Colombia has more species of birds than any other country - a staggering 1930+ species are to be found within the confines of this incredible nation; of which, at least 89 are endemic. This huge diversity of species results from the equally diverse range of habitats: three Andean Cordilleras (Western, Central and Eastern Andes), two inter-Andean valleys (the Cauca and Magdalena Valleys), the lowland forests of the Amazon and Orinoco regions, the isolated snow-capped Santa Marta Mountains, the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, deserts and lakes, and the rich wet forests of the Chocó all help to make it one of the most exciting countries to bird on earth!
Our series of southern Andes tours focus on the rarely visited southern Andes. Starting in the beautiful city of Santiago de Cali, we move up and out of the Valle de Cauca through the Farellones de Cali in search of Chestnut Wood Quail and both Purplish-mantled and Multicolored Tanagers. We then make our way slowly down the Old Buenaventura Road towards Anchicaya filtering through numerous lowland Choco endemics. From the Pacific coastal city of Buenaventura, we visit San Cipriano where a short 'bruja' or platofrm train ride will get us up to the forest trails to find Five-colored Barbet, Sapayoa and Pacific Flatbill. Having so far taken in a fascinating traverse of the south western Andes, we shall turn around and bird another traverse taking us to Bosque Yotoco for Cauca Guan and onwards to Buga and Laguna del Sonso. We have a little time to find the an isolated population of Horned Screamer before making our way back to Cali where the tour will conclude.
2023 Tour price is an estimate and will change. Tour dates could be adjusted.
Client Testimonials
Can be linked with: Colombia - Southern Andes: Endemics and Foothill Specialities 2023
Tour price (Per person): USD3,245 * GBP2,432 * EUR2,867 * AUD4,556
Rob Williams and the Rockjumper folks were absolutely fantastic in helping me after I lost my passport. They made sure I got back to Bogota for the embassy appointments, changing plans on the fly. Very impressive dedication to help customers.
Rob did an outstanding job on this tour. He is an excellent birding guide, great personality and provided insights on a variety of diverse subject matters. I was also impressed with the local operator and their quick actions in dealing with unexpected situations like the general strike and road closure to Medellin.
Forrest Rowland: We think you did a great job organising and leading this trip. It all seemed to go very smoothly so, if you had any problems, they weren't obvious to us. We thought your fieldcraft was also first class. Clearly, all your previous experience has meant that you know the birds, their calls and the sites exceptionally well. We think we did very well with the avifauna, in no small part thanks to you.
Two great tours led by Tuomas, who is an outstanding birder and great tour leader. Local guides were also very good, so we all saw virtually all of our hit list birds. Thanks to all.
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.