Overview

All the way out east, in the seldom visited department of Guanía, lies the bustling little town of Inírida. One would hardly expect such a lively little town here at the edge of Amazonia, but thankfully for birders and other nature enthusiasts, Inírida provides a wonderful base for exploring the surrounding forest, which bursts with birds. Long neglected, and away from the urban centers and tourism hubs of Colombia, Inírida offers the nearest edge of the greater Amazon basin. Biodiverse and with a host of rare and seldom-seen specialties, based at this comfortable outpost this birding adventure is just a couple of short flights away

Formerly known as Puerto Inírida, it was renamed simply Inírida in 1974, and today serves as the departmental capital. Also a key spot for fisherman in pursuit of peacock bass, and for ranchland workers of the Llanos, it is also increasingly popular among tourists seeking wildlife or hoping to behold the odd and beautiful Cerros de Mavecure. Just south of town these three black domed monolithic mountains rise from the edge of the Guianan Shield, casting a heavenly shadow over the steamy tropical forest that surrounds them. The highest peak at 2336 feet above sea level, is named Pajarito, the “little bird”.

Inírida’s existence is one of convergence. Long known more for illegal mining, today it is a globally significant wetland of Colombia’s remote east, home to indigenous people, government officials and a burgeoning tourism industry. Perched at the edge of the Guianan Shield, Inírida is a refuge for bird species characteristic of Amazonia, but also to those more associated with the savanna grasslands of the seasonal floodplain that is the vast Llanos – the endless plains. Among birders the area is best known for access to the unique white sand forests, holding a number of range-restricted specialties, such as Bronzy Jacamar, Orinoco Softtail, and Pale-bellied Mourner. When chance favors, visitors sometimes see what is surely the strangest of the Cotinga family, the odd Capuchinbird, while rosy Amazon River Dolphins delight many visitors here. Many highlights and scintillating birds await in Colombia’s Wild East.


*2024 Prices are estimated and dates may change*

Tour Facts Top Birds
Orinoco Softtail, Pale-bellied Mourner, Capuchinbird, Black-fronted Nunbird, Gilded Barbet, Black-chinned Antbird, Paradise & Bronzy Jacamars, Orinoco Piculet, Blackish-gray Antshrike, Black & Yellow-crowned Manakins, Rose-breasted Chat, White-naped Seedeater.
Top Mammals
Amazon River Dolphin, Giant River Otter, Collared Titi Monkey.
Habitats Covered
white sand forest and terra firme forest
Expected Climate
warm and humid
Max Group Size
8 with 1 Rockjumper leader
Tour Pace & Walking
Our Mega tours are very fast-paced birding adventures designed for the dedicated lister and serious birder. The focus of the tour is to see as many of the endemics and area specials as possible in our given time. In order to cover the necessary route to maximise the species list we tend to spend a single night at most sites and travel large distances. There is very little down time aside from that spent driving from one site to the next. These tours are not suitable for dedicated or avid photographers; inexperienced or new birders; as well as anyone with serious mobility or health challenges.
Accommodation
comfortable lodge
Number of Species Expected
200+
Other Attractions
fantastic scenery and rarely visited sites
Photographic Opportunities
average to good
Tour Route Map Route Map Client Testimonials

Stephan Lorenz is an outstanding guide – extremely knowledgeable, extremely diligent in getting target birds, and is full of enthusiasm every day.  A real pleasure.

I was thrilled when Forrest Rowland agreed to run another Colombia Mega, as I really wanted to join a tour led by him – he has such extensive experience of this country and its birds. Even with that expectation, the trip exceeded my wildest dreams. Forrest’s grasp of Colombia’s birds, herps, plants, geography and history sets the scene for a magnificent experience. His humour and personality ensure one enjoys every minute.

Our local leader Ivan Lau was spectacular. He was very knowledgeable of all the birds and all the songs, calls and chips. He was easy going, very friendly and and real pleasure to travel with. He was also excellent with travel logistics and keeping everything organized. I would certainly travel with him again!

The Santa Marta Mountains were truly a great place to bird with several endemics to be seen and spectacular mountains views. The lodge was a fantastic place to stay for three nights. Highly recommend this extension tour!!!!

Tuomas was excellent. He was an excellent birder and group leader, ensuring the everyone saw each bird. He was persistent in pursuing our target birds but knew when enough was enough for the day. Tuomas has an easy going manner, but he (and the local leader) were efficient and effective in dealing with problems in the field or with the accomodation.

Dates, Leaders and Pricing
2024 DEPARTURES
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