Colombia – Bird Photo Tour

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About the Tour

This 9-day custom birding tour in Colombia is specially designed for photographers interested in bird photography. Throughout the journey, you’ll visit a variety of ecosystems ideal for capturing unique images of endemic and exotic species such as the Yellow-eared Parrot (Ognorhynchus icterotis), Crescent-faced Antpitta (Grallaricula lineifrons), Black-billed Mountain-Toucan (Andigena nigrirostris), and Rainbow-bearded Thornbill (Chalcostigma herrani). The itinerary combines immersive nature experiences with comfortable accommodations and specialized multi-flash photography sessions for hummingbirds.

The trip concludes with a transfer to Matecaña International Airport in Pereira, offering a complete bird photography and ecotourism experience in Colombia.

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Date

All year

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Activity level

Easy - Medium

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Available spaces

Since 1 person

Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival to Bogota - Colombia

Arrival in Bogotá (Aeropuerto Internacional El Dorado).

At night we will have a welcome dinner, during which we will meet all the participants; then we will have a short meeting in which we will report on the activities of the following days.

Hotel: GHL 93

Day 2 | Bosque Guajira

Today we will go to the Guajira Forest in search of some endemic species of hummingbirds, Amethyst-throated Sunangel, Glowing Puffleg, Blue throated Starfrontlet, Great Sapphirewing, green tailed and Black-tailed Trainbearer,

Campo Tangara: Golden-bellied Starfrontlet y otras especies similares del Bosque Guajira. As well as the possibility of seeing the orange morph of the Flame-faced Tanager.

Hotel: GHL 94

Day 3 - 4 | Cajamarca

After breakfast, we will go to Cajamarca, in search of another main target of the trip, the Yellow eared Parrot (Ognorhynchus icterotis) the bird feeders in the private reserve, where there are great chances of observing Tolima Blossomcrown (Tolima Blossomcrown) y Yellow-headed Brushfinch (Yellow-headed brushfinch), endemic species that frequently visit the gardens of the place.

Once we arrive at the place, and if it is not too late, we will have the opportunity to visit a reserve of “Palmas de Cera” trees, which are nesting places for parrots.

Likewise, we will have the opportunity to do multi-flash photographs of very beautiful hummingbirds in the area (Optional).

Depending on the success of the day before, we will visit again, early in the morning, the private reserve of “Palmas de Cera” trees in search of the Yellow-eared Parrot (Ognorhynchus icterotis).

Then we will go in search of another species of parrot. Or we can go to the bird feeders in the private reserve, where there are great chances of observing Tolima Blossomcrown (Tolima Blossomcrown) y Yellow-headed Brushfinch (Yellow-headed brushfinch), endemic species that frequently visit the gardens of the place.

Hotel: Urapanes del Bosque

Day 5 | Manizales Highlands

After breakfast we will leave to outskirts of Manizales.

Once we arrive at the reserve, we will enjoy the company of hummingbirds in a full multi-flash day. With a nice cup of coffee and surrounded by the forest, we will be able to photograph the Steely-vented Hummingbird (Steely-vented hummingbird), Western Emerald (Chlorostilbon melanorhynchus), White- necked Jacobin (Florisuga mellivora), Rufous tailed Hummingbird (Rufous-tailed hummingbird), White-vented Plumeleteer (Chalybura buffonii), Green hermit (Phaethornis guy), Black-throated Mango (Anthracothorax nigricollis), among others.

This beautiful dry forest, the perfect setting for a nature lover, offers us a great variety of species of birds that arrive at their feeders, among which we can observe and photograph the Clay- coloured Thrush (Mirlo pardo), Andean Motmot, (Momotus aequatorialis) Thick-billed Euphonia (Euphonia laniirostris), Crimson-rumped Tanager (Ramphocelus passerinii), Acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus), Bay headed tanager (Tangara gyrola), Blue-necked tanager (Stilpnia cyanicollis), Crimson-backed tanager (Ramphocelus dimidiatus), Scrub tanager (Stilpnia vitriolina), Blue gray tanager (Thraupis episcopus), Guira tanager (Hemithraupis guira), Red crowned woodpecker (Melanerpes rubricapillus), among others.

Additionally, when the lek activity is high, it is possible to approach to take good photographs of the Golden-collared Manakin (Manacus vitellinus).

Hotel: Hotel Carretero

Day 6 | Hacienda el Bosque full day

This day we will visit a huge ranch with bird feeders, and one of its main attractions is to photograph the Crescent-faced antpitta (Grallaricula lineifrons) and Rufous antpitta (Grallaria rufula) while they are being fed.

Also, we will have great opportunities to photograph the Grey Breasted Mountain Toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), Barred fruiteater (Pipreola arcuata), Golden-fronted whitestart (Myioborus ornatus), Rufous- breasted chat tyrant (Ochthoeca rufipectoralis), and the largest tanager of all, the Hooded Mountain-Tanager (Buthraupis montana).

In the afternoon we will do hummingbirds photography, which includes the famous Sword billed

Hotel: Hotel Carretero

Day 7 | Rio Blanco

This day we will get up very early to go to the high lands of cloud forests, where there is one of the places with an excellent opportunity to see and photograph several exotic birds, including the iconic Black-billed Mountain-Toucan (Andigena nigrirostris).  Lesser Violetear (Colibri cyanotus), Sparkling Violetear (Sparkling Violetear), Tourmaline sunangel (Heliangelus exortis), Long tailed sylph (Aglaiocercus kingii), Tyrian metaltail (Metallura tyrianthina), Black thighed puffleg (Eriocnemis derbyi), Shining Sunbeam (Aglaeactis cupripennis), Collared Inca (Coeligena torquata), Buff winged starfrontlet (Coeligena lutetiae), Mountain velvetbreast (Lafresnaya lafresnayi), Bicolored Antpitta (Grallaria rufocinerea).

In the afternoon/evenin we will go to our hotel in Manizales.

Hotel: Hotel Carretero

Day 8 | Termales del Ruiz

In the morning we will go to a reserve located in the high Andean forests, near to the ”Natural Los Nevados National Park “. Here the goal will be to see and photograph the Southern Emerald-Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus albivitta). Although it is rare to see it, on this place we have a good chance of seeing it.

In the afternoon we will go to our hotel located at 3,400 m.a.s.l. This lodge is located in a privileged place that combines natural hot springs pools with a pleasant place for bird watching and photography.

Here, in the hotel feeders, we can photograph and enjoy the sighting of wonderful birds such as, el Black thighed and Golden-breasted puffleg (Eriocnemis mosquera), Great sapphirewing (Pterophanes cyanopterus), Buff-winged Starfrontlet (Coeligena lutetiae), Collared Inca (Coeligena torquata),Mountain Velvetbreast (Lafresnaya lafresnayi); and, if we are very lucky, the magnificent Rainbow-bearded Thornbill (Chalcostigma herrani).

Hotel: Hotel Carretero

Day 9 | Departure day

After a good night’s rest and a delicious breakfast we will be ready to go

back home

Note: It is important to check flight departure times and arrive at the

airport in good time.

Airport: Matecaña International Airport, located in Pereira city

Featured sightings

USD

Included

All accommodation.

– All meals (except dinner day 1)

– Expert photographer guide.

– Private transportation.

– Multi-flash.

– Reserves fee.

Not included

– National and International air tickets and airport taxes.

– Additional nights.

– Alcoholic beverages, snacks and beverages that are not part of the meals.

– Laundry service.

– Personal expenses.

– Travel insurance (we recommend having one)

– Tips.

– Any other service not specified in the document.

General tips

For a better experience, it is important to know a couple of factors which will facilitate your stay in Colombia:

  • If you’d like to take home a couple of souvenirs, we recommend bringing a little extra cash in order to acquire these at the different locations we will be staying at (Local currency is the Colombian peso). We recommend exchanging around USD 200, or equivalent in your local currency, at the airport. Any other expense we recommend payments by credit card.
  • Mosquito repellent.
  • Sunblock.
  • Hats.
  • Flashlight (a headlamp is preferable).
  • Bags to store wet clothes.
  • Water bottle.
  • Trekking shoes.
  • Warm clothes for the Andes area.

Photographic equipment

As photographers, we know how difficult it is to decide how much equipment to take on trips, as we always want to take all of our equipment with us so that we can take advantage of our experiences. Here is a list of equipment we recommend bringing:

  • Wide angle lens
  • Zoom lens, range 100-600
  • Equipment protector for the rain
  • Tripod
  • Flash
  • Batteries
  • Battery chargers
  • Cleaning equipment
  • Plug adaptor

Clothing

We will experience two types of climates.

In the first part of the trip, Cali – Valle del Cauca, we will have a mild climate.

On the second route, Manizales – Caldas, there will be cold currents, so it is important to wear warm and waterproof clothing.

Expert Photo/Birding Guide

tour leader

At Photo Wildlife Tours, we ensure that we work with the best local guides—experts in species identification, photography, and customer service. Our guides are carefully selected for their extensive knowledge and experience, guaranteeing a unique, educational, and memorable experience.

We also promote an ethic of respect and kindness toward animals, ensuring that all our tours are conducted responsibly and with environmental awareness.

With us, you can trust that you will be accompanied by professionals committed to quality, conservation, and the full enjoyment of nature.

Do you need more information?

"One amazing experience, Jaime and Daniel are exceptional teachers, they take care of all details and make the time so enjoyable. 
I was travel from another country and even when was my responsibility before the workshop all the logistic, Daniel took care of recommendations and all information worthy for the staying. 
They create this immediate atmosphere of friendship that I appreciate a lot. 
The places they choose where to show us, are awesome, the people they work with stick to their mission of conservation, teaching and sustainable development. 
I can’t wait to take another adventure with them."
Ana Loáiciga Costa Rica
"I first met Jaime when he guided my group in the Amazon in 2015. The experience and the amount we learned was phenomenal. Jaime’s knowledge and enthusiasm when it comes to conservation shows in every part of the experience. He is able to display the perfect balance between education and adventure. I would recommend his services and I hope to be able to experience his unique way of showing you South America again."
Blake Freeman Canada
"While co-leading a personalized trip to Yasuni, Jaime was extremely friendly and enthusiastic, enhancing the trip with his attitude almost as much as by all the snakes (and occasional caimans) he found for me, despite less than ideal weather. We’ve remained friends for the three years, and I’m keen to join Jaime on future adventures and take even more advantage of his knowledge of Ecuador’s species and his skills as a photography teacher, as the Yasuni trip allowed me to take some of the best reptile and amphibian photos I’d obtained in over a decade as both a herpetologist and a photographer."
Phil Bowles England
"Jaime you were the best field guide we could ever have asked for and you made the experience very memorable, comedic and insightful. We learned many things about the reptiles and amphibians of the jungle. You were great!!
"
Gioby Suero USA
"Photo wildlife tours transformed my trip to Ecuador from a cool trip to an unforgettable photography experience. I spent my first few days in Ecuador with various other tour guides and companies, and while I got good pictures with them, it was not until meant Daniel for my photo wildlife tour that I realized how incredible his tours were. I was able to get up close and personal with birds and other animals in ways that I could have only dreamed of previously. I was no longer shooting through tree canopy’s for washed out pictures of birds, instead I was taking the most gorgeous pictures I have taken in my entire life! The accommodations were well above my expectations, and the food was fantastic! I do not think I will ever book a photography trip with any other company if possible. Daniel not only helped me improve my wildlife photography technique, but he spotted for me so I never missed a shot, and helped me gain a better understanding of how to capture the best pictures possible. I cannot recommend his tours enough. He was able to tailor my experience to exactly what I wanted out of my time in Ecuador."
David Baydush USA
"Daniel from Photo Wildlife Tours plans the perfect trips, with incredible attention to detail offering the best services available. Searching for the top local guides for maximizing the opportunities of great photos, as well as offering the best lodging and meal options. The trip couldn’t have been better, if you’re an avid photographer searching for intense days packed with activity this is your best choice (bring plenty of storage 😂)"
Lior Berman Costa Rica
"Amazing with amazing people. I love this trip, everything was wonderful."
Sebastian Valverde Ecuador
"Very enjoyable trip photographing stunning birds in Colombia. Our guide Daniel was superb. He made great efforts to get me in the right place to get the pictures I wanted. He 'focussed' on me, not his own photography.He was also very helpful with my wife who is not a photographer. I am sure that I will travel with him again. 5star!"
Philip Marazzi UK
"This trip was amazing. So much wildlife and a extremely knowledgeable and fun loving guide! Can't wait to book our next tour with Jaime!"
Matthew Kirby USA
"I had a good time. The lodging was great as well as all of the food provided. Javier was knowledgeable and very helpful. He was able to provide us with plenty of locations to photograph a great number of birds. I would recommend this trip for anyone interested in bird photography."
Ona G USA
"We were very happy to work with Carlos as our guide. He is a highly competent guide and adapted to our needs, helping us get the best possible photos. We truly appreciate his willingness to adjust the plan to suit us, and I would certainly be happy to work with him again. The driver, Louis, is excellent — he prioritizes safety and drives very carefully on difficult roads. We never had any incidents. Carlos and Louis make a great team, and we had a lot of fun at the end of the day."
Teng Ma China
"Overall it was a great trip and we all got some great photos at the end and also learnt a lot from the trip, that will make our next trip better."
Junan Chen USA
"Very knowledgeable tour guide and great driver too. We saw everything we wanted including watching the condors from above which was awesome."
Xu Liqing USA
"Overall, the tour met the stated goals of finding and photographing birds, reptiles, and mammals in Ecuador. Our guide, Daniel, is an expert on Ecuadorian wildlife and knew the answers to any questions we asked. He is also very knowledgeable about the photographic aspect of the tour, including equipment, setup, and preparing guests for animal behavior, angles, and settings to achieve the best shots. My main desire was to create beautiful images, not just documentary photos, and Daniel proved to be an excellent teacher with great personal talent. He is also a very nice person with a great personality, sense of humor, and deep knowledge of his subjects. Safety was always paramount throughout the tour, whether photographing a viper or standing on a cliff to photograph the condor. Daniel did an excellent job tying together all the elements of a great photographic wildlife tour, and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a wildlife photography adventure in Ecuador."
Carl Waxman USA
"If it is a very memorable trip to shoot birds in Ecuador, I hope the next arrangement will be better! The bird guide Carlos is very professional and patient, thank you very much!"
Yuying Zhu China
"Very knowledgeable tour guide and great driver too. We saw everything we wanted including watching the condors from above which was awesome."
Wang Jun China
"Sebas really taught me a lot about photographing animals. It was very obvious from the beginning that he knew he wanted me to get better at shooting in full manual mode and he was very good at explaining the different aspects of photography. As a teacher myself I was very impressed with how he didn’t just tell me what to do to improve my photos, he guided me to figure it out for myself how to get more impressive photos."
Bert Austin UK
"I was on a 12 nights herping tour with herpetologist Jaime Culebras. I enjoyed every single part of the trip. Ecuador is an amazing biodiverse country. Jaime was a very respectful guide for both me and all the reptiles and amphibians we found. The food was so tasty. I visited Yasuni NP, Mindo and Canandé Reserve - all of this places were beyond my expectations. After that tour I can highly recommend Photo Wildlife Tours. I booked a new tour already. Can‘t wait to go…"
Daniel Doll Germany
"I traveled to Ecuador and saw more birds than I expected with photowildlifetours and Diche Mideros. Highly recommended."
Lenny Ferguson USA
"I had a wonderful photography tour to Chile and Brazil organized by Photo Wildlife Tours, led by Daniel Mideros. Every aspect of the trip was very thoughtfully planned and executed to optimize my time there. Daniel worked extra hard to ensure that I got the best sighting and great photographic opportunities. He also gives immense support on the field on both technical side of photography as well as post processing and presentation. I got a lot out of this tour, which will help me in my own journey of photography."
Kriti Waila Dubái