colombia birding 

August 6-19, 2023
​Guided by John Cahill with Eric Stager​
  • Pace: many early mornings, some long days in the field, easy walking. Driving limited.
  • Days: 14 days/ 13 nights
  • Scheduled dates:  2023 - August 6-19 
  • Price:  from $5,195 per person in double room with minimum 8. With 6: $5,695.
  • Single room: $500 (very limited - singles are either a double on your own, or a smaller room for one)
  • ​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.
      This year we begin in Montezuma – Tatamá National Park - 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 full days, we’ll have opportunities to see many endemics and near- endemics of the Chocó Region. Montezuma also has good night birds, so there are chances for owls and nightjars.
     Then we continue to destinations including 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. Onward to Manizales, famous for growing Colombia’s famous, but also known for antpittas! Our last few days will be spent in the area of the Fuertes’ Parrot, 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, and part of the proceeds from this tour will contribute to its upkeep.

       We will utilize flights into and out of Pereira, which is close to the birding destinations.

  • Accommodations:  Small hotels or lodges, single rooms limited. All have hot water and private bath, but some are rustic, wifi is limited throughout. 
  • Included:  lodging with taxes. transportation by van or 4X4, guide services of John Cahill and local guides, escorted by Eric Stager of JB Journeys, park entry fees, all meals, basic gratuities for meals & drivers
  • Not included:  International airfare, private transfers if not on group flight, drinks, guide gratuities, travel insurance (highly recommended), personal expenses, spa or hot springs visits
  • Bring:  Binoculars, camera, appropriate field clothing, walking stick, sunblock, bug juice, good walking shoes. More on confirmation.