American-Flamingos. Photo by Ricardo Beron
Northern Colombia: Endemics from the mountain top to the sea
July 24 to August 6, 2024
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
Birds Georgia Leader: Adam Betuel, Director of Conservation
Local Guide: Diego Calderon (COLOMBIA Birding & The Birders Show)
Group Size: 10 people (can be run with a smaller group at an elevated price)
Member price: $7,150*
Non-member price: $7,200 * (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $670/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
*Sharing of a room is almost a certainty at one location. More info on Day 2 in trip description.
Lodging Note: Depending on group construction, single travelers may be asked to pay a single supplement if we are unable to pair you with another guest. All efforts will be made to pair individuals to avoid this expense, though it cannot be guaranteed. Impacted travelers, should they decide to cancel, will be reimbursed following the cancellation policy below.
Colombia is the epicenter of avian diversity. No country on the planet has more species than Colombia (1900+) despite it only being around 1/9 the size of the United States. With multiple cordilleras of the Andes, the Santa Marta Mountains, two coastlines, the Amazon, and so much more interesting biogeography, it is no wonder why. This two-week trip focuses on the northern portion of the country, it’s mountain ranges, and the rich Caribbean lowlands. We will spend multiple days on the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta which are the tallest coastal mountains in the world and the planet’s single most important and irreplaceable site for threatened and endemic biodiversity. Additionally, we will spend time on the Serranía de Perijá, the northernmost extent of the Andes. These mountains also host a high level of endemism and offer the chance for true discovery. Down on the coast, our main destination will be the Guajira Peninsula and its dry forest and coastal wetlands. Apart from these truly unforgettable destinations and all the bird-rich stops in between, we will close out this tour with a visit to the historic city of Cartagena. Strolling down the colorful and lively streets will be a great way to bring our time in Colombia to a close!
(Our trip aligns pretty closely with the Northern Colombia Birding Trail. Click here to learn more.)
For this trip, conservation director Adam Betuel will once again team up with Diego Calderon, one of the original and top bird guides in all of Colombia. In addition to his guiding work at COLOMBIA Birding, Diego is the cohost of The Birders Show. During this tour, one can expect to see snow-capped peaks, lush mountainsides, the Caribbean Sea, off-the-beaten path locales, lively culture, historic cities, in addition to three hundred plus different species of birds and other unique wildlife. With its unfathomable diversity, enticing culture, and safety over recent years, it is no wonder why Colombia has become one of the world’s most desirable birding destinations on the planet. Join us!
Local Guide: Diego Calderon (COLOMBIA Birding & The Birders Show)
Group Size: 10 people (can be run with a smaller group at an elevated price)
Member price: $7,150*
Non-member price: $7,200 * (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $670/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
*Sharing of a room is almost a certainty at one location. More info on Day 2 in trip description.
Lodging Note: Depending on group construction, single travelers may be asked to pay a single supplement if we are unable to pair you with another guest. All efforts will be made to pair individuals to avoid this expense, though it cannot be guaranteed. Impacted travelers, should they decide to cancel, will be reimbursed following the cancellation policy below.
Colombia is the epicenter of avian diversity. No country on the planet has more species than Colombia (1900+) despite it only being around 1/9 the size of the United States. With multiple cordilleras of the Andes, the Santa Marta Mountains, two coastlines, the Amazon, and so much more interesting biogeography, it is no wonder why. This two-week trip focuses on the northern portion of the country, it’s mountain ranges, and the rich Caribbean lowlands. We will spend multiple days on the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta which are the tallest coastal mountains in the world and the planet’s single most important and irreplaceable site for threatened and endemic biodiversity. Additionally, we will spend time on the Serranía de Perijá, the northernmost extent of the Andes. These mountains also host a high level of endemism and offer the chance for true discovery. Down on the coast, our main destination will be the Guajira Peninsula and its dry forest and coastal wetlands. Apart from these truly unforgettable destinations and all the bird-rich stops in between, we will close out this tour with a visit to the historic city of Cartagena. Strolling down the colorful and lively streets will be a great way to bring our time in Colombia to a close!
(Our trip aligns pretty closely with the Northern Colombia Birding Trail. Click here to learn more.)
For this trip, conservation director Adam Betuel will once again team up with Diego Calderon, one of the original and top bird guides in all of Colombia. In addition to his guiding work at COLOMBIA Birding, Diego is the cohost of The Birders Show. During this tour, one can expect to see snow-capped peaks, lush mountainsides, the Caribbean Sea, off-the-beaten path locales, lively culture, historic cities, in addition to three hundred plus different species of birds and other unique wildlife. With its unfathomable diversity, enticing culture, and safety over recent years, it is no wonder why Colombia has become one of the world’s most desirable birding destinations on the planet. Join us!
Please Note: Credit card processing fees are now included in the registration price.
Questions? Please contact Adam Betuel at via email.
Questions? Please contact Adam Betuel at via email.
Trip Overview
Click on each day for more information.
Day 1: Arrive in Valledupar
Our tour will begin in Valledupar, which can be reached by flying internationally to Bogota and then connecting domestically to Valledupar. We will be met at the airport and then transfer to our hotel, where we will enjoy a delightful welcoming dinner. Adam will work with the group regarding flight options.
Lodging: Hotel Sonesta
Lodging: Hotel Sonesta
Day 2: Los Besotes Reserve and transfer to Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve
Los Besotes reserve protects an extensive portion of the dry forest along the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and is very close to our accommodations in Valledupar. Our primary focus here will be on spotting the Venezuelan Flycatcher, while also hoping to catch a glimpse or at least hear the distinctive call of the Red-legged Tinamou. This will be our first chance to connect with a swath of Minca and Guajira birds. We also can expect to find Yellow-olive and Yellow-breasted Flycatchers, Rufous-browed Peppershrike, Scrub Greenlet, Lance-tailed Manakin, Chestnut-capped Warbler, and Pale-eyed Pygmy Tyrant. As we make our way to the Perija Lodge, we will spend a significant portion of the day driving uphill, offering us a chance to spot some of the Perija endemics such as the elusive Perija Brush Finch and the distinctive Black-fronted Brush Finch along the route.
The Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve has a small lodge with only five rooms. This means that there is not space for any single rooms and all participants must share during nights 2 through 4. Depending on the breakdown of couples versus singles and the gender of the single travelers, some special arrangements may need to be made. If you have any questions, please reach out to Adam. He will be in touch, if needed, about this situation as the group comes together.
Lodging: Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve / Mashiramo Glamping
The Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve has a small lodge with only five rooms. This means that there is not space for any single rooms and all participants must share during nights 2 through 4. Depending on the breakdown of couples versus singles and the gender of the single travelers, some special arrangements may need to be made. If you have any questions, please reach out to Adam. He will be in touch, if needed, about this situation as the group comes together.
Lodging: Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve / Mashiramo Glamping
Day 3-4: Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve (Perijá Mountains)
The Serrania de Perija is an isolated offshoot of the Eastern Andes that forms the border with Venezuela and is one of the least explored areas in Colombia. The Perija Thistletail Reserve is located in the villages of El Cinco and Altos de Perijá, in the municipality of Manaure, department of Cesar, and protects a huge portion of the remnants of high Andean forests, subparamo and paramo of this area. We will spend the mornings on the Paramo above the Perija lodge where we will look for Perija Thisteltail, Perija Metaltail and Perija Antpitta. We will spend the later part of the day birding near the lodge looking for Perija Starfrontlet, Loungamere’s Sunangel, Rufous-shafted Woodstar and several more common species which are represented by Perija endemic subspecies that may one day gain full species status.
Lodging: Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve / Mashiramo Glamping
Lodging: Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve / Mashiramo Glamping
Day 5: Transfer to Guajira
As we descend back to the lowlands, we will make strategic stops along the way to target any remaining species we may need to complete our birdwatching adventure in the Perija mountains. These stops could be in the vicinity of the lodge or the Coffee plantations below the Perija Reserve. Here, we will be on the lookout for sought-after species such as the Perija Brushfinch, Moustached Puffbird, Gray-throated Warbler, and Yellow-throated Toucan. In the afternoon, we will continue our journey towards the captivating Guajira area.
Lodging: Hotel Taroa
Lodging: Hotel Taroa
Day 6: Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
We will drive around 20 minutes from our hotel to the Guajira peninsula. In between the Camarones village and the Tapias River is Los Flamencos Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, along the western edge of the Guajira desert. Inside the sanctuary, rain water and little streams fill a number of inland lagoons along the coast that attracts numerous spectacular water loving birds such as American flamingo, the even brighter Scarlet Ibis, White Ibis, gulls, terns, and many migratory shorebirds.
We will do a short boat trip through the captivating Los Flamencos Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, where our primary mission is to witness the mesmerizing American Flamingos up close and personal. Prepare to be amazed as we glide over mangroves, capturing sights of great bird species such as the near-threatened Reddish Egret, Scarlet Ibis, Brown Pelicans, and a number of terns and gull species. The gentle breeze carries the sweet fragrance of the surrounding flora, creating a truly immersive and sensory experience.
This area is also home to xerophytic scrub habitat and is the home multiple very attractive regional specialties like the Vermillion Cardinal, Orinocan Saltator, Buffy Hummingbird, Russet-throated Puffbird, Bare-eyed Pigeon, Chestnut Piculet, Slender-billed Inezia, White-whiskered Spinetail, Pileated Finch, Tocuyo Sparrow and the Rufous-vented Chachalaca. Also, Black-crested Antshrike, Crested Bobwhite, White-fringed Antwren, Northern Scrub-Flycatcher, Blue-crowned Parakeet, Brown-throated Parakeet and Green-rumped Parrotlet are likely to be seen.
Lodging: Hotel Taroa
We will do a short boat trip through the captivating Los Flamencos Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, where our primary mission is to witness the mesmerizing American Flamingos up close and personal. Prepare to be amazed as we glide over mangroves, capturing sights of great bird species such as the near-threatened Reddish Egret, Scarlet Ibis, Brown Pelicans, and a number of terns and gull species. The gentle breeze carries the sweet fragrance of the surrounding flora, creating a truly immersive and sensory experience.
This area is also home to xerophytic scrub habitat and is the home multiple very attractive regional specialties like the Vermillion Cardinal, Orinocan Saltator, Buffy Hummingbird, Russet-throated Puffbird, Bare-eyed Pigeon, Chestnut Piculet, Slender-billed Inezia, White-whiskered Spinetail, Pileated Finch, Tocuyo Sparrow and the Rufous-vented Chachalaca. Also, Black-crested Antshrike, Crested Bobwhite, White-fringed Antwren, Northern Scrub-Flycatcher, Blue-crowned Parakeet, Brown-throated Parakeet and Green-rumped Parrotlet are likely to be seen.
Lodging: Hotel Taroa
Day 7: Transfer to Minca
Before starting on our way southwest towards Minca, we will spend some time birding in the dry scrub looking for any targets that we may be missing from the previous day. Minca is a little village located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Santa Mart. The birding in this area ranges from dry scrub to the shade-grown coffee farms, encompassing a lot of different habitats that yield a large number of birds, including near-endemics like the Golden-winged Sparrow, Scaled Piculet and Red-billed Emerald. Also, we can hopefully come across Keel-billed Toucan, Pale-eyed Pygmy-tyrant, Rufous-and-white Wren and Black-headed Tanager. The restaurant hosts bird feeders that should attract White-vented Plumeleteer, Rufous-breasted Hermit, Steely-vented Hummingbird, White-necked Jacobin, Black-throated Mango and even the Whooping Motmot.
Lodging: Hacienda La Casona de Minca
Lodging: Hacienda La Casona de Minca
Day 8: The road to El Dorado
We will start our day birding from the lower elevations of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. During the ride up to El Dorado Bird Reserve, which belongs to the Colombian NGO ProAves, we will hope to find some of the low-elevation endemic birds such as Santa Marta Tapaculo, Santa Marta Woodstar, White-lored Warbler, Santa Marta Blossomcrown and Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner. Santa Marta Antbird as well as White-tipped Quetzal, the recently split Santa Marta Toucanet, Groove-billed Toucanet, Golden-breasted Fruiteater, and Rusty-breasted Antpitta are all possible as we continue to make our way up and up.
Lodging: El Dorado Bird Reserve
Lodging: El Dorado Bird Reserve
Day 9-10: El Dorado Bird reserve
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a UNESCO- declared Biosphere Reserve, and a well-known Pleistocene refuge, is an isolated mountain, set apart from the Andes. Reaching an altitude of 18,942 feet above sea level, the Sierra Nevada is the world´s highest costal peak that holds the highest degree of endemism in the world per area unity. Today, there are about 24 Santa Marta endemic bird species you can’t find anywhere else on earth!
We will leave very early morning and spend much of the day at the highest elevations that hold most of the endemic bird species of the Sierra Nevada, including the critically endangered Santa Marta Parakeet, Yellow-crowned Whitestart, Santa Marta Warbler, Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant, Santa-marta (Black-cheeked) Mountain-tanager, Brown-rumped Tapaculo, Rusty-headed Spinetail and the Sierra Nevada Antpitta. Once heading back to the lodge, we will target White-tailed Starfrontlet and Streak-capped Spinetail. Around the lodge, we may see Colombian Brushfinch, Santa Marta Brush-Finch and lots of endemic subspecies including Cinnamon Flycatcher, Black-hooded Thrush, Blue-capped Tanager, and Black-throated Tody-Tyrant.
Lodging: El Dorado Bird Reserve
Day 11: Transfer back to Minca
We´ll try as much as possible to clean up all the Sierra Nevada specialties, so on this day we may either go back to San Lorenzo Ridge or to lower elevation towards Minca if we missed any targets the preceding days. We also may spend time at the feeders and grounds of El Dorado Lodge, where Black-fronted Wood-Quail, Lined Quail-dove, Sickle-winged guan, Band-tailed Guan and the gorgeous Blue-naped Chlorophonia can be found.
Lodging: Hotel La Casona de Minca
Lodging: Hotel La Casona de Minca
Day 12: Transfer to Cartagena
We will leave in the morning, heading towards the Salamanca National Park. The Salamanca National Park is adjacent to the Ciénaga Grande, right in the middle of the Barranquilla- Santa Marta highway. It protects the most significant area of mangroves in the Colombian Caribbean. This area offers good chances for the endemic and critically endangered Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird, as well as other interesting species like the Bicolored Conebill, Black-crested Antshrike, Golden-green and Red-rumped Woodpeckers, Dwarf Cuckoo, Yellow-chinned Spinetail, and Striped-backed Wren. Exciting waterbirds possible here include the White-cheeked Pintail, Northern Screamer, Boat-billed Heron and the miniscule American Pygmy Kingfisher.
In the afternoon we will start driving east through the park but expect to make frequent stops to look at the concentrations of waders and terns that can often be found on roadside pools. Later in the day we will drive to the historic city of Cartagena. There, we will find our accommodation at a charming boutique hotel conveniently situated near Cartagena's historic walled city and fortress. These architectural marvels have earned the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, adding to the allure of our stay. Prepare to be immersed in the rich cultural and historical ambiance of this remarkable location.
Lodging: Nacar Hotel Boutique
In the afternoon we will start driving east through the park but expect to make frequent stops to look at the concentrations of waders and terns that can often be found on roadside pools. Later in the day we will drive to the historic city of Cartagena. There, we will find our accommodation at a charming boutique hotel conveniently situated near Cartagena's historic walled city and fortress. These architectural marvels have earned the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, adding to the allure of our stay. Prepare to be immersed in the rich cultural and historical ambiance of this remarkable location.
Lodging: Nacar Hotel Boutique
Day 13: Morning birding & walking tour in Cartagena
We will spend the morning visiting several sites on the edge of Cartagena. Our main target will be the recently split and endemic Turquoise-winged Parrotlet. We will also hope to find Scaly-breasted Hummingbird, a local species in Colombia. We may visit some wetlands around Cartagena where we will look for the wonky Norther Screamer. We also hope to find a host of more common species, ranging from the ubiquitous Great-tailed Grackles and Thick-billed Euhphonias to the goliath Magnificent Frigatebird and Brown Pelican soaring overhead. In the afternoon there will be an optional city tour for those whom are interested.
Lodging: Nacar Hotel Boutique
Lodging: Nacar Hotel Boutique
Day 14: Exploring the city & heading home
Today we will be free to explore the city or lounge at the hotel before we will be transferred to the airport to head home.
Number of bird species expected: 300+
Additional details
Tyrian metaltail. PHoto by Dorian Anderson.
Services Included:
1. $500.00 due to reserve spot on trip.
2. Half of cost (less $500) due by October 15, 2023
3. Full payment must be made by April 15, 2024
*The final payment would include your single supplement payment if applicable
Cancellation Policy:
If notice of cancellation by the participant is received by October 15, 2023 a refund of all payments made will be given (less a $50 administrative and all credit card fees). If notice of cancellation is received between October 16, 2023 and April 15, 2024 a 50% refund of the fees paid to date will be given unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card fees). Thereafter, all deposits and payments are non-refundable unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card fees). In the event of tour cancellation due to weather, strike, war, quarantine, or other unforeseen emergency situation, a refund will be given less any non-refundable payments made to the local company. Please contact Adam Betuel if you have any questions regarding the non-refundable payment schedule.
Travel Insurance:
We do not require travel insurance. However, we highly recommend buying it, as it is relatively inexpensive and can protect you from unforeseen costs associated with missed, delayed, or canceled flights, sudden illness, medical evacuation, damaged equipment, or other unexpected issues. Note that in some circumstances, such as if you have preexisting medical conditions, travel insurance must be purchased within 1 to 2 weeks of paying the trip deposit
Terms and Conditions:
Please review the Birds Georgia Travel Program Terms and Conditions prior to registration.
- One expert local birding tour leader (Diego Calderon) and a co-leader from Birds Georgia (Conservation Director Adam Betuel).
- Accommodations in all destinations. A non-shared room is available for an additional fee.
- All transportation during the trip including pick-up and drop-off at the airport
- Domestic flights
- All meals from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 14. Additionally, water will be available on the bus at all times
- Alcohol
- All entrance fees to parks and preserves
- Taxes
- Limited medical insurance in case of emergency
- Costs of obtaining passports
- International airfare and any accompanying baggage fees
- Snacks, beverages, room service, or sightseeing not specified in itinerary
- Souvenirs
- Laundry
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended – see cancellation policy)
- Medical costs and any testing should it be required
- Gratuities for guides and drivers (could amount to a few hundred USD)
- Personal communications
- Extra costs associated with unexpected route changes
- Any other incidentals that participants may wish to purchase
1. $500.00 due to reserve spot on trip.
2. Half of cost (less $500) due by October 15, 2023
3. Full payment must be made by April 15, 2024
*The final payment would include your single supplement payment if applicable
Cancellation Policy:
If notice of cancellation by the participant is received by October 15, 2023 a refund of all payments made will be given (less a $50 administrative and all credit card fees). If notice of cancellation is received between October 16, 2023 and April 15, 2024 a 50% refund of the fees paid to date will be given unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card fees). Thereafter, all deposits and payments are non-refundable unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card fees). In the event of tour cancellation due to weather, strike, war, quarantine, or other unforeseen emergency situation, a refund will be given less any non-refundable payments made to the local company. Please contact Adam Betuel if you have any questions regarding the non-refundable payment schedule.
Travel Insurance:
We do not require travel insurance. However, we highly recommend buying it, as it is relatively inexpensive and can protect you from unforeseen costs associated with missed, delayed, or canceled flights, sudden illness, medical evacuation, damaged equipment, or other unexpected issues. Note that in some circumstances, such as if you have preexisting medical conditions, travel insurance must be purchased within 1 to 2 weeks of paying the trip deposit
Terms and Conditions:
Please review the Birds Georgia Travel Program Terms and Conditions prior to registration.
Travel Information
Andean Condor. Photo by Dorian Anderson.
Safety:
Colombia has become drastically safer in recent decades. Today, only select locations are of concern. Here is a statement about safety from our local partners: “We at Nature Colombia take very seriously the safety of all our clients and staff. With our extensive network of contacts at our reserves, local communities, and other organizations, we feel very confident having our clients and staff visit and work at all the locations on our tour routes. Many of the sites visited on our tours have permanent presence and daily communication with our office. This provides a high degree of assurance that these areas are indeed safe to visit, however in the event of any unexpected change we would not hesitate to change an itinerary.” The Perija Mountains are along the Venezuelan border. The border crossing itself in this region is a location to avoid which we, of course, will. Many bird tour companies now operate in this area with absolutely no issues. We have confidence in our partners and the safety of this tour, understanding international travel always has risks. Make sure you are comfortable before registering.
State Department travel advisory for Colombia
Pace/Physical Difficulty:
Moderate. Though there is a fair amount of relocating, we will be staying multiple nights at hotels apart from arrival and on transfer days. Roads can be VERY rough, especially the drive to El Dorado. If you are sensitive to bumpy roads, please come prepared. Very few long walks. Most walking will be on shorter loop trails, along roads, at feeders or gardens at lodges. Some flat terrain, especially near the coast, but many spots will have at least some incline. When possible, we will try and walk down hill and have the vehicle pick us up instead of walking back up. Some areas can be steep and potentially wet. We will be visiting location ranging from sea-level up to 9,000+ ft. You will spend a lot of time on your feet. Days will typically be long with substantial time on your feet or on the vehicle. Most mornings will have a very early start so that we can get to the birding locations at peak time for bird activity. Some nights will have optional owling. If it is not a travel day, participants can of course skip any outing and stay at the hotel.
Dietary Restrictions:
All efforts will be made to accommodate any dietary restrictions. However, at some points during this trip, dining options may be limited. Please contact Adam Betuel by email to discuss your needs before registering if you think there could be an issue.
Money:
Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (roughly 4,200 to 1 USD – June 2023). Dollars are not typically accepted so you will want to exchange money for purchases in country. ATMs are plentiful and typically offer a good exchange rate. Credit cards are accepted at some locations. You may want to notify your credit cards or bank prior to departure.
Tipping:
From the local company we are partnering with “Tipping is an important way that you can indirectly support conservation efforts. The more economic impact local businesses and other service providers feel from ecotourism, the more word will spread that conservation is a viable economic alternative. At Nature Colombia, as much as possible we hire local labor and buy our building materials and foods locally. Likewise, you as an individual can also have a significant cumulative effect with other visitors over the course of a season or year. Your trip cost only includes tips with meals.
There are some people you may want to tip such as porters, housekeeping, and of course our guide(s) and drivers. With this concept in mind, while staying at natural reserves we suggest a tip of $5 US/person/night for the reserve staff (guards, cooks and local guides).” Most places we will go have a box where you can drop in a tip that will be split among the staff. Away from the reserves/hotels, you may want to keep in mind tipping for our drivers and other guides,
including Diego.
You can find information on tipping guides and drivers online but some recommendations are:
Photography:
Opportunities will be quite variable. Many habitats will be lush and forested which may make photography a bit more difficult. Additionally, we may be in some damp areas and on steep trails that could pose a risk to your equipment or limit visibility at times. However, we will visit multiple feeders that can provide spectacular opportunities for pictures. High elevation sites will have shorter vegetation and could provide great views. The Guajira Peninsula should provide more open views for photos. It is important to remember this is a bird and nature watching trip and not a photography trip. We will slow for photos when appropriate but in general, we will keep a pace best for birdwatching.
Climate/Weather:
We will be visiting a large range of altitudes and thus a variety of temperatures/climates. We can expect temperate to cold temperatures at mountain spots and hot and dry conditions in the lowlands. Rain is possible/likely at some locations, though it should not be constant/debilitating. Rain gear would be handy and is strongly recommended.
Bugs:
Will be present in the lowlands but less of an issue at higher altitudes. It is worth bringing bug spray!
Accommodations:
Solid to very good. At most locations, we will be using one of if not the best lodging options available and places that cater to birders. However, at some destinations we will prioritize proximity to birding locations. Hotels should have typical amenities including WIFI (though the quality can be quite variable and connections can be unreliable). The planned hotels are:
Transportation within country:
The group will be in a large van/bus (15 passenger Mercedes Benz most likely) for most of the trip. At multiple locations, we will need to split up into jeeps to access some higher elevation spots.
Water and snacks:
We encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle. In general, the tap water is safe to drink/use. This is especially true at the high elevation locations. However, most places will have a refill station you can use for your bottle. There will always be drinking water on the bus. Snacks will also be available on the vehicle as well (typically fruit, chips, cookies). Additional food items or drinks desired away from meal times will be the responsibility of the trip participant.
Seating:
A seating rotation will be implemented to make sure people have an opportunity to sit in various spots on the bus. If you struggle with sitting in the back or get motion sickness, come prepared. Your Audubon guide (Adam) may stay in the front row to maintain conversation with Diego and the driver. If you cannot abide by the seat rotation, please do not register.
Electricity:
Most hotels and lodges in Colombia have Type B, 3 pin North American plugs as in the USA. Some older
establishments may have only the Type A, 2 pin North American plugs. The frequency is 60 Hz and the
voltage is 110V (same as the USA), though in rural areas the voltage can fluctuate.
Colombia has become drastically safer in recent decades. Today, only select locations are of concern. Here is a statement about safety from our local partners: “We at Nature Colombia take very seriously the safety of all our clients and staff. With our extensive network of contacts at our reserves, local communities, and other organizations, we feel very confident having our clients and staff visit and work at all the locations on our tour routes. Many of the sites visited on our tours have permanent presence and daily communication with our office. This provides a high degree of assurance that these areas are indeed safe to visit, however in the event of any unexpected change we would not hesitate to change an itinerary.” The Perija Mountains are along the Venezuelan border. The border crossing itself in this region is a location to avoid which we, of course, will. Many bird tour companies now operate in this area with absolutely no issues. We have confidence in our partners and the safety of this tour, understanding international travel always has risks. Make sure you are comfortable before registering.
State Department travel advisory for Colombia
Pace/Physical Difficulty:
Moderate. Though there is a fair amount of relocating, we will be staying multiple nights at hotels apart from arrival and on transfer days. Roads can be VERY rough, especially the drive to El Dorado. If you are sensitive to bumpy roads, please come prepared. Very few long walks. Most walking will be on shorter loop trails, along roads, at feeders or gardens at lodges. Some flat terrain, especially near the coast, but many spots will have at least some incline. When possible, we will try and walk down hill and have the vehicle pick us up instead of walking back up. Some areas can be steep and potentially wet. We will be visiting location ranging from sea-level up to 9,000+ ft. You will spend a lot of time on your feet. Days will typically be long with substantial time on your feet or on the vehicle. Most mornings will have a very early start so that we can get to the birding locations at peak time for bird activity. Some nights will have optional owling. If it is not a travel day, participants can of course skip any outing and stay at the hotel.
Dietary Restrictions:
All efforts will be made to accommodate any dietary restrictions. However, at some points during this trip, dining options may be limited. Please contact Adam Betuel by email to discuss your needs before registering if you think there could be an issue.
Money:
Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (roughly 4,200 to 1 USD – June 2023). Dollars are not typically accepted so you will want to exchange money for purchases in country. ATMs are plentiful and typically offer a good exchange rate. Credit cards are accepted at some locations. You may want to notify your credit cards or bank prior to departure.
Tipping:
From the local company we are partnering with “Tipping is an important way that you can indirectly support conservation efforts. The more economic impact local businesses and other service providers feel from ecotourism, the more word will spread that conservation is a viable economic alternative. At Nature Colombia, as much as possible we hire local labor and buy our building materials and foods locally. Likewise, you as an individual can also have a significant cumulative effect with other visitors over the course of a season or year. Your trip cost only includes tips with meals.
There are some people you may want to tip such as porters, housekeeping, and of course our guide(s) and drivers. With this concept in mind, while staying at natural reserves we suggest a tip of $5 US/person/night for the reserve staff (guards, cooks and local guides).” Most places we will go have a box where you can drop in a tip that will be split among the staff. Away from the reserves/hotels, you may want to keep in mind tipping for our drivers and other guides,
including Diego.
You can find information on tipping guides and drivers online but some recommendations are:
- Main guide (Diego) - $10 to $20 USD per day
- Local guides – $5+
- Driver - $5 per day
- Feeders – Consider leaving a small tip for the people who maintain and refill feeder stations
- These costs are per person in case you are travelling as a couple/group
Photography:
Opportunities will be quite variable. Many habitats will be lush and forested which may make photography a bit more difficult. Additionally, we may be in some damp areas and on steep trails that could pose a risk to your equipment or limit visibility at times. However, we will visit multiple feeders that can provide spectacular opportunities for pictures. High elevation sites will have shorter vegetation and could provide great views. The Guajira Peninsula should provide more open views for photos. It is important to remember this is a bird and nature watching trip and not a photography trip. We will slow for photos when appropriate but in general, we will keep a pace best for birdwatching.
Climate/Weather:
We will be visiting a large range of altitudes and thus a variety of temperatures/climates. We can expect temperate to cold temperatures at mountain spots and hot and dry conditions in the lowlands. Rain is possible/likely at some locations, though it should not be constant/debilitating. Rain gear would be handy and is strongly recommended.
Bugs:
Will be present in the lowlands but less of an issue at higher altitudes. It is worth bringing bug spray!
Accommodations:
Solid to very good. At most locations, we will be using one of if not the best lodging options available and places that cater to birders. However, at some destinations we will prioritize proximity to birding locations. Hotels should have typical amenities including WIFI (though the quality can be quite variable and connections can be unreliable). The planned hotels are:
- Hotel Sonesta
- Perija Thistletail Bird Reserve/Mashiramo Glamping
- Hotel Taroa
- Hotel la Casona de Minca
- El Dorado Reserve
- Hotel Nacar Boutique in Cartagena
Transportation within country:
The group will be in a large van/bus (15 passenger Mercedes Benz most likely) for most of the trip. At multiple locations, we will need to split up into jeeps to access some higher elevation spots.
Water and snacks:
We encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle. In general, the tap water is safe to drink/use. This is especially true at the high elevation locations. However, most places will have a refill station you can use for your bottle. There will always be drinking water on the bus. Snacks will also be available on the vehicle as well (typically fruit, chips, cookies). Additional food items or drinks desired away from meal times will be the responsibility of the trip participant.
Seating:
A seating rotation will be implemented to make sure people have an opportunity to sit in various spots on the bus. If you struggle with sitting in the back or get motion sickness, come prepared. Your Audubon guide (Adam) may stay in the front row to maintain conversation with Diego and the driver. If you cannot abide by the seat rotation, please do not register.
Electricity:
Most hotels and lodges in Colombia have Type B, 3 pin North American plugs as in the USA. Some older
establishments may have only the Type A, 2 pin North American plugs. The frequency is 60 Hz and the
voltage is 110V (same as the USA), though in rural areas the voltage can fluctuate.
