Name: Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Endemic Birding Tour
Brand: Remote Expeditions
SKU: 391223
Price: 1395 EUR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (24 reviews)

World Country

6 days / 5 nights Duration

Moderate Walking grade

8 travelers Maximum group

Intense Schedule

Overview

This six-day birding route follows the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta from Barranquilla’s coastal forest and Isla Salamanca wetlands into Minca and the high-elevation forests of El Dorado Nature Reserve. The itinerary is built around early field sessions, changing elevations and repeated searches for localized species including Santa Marta Tapaculo, Santa Marta Woodstar, Santa Marta Blossomcrown, Santa Marta Warbler and Santa Marta Parakeet. Sightings depend on weather, access, habitat and luck; the route protects time across several habitats rather than promising a fixed species list.

Itinerary At a Glance

Day 1

Barranquilla - Cienaga - Minca

Barranquilla Dry Scrub Birding, Optionnal Birdwatching in Isla Salamanca (depending on your flight schedule)

Click to see on map

Day 2

Minca

Minca Dry Forest Birding, Minca La Casona Feeder Birding

Click to see on map

Day 3

Santa Marta - Minca

Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge, El Dorado Nature Reserve, El Dorado Descent Birding

Click to see on map

Day 4

Santa Marta - Cerro Kennedy - Minca

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Full-Day Birding, Photo activity of the hummingbird feeders of El Dorado

Click to see on map

Day 5

Minca

El Dorado Reserve Birding

Click to see on map

Day 6

Minca - Cerro Kennedy - Barranquilla

Minca to San Lorenzo Ridge Birding, Photo activity of the hummingbird feeders of El Dorado, Cuchilla de San Lorenzo

Click to see on map

Suitability & conditions

A practical overview of the pace, comfort, and conditions to expect on this journey.

What to expect

Travel Style: Focus on Finest Experiences, Quality Over Quantity Tours
Lodging: Comfortable accommodations with character, Rustic Camping & confortable Accommodation
Transportation: Transport in a comfortable minivan with air conditioning, 4x4 expeditions on epic roads
Dining Options: Meals are not included, except when specified in the program.
Physical Rating: Excellent fitness level required and a good acclimatation

What Not to Expect

Guaranteed species sightings.
Published exact transfer times or departure dates.
Confirmed meal inclusions on every day.

Who is it for

Birders focused on Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta endemic species.
Travelers comfortable with early field sessions, mountain roads and changing elevations.
Small groups seeking a concentrated six-day birding route.

Who is it not for

Travelers needing guaranteed sightings or fixed departure dates.
Travelers seeking a leisurely lowland itinerary or confirmed luxury accommodation throughout.

From

1.395 EUR

(233 EUR / day)

* Price per person based on 4 travelers.

Duration 6 days / 5 nights
Available as Private tour

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Detailed Itinerary

Six operating days are assembled. The source’s seventh-day international-flight note is retained in the local itinerary package only and is not represented as an extra itinerary day. Transfers use the existing WordPress routes where available, plus the approved draft split from Cuchilla de San Lorenzo to Minca and Minca to Barranquilla.

DAY 1

Barranquilla - Cienaga - Minca

Visiting: Parque Isla de Salamanca

Overnight Altitude: 988m (3,241 ft)

Barranquilla Dry Scrub Birding

Around Barranquilla, dry scrub and open habitat bring a different Caribbean bird community from the mangroves. This block works best as a short targeted session rather than a long hot afternoon, especially after Isla Salamanca.

Easy
Optionnal Birdwatching in Isla Salamanca (depending on your flight schedule)

Optional birdwatching excursion in Isla Salamanca to spot diverse coastal and migratory bird species, if your flight schedule allows.

3h
Easy
Transfer Barranquilla –> Santa Marta

Road transfer from Barranquilla to Santa Marta, connecting the Caribbean coast with the Sierra Nevada route.

Duration: 2h50min
Distance: 106 km (65.9 mi)
Road type: Paved Road
Vehicle: Car
Transfer Santa Marta –> Minca

Road transfer from Santa Marta into the Sierra Nevada foothills and onward to Minca.

Duration: 1h
Distance: 21 km (13 mi)
Road type: Paved Road
Vehicle: Car
Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge

Ecolodge | $$$ | Altitude: 988m (3,241 ft)

Mundo Nuevo, a hidden gem in Colombia, offers breathtaking views of the lush Andean landscape. A serene retreat perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and vibrant biodiversity.

DAY 2

Minca

Overnight Altitude: 988m (3,241 ft)

Minca Dry Forest Birding

At Minca, we follow a distinct trail walk block from the published route. Afternoon birding close to Minca. The exact timing and access remain flexible with local conditions.

Moderate
Minca La Casona Feeder Birding

We use hotel gardens and hummingbird feeders after arrival. The pace stays flexible so we can follow bird activity, weather, and the quieter moments that often shape the session.

Easy
Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge

Ecolodge | $$$ | Altitude: 988m (3,241 ft)

Mundo Nuevo, a hidden gem in Colombia, offers breathtaking views of the lush Andean landscape. A serene retreat perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and vibrant biodiversity.

DAY 3

Minca

Visiting: Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge, El Dorado Nature Reserve

Transfer Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge –> El Dorado Nature Reserve

As we climb from Minca to El Dorado Reserve, we’ll make several birding stops through the Sierra Nevada’s mid-elevation forests. These productive habitats are home to species such as White-lored Warbler, Golden-winged Sparrow, Golden-breasted Fruiteater, and Keel-billed Toucan, offering excellent opportunities before we reach the lodge.

Duration: 2h
Distance: 19 km (11.8 mi)
Road type: Unpaved Road
Vehicle: 4x4
El Dorado Descent Birding

Descend with stops across changing elevations for remaining targets. The pace stays flexible so we can follow bird activity, weather, and the quieter moments that often shape the session.

Easy
El Dorado Nature Reserve

Ecolodge | $$$$$

A cloud forest sanctuary in Minca, Colombia, El Dorado Nature Reserve offers pristine trails, rare endemic birds, and serene eco-lodging amid the Sierra Nevada's lush biodiversity.

DAY 4

Santa Marta - Cerro Kennedy - Minca

Visiting: Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Full-Day Birding

With two full days around the Sierra Nevada, we can give the mountain forest its proper pace: lodge trails, forest edge and elevation changes, with time to look for Santa Marta specialties without treating them as a guarantee.

Moderate
Hummingbird Feeders & Sunset at Cerro Kennedy

We ease into our stay with a relaxed afternoon at the hummingbird feeders near the Senekün restaurant. Set high in the Sierra Nevada, this is an excellent place to photograph species such as White-tailed Starfrontlet, Long-tailed Sylph, Crowned Woodnymph, and, with luck, the endemic Santa Marta Blossomcrown. As the afternoon light softens, we remain on the ridge to enjoy sunset, with sweeping views across the Caribbean coast and, on clear evenings, the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada.

2h
Easy
El Dorado Nature Reserve

Ecolodge | $$$$$

A cloud forest sanctuary in Minca, Colombia, El Dorado Nature Reserve offers pristine trails, rare endemic birds, and serene eco-lodging amid the Sierra Nevada's lush biodiversity.

DAY 5

Minca

Visiting: El Dorado Reserve

El Dorado Reserve Birding

At El Dorado Reserve, we follow a distinct trail walk block from the published route. Search for remaining targets. The exact timing and access remain flexible with local conditions.

Moderate
El Dorado Nature Reserve

Ecolodge | $$$$$

A cloud forest sanctuary in Minca, Colombia, El Dorado Nature Reserve offers pristine trails, rare endemic birds, and serene eco-lodging amid the Sierra Nevada's lush biodiversity.

DAY 6

Minca - Cerro Kennedy - Barranquilla

Visiting: Cuchilla de San Lorenzo

Minca to San Lorenzo Ridge Birding

At Minca to San Lorenzo Ridge, we follow a distinct roadside birding block from the published route. Work uphill through changing elevations, searching for Santa Marta endemics. The exact timing and access remain flexible with local conditions.

Easy
Hummingbird Feeders & Sunset at Cerro Kennedy

We ease into our stay with a relaxed afternoon at the hummingbird feeders near the Senekün restaurant. Set high in the Sierra Nevada, this is an excellent place to photograph species such as White-tailed Starfrontlet, Long-tailed Sylph, Crowned Woodnymph, and, with luck, the endemic Santa Marta Blossomcrown. As the afternoon light softens, we remain on the ridge to enjoy sunset, with sweeping views across the Caribbean coast and, on clear evenings, the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada.

2h
Easy
Transfer Cuchilla de San Lorenzo → Minca

Road transfer from Cuchilla de San Lorenzo to Minca after the final ridge birding session.
Transfer Minca → Barranquilla

Road transfer from Minca to Barranquilla after the Sierra Nevada birding program.

Would you like to make this tour private?

This tour is customizable and can be made private. Contact me, and I’ll help tailor the itinerary to suit your preferences!

Inquire Now

Hotels

Minca · 2 nights

Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge

Ecolodge | $$$ | Altitude: 988m (3,241 ft)

Located in the heart of a lush natural environment, Mundo Nuevo Hotel offers an environmentally friendly stay, in perfect symbiosis with the ecosystem of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Offering rustic rooms with a breathtaking view of the beautiful landscapes of the region, the establishment also invites you to taste its vegetarian cuisine, from organic products grown in the garden of the property.

Wifi Breakfast Restaurant Bar Swimming Pool Spa Laundry Parking

Minca · 3 nights

El Dorado Nature Reserve

Ecolodge | $$$$$

Perched high in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, El Dorado Nature Reserve offers an unparalleled eco-luxury experience within a lush cloud forest sanctuary. Guests stay in unique Kogui-style bungalows featuring breathtaking mountain vistas, world-class birdwatching decks, and organic dining facilities. This premier destination combines conservation with comfort, providing guided nature trails and serene spots to witness the world's highest coastal peaks.

Wifi Queen Bed Queen Bed or 2 Twin Beds Breakfast Restaurant Bar Laundry Parking

Gallery

Yellow oriole - Boca de Camarones, Guajira, Colombia

Russet-throated Puffbird - Boca de Camarones, Guajira, Colombia

Great kiskadee - Finca Alejandria - El Paraiso de los Colibiries, km18, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Lineated Woodpecker - Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Baltimore Oriole - Mundo Nuevo, Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Black-crested Antshrike - Boca de Camarones, Guajira, Colombia

Yellow-headed Caracara - Cienaga de Pijiño, Mompox, Bolivar, Colombia

Amazon Kingfisher - Cienaga de Pijiño, Mompox, Bolivar, Colombia

Red-crowned Woodpecker - Boca de Camarones, Guajira, Colombia

Black-collared Hawk - Cienaga de Pijiño, Mompox, Bolivar, Colombia

Bananaquit - Finca Alejandria - El Paraiso de los Colibiries, Dagua (Cali), Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Osprey - Cienaga de Pijiño, Mompox, Bolivar, Colombia

Saffron finch - Finca La Florida Birding, Cali, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Southern lapwing - Cienaga de Pijiño, Mompox, Bolivar, Colombia

Scaled Dove - Boca de Camarones, Guajira, Colombia

Snail Kite - Cienaga de Pijiño, Mompox, Bolivar, Colombia

Keel-billed Toucan - Mundo Nuevo, Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

brazil trekking, culture and wildlife tour

Whooping Motmot - Finca La Florida Birding, Cali, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Collared Aracari - Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Swallow Tanager - Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Colombian Night Monkey - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Blue morpho - Ciudad Perdida, Magdalena, Colombia

King Vulture - Playa Brava, Parque Tayrona, Magdalena, Colombia

Rufous-tailed Hummingbird - Bosque de Niebla Birding and Nature, km18, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Barred Antshrike - Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Blue-naped Chlorophonia - Finca La Candelaria, Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Groove-billed Toucanet - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Golden-olive Woodpecker - Finca San Felipe, km18, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Crimson-backed Tanager - Mundo Nuevo, Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Yellow-backed Oriole - Mundo Nuevo, Minca, Magdalena, Colombia

Brown Violetear - Finca Alejandria - El Paraiso de los Colibiries, Dagua (Cali), Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Great Thrush - Finca La Florida Birding, Cali, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Santa Marta Brushfinch - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

White-tailed starfrontlet - Cuchilla San Lorenzo, Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Band-tailed Guan - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Montane Woodcreeper - Finca La Minga, Dagua - Km18, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Cinnamon flycatcher - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Golden-headed Quetzal (male) - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Masked Trogon (male) - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Golden-headed Quetzal (female) - Cerro Kennedy, Magdalena, Colombia

Sickle-winged Guan - Finca La Florida Birding, Cali, Valle Del Cauca, Colombia

Price Details

Our tour prices are based on a tiered pricing model. more guests = lower price, per person. That means the prices go down on a per-person basis as more people book onto a specific tour departure.

Price Base

Price for 1 person: 3.195 EUR (533 EUR/day)
Price for 2 people: 1.895 EUR (316 EUR/day)
Price for 3 to 4 people: 1.595 EUR (266 EUR/day)
Price for 5 to 6 people: 1.295 EUR (216 EUR/day)
Price for 7 to 8 people: 1.095 EUR (183 EUR/day)
Price for 9 to 10 people: 1.095 EUR (183 EUR/day)
Price for 11+ people: 995 EUR (166 EUR/day)

* Price is indicated per person
** Prices are based on double occupancy / twin share basis.

Single Supplement

200 EUR

* Single supplement available upon request (subject to availability)

Included

5 nights in Ecolodge
Meals indicated in the program: 3 breakfasts
1 cocktail before dinner
Water is included
Professional photographic guidance & instruction by Tristan Quevilly
Transportation in comfortable vehicles
1h skype session of photo editing in Lightroom or Photoshop
Restaurant gratuities / tips
Pre-trip planning assistance
Detailed trip notes with practical information and cultural insights
Access to Remote Expeditions custom travel app

Not Included

Breakfast on day 2 and day 3, Lunch on Arrival day, day 2, day 3, day 4, day 5 and Departure day, Dinner on Arrival day, day 2, day 3, day 4 and day 5
Tips
International flights
Travel, Medical & Cancellation insurance
Additional drinks and meals
Expenses not specified in the program
Camera Equipment

Deposit

30% (419 EUR approx)

Payment Options

Bank Transfer (Recommended): Free
Credit / Debit Card: Secure payment via Revolut. A 3% processing fee applies.

Where does your investment go?

A transparent look at how your bespoke itinerary is funded.

Accommodations 68%

Local Support & Logistics 27%

Transportation 5%

Key Booking & Cancellation Terms

Booking this tour means you agree to our full Terms and Conditions. Below is a summary of the key points. As life is unpredictable, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.

Deposit:A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking. This deposit is refundable for 7 days (less transaction fees),after which it becomes a non-refundable credit, transferable to a future tour offered by Remote Expeditions within 4 years of the cancellation date, less any non-recoverable costs already paid on your behalf.
Final Payment: The remaining balance is due 90 days before the tour begins.
Cancellation more than 90 days before departure: You will receive a full refund of any payments made, except for the 30% deposit. Your deposit will be converted into a travel credit valid for 4 years on a future tour Remote Expeditions.
Cancellation within 90 days of departure:100% of the tour price is forfeited. There are no refunds or credits.

* This is a summary only. Please read our complete Terms and Conditions for full details before booking.
** We strongly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events.

Logistics & Homework

Recommendations

Although this itinerary does not require advanced hiking experience, it may include walking on uneven terrain, moderate elevation changes, and varying weather conditions depending on the destination.

To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in good physical condition. If possible, start preparing a few weeks or months in advance with regular activities such as walking, hiking, cycling, or other forms of light cardio to build endurance. Even 30–45 minutes of exercise a few times a week can make a noticeable difference.

A little preparation goes a long way toward making your journey more comfortable, enjoyable, and rewarding.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical expenses, personal injury, and other unforeseen events. It is your responsibility to ensure that your insurance is adequate for your needs.

This itinerary is designed to give you the gift of time, allowing for a more immersive and rewarding adventure. By avoiding the pressure of a tight schedule, you are in control. You can choose to spend an extra hour walking along a stunning shoreline, wait patiently for the perfect light for your photographs, or simply enjoy a coffee while soaking in a magnificent view. This relaxed pace empowers you to fully embrace each location, discovering the hidden details, spontaneous moments, and quiet magic that are so often missed when rushing from one point to the next.

Detailed Trip Notes, including practical tips, cultural insights, and a complete packing list will be sent to you 60 days before departure.

Testimonials

A Multifaceted Adventure with Tristan

My wife and I were fortunate to have Tristan as our leader on our recent trip to Colombia. Tristan brings so much of his skills as a photographer, organizer, logistical expert, and more to enhance the participants’ experiences.

He relates to the locals in a warm, welcoming, and personal manner. He is multilingual and effortlessly switches between English, Spanish, French, and some of the indigenous languages. When locals meet him, the affection they feel for him is palpable. He can and does literally work magic with children.

It’s a joy to see their expressions when he magically extracts a coin from their ear. It makes for wonderful photos. He’s constantly in search of photo opportunities. He creates them spontaneously and we walked away with great photos so many times.

As the oldest one on the trip, Tristan was always ready to assist me with an inordinately heavy suitcase. Whether dealing with a technical camera issue or the best way to compose a shot, Tristan was there with great advice. He also provided very helpful photo editing sessions.

I would highly recommend him as a leader, no matter the destination.

Stephen Sholl

United States

Voyage Patagonie Mars 2025

We spent three wonderful weeks in Patagonia with Tristan. An unforgettable trip for the three of us, in a warm and relaxed atmosphere that Tristan carefully crafted down to the finest details. He organized an itinerary perfectly tailored to our requests. Always smiling, incredibly kind, and very patient. He made us experience this exceptional journey with unique moments that went beyond our expectations. Tristan is an excellent guide. He plans his trips with great professionalism on all levels, yet manages to make you forget it by sharing the experience with you, marveling at the landscapes like a friend showing you around the country… A big thank you to you. Lots of love!

Nathalie Terriot

France

Colombia Birding Tour

I visited Colombia with Tristan of Remote Expeditions and would highly recommend him. He put together a wonderful itinerary with great knowledge of the areas and attention to details to give us a wonderful sampling of the country. He is personally very gentle and fun by nature and you will return home feeling very happy and satisfied. Whatever your special interest is, I’m sure he can make an itinerary to exceed your goals.