Country: Colombia

El Encanto Nature Reserve

A serene cloudforest sanctuary in Palestina, El Encanto offers misty trails, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Magdalena Valley, perfect for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Palestina

Montezuma Mid Elevation Birding in Tatamá National Park

Today we explore the mid-elevation cloud forests along the Montezuma Road, where changing habitats support an exceptional diversity of Chocó and Andean birdlife. Walking at a relaxed pace, we search for mixed flocks moving through the canopy while keeping an eye out for regional specialties such as the Toucan Barbet, Black-chinned Mountain Tanager and Orange-breasted Fruiteater. A packed lunch allows us to remain in the field and make the most of the day’s bird activity.

Montezuma : Low-Elevation Birding in Tatamá National Park

We continue our exploration in the lower elevations of Tatamá, where the warmer Chocó forests host a distinct community of birds. This rich habitat offers excellent opportunities to search for species such as the Club-winged Manakin, Beautiful Jay, Chocó Vireo and a variety of tanagers, woodcreepers and flycatchers. Guided by recent sightings and bird activity, we take our time exploring this remarkably diverse section of the reserve.

Montezuma : High-Elevation Forest Exploration

After our picnic lunch, we continue birding through the upper cloud forest, adapting our route to recent sightings and the activity of the day. The afternoon offers further opportunities to search for elusive species, observe mixed flocks moving through the canopy and enjoy the remarkable diversity that makes Tatamá one of the world’s premier birding destinations.

Montezuma High-Elevation Birding in Tatamá National Park

Before sunrise, we make our way to the upper reaches of Tatamá National Park, where the cool cloud forests are home to some of Colombia’s most sought-after birds. Exploring the Montezuma Road at a slow pace, we search for iconic species such as the spectacular Gold-ringed Tanager and Black-and-gold Tanager, along with tapaculos, flowerpiercers, mountain tanagers and other Chocó-Andean specialties. A packed lunch allows us to remain in the field and make the most of the day’s bird activity.

Final Morning Birding at Montezuma

Our final morning offers one last opportunity to explore the forests around Montezuma. Depending on recent sightings and any remaining target species, we revisit productive locations or spend time around the lodge and nearby trails before continuing our journey. Every visit is different, and this flexible session often rewards us with memorable final encounters in the Chocó Andes.

Montezuma Arrival Birding at Montezuma Ecolodge

If time allows, we begin exploring the surroundings of Montezuma Ecolodge with a relaxed birdwatching session around the gardens, feeders and nearby forest. This first introduction to the Chocó cloud forest often brings encounters with colourful tanagers, toucans, hummingbirds and other species that thrive in one of Colombia’s most biodiverse regions.

Hacienda El Bosque Afternoon (Hummingbird Feeders & Forest Photography)

We dedicate time to photographing the lively feeders and forest edge around the lodge, where a constant stream of hummingbirds and other colourful birds creates endless opportunities for observation and photography. The slower pace of the session allows us to experiment with composition, behaviour and changing light while enjoying the quiet atmosphere of Hacienda El Bosque. Depending on recent activity, species such as the Sword-billed Hummingbird, Great Sapphirewing and Shining Sunbeam may all make an appearance.