Birding & Culture in the Central Andes of ColombiaThis birdwatching tour in Colombia’s central Andes is perfect for novice birders. You will encounter diverse birdlife and culture with a knowledgeable guide by your side – all in a region adorned with astonishing mountains, lush coffee plantations, deep valleys and rivers. During the tour, we will visit La Florida Regional Park, Chingaza Natural Park, Rio Blanco Reserve and Otun Quimbaya Sanctuary, were you will have the opportunity to see many species. We will also visit La Candelaria (Historic Old Town) in Bogota, the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and a traditional coffee plantation in Colombia’s Coffee Region to learn everything about the coffee-making process. EXPERIENCE TYPE Birding, Eco-Tourism & Local Traditions |
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Tour Highlights
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Rio Blanco Nature ReserveRio Blanco is an important IBA and conservation area that is already recognised as one of the best bird watching sites in Colombia. The reserve has an altitudinal range of between 2,239 and 3,699 meters, covers an area of 7,949 acres and protects cloud forests and paramo. More than 335 species have been recorded here, including several endemics and endangered species. |
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Otun Quimbaya Fauna & Flora SanctuaryThis national protected area was created in 1996 and belongs to the "Bosques del Oriente de Risaralda" IBA. It is located on the west slope of the Central Andes in an area well recognised for its biological richness and of course its birds. The sanctuary covers 1,208 acres between 1,749 and 2,250 meters above sea level, where clouds drench the mountains with misty rains. |
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Historic Centre of BogotaThe capital city of Colombia has grown around La Candelaria, the famous colonial neighbourhood where most of the historic sites, museums and ancient churches are located. Practically every street corner in La Candelaria marks an important event in Colombian history. |
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Visit to a Coffee PlantationDuring the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit an authentic, functioning coffee farm to learn about the planting, picking, drying and roasting processes that culminate in your morning cup of coffee. |
What's Included
- Airport pick up and drop off
- 9 nights' accommodation
- Domestic flights
- Private ground transport
- Meals as defined in the itinerary
- Birding and local tour guides fluent in English
- Entry tickets to natural parks and reserves mentioned in the itinerary
- Entry tickets to museums and tourist locations mentioned in the itinerary
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Tips and other discretionary expenses
Accommodations
We have carefully chosen the right accommodations with different styles and standards depending on the cities, small towns or natural reserves visited. We personally ensure that each property has the right combination of features such as cleanliness, location, friendly staff and good service.