
Valle del Cauca
Cauca Valley (Short Trip)
A captivating 5-day birdwatching journey through the vibrant landscapes of Valle del Cauca, from Laguna de Sonso to the cloud forests of San Antonio.
Duration
5 days
Best season
Year-round
Group
2-10 pax
The expedition
Embark on a captivating 5-day birdwatching journey through the vibrant landscapes of Valle del Cauca, where Colombia's natural beauty comes alive at every turn. This tour will take you through some of the region's most remarkable locations, beginning with the peaceful Laguna de Sonso, a sanctuary for aquatic bird species. As you explore its shores, you'll encounter herons, kingfishers, and a variety of waders, all set against the tranquil backdrop of this stunning lagoon.
Next, we head to Doña Dora Birdwatching, a hidden treasure in the Anchicayá sector. Here, you'll immerse yourself in a tropical paradise where species like the Toucan Barbet and Glistening-green Tanager thrive. The vibrant sounds and colors of these unique birds provide an unforgettable experience and exceptional photography opportunities.
The adventure continues into the mystical Bosque de Niebla de San Antonio, where mist rolls through the towering trees of the cloud forest. In this ethereal setting, you'll witness the grace of species such as the Long-tailed Sylph and the Crimson-rumped Toucanet as they glide through the canopy, adding bursts of color to the emerald green surroundings.
Our final stop takes us to Finca Bosque de Niebla Birding and Nature, nestled at kilometer 18 in the Andean highlands. This rich, biodiverse habitat is home to a variety of endemic species, offering an unparalleled opportunity to observe rare birds in their natural environment. The dramatic contrasts of this landscape—rolling hills and misty treetops—create an ideal setting for your birdwatching adventure.
During this journey, you'll stay in carefully selected accommodations designed to enhance your connection to nature. Hotel La Huerta, located in the serene region of Calima, offers a peaceful retreat, while La Araucana Lodge, near kilometer 18, provides a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness immersion. Along the way, you'll savor local cuisine, a rich blend of traditional flavors that reflect the culture and heart of Valle del Cauca.
This 5-day tour is not just about birdwatching; it's a fully immersive experience where nature, culture, and discovery come together to create a memorable adventure for bird enthusiasts.
Target highlights
Toucan Barbet
Glistening-green Tanager
Long-tailed Sylph
Crimson-rumped Toucanet
Day by day
The route, unfolded.
Day 01
Arrival in Cali: Welcome to the Valle del Cauca
Pickup at Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport and one-hour transfer to Hotel La Huerta in the Calima sector. Lunch at the hotel and free afternoon to walk the trails or bird the grounds. Evening briefing with your guide on the species and sites ahead.
Day 02
Laguna de Sonso: a wetland paradise
Early departure to the Sonso Lagoon, the main wetland of the Cauca River floodplain. Breakfast and lunch at the Horned Screamer Research Center while we work the shoreline for herons, kingfishers and waders. In the afternoon, transfer to La Araucana Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 03
Finca Doña Dora (El Queremal)
Pre-dawn departure to Finca Doña Dora in the Anchicayá sector. A massive fruiting ficus draws tanagers, toucanets, Torrent Duck and Barred Hawk. Breakfast and lunch on-site; return to La Araucana Lodge for the evening.
Day 04
San Antonio Cloud Forest & Km 18
Visit the San Antonio Cloud Forest (~360 species recorded, including Crimson-rumped Toucanet and Green-tailed Trainbearer) and then the Bosque de Niebla Birding & Nature Reserve at Kilometer 18 (270+ species). Back to La Araucana Lodge for dinner.
Day 05
Departure
After breakfast, direct transfer to Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport.
Lodges & accommodations
Where you'll rest.
Hotel La Huerta
Calima sector, near Sonso Lagoon
La Araucana Lodge
Km 18, San Antonio cloud forest
Visit website
eBird hotspots
Verified on the route.
What's included
The fine print.
Included
- Transportation throughout the tour.
- Accommodation.
- Main meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as stipulated in the itinerary.
- Private transport.
- Entrance fees to all reserves visited during the tour.
- Travel insurance.
- Professional guide expert in birds.
- Driver.
Not included
- International or local 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!