Cundinamarca · Coffee Triangle · Valle del Cauca
Bogotá, Coffee Region & Cauca Valley
Our flagship 18-day journey through the heart of Colombia — from the páramos of the Andes to the cloud forests of the Pacific slope and the wetlands of Bogotá.
Duration
18 days
Best season
Year-round
Group
2-10 pax
The expedition
Your adventure begins in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Region, where mist drapes the mountains at dawn, and the cloud forests stretch like an emerald sea beneath the Andean sky. Here, amidst moss-covered trees and wild orchids, the sounds of nature signal the start of each day. As you walk along the cool trails of the páramo, the grayish-blue silhouette of a Mountain-Toucan emerges from the foliage, while a fleeting purple flash reveals the presence of a Thornbill. In the open clearings, the striking hues of the Mountain Tanager stand out against the endless landscape. After a morning of breathtaking birdwatching, a table awaits with the rich aroma of the world's finest coffee and a feast of local delicacies—golden arepas, fresh trout, and sweet guava treats that delight the senses.
The journey then descends into the Cauca Valley, where the climate grows warmer, and the vegetation shifts dramatically. In this transitional landscape, humid forests and hidden ravines set the stage for one of nature's most spectacular displays—the courtship ritual of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock. With its blazing plumage and energetic dance, this iconic bird transforms birdwatching into a living spectacle. Deeper into the jungle, the exotic calls of the Toucan Barbet echo through lichen-covered trees, while the shimmering Glistening-green Tanagers sparkle like living emeralds high in the canopy. Between expeditions, moments of rest are accompanied by fresh tropical juices and exquisite regional dishes—flavorful tamales, crispy empanadas, and the refreshing sweetness of a lulada, a local specialty perfect for cooling down before the next adventure.
Finally, Bogotá welcomes travelers with its crisp air and breathtaking Andean highlands. Here, among mountains that seem to touch the sky, the high-altitude forests hide true avian treasures. The Flame-faced Tanager dazzles with its brilliant palette of colors, while the Golden-winged Manakin flits nimbly through the undergrowth, challenging even the sharpest eyes. In the quiet of the forest, the subtle beauty of the Fawn-breasted Tanager adds a delicate final touch to this unforgettable journey. And after a day of exploration, the capital invites you to savor its culinary delights—a steaming bowl of ajiaco or a tray of traditional Andean desserts, paired with a warm canelazo to toast to the wonders this adventure has unveiled.
Target highlights
Mountain Toucan
Andean Cock-of-the-rock
Toucan Barbet
Flame-faced Tanager
Golden-bellied Starfrontlet
Day by day
The route, unfolded.
Day 01
Arrival in Bogotá: Welcome to Colombia
Upon your arrival at El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogotá, the team, consisting of one of our drivers and a professional birding guide, will be ready to welcome you to Colombia. From the airport, you will be transferred to Hotel Habitel Select, located just a few minutes away.
Upon arrival at Hotel Habitel Select, you will enjoy a delicious lunch. Our guide will provide an introduction to the tour, outlining the locations you will visit and the bird species you may encounter, keeping in mind that sightings depend on nature's generosity. In the evening, you will dine and stay overnight at the hotel, allowing you to rest and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Day 02
Journey to the Coffee Region: From Bogotá to Manizales
Early in the morning, you will depart from Hotel Habitel Select and head directly to El Dorado International Airport to catch your flight to Pereira, in Colombia's renowned coffee region. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting to welcome you and begin the journey to Manizales, the central hub of our tour in the coffee region. You will be staying at Hotel Quo Quality.
Day 03
Exploring Rio Blanco Nature Reserve
Your day begins early with a departure from Hotel Quo Quality to the Rio Blanco Nature Reserve, a short 20-minute drive away. Located just 3 km from Manizales, Rio Blanco is an ideal spot for bird photography, boasting 4,932 hectares of cloud forest ranging from 2,150 to 3,700 meters above sea level. This reserve plays a crucial role in conserving the water supply for Manizales' residents and has historically recorded up to 517 bird species.
During your visit, you will explore ecological trails equipped with bird feeders attracting antpittas such as Grallaria milleri, Grallaria rufocinerea, and Grallaria ruficapilla. Breakfast and lunch will be enjoyed within the reserve, providing ample opportunities for photography amidst stunning natural backdrops. In the afternoon, you will return to Hotel Quo Quality in Manizales for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 04
Hacienda El Bosque: A Birdwatcher's Paradise
On this exciting day, you will embark early in the morning from Hotel Quo Quality to Hacienda El Bosque, one of the premier birding sites in Colombia's coffee region. Here, you'll have the opportunity to spotting stunning species, including the Grallaricula lineifrons, Ensifera ensifera, Buthraupis montana, and many more, with a remarkable record of up to 314 bird species documented in this area.
Breakfast and lunch will be served at Hacienda El Bosque, allowing you to savor the local flavors while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. In the afternoon, you'll return to Hotel Quo Quality for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 05
Bird Photography at Glamping El Color de mis Rêves
Early in the morning, you will depart from Manizales to visit Glamping El Color de mis Rêves, located in Villamaría, Caldas. This unique glamping site offers an exceptional bird photography experience, with more than 90 bird species thriving in its serene forest ecosystem. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature and capture stunning images of vibrant birdlife.
In the afternoon, you will return to Hotel Quo Quality for an evening of rest and relaxation.
Day 06
Birding in Laguna Negra and Brisas Zone (Los Nevados National Park)
This day will start with an early departure from Hotel Quo Quality to Los Nevados National Park, where you'll visit two key birding hotspots. The first stop will be Laguna Negra, where you can observe species such as Cinclodes excelsior, Oxyura ferruginea andina, Anas andium andium, Catamenia homochroa, and Asthenes flammulata. The second stop will be the Brisas zone, known for birds like Atlapetes pallidinucha, the stunning Oxypogon stuebelii (a highlight), Geranoaetus melanoleucus, Ochthoeca fumicolor, and Asthenes flammulata.
After birding in Los Nevados National Park, we will embark on a scenic 5-hour journey to La Araucana Lodge.
Day 07
La Florida and Bosque de Niebla: A Photographic Adventure
On this day, you will depart early from La Araucana Lodge to visit La Florida, one of the premier bird photography locations in the Cauca Valley. Here, you will have the opportunity to photograph special birds, including the endemic Chlorochrysa nitidissima, as well as unique species like Saltator atripennis, Crypturellus soui, Atlapetes albinucha, Chalcothraupis ruficervix, Zentrygon frenata, Odontophorus hyperythrus, Eubucco bourcierii, and Tangara xanthocephala. More than 360 bird species have been recorded at La Florida, and you will enjoy breakfast during your visit.
Afterward, you will head to Bosque de Niebla Birding and Nature for lunch. This location provides excellent opportunities to photograph hummingbirds in optimal lighting and background conditions. Species you may encounter include Coeligena coeligena, Ocreatus underwoodii, Heliodoxa rubinoides, Uranomitra franciae, and other birds such as Tangara nigroviridis, Masius chrysopterus, Cyanocorax yncas, and many more.
In the afternoon, you will return to La Araucana Lodge for dinner and relaxation after a fulfilling day of birdwatching.
Day 08
Exploring the Cloud Forest: Birding in San Antonio & Km 18
On this day, you will visit the San Antonio Cloud Forest, home to an impressive 358 recorded bird species. Birdwatching will take place along the roadside, allowing you to observe a variety of species in their natural habitat.
Later, you will return to Kilometer 18, but this time focusing on birding along the road rather than at feeders. This approach will provide the opportunity to spot more elusive and different species from the previous day.
In the afternoon, you will return to La Araucana Lodge for a well-deserved rest.
Day 09
Birdwatching at Finca Doña Dora
The day begins early with a departure from La Araucana Lodge to Finca Doña Dora, located in El Queremal. This site is a favorite among local and international birders, thanks to its large ficus tree that attracts numerous bird species when fruiting. At Finca Doña Dora, you can observe a wide range of birds, from tanagers and toucanets to Torrent Ducks and the Barred Hawk.
We will depart from La Araucana before dawn, allowing us to arrive in time to begin the descent to the hide at 5:00 a.m. This walk takes us through the forest along a well-marked and adapted trail. As the sun begins to rise, we will reach the hide, where we can observe the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock from just one or two meters away. After this incredible experience, we will return to the main house for breakfast and continue birdwatching as various species visit the feeders.
The finca also tells an inspiring story of perseverance and dedication, featuring stunning bird murals painted by tourism agencies and international birders. After a day filled with birdwatching, you will be transferred to La Huerta Hotel, located in Calima.
Day 10
Birdwatching in Yotoco Forest Reserve
Your day begins early with a departure from Hotel La Huerta to the Yotoco Forest Reserve, a protected area managed by the National University of Colombia since 1959. Spanning 559 hectares, Yotoco boasts one of Colombia's highest biodiversities, home to over 350 bird species, including the Cauca Guan, as well as howler monkeys, armadillos, various orchids, and more. This reserve serves as a research hub for scientists, researchers, educators, and students alike.
After a morning of birdwatching, you will return to Hotel La Huerta for lunch. The afternoon offers flexibility—you can choose to continue exploring the hotel's trails in search of more birds, relax, organize your photos, or back up your photographs. Dinner and overnight accommodations will again be at Hotel La Huerta.
Day 11
Exploring the Río Bravo Reserve
After a restful night at La Huerta Hotel, you will head out to the Río Bravo Reserve, a critical conservation area that hosts 522 bird species, including endangered ones such as the Crested Eagle (Spizaetus isidori) and the Guacharaca (Penelope ortoni). The reserve's rich ecosystems are also home to 105 mammal species, 56 amphibian species, and 59 reptile species, many of which are also at risk.
During your visit, you will have the opportunity to observe an impressive array of birdlife in one of Colombia's most ecologically diverse regions. After the excursion, you will return to Hotel La Huerta for lunch. The afternoon is free for you to relax or continue birdwatching on the hotel's grounds. Dinner and accommodations will be provided at La Huerta once again.
Day 12
Discovering Laguna de Sonso: A Wetland Paradise
Today, you will depart from Hotel La Huerta and head towards the Laguna de Sonso, approximately a 35-minute drive away. Here, you will have breakfast and lunch at the Horned Screamer Research Center. The Sonso Lagoon is the main wetland in the Cauca River floodplain and is renowned for its high concentration of resident and migratory birds, including species such as the Horned Screamer.
The terrestrial exploration of the lagoon will allow you to observe a variety of wetland and shoreline bird species in their natural habitat. The Sonso Lagoon also serves as a regulatory basin for the Cauca River's floods and is the last substantial remnant of the native lagoon ecosystem in the Valle del Cauca, supporting various local communities.
After your morning of birdwatching, you will return to Hotel La Huerta.
Day 13
Transition to Bogotá: From Cali to the Next Adventure
On this day, you will travel from La Huerta Hotel directly to Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport in Cali to catch your connecting flight to Bogotá, where your tour will continue. Upon arrival in Bogotá, accompanied by our guide, another driver will be waiting to take you back to Hotel Habitel Select. There, you will have time to rest and prepare for the next day's adventures.
Day 14
Hummingbird Photography at Observatorio de Colibríes
Early in the morning, you will depart from the hotel to visit the Observatorio de Colibríes in La Calera, a prime location for hummingbird observation and photography. Here, you will have the chance to see and capture stunning species such as the Blue-throated Starfrontlet (Coeligena helianthea) and the Black-tailed Trainbearer (Lesbia victoriae). With up to 230 bird species recorded in this area, it promises a remarkable birding experience.
In the afternoon, you will return to Hotel Habitel Select to rest and prepare for the next day's activities.
Day 15
La Florida Wetland: Exploring Bogotá's Avian Treasures
On this day, you will visit La Florida Wetland, located near Bogotá's airport, a prime birding site where up to 398 species have been recorded. Here, you will have the opportunity to observe fascinating birds, including the Yellow-hooded Blackbird (Chrysomus icterocephalus bogotensis), a Bogotá-endemic subspecies.
In the afternoon, you will return to Hotel Habitel Select to rest and prepare for the next day's adventures.
Day 16
Birding Expedition to Parque Verde y Agua
On this day, you will travel two hours from Hotel Habitel Select to Parque Verde y Agua, a birding hotspot where more than 300 species have been recorded. The highlight of the day will undoubtedly be the stunning Flame-faced Tanager (Tangara parzudakii), a true showstopper among the region's vibrant birdlife.
In the afternoon, you will return to Hotel Habitel Select to rest and recharge for the next adventure.
Day 17
Final Birding Stop: Monserrate & El Paramuno Trail
On this day, you will visit one of Bogotá's most iconic landmarks, Cerro Monserrate, a scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Beyond its touristic appeal, Monserrate hides a true birding gem—the El Paramuno Trail, where you can spot fascinating species such as the Blue-backed Conebill (Conirostrum sitticolor), Golden-bellied Starfrontlet (Coeligena bonapartei), and Buff-breasted Mountain Tanager (Dubusia taeniata).
This will be the final birding destination of the tour. By midday, you will return to Hotel Habitel Select for lunch, packing, and a well-earned rest before your departure.
Day 18
Farewell & Departure: Until Next Time!
On this day, after breakfast at Hotel Habitel Select, you will depart early for El Dorado International Airport, where you will catch your flight back home.
We sincerely thank you for joining us on this incredible birding journey through Colombia. It has been a pleasure sharing these unforgettable moments with you, exploring the country's breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. We hope to see you again for another adventure in the future! Safe travels and happy birding!
Lodges & accommodations
Where you'll rest.
eBird hotspots
Verified on the route.
- 01Rio Blanco Nature Reserve
- 02Hacienda El Bosque
- 03Laguna Negra (Los Nevados NP)
- 04Brisas Sector (Los Nevados NP)
- 05La Florida (Cauca Valley)
- 06Bosque de Niebla Birding & Nature Reserve (Km 18)
- 07San Antonio Cloud Forest
- 08Kilometer 18 Cloud Forest
- 09Finca Doña Dora
- 10Yotoco Forest Reserve
- 11Río Bravo Reserve
- 12Sonso Lagoon
- 13Observatorio de Colibríes, La Calera
- 14Parque Verde y Agua
- 15El Paramuno Trail (Monserrate)
What's included
The fine print.
Included
- Domestic connecting flights: Bogotá–Pereira and Cali–Bogotá.
- Transportation throughout the tour.
- Accommodation.
- Main meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as stipulated in the itinerary.
- Private transport. Includes 4x4 transportation if necessary.
- Entrance fees to all reserves visited during the tour.
- Travel insurance.
- Professional guide expert in birds.
- Driver.
Not included
- International flights.
- Laundry service. Personal hygiene items.
- Room service.
- Medical expenses that are not covered by the travel insurance granted by us.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Activities not included in the itinerary.
- Extensions in the trip due to events of force majeure or fortuitous event.
- Tips.
Gallery
Scenes from
this expedition.
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, taste delicious Colombian cuisine and live unforgettable adventures in every corner of the country. Are you ready for this magical journey?
Reserve your spot now and join us on the trip of a lifetime! The wildest and most exciting experiences in Colombia await you. Don't let them tell you, be part of the magic!