Country: Colombia
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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.
Read MoreFinal 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.
Read MoreMontezuma 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.
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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.
Read MoreHacienda el Bosque Morning (Equatorial Antpitta Experience)
One of the highlights of Hacienda El Bosque is the opportunity to observe the remarkable Equatorial Antpitta at a carefully managed feeding station. Known for its secretive nature, this elusive bird occasionally emerges from the forest floor, offering exceptional views and rewarding photographic opportunities. While waiting quietly, we also keep watch for Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucan, mountain tanagers, brushfinches and other high-Andean species that regularly move through the surrounding forest.
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Afternoon Birdwatching at Hacienda El Bosque (late arrival)
Surrounded by high-Andean forest, Hacienda El Bosque offers a peaceful introduction to the region’s birdlife. We spend the afternoon exploring the lodge’s gardens, feeders and nearby trails, where hummingbirds, mountain tanagers and other forest species are frequent visitors. With a relaxed pace and beautiful natural surroundings, it’s an ideal opportunity to settle in and enjoy our first encounters with this remarkable ecosystem.
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Afternoon Birdwatching at Otún Quimbaya
During the afternoon, we continue exploring the diverse habitats of Otún Quimbaya, following quiet forest roads and shaded trails as bird activity shifts through the day. Moving at a relaxed pace, we revisit productive areas and adapt our route to recent sightings, giving ourselves the best chance of encountering species that may have remained hidden earlier. The changing light also creates excellent conditions for photography, while mixed flocks, woodcreepers, tanagers and other Andean forest birds continue to offer rewarding opportunities for observation. Every walk through the sanctuary brings new encounters, making the afternoon a valuable complement to the morning session.
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Hummingbird Photography in Natural Flower Settings
In a quiet corner of the cloud forest, a local guide carefully prepares a natural flower setup, arranging perches and shooting angles to create exceptional photographic opportunities. Surrounded by soft, filtered forest light, you’ll have time to capture hummingbirds as they visit the flowers, producing elegant, natural images while the guide takes care of the details.
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Nocturnal Birding at Tinamú Reserve
After dinner, we head back into the reserve to experience the forest after dark. Guided by the calls of the night, we search for some of the region’s nocturnal specialties, with opportunities to encounter owls, Common Pauraques, potoos and other elusive species that only become active after sunset. Moving slowly along the reserve’s trails, we rely on our guide’s knowledge and careful listening to locate wildlife while experiencing a completely different side of the tropical forest. It’s a peaceful and immersive way to end the day, revealing sounds, behaviours and species rarely seen in daylight.
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