Colombia: Birding from Bogota to the Andes

Home to more bird species than any other country on Earth, Colombia is a birder’s paradise. Nearly 2,000 species—about 20 percent of the world’s total—can be found within its borders, from the Caribbean coast to the snowcapped peaks of the Andes. This astonishing diversity reflects Colombia’s wide range of habitats, from lush tropical rainforests and misty cloud forests to sunlit páramos and fertile valleys alive with sound and color.

Our journey focuses on the Andean region, where vibrant tanagers, jewel-like hummingbirds, and shy antpittas inhabit the highland forests and valleys. Along the way, we’ll also keep watch for other wildlife—from playful monkeys to the elusive spectacled bear—and enjoy the warm hospitality that makes Colombia so memorable.

Traveling in December offers a welcome escape from winter in the Northern Hemisphere, trading snow and cold for the soft air and green abundance of the tropics. Guided by an expert local naturalist and accompanied by a Denver-based host, we’ll explore a selection of Colombia’s most celebrated reserves and national parks—each revealing a different facet of the country’s incredible biodiversity.

Join Denver Audubon and Reefs to Rockies on this unforgettable small-group adventure through the heart of Colombia—an experience that blends exceptional birding, inspiring conservation stories, and the pure joy of being immersed in one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

ITINERARY

Day 1 (Mon., Nov. 30): Arrival in Bogotá ~ Welcome to Colombia! ~ Upon arrival at El Dorado International Airport (BOG), you’ll be met and transferred to our nearby hotel. After time to settle in, we’ll gather for dinner and orientation, setting the stage for our upcoming exploration of Colombia’s rich natural wonders.
Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 (Tues., Dec. 1): Chingaza National Park & El Zoque Reserve ~ Today we venture into Chingaza National Park, a breathtaking landscape just 1.5 hours from Bogotá. Stretching from Andean foothills to windswept peaks, the park protects the unique páramo ecosystem—a world of mosses, frailejones, and crisp mountain air. Amid this dramatic scenery, we’ll search for high-elevation specialties and, with luck, the elusive spectacled bear, the only bear species native to South America. We’ll also visit El Zoque Nature Reserve, a nearby conservation area bridging high-Andean forest and páramo. Its network of trails and native plant restoration projects offers a wonderful introduction to Colombia’s biodiversity and conservation efforts. Expect a rich variety of birdlife, from dazzling hummingbirds to mixed flocks of colorful songbirds.
Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3 (Wed., Dec. 2): Wetlands, Lakes & Transfer to Puerto Triunfo ~ This morning we explore La Florida Park, a remnant wetland in the heart of Bogotá that provides a haven for waterfowl and other species adapted to high-altitude marshes. It’s a delightful place to observe local and migratory birds while learning about urban conservation in Colombia’s capital. Later, we continue to Tabacal Lake, surrounded by montane forest alive with tropical sounds. A stroll along the lakeside trails reveals a blend of Andean and lowland species—tanagers, wrens, and flycatchers among them. By afternoon, we make our way to Puerto Triunfo and our comfortable eco-lodge, set amid forest and gardens—a lovely base for the next two nights.
Accommodations: Los Colores Ecopark
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4 (Thurs., Dec. 3): Río Claro Nature Reserve ~ Rainforest & River Life ~ Today we immerse ourselves in the beauty of Río Claro Nature Reserve, a private sanctuary nestled along the Claro River in the heart of the Magdalena Valley. Limestone cliffs and tropical rainforest create an enchanting backdrop for birding and wildlife watching. The reserve harbors a remarkable mix of species, from trogons and puffbirds to a host of tropical passerines. It’s also home to mammals such as the White-footed Tamarin and Neotropical Otter. Between forest walks, we’ll pause to admire the turquoise river winding through the canyon—a perfect place to experience Colombia’s natural serenity.
Accommodations: Los Colores Ecopark
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5 (Fri., Dec. 4): Río Claro to Los Nevados National Park ~ After a final morning of birding in Río Claro, we journey into the Central Andes toward Los Nevados National Natural Park. The transition from lowland forest to high-elevation páramo reveals Colombia’s striking range of ecosystems. Our destination, Termales del Ruiz, combines breathtaking mountain scenery with natural hot springs and excellent birding right outside the door—perfect for unwinding after a day on the road.
Accommodations: Termales del Ruiz
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6 (Sat., Dec. 5): Los Nevados & Hacienda El Bosque ~ This morning we’ll explore the trails and feeders around Los Nevados National Park, surrounded by snowcapped volcanoes and windswept páramos. Here, hummingbirds glitter in the cool mountain light, and the landscape feels like another world altogether. In the afternoon, we visit Hacienda El Bosque, a working farm turned birding haven renowned for its excellent feeders and conservation focus. High-Andean specialties are the stars here, and the setting—pastures blending seamlessly into native forest—offers unforgettable scenery.
Accommodations: Termales del Ruiz
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7 (Sun., Dec. 6): Owl’s Watch Reserve & Transfer to Otún Quimbaya ~ Just outside Manizales, Owl’s Watch is a conservation project protecting 80 hectares of cloud forest. Its trails and research areas provide opportunities to see a wide range of forest birds—and, with luck, some of Colombia’s most sought-after nocturnal species. Beyond birding, Owl’s Watch showcases inspiring community-based conservation in action. Afterward, we continue to Otún Quimbaya, arriving at our charming lodge nestled amid lush Andean forest.
Accommodations: Mandalay 1941
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 8 (Mon., Dec. 7): Otún Quimbaya Fauna and Flora Sanctuary ~ We spend the day exploring the Otún Quimbaya Sanctuary, a model of community-led conservation that protects a vital watershed and corridor between Los Nevados and lower Andean forests. Trails wind through a landscape alive with the calls of tanagers, toucanets, and howler monkeys. This region is as rich in mammals as it is in birds, with chances to spot Mountain Tapir or Crab-eating Fox. It’s a fitting finale to our Colombian adventure—a celebration of the country’s diversity, beauty, and commitment to protecting its natural treasures.
Accommodations: Mandalay 1941
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 9 (Tues., Dec. 8): Departures from Pereira ~ After breakfast, transfer to Matecaña International Airport in Pereira (PEI) for international departures home. Bid farewell to the Andes and to the warmth and wonder of Colombia—until next time.

Meals: Breakfast

DETAILS

Price: $4550* per person based on double occupancy accommodations (two people sharing a room). If you prefer private accommodations on single occupancy basis, add $530*.

Includes: accommodations; airport transfers on arrival and departure days; in-country ground transportation; local professional bilingual birding and wildlife guide; trip host from Denver Audubon; all meals starting with dinner on Day 1 though breakfast on Day 9; $0 trip cost travel insurance policy; and activities and entrance fees as listed. A donation to support Denver Audubon will be made on behalf of all participants.

Excludes: flights (Reefs to Rockies will assist with flight arrangements); passport/visa fees; room upgrades; upgraded travel insurance with trip cancellation and interruption benefits (available at a pro-rated cost); optional activities; alcoholic drinks; pre- and post- hotel stays; personal expenses; laundry; and gratuities.

*Price is based on payment by check or ACH. Credit card fees, if applicable, will be assessed at time of payment based on card used.

**If you are a solo traveler hoping to share accommodations, we’ll do our best to pair you. If we’re not able to find you a suitable roommate, the private room supplement will apply.

Group Size: Min 6, Max 9 + Denver Audubon Host + Local Guide

Level of Difficulty – Easy to Moderate. Participants should be comfortable walking on unpaved or dirt trails at a relaxed pace, sometimes with gentle gradients or uneven footing. Daily walks are generally easy, though activity may feel more strenuous at certain sites reaching elevations up to 12,000 feet.

 Important Information: Itinerary has been built to allow flexibility to accommodate activities and sightseeing. Every effort will be made to carry out all activities as planned and advertised; however, trip leaders reserve the right to make alterations, deletions, or modifications to the itinerary deemed necessary due to circumstances beyond their control.

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