colombia birding with John Cahill

Early August 2021, dates tba
Guided by John Cahill, Guatemala's Top Birder​
  • Pace: many early mornings, some long days in the field, easy walking. Driving limited. 
  • Days: 12 days/ 11 nights 
  • Scheduled dates:  2021 - August 11-22
  • Price:  from $3,995 per person in double room
  • Download detailed itinerary
 
Colombia is the top destination for birding with over 1,900 species of birds recorded!  On our birding adventure in western Colombia, super guide John Cahill takes you to a limited area of the country, yet you have the chance to see a number of endemics, including the biggest prize of all, the beautiful Fuertes’ Parrot.
     Destinations include Otun Quimbaya National Park with good chances to see the Cauca Guan, thought extinct but re-discovered only in 1994. The park serves as a buffer zone between the city of Pereira and Los Nevados National Park, resulting in a biological corridor of great importance in the Central Andes. It is managed by a local community organization called Yarumo Blanco, a good example of sustainable and cultural tourism. Onward to Manizales, the center of the coffee region of Colombia, but also known for antpittas.
     Fuertes’ Parrot is one of the most endangered birds in the world. It too was thought extinct over 100 years ago and only recently found. Fortunately, land has been put aside for its survival. Part of the proceeds from this tour will contribute to its upkeep.
We’ve saved the best for last. Montezuma – Tatamá National Park - is one of the best places to bird in Colombia, with an elevation gradient on the track from 3,600 to 9,000 feet, making it one of the most diverse areas in all Colombia with more than 600 species recorded.  With four days, we’ll have opportunities to see many endemics and near-endemics of the Chocó Region. Many of these places have good night birds, so there are good chances for owls and nightjars.
     With a good flight schedule in and out of the city of Pereira, we can take advantage of short drives and be birding immediately. 
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  • Accommodations:  Small hotels or lodges. All have hot water and private bath
  • Included:   11 nights lodging with taxes. transportation by van or 4X4, guide servides of John Cahill and local guides, escorted by Eric Stager of JB Journeys, park entry fees, all meals, basic gratuities for meals & driver
  • Not included:  International airfare to/from Pereira (PIE), private transfers if not on group flight, drinks, guide gratuities, travel insurance (highly recommended), personal expenses, spa or hot springs visits.
  • Bring:  Binoculars, camera, appropiate field clothing, walking stick, sunblock, bug juice, good walking shoes. More on confirmation.