Coffee Triangle
Coffee Region (Short Trip)
Five days designed to maximize the number of species observed in Colombia's coffee region, from cloud forests to high-altitude páramos.
Duration
5 days
Best season
Year-round
Group
2-10 pax
The expedition
Immerse yourself in one of Colombia's most biodiverse regions with this specialized tour aimed at maximizing the number of species observed. From the lush cloud forests to the high-altitude páramos, this journey will take you to iconic reserves in the coffee region, where endemic and high-mountain birds await.
We begin at the Río Blanco Reserve, renowned for its remarkable birdlife. Here, you can observe species such as Saltator cinctus, Hapalopsittaca amazonina, Andigena nigrirostris, as well as the fascinating Grallaria ruficapilla, Grallaria rufocinerea, and Grallaria milleri. Fruiteaters like Pipreola riefferii and small flycatchers like Poecilotriccus ruficeps also make this a true paradise for birdwatchers.
We continue to Hacienda El Bosque, a highland refuge where the Andean forest shelters unique species like Grallaricula lineifrons, Ensifera ensifera, and Silvicultrix diadema. The vibrant colors of species like Pipreola arcuata and Andigena hypoglauca enhance the experience in this breathtaking setting.
The tour moves on to Los Nevados National Natural Park, with stops at two key areas. In Laguna Negra, you will encounter high-altitude species such as Cinclodes excelsior, Oxyura ferruginea andina, Anas andium andium, Catamenia homochroa, and Asthenes flammulata. This serene páramo landscape offers a unique atmosphere to enjoy these remarkable birds.
Finally, in the Brisas area, you'll find an impressive variety of species. Atlapetes pallidinucha, Oxypogon stuebelii, Geranoaetus melanoleucus, and Ochthoeca fumicolor are among the birds you can spot here. You'll also have another chance to see Asthenes flammulata in this páramo region, while taking in the dramatic contrast between the mountainous landscapes and the abundant wildlife.
This tour is perfect for those seeking to maximize their species list in one of the country's most diverse regions, led by expert guides who will take you to the best birdwatching spots in these iconic Colombian birding destinations.
Target highlights
Saltator cinctus
Grallaria species
Oxypogon stuebelii
Buthraupis montana
Day by day
The route, unfolded.
Day 01
Arrival in Pereira: Welcome to the Coffee Region
Upon your arrival at Matecaña International Airport (PEI) in Pereira, the Ocampo Expeditions team, consisting of one of our drivers and a professional birding guide, will be ready to welcome you to Colombia's renowned coffee region. From the airport, you will be transferred to Hotel Quo Quality in Manizales, approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive.
Upon arrival at Hotel Quo Quality, 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
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 03
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 04
Birding in Laguna Negra and Brisas Zone (Los Nevados National Park)
This day will start with an early departure from Hotel Quo Quality to the 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, Oxypogon stuebelii (a highlight), Geranoaetus melanoleucus, Ochthoeca fumicolor, and Asthenes flammulata. In the afternoon, you'll return to Hotel Quo Quality for dinner and rest.
Day 05
Departure
After breakfast at Hotel Quo Quality, you will depart for Matecaña International Airport in Pereira, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. It is recommended to schedule an afternoon flight to allow ample time to arrive at the airport. We hope you've enjoyed this unforgettable birding experience in Colombia's coffee region and look forward to hosting you again!
Lodges & accommodations
Where you'll rest.
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. 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 or domestic 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!