Colombia Photo Tour

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About the Tour

Recognized as the country with the greatest number of bird species in the world, Colombia is a dream destination for nature photographers.

On this bird photography tour in Colombia, you’ll explore Cali, Manizales, Cajamarca, Los Nevados National Park, and Salento, discovering everything from lush cloud forests to high Andean páramos. Capture toucans, tanagers, quetzals, hummingbirds, and many endemic species in their natural habitats. Experience the ultimate bird photography tour Colombia, where every image reveals the magic of its biodiversity.

Date

November 03th-13th, 2026

Activity level

Moderate

Available spaces

4 spots left

Itinerary

Day 1: Cali arrival day

Arrival in Cali (Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport).

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.

Day 2: Cali highlands

In the morning we will go to a small farm located approximately 45 minutes from Cali. This place is located in the western Andes of Colombia (2,000 m.a.s.l.) and has a list of more than 20 species of hummingbirds, it is also a good place to see various species of tanagers.

At the feeders it is possible to spot up to 30 species of tanagers, including the famous Multicolored Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima), one of the main objectives of this trip!

Also, other species of birds such as flower piercers, honeycreepers, jay, toucans, woodpeckers, etc.

*Note: If the dates coincide with the nesting season of the Ornate hawk-eagle (spizaetus ornatus). Of course we will go there!

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)

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.

In the morning of Day 4, we will head to a special site in the high-elevation cloud forest, where we will focus on photographing one of the most beautiful and sought-after hummingbirds of the Andes: the Rainbow-bearded Thornbill.

This species inhabits higher elevations and, with good light and patience, offers outstanding opportunities to capture its iridescent colors and natural behavior in a stunning Andean setting. This session will be fully photography-oriented, prioritizing angles, clean backgrounds, and soft morning light.

Day 5: Manizales lowlands

In the morning, we will begin our journey by visiting a private cloud forest reserve, where we can find several species of hummingbirds, along with a variety of tanager species. If time allows, we will also set up a multi-flash session to enhance photographic opportunities.

One of the main targets here will be the White-tipped Sicklebill (Eutoxeres aquila), a spectacular hummingbird that offers excellent photographic opportunities due to its behavior and use of natural perches. Another key target is the Tolima Blossomcrown (Anthocephala berlepschi), an endemic hummingbird of the region, along with other endemic species characteristic of this area.

After completing our morning activities, we will continue to a beautiful forest, an ideal setting for nature and photography lovers. This habitat offers a great diversity of bird species that regularly visit the feeders, providing outstanding photographic opportunities. Among the species we may observe and photograph are the Clay-colored 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 many others.

This combination of ecosystems makes the day especially rich in species diversity and photographic potential, allowing us to work with different light conditions, backgrounds, and behaviors throughout the day.

Day 6: Manizales highlands

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). Además podremos ver: 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/evening we will go to our hotel in Manizales.

Day 7: Manizales highlands

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 hummingbird (Ensifera ensifera).

Day 8: Los Nevados

After breakfast we will go to a place located in the paramo area of ” Natural Los Nevados National Park” where it is possible to photograph the endemic Buffy Helmetcrest (Oxypogon stuebelii), which usually approaches the wild flowers of the place; here patience and luck is paramount.

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).

Day 9: To Jardin

After breakfast, we will head towards Antioquia to photograph the legendary Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruvianus), widely regarded as one of the best—if not the best—lekking sites in the world for this iconic species.

This exceptional location is internationally renowned, attracting wildlife photographers from all over the world who travel specifically to experience and photograph this spectacular cotinga in its natural display arena. The lek offers close-range, unobstructed views, allowing us to capture dramatic images of males displaying their vibrant orange plumage, elaborate courtship movements, and dynamic interactions, often under ideal forest lighting conditions.

Thanks to the birds’ regular activity and the careful management of the site, this experience provides outstanding photographic opportunities, making it one of the true highlights of any Andean bird photography expedition and a must-visit destination for those seeking world-class images of this species.

Day 10: To Rio Negro -Medellin

If the previous day was not enough, we will have another opportunity in the morning to continue photographing the iconic Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruvianus), taking advantage of optimal morning light and peak activity at the lek. This additional session allows us to refine compositions and capture more dynamic behavioral moments of this world-famous species.

If the previous day was already excellent, we will instead visit another reserve, where our main target will be the extraordinary Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis)—one of the most unique birds in the world. Famous for being nocturnal, cave-dwelling, and fruit-eating, the Oilbird offers a truly rare photographic opportunity and is a highlight for any serious wildlife photographer.

In the afternoon, with our bags packed, we will begin our journey to Río Negro, where we will overnight in preparation for our flight the following morning.

Day 11: Departure day

After a comfortable night’s rest and a delicious breakfast, we will be ready to begin our journey back home.

Note: It is important to carefully check your flight departure times and ensure you arrive at the airport with sufficient time in advance.

Airport: José María Córdova International Airport (MDE)

Medellin

Featured sightings

Hummingbirds in flight

Birds

USD 4,350

Included

Double accommodation to share.
All meals (except dinner day 1).
Expert photographer guide.
Private transportation.
Multi-flash.
Reserves fee.
Travel insurance (we recommend having one).
Apply supplement for single room.
+ USD: 600

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 three 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.

For our last destination, Jardín – Antioquia, we will have a warm weather, we recommend bringing long pants, shirts or long-sleeved shirts and a lightweight material that help perspire less.

Daniel Mideros

tour leader

He graduated in advertising career at the San Francisco de Quito University.

He worked on his career until 2017, since then he made the decision to live from his passion, nature photography. In the same year he started his own business, Photo Wildlife Tours, in which it is dedicated to wildlife photography tours, and conservation. In addition to other audiovisual projects.

In the year 2022 he became the first Ecuadorian to win a category of Wildlife Photographer of the Year, “Animals in their environment”.

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