birds and a rich diversity of plants and other fauna. Its combination of traditional architecture, peaceful natural surroundings, and exceptional hospitality makes it an ideal base for exploring the biodiversity of the Central Andes. During our stay, we will enjoy the unique atmosphere of this historic coffee farm while taking advantage of excellent birding opportunities both on the property and in the surrounding region.

Overnight at Hacienda Venecia. (B, L, D)

Today we depart for a full day of birding at Río Blanco Reserve, one of Colombia’s most celebrated birding destinations and a premier site for observing Andean cloud forest species. Located just outside Manizales on the western slopes of the Central Andes, the reserve protects an extensive tract of montane forest ranging from 2,000 to 3,400 meters (6,600–11,200 ft) in elevation and forms an important watershed supplying water to the city.

Río Blanco is particularly renowned for its remarkable diversity of hummingbirds, tanagers, and antpittas. Among the species we will target are Long-tailed Sylph, Speckled Hummingbird, Lesser and Sparkling Violetears, Collared Inca, Bronzy Inca, Buff-tailed Coronet, and Wedge-billed Hummingbird. The reserve is also famous for its antpitta feeding stations, which provide outstanding opportunities to observe Brown-banded Antpitta, a Colombian endemic, along with Slate-crowned, Bicolored, Chestnut-crowned, and Chestnut-naped Antpittas.

Throughout the day, we will explore a variety of habitats in search of other Andean specialties, including Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanager, Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager, Blue-capped Tanager, White-capped Tanager, Masked and White-sided Flowerpiercers, Ash-colored and Slaty-backed Tapaculos, White-naped Brushfinch, Gray-browed Brushfinch, and Green-and-black Fruiteater.

Antpittas are only part of Río Blanco’s appeal. The reserve is also home to many rare and highly sought-after species, including Rusty-faced Parrot, Golden-plumed Parakeet, Black-collared Jay, Powerful Woodpecker, Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, Black-billed Peppershrike, Golden-faced Tyrannulet, Plushcap, and two of the region’s most coveted birds: the stunning Red-hooded Tanager and the localized Masked Saltator.

With its excellent trail system, rich biodiversity, and exceptional opportunities for close views of some of the Andes’ most elusive birds, Río Blanco is widely regarded as one of the finest birding locations in Colombia and a highlight of our journey through the Central Andes. Overnight at Hacienda Venecia. (B, L, D)

We will spend a full day enjoying the rich birdlife and natural beauty of Tinamú Reserve, a charming lodge nestled in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Region. Renowned for its excellent hummingbird and tanager feeders, outstanding photography opportunities, warm family hospitality, delicious cuisine, and beautiful views of the surrounding coffee-growing landscapes, Tinamú is considered one of the region’s premier birding destinations.

Throughout the day, we will have ample opportunities to observe and photograph a remarkable variety of species, including Steely-vented Hummingbird, Western Emerald, White-necked Jacobin, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, White-vented Plumeleteer, Green, Rufous-breasted and Stripe-throated Hermits, Black-throated Mango, Clay-colored Thrush, Andean Motmot, Thick-billed Euphonia, Crimson-rumped Tanager, Colombian Chachalaca, and many others.

Tinamú’s conservation story began more than 40 years ago when the Londoño Jaramillo family transformed former coffee and banana plantations into a thriving semi-natural forest through the planting of native trees. Over time, this restoration effort created a haven for wildlife and an important refuge within a landscape.

Located in the department of Caldas, just 30 minutes from Manizales, Tinamú Birding Nature Reserve protects 11 hectares of tropical forest within Colombia’s renowned Coffee Cultural Landscape, at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,300 meters (3,900–4,300 ft). The reserve supports more than 260 bird species, along with a rich diversity of mammals, reptiles, butterflies, and plant life. Visitors can explore over 3 km of private trails, enjoy excellent birdwatching from the gardens and feeders, and experience the comfort of the lodge’s bird-themed accommodations and traditional Colombian cuisine.

Overnight at Hacienda Venecia. (B, L, D)

Today we depart for Hacienda El Bosque, one of the most rewarding birding destinations in the Colombian Andes. Nestled on the humid western slopes of the Andes and surrounded by pristine cloud forest, high-elevation shrublands, and patches of Polylepis woodland, this remarkable reserve protects a rich mosaic of habitats that support an exceptional diversity of Andean birdlife. Upon arrival, we will meet our local guide and begin exploring the reserve in search of some of the region’s most sought-after species.

Our first stop is a roadside feeder that often attracts species such as Crested Caracara and other highland birds. From there, we descend along a short trail to reach one of the reserve’s famous antpitta feeding stations, where we hope to observe the highly coveted Equatorial Antpitta, along with White-browed Spinetail, Gray-browed Brushfinch, and a variety of other cloud forest specialists.

We will also spend time at the hummingbird feeders, which provide outstanding opportunities to observe and photograph species such as Sparkling Violetear, Shining Sunbeam, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Mountain Velvetbreast, and several other high-Andean hummingbirds. Continuing through the reserve, we visit a second antpitta feeding station where, with some luck, we may encounter the elusive Crescent-faced Antpitta. Other species frequently recorded in the area include Yellow-bellied Chat-Tyrant, Mountain Wren, Northern Slaty Brushfinch, Black-capped Hemispingus, Blue-and-black Tanager, and Blue-backed Conebill.

Throughout the day, we will explore additional birding sites within the reserve and surrounding forests in search of specialties such as Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan, White-throated Quail-Dove, Blue-capped Tanager, Lacrimose Mountain-Tanager, and numerous other Andean species. Overnight at Hacienda El Bosque. (B, L, D)

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. Accommodation at Termales del Ruiz Hotel. (B, L, D)

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 we will drive two hours to Pereira Airport to take your scheduled flight home. (B)