Travel Guide Colombian Birds

travel guide

to birdwatching sites

in Colombia

travel guide

to birdwatching sites

in Colombia

Welcome to Colombia

TRAVEL GUIDE FOR BIRDWATCHING PLACES IN COLOMBIA

Proexport Colombia is proud to present this guide to the bird watching sites of Colombia. The potential for the development of nature tourism is enormous thanks to the huge diversity of fauna and flora including the largest country lists for birds and amphibians.

CONTENTS Claudia Múnera, Natalia Ocampo Peñuela, José Castaño, Diego Calderón-F., Robin Schiele, Iván Macías ILLUSTRATIONS Robin Schiele PROJECT DIRECTION Claudia Múnera PHOTOGRAPHIES Julián Londoño, Juan David Ramírez, Natalia Ocampo, José Castaño, RN Palmari-Axel Antoine Feil, COLOMBIA Birding-Diego Calderón F., Colombia Oculta-Iván Macías, Claudia Múnera, Robin Schiele, César Isaza, Juan Alzate, Aviatur, Fundación ProAves, Reserva Tanimboca. EDITORIAL REVIEW Carl Downing Diana Balcázar, Claudia Múnera Robin Schiele, Andrés Camilo Díaz

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY White-mantled Barbet (Capito hypoleucus) Juan David Ramírez

Campylopterus phainpeplus (Santa Marta Sabrewing)

INTERIOR DESIGN Tamara Matías Henao Sissi Tamayo Chavarriaga

Colombia is a paradise for bird watchers with an immeasurable number of habitats to visit from the cloud forests or paramos of the Andes, the Amazonian and Choco rainforests, the eastern plains of the Orinoco, or the lowlands of the Inter-Andean valleys and Caribbean, not to mention the impressive snow capped peaks of the Santa Marta Mountains; the highest coastal mountain range in the world. Mainland Colombia has a varied geography with five recognised regions: Andean, Caribbean, Pacific, Amazon and Orinoco. It has around 53 million hectares of natural forest and 22 million hectares of savannahs, arid deserts, wetlands and snowy peaks plus over 1,800 lakes. The aim of this guide is to provide information about some of the principle private nature reserves and national parks where you may enjoy your bird watching experience. It includes sections on how to get there plus a list of the main target species at each site allowing you to organize your trip and see some of the 1880 species of birds that Colombia has on offer

PROEXPORT COLOMBIA President Proexport, María Claudia Lacouture; Vice-president Tourism, Zully Salazar Fuentes; Leisure Tourism Manager, Francisco Vergara Piñeres; Advisor Leisure Tourism Management, Andrés Camilo Díaz; Alejandro Navas Marketing Tourism Specialist, Laura Ortega. Note to the reader: Information such as addresses, phone numbers, opening hours and prices published in this guide are accurate at the time of press. Comments, corrections and suggestions will be very welcome in order to assist us in preparing future update to this guide.

Orinoquía (Natalia Ocampo)

PNN Tayrona

PNN Nevados

Prologue

The preparation of this guide to some of Colombia’s wild places for guidebirding to someis of Colombia’s wild places for It is something that no one a remarkable achievement. achievement. It is something that one decades ago. It is, in fact, a would have dreamed possibleno a few possible a few decades ago. It is, in fact, testament to just how much things ahave changed in a relatively muchshort things have changed in a relatively span of time. In 1971 I arrived in Colombia eager to study 1971Colombia’s I arrived inbirds Colombia eager discovered to study that I was unprepared for but quickly uickly the discovered that I was unprepared for overwhelming diversity of birdlife in the country. I also versitydiscovered of birdlifethat, in outside the country. I also of a few scientists at universities, there was of a almost few scientists universities, wasBirding as a hobby didn’t exist no oneatI could turn tothere for help. urn to and for help. Birding as a hobby didn’t exist voices in defense of the natural environment were scarcely to of the be natural were scarcely to preservation were framed in heard.environment Arguments in favor of forest favorterms of forest preservation were framed in of biodiversity. Books with of water resources, rarely in terms s, rarely in terms of biodiversity. Books with illustrations of birds were almost nonexistent and naturalists seeking e almost nonexistent and naturalists beautiful natural areas to visitseeking had almost nowhere to turn for to visit had almost nowhere to turn for information.

Eventually, with the help of several Colombians, I found a lovely site p of several a lovely site on a bird community. The whereColombians, I could carryI found out basic research t basicstudy research on aabird The this remote location high on spanned yearcommunity. and a half. From nd a half. From this remote location high on a beautiful ridge overlooking the Anchicayá Valley I could look down oking and the Anchicayá Valley I could look down see the distant lights of Buenaventura on clear nights. That hts ofmisty Buenaventura clear That forest was on filled withnights. exciting and mysterious birds, but the with exciting and mysterious birds, but the facilities were little more than a rudimentary tin-roofed building, re than andaitrudimentary took hours bytin-roofed mule on abuilding, steep, often muddy trail, to reach that e on asite. steep, often muddy trail, tomanaged reach thatwithout the help of many I could never have ve managed the who helpmay of have manynot understood why I wanted generouswithout Colombians who may have not understood why I wanted to study birds but were unfailingly supportive. unfailingly supportive. After that study, I returned often to Colombia and, for a ten-year period from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, I guided birders and naturalists on organized tours to many places in the country. We were, in a sense, some of Henicorhina negreti (Munchique Wood Wren)

After that study, I returned often to Colombia and, for a ten-year period from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, I guided birders and naturalists on organized tours to many places in the country. We were, in a sense, some of

the first “eco-tourists,” a term the first “eco-tourists,” a term that would not appear that in would not appear in the lexicon of travel until the lexicon of travel until later. At that time there were later. At that time there were few facilities and little few facilities and little ecotourism infrastructure, ecotourism infrastructure, but we came anyway, but we came anyway, visited natural parks and visited natural parks and explored forests and lakes, explored forests and lakes, mostly accessible by roads, mostly accessible by roads, to observe birds. During to observe birds. During those years I traveled widely those years I traveled widely theand Caribbean to theand Chocó from the Caribbean to thefrom Chocó the Amazon later,and withthe a Ama colleague, produced book on the birds of this colleague, produced a book on the birds of thisamarvelous country. a book wished I could have had wh It was a book that I wishedItI was could have that had Iwhen I first arrived but, by thesecurity time itissues was published, security issues by the time it was published, brought Colombia’s fledgling ecotourism industry to an abrupt h fledgling ecotourism industry to an abrupt halt. I left Colombia, worked elsewhere nearly twenty years, worked elsewhere for nearly twenty years, andforwas never able to use and w that bookitin theintended. country for which it was intend that book in the country for which was Leptotila conoveri (Tolima Dove)

like a time-traveler, I was an opp Then, like a time-traveler, Then, I was offered an opportunity tooffered return in 2004, to participate in Colombia’s first Cong 2004, to participate in Colombia’s first Congreso de Ornitología Colombiana, and I discovered a very different co Colombiana, and I discovered a very different country. Shedding the political had upheaval, Colomb chains of political chains upheaval,of Colombia become forward-looking, determined be to at do peace w forward-looking, determined to be at peace with itselftoand business the world. Even more surprising, business with the world. Even morewith surprising, hundreds of young were eagerly taking to the Colombians were eagerlyColombians taking to the field, learning about the field, andand wildlife of their country and seeking birds and wildlife of theirbirds country seeking places to conduct studies. Encouraged by a newand generation studies. Encouraged by a new generation of professors mentors of pro an impressive expanding army an impressive and expanding army ofand knowledgeable youngof kno students ranging far and wide, observing, c students were ranging far and wide,were observing, conducting research and making theircopies voicesof heard. Somehow, and making their voices heard. Somehow, our bird book, cop thehad onefound I never gotway to use, found of their wa the one I never got to use, their into had the hands many thesealready students and they wereits already many of these students and theyofwere pushing beyond limits. of ecotourism also were circulatin limits. Rumors of ecotourism alsoRumors were circulating and organizations dedicated to theareas preservation natural areas dedicated to the preservation of natural had beenofrecently areasand were being purcha established. Natural areasestablished. were being Natural purchased plans were for on-site facilities. A few entr laid for on-site ecotourismlaid facilities. A fewecotourism entrepreneurial start-up were preparing to offer guided companies were preparingcompanies to offer guided birding tours. Dozens of bird

places, once inaccessible, were opening to students and researchers, and eco-travelers would surely follow. Colombians, as well as foreigners, were discovering yet another of the untapped riches of this country—its immense biodiversity and its ecotourism potential. The appearance of the present book, once scarcely a dream, is thus both timely and, in a sense, predictable because it anticipates a need and offers the kind of information that every traveler, whether Colombian or foreigner, will want to have. It signals increasing political stability and a maturation of values that extend beyond exploitation of nonrenewable resources. A thriving ecotourism industry employs many people, brings new avenues of prosperity to communities, and instills awareness of the value of biodiversity. Perhaps best of all, it is a sustainable business whose resources do not diminish with time. What better way to promote this industry than through guide books like this one, which provide readers and travelers with the information and incentive needed to see Colombia’s birds and its wildlife treasures for themselves?

Steven L. Hilty Author of A Guide to the Birds of Colombia Victor Emanuel Nature Tours, Inc

Los Besotes (Jose Castaño)

Serranía Los Paraguas (Jose Castaño) Pacífico

Acknowledgements This guide was possible thanks to the support of the owners and managers of all the birdwatching sites we visited. We are really thankful for their help and enthusiasm in this project. In the Andean region we would like to show our gratitude to David Escobar, for the company, support and interest during the visit to Chicaque. The staff of Chingaza National Park for their support during our visit to this beautiful park. To Fundación Natura, and especially Martha Beltrán, for her enthusiasm to this project and help during our visit to El Encenillo Biological Reserve. The same must also go to the personnel of Bogotá’s Botanical Garden and Juan Carlos Linero. Thanks are also due to Fundación Humedal La Conejera, in particular Ana María and Germán for their company, and help when we visited, the staff at the Instituto Distrital de Recreación y Deporte with special credit to Zoraida Acosta for her help at Parque La Florida, Alberto Echeverry at CRQ and Diego Duque for their interest and information provided for the reserves of the Quindío. The Municipality of Jardín and the staff at UMATA for their help and enthusiasm in including their beautiful town as a birdwatching destination and Eduardo Calderón-Saenz for his help during the visit to El Refugio. The trip to several destinations in the Caribbean would not have been possible without the help of Gloria Carmona and Eberhard Wedler of Caoba Natural Reserve, many thanks for your hospitality! Special thanks should also go to Walberto Naranjo who guided us to several of the key destinations as well as showing us many Cercomacra parkeri (Parker’s Antbird) other interesting places. Our special gratitude goes to the guide Cristobal Navarro and the Vega family of La Cumbre Natural Reserve in San Lorenzo for their generosity, especially during the heavy rain that suddenly surprised us while we were visiting them, thanks for kindly welcoming us and sharing the delicious coffee . Thanks to Tomas Dario Gutierrez (Los Besotes), and the managers of the Parke Agua Viva and Tacarcunas reserves in Sapsurro. Roberto Negrete, manager of Tayrona tourist concession, was of special support during the visit to PNN Tayrona. Thanks to the park rangers of the SFF Los Flamencos, Ilder Gómez and Anderson Rosado, for birdwatching the dry forests of the

are especially thankfulregion to Fundación Horizontethankful to Fundación Horizonte In the Orinoco we are especially e contacts tofor several reserves andcontacts the bird to listsseveral reserves and the bird lists Verde helping with the and Miguel Andrés Suárez of El Caduceo Natural provided. To Miguel Ángel and Miguel Andrés Suárez of El Caduceo Natural aga of Reserve, Ventanas,toMartha Valderrama Ricardo Martha Valderrama and Ricardo Gina Paola Zuluagaand of Ventanas, ajay, the Rodriguez family of El Tesoro, Madriñan of Refugio Nimajay, the Cesar Rodriguez family of El Tesoro, Cesar of Matarredonda Zamuro Natural reserves, and Zamuro Natural reserves, Barrera and and Gladys Tamayo of Matarredonda o of LasEduardo Unamasand reserve, many thanks forUnamas all the reserve, many thanks for all the Alberto Enciso of Las h the project. want to showwith our the thankfulness supportWe and eagerness project. We want to show our thankfulness ojonawi their support during the visit to to for Fundación Omacha of Bojonawi forthe their support during the visit to the to visitreserve other nearby Special gratitude and forreserves. helping us to visit other nearby reserves. Special gratitude d specially Mrs. Aleida Jerónimo, the special to the Barragán family andfor specially Mrs. Aleida Jerónimo, for the special e visit to Hato La Aurora. dedication and help for the visit to Hato La Aurora.

middle Magdalena valley región receive In midweMagdalena valley region we received port from several persons and organizations. support from several people and organizations. ny thanks to the staff of the UMATA of to thethe staff of the UMATA of the Many thanks oria municipality for the company and support for the company and support Victoria municipality ing the visit to the IBA. Also many thanks to the during the visit to the IBA. Also many thanks to the sonnel of the Rio Claro reserve.personnel Katharina of Lechle the Rio Claro reserve, to Katharina d José Manuel Ochoa for Lechle the information and José Manuel Ochoa for the information Eriocnemis mirabilis del río vided to include Cañon Alicante in this the Cañon del río Alicante in provided regarding (Colourful Puffleg de. Our gratitude to Ana María of the thisJaramillo guide. Our gratitude to Ana María Jaramillo of upportthe andRio eagerness to the project. Constanza Manso reserve for her support and enthusiasmfor the project and olaof the DulceMendoza reserve, for their company to Mana Constanza and Esteban Oyolaof the Mana Dulce reserve, for ng this their reserve. company and hospitality while visiting this reserve.

ecognize provided by thelike personnel of In the the help Pacific we would to recognize the help provided by the Ricardo Ariza andofthe members of Corporación personnel PNN Utria, especially to Ricardo Ariza, and the members of a fromCorporación El Almejal Lodge was of special support, ManoCambiada. Cesar Isaza from El Almejal Lodge was of rom Playa de Oro Lodge, for hospitality. special assistance, andhisHector Palacios from Playa de Oro Lodge for his hospitality. we are very grateful for their company and by Goran Mihajlovic Adriana Aguilar of the for their company and guidance In the Amazonand region, we are very grateful ith Oscar Tamayo and the Cercaand VivaAdriana Aguilar of the Tanimboca granted to us byfamily GoranofMihajlovic interesting life and project. last,Tamayo but notand least,family to of the Cerca Viva reserve for reserve, withAnd Oscar evotedshowing attentionusduring our visit tolife Palmari. his interesting project. And last, but not least, to Axel Antoine Feil and his devoted attention during our visit to Palmari. personnel of the National Parks System but ales and Mario Tamayo, help and of the National Parks System OurCarlos appreciation must goyour to the personnel the visits of the to national parks included this Mario Tamayo; your help and especially Carolina Gonzales andin Carlos support was invaluable for our visits of the national parks included in this guide.

Many thanks to Ecoturs, to her its mana Many thanks to Ecoturs, especially to its manager Angelaespecially Gomez, for and enthusiasm during the process support and enthusiasm during support the production of this guide, forallhelping to complete the the for reserves managed us complete the visits to the reserves managed byvisits themtoand providing some photos of their destinations. some photos of their destinations.

special gratitudeJuan to Julián Londoñ A special message of gratitude A must go message to Julián ofLondoño, David Macías (Colombia Oculta) Feil andfor Axel Antoine Fei Ramírez, Iván Macías (Colombia Oculta) and Axel Antoine sharing photographs for this guide. their fantastic photographs for use in this guide.

To Sergio Ocampothroughout for his enthusiasm and supp To Sergio Ocampo for his enthusiasm and support the Project.

forofficial allowing us the BirdLife International, for allowingBirdLife us the International, use of the IBA’s “logo”, butuse of to Amiro Pérez-leroux for and his confi especially to Amiro Pérez-lerouxespecially for his confidence in the project recognize this guide for the C recognising the importance of this guide forthe theimportance ColombianofIBA’s.

Finally we to have show our appreciation Finally we have to show our appreciation thetostaff of Proexport, with to t merit to in Andres Diaz, for allofthe special merit to Andres Diaz, for special all the support the elaboration thissuppor guide. although now, she iswenot parttoof Pro guide. And although she is not part And of Proexport want recognize firstCahnspeyer, support to this recognize the support given to this guide bythe Laura the guide first toby Lau believe in this project. believe in the project.

knowthanks that this possible We know that this guide was onlyWe possible to theguide manywas people who than apologize if wemissed miss somebody. have contributed to it, our apologies if we have anyone. ¡Many, many thanks to all of you! ¡Many, many thanks to all of you!

SFF Otún Quimbaya (Jose Castaño)

PNN Amacayacu

Hato La Aurora (Natalia Ocampo)

Index

Introduction General aspects

14

Ornithology and birdwatching in Colombia 18 About this travel guide

22

Andes

Magdalena

Bogotá Jardín Botánico 30-31 Humedal de la Conejera 32-33 Humedal de la Florida 34-35 PNN Chingaza 36-37 RN El Encenillo 38-39 RN Chicaque 40-41 Laguna de Pedro Palo 42-43 Cascadas de Sueva 44-45 SFF Iguaque 46-47 RNP Rogitama 48-49 Bosques de Soatá 50-51 RN Reinita Cielo Azul 52-53 RNP Río Blanco 54-55 Ecoparque Los Alcázares 56-57 PNN Nevados 58-59 SFF Otún –Quimbaya 60-61 Áreas de conservación y manejo: Bremen la Popa 62-63 Cañón Quindío 64-65 Agua Clara 66-67 Jardin Botánico del Quindío 68-69 PNN Puracé 70-71 PNN Cueva de los Guácharos 72-73 RN San Sebastián 74-75 RN Arrierito Antioqueño 76-77 El Cairo (Galápagos y Cerro El Inglés) 78-79 Montezuma - Tatamá 80-81 Reserva Forestal Yotoco 82-83 Yanalá 84-85 El Refugio 86-87 RN Colibrí del Sol 88-89 RNA Las Tángaras 90-91 Jardín y RN Loro Orejiamarillo 92-93

Reserva Natural Río Claro

96-97

IBA Victoria

98-99

RN El Paujil

100-101

Maná Dulce

102-103

Río Manso

104-105

Cañón Río Alicante

106-107

Caribbean

Orinoquia RNP Matarredonda El Rey Zamuro RNP Las Unamas El Caduceo RNP Ventanas RNP Refugio Nimajay RN Bojonawi Finca El Tesoro Hato La Aurora

128-129 130-131 132-133 134-135 136-137 138-139 140-141 142-143

PNN Tayrona Vía Parque Isla Salamanca SFF Los Flamencos RNP El Matuy RN El Dorado Guacamaya verde-Caoba Mamancana RN La Cumbre Tacarcunas Agua Viva Los Besotes

146-147 148-149 150-151 152-153 154-155 156-157 158-159 160-161 162-163 164-165 166-167

Directory

168-177

Bibliograph

178-180

Pacific El Almejal PNN Utría Lodge Playa de Oro Punta Huina

110-111 112-113 114-115 Chlorophanes spiza (Julián Londoño) Phoenicopterus ruber

Amazon PNN Amacayacu Isla Mocagua RNP Cercaviva RNP Taninboca Palmarí

118-119 120-121 122-123 124-125

Tángaras (Julián Londoño)

Introduction

Famous for its excellent coffee, the purest of emeralds, and breathtaking landscapes, it is also home of the legend of El Dorado and the magical universe of Macondo.

Colombia has five main natural regions: the Amazon, the Orinoco and its savannahs, the massive mountains of the Andes, the rainforests of the Chocó, one of the wettest places in the world, the permanently snow covered peaks of theSierra Nevada de Santa Marta; the highest coastal mountains in the world plus the dry forests of the Caribbean. Each of these forms a special landscape with ecosystems where a unique avifauna occurs.

(Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

With the highest diversity of birds of any country, it is a world class destination where geography, culture and nature melt together to form a charming tropical nation. For centuries, it has fascinated the world because of its varied geography, a history full of mystery and adventure, and its culture.

However, in addition, you will also find several ecosystems with an abundant avifauna full of endemism and specialties. Over the last few years several endeavors have been made in order to try and show the world how wonderful our marvellous country is and where birdwatching is not only possible, but incredible.

Buteo magnirostris

Welcome to Colombia.

If you haven’t been to this country, we invite you to come and see what you’ve been missing. Come to Colombia and discover a new world full of unique experiences, and birds that are waiting to be found!

Pyrrhura viridicata (Juan Alzate)

12 . Birdwatching Colombia

Introduction . 13

General aspects Location and population Colombia is situated in the northwestern extreme of South America. It is the only South American country with coastal boundaries on both Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Colombia has a territorial extension of 1,141,748 km2 and a maritime area of 928,660 km2, sharing borders with Panama, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador, and maritime borders with Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Jamaica, The Dominican Republic and Haiti. The weather is governed primarily by trade winds carrying humidity and mountainous terrain: the higher the altitude, the lower the temperature. It is a country of microclimates. The country lacks seasons but it has two rainy periods from April to June and from August to November – and two dry seasons. Getting around Colombia is, therefore, something the visitor can do all year round. In 2010 the National Statistics Department (Departamento Nacional de Estadística, DANE) estimated a population of Colombia of around 45,508,205 people. Urban populations are experiencing continued growth due to periodic migrations. There are more women than men in urban areas, and fewer in rural areas. The country has a diverse population, with three main ethnic groups as the basis of its current demographics: indigenous amerindians, blacks and whites.

Culture Spanish is the official language of the Republic of Colombia, although according to the country’s National Indigenous Organization (Organización Nacional Indígena de Colombia – ONIC), there are around Orinoquia Savannahs (Natalia Ocampo) 70 indigenous dialects. In the Caribbean islands of San Andrés and Providencia, the inhabitants speak Creole, a mixture of English and some African languages. The cultural richness of Colombia has been recognized at an international level, and several sites have been designated as Cultural Heritage Sites by UNESCO, for example the Fortress complex of Cartagena, the historic centre of Mompox, San Agustín Archeological Park, and Tierradentro National Arceological Park. Some traditional customs have been also recognized by UNESCO such as the Barranquilla Carnival and the Village of San Basilio de Palenque in the department of Bolívar that was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Table 1. Main facts of Colombia

Official name: Capital Borders Area National holiday Official currency Exchange rates Tasa de inflación anual Member of the following international Organizations

Republic of Colombia Bogotá D.C. Colombia is located in the northwest region of South America, bordering to the north with the Caribbean Sea; to the south, with Peru and Ecuador; to the east, with Venezuela and Brazil; to the west, with the Pacific Ocean; and to the northwest, with Panama. 1.141.748 km2 of land and 928.660 km2 of territorial sea 20th of July (Independence Day) Colombian peso. Circulating currency: coins of 50, 100, 200 and 500 pesos. Bills of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 pesos 1 Dollar = $1.812,60 colombian pesos (As of 21.10.2010) 1 Euro = $2.499,39 colombian pesos (As of 21.10.2010) 4.4 % ONU, OEZ, MERCOSUR, CAN, ALADI, Pacto Andino, UNASUR y G3

PNN Tayrona

14 . Birdwatching Colombia

General aspects . 15

Security

Transport

In recent years the international perception with regards to the security situation within the country has improved significantly. This is backed by the growing foreign investment around the country. In fact, you will find armed police officers who, rather than intimidate, help you on the streets. The national police continually carry out road safety and accident prevention campaigns that help avoid diversions or delays in your itinerary. While you do not need to worry about your safety, you should always use common sense. However, you will not run into anything out of the ordinary that might scare you.

Airports: Colombia has 6 International airports connecting with the major cities of the world; these are located in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali,Pereira, Barranquilla and Cartagena. Additionally, almost every city in Colombia has a domestic airport. Around 21 national and international airlines operate about 640 flights a week.

Yellow-eared Parrot roosting site

Taxes (VAT) A tourist that spends more than 237 thousand pesos in shopping can have the VAT reimbursed; just present the VAT recept together with your credit card receipt for the purchase made with your international credit card. Before boarding your flight to your country of origen you will need to go the DIAN (Direccion de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales) at the airport and show sales receipt, documents and a fill in an application form (modelo 1344). Within a period of 90 days the reimbursement will show on your credit card. Exit taxes Airport exit tax: US$34 for tourists that stay less than 60 days in the country. A US$68 tax applies to travellers who have stayed more than two months in the country. Payment can be made in cash in dollars or its equivalent in pesos at the daily exchange rate. Please note that this could change at anytime. Trails inside Rio Blanco Reserve 16 . Birdwatching Colombia

Roads: You may cover large sections of the country, while at the same time, enjoying its natural beauty, by using the national road system which covers around 145,000km and connects bordering countries. However, it is important to take into consideration the geographical, geologic and climatic conditions as your trip could be interrupted by landslides or other similar problems. There are tolls along the main roads which have different prices according to the type of toll road and vehicle. You can find information about the road system and tolls at the website www.invias.gov.co.

Colombia’s flora and fauna colorful (Natalia Ocampo and Claudia Múnera)

General aspects . 17

Ornithology and birdwatching in Colombia

Colombia recognized havingofthe greatest number of bird d as the countryiswith a great as number of any and country in the world ound species 1860 native migratory birdswith around 1880 native and birds (Restall et number al. 2006, Salaman et al. 2009). This 2006,migratory Salaman et al. 2009). That includes around 74endemics endemics(Stiles and many near-endemics (Stiles demics and several near 1998) that or restricted range species, d range, means species which meaning species with a distribution less than 50000 Km2 but sharing its distribution n 50000 Km2 andofshares its distribution with neighboring countries (Stattersfield et al. 1998). In recent tries (Stattersfield et al. 1998). Several new several&new has been vered years, (i.e. Robbins Stilesspecies 1999, Cuervo et discovered (e.g. Robbins & 1999, al. 2001,etCuervo et al. 2005, Krabbe et al. 2005,Stiles Krabbe et Cuervo al. 2005,etSalaman al. Salaman et al. 2003, Cortes et 2003, Cortes et al. 2007, 2005, just to al. have 2007). There have also been mention some of them). There severalin new records of birds not also been new records of birds previously recorded in the country the country not previously recorded (Cuervo et al. 2003, Laverde (Cuervo & Stiles et al. 2003, Laverde & Stiles 2007, Salaman et al. 2009). 2007, Salaman et al. 2009).

Overbut the last 20 years or so and In the last 20 years or more, specially in the last 10 years,especially several in the last 10 years, several changes changes in the ornithological field in the ornithological field been made (Naranjo 2008). have been made (Naranjohave 2008). There more people There are more people are in the country, as well birdwatching in the country,birdwatching as well Red-hooded Tanager David Ramirez) as ain growing interest in as a (Juangrowing interest conservation. An interesting conservation. An interesting is the of country more than 116 IBAs in the country ce of example more than 116 existence IBAs in the et more al. 2009), that areas(Devenish that covers thanareas 7% of thecover more than 7% of the IBAs are the result of years of research e IBAsnational are the territory. result of These years of research and theand engagement of different of different diverse sectors such asand diverse sectors such as government and civiltosociety working together to t andacademics, civil society working together guarantee the and conservation of biodiversity and birds. ation of biodiversity birds.

was the creation of the National vent Another was the remarkable creation of event the National Conservation vationStrategy of Birdsfor of the Colombia (RenjifoofetBirds al. of Colombia (Renjifo et al. 2000)main which been the bird main tool in achieving bird en the tool has in achieving 18 . Bird watching Colombia

conservation and research actions in the conservation and research actions. There arethere currently 12 local to mention that are several ornitholo ornithological organisations,first theone firstwas of created which was created in mom in 1981. At this 1981, one national organisation and a growing national network ornithological of birdwatchers (Red associations, one at a Nacional de national level and a Observadores de Aves growing national de Colombia - RNOA). network of birdwatchers There are also several (Red Nacional de government and private Observadores de Aves organisations working in de Colombia-RNOA). in the conservation of There are also several birds. There is a full list of organizations from the these in hte directory at Russet-throated Puffbird government or private, the end of the guide. working with birds as the main conserv end of this guide you will find a director There are several publications relating to the birds of Colombia, entities related with conservation of bird the most famous of which is the Filed Guide to the Birds of Colombia by Hilty and Brown (1986), as well as several regional You will find several publications on bird guides in Bogotá (ABO 2000)from and Medellín (SAO 2003) and the famous Field Guide tomore the Birds specialised books such as the(1986), photographic guide to Brown as well as a regional guide i hummingbirds of ColombiaMedellín (Mazariegos arespecialized also (SAO2000). 2003),There or more many CDs with recordingsphotography’s of the songs and of birds of calls several humming including the 7 CD set from the Humbolt Institute. (Mazariegos 2000). You will also find CDs and calls of birds produced by the Humbo Conservation of birds and its habitat in Colombia Conservation of birds and its habitat in The National Protected Areas System (SINAP in spanish) is the main body for ecosystem conservation. includes the national The NationalIt Protected Areas System (SI protected areas and some private nature reserves. The national main figure for ecosystem conservation network of private reserves protected from the civil society (RESNATUR areas and some privateinnature Spanish) consists of more than 253 reserves that reserves cover more than network of private from the civi 118,609 acres of the country. There are several conservation Spanish) consist of more than 253 reserve categories like municipal 118.609 reserves, acres forestin reserves or birds the country. There are reserves, a management category created Fundaciónreserves, Proaves fores categories likebymunicipal for their private protected areas. reserves, a management category created for their private protected areas. The protected areas system began in 1960 with the creation of the Cueva de los Guacharos National Park, in order to protect the General aspects . 19

The protected areas system began in 1960 with the creation of the Cueva de los Guacharos National Park, in order to protect the Oilbird colonies (Steathornis caripensis) found there. Other areas followed and now around 10% of the continental area and 1.3% of the maritime portion are legally protected; at this moment 56 natural areas have been declared as protected areas and some others will follow. The responsible for the management of the national protected areas is carried out by the National Parks System (Unidad Administrativa Especial del Sistema de Parques Nacionales Naturales de Rose-breasted Grossbeak Colombia - UAESPNN). Several of these areas are open to tourists and, of course, birdwatching (see Map 1). We recommend you visit the National Parks webpage at www.parquesnacionales.gov.co where you will find all the information you need to visit. In addition, there are several areas in Colombia of international importance: five RAMSAR sites, five biosphere reserves, one conservation area for shorebirds as part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network-WHRSN and nearly 200 IBAs (Devenish et al. 2009). The red data book of birds of Colombia was published in 2002 (Renjifo et al. 2002) where 112 birds species are recognised as threatened while BirdLife International recognises 87 globally threatened birds that are found in Colombia. The red data book of threatened birds of 2002 helped to promote actions for the conservation of birds. Those species recognized as threatened in the 2002 book are now under re-evaluation in a new effort to identify the birds at risk in Colombia.

20 . Bird watching Colombia

Map 1. Colombia’s National Natural Parks System.

Sistema de Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia

PNN Yaigojé Apaporis

General aspects . 21

About this travel guide

guide to haspromote been produced with the intention of promoting the th theThis intention those sites and sites and initiatives thatinhave been working in birdwatching in en working in birdwatching Colombia, thoseasdestinations tions Colombia, that have including birdwatching a tourist that have birdwatching as a tourist The aim isoftoitshelp sites in the promotion of p those sites activity. in the promotion offerthese in their services in the different regions of the country, considering he country, considering aspects as security as security andtourism the birds to observe. This guide is e. Thisaspects guide issuch directed to tourists, tourists, tour find operators ching aimed guides,atso they can easily and the birdwatching guides so they can easily find the information required to information they organize a birdwatching require to organise a tour according to their birdwatching tour needs. according to their needs. We have organized this guide according to the We have organized this different geographic guide according to the regions of Colombia, different geographic hence six chapters Plain-breasted Hawk (Julián Londoño) regions of Colombia cover, Andes, Caribbean, with theOrinoco six chapters ena valley, and covering Amazonia.theWeAndes, Caribbean, Pacific, Mid Magdalena and Amazon. We include destinations at have been forvalley, someOrinoco time involved in have that beenare involved in birdwatching activities for some time as s wellthat as those newcomers. well as those that are newcomers. his kind in Colombia. However, we recognize is theisfirst endeavour of its kind in Colombia. However, we ffer of This Colombia great, and without doubt that thetopotential l be recognise new destinations visit andthat the Colombia has to offer for birdwatching immense e will be updated in isthe future. and in due course there will be many new destinations to visit and so the information in this guide will be updated. ment you will find a directory, where you will ata contacts, and links to the different At the end of the document ironmental organizations workingyou in will thefind a directory where you will findofuseful information, links to the different ornithological and well data birdwatching tourism operators environmental organisations working in the country as well as and contact information of birdwatching national international birdwatching ou during yourand birding trip in the different tour operators working in Colombia and contact information for local birdwatching guides that can help you during your birding trip to the different regions of Colombia. 22 . Birdwatching Colombia

How to use this book:

How to by usegeographic this book: region: Andes, The birdwatching sites are presented Caribbean, Pacific, Mid Magdalena valley, Orinoco and Amazonia. The birdwatching sitestoare presented Due to the size of the country it not possible compile the by ge Caribbean,tourist Pacific,routes, Middlebut Magdalena information in the form of birdwatching we hopevalley SinceAtthe has of a great extension it i that you will find this order useful. thecountry beginning each chapter tourist route forregion. birdwatching, but we hop you will find general information about each order useful. At the beginning of each ch generalities of each region. Each site is presented in two pages, including services, target species to look for, recommendations and contact information. Eachsites siteand is presented in as two There also some photos of the some birds, wellpages, as inc to look for, recommendations an illustrations of the majority of species the endemics of Colombia. There also some photos of the sites and The common sections for eachillustrations place are: of the majority of the endemics 1) Name and management category of each site: mentioning if the common sections for each place place is a protected area, aThe private are: reserve, farm or hotel; 1) Name and management category of each site: mentioning if the place is a 2) Geographic location: municipality protected and department in which the site is area, a private reserve, farm or hotel; located, and a small map; 3) Classification of specialties in the 2) Geographic location: municipality site: and be department in which the a. basic sites, that could destination is located, and a small map; interesting for a morning’s birding of specialties in the b. sites where you 3) willClassification find site: more specialties c. sites where a greata.number those basic sites, that must (Julián Londoño) interesting for aWoodstar birding morning, of specialties and endemics be wait for White-bellied b. places where you will find more s you c. those sites where a great num 4) Some species to look for endemics wait for you;

Some species to look for; of main 5) Services: including icons to4) facilitate the identification services such as a lodge or restaurant 5) Services: including icons to facilitate th services lodge or restaurant; 6) Access: describing how to get to theassite About this travel guide . 23

7) Fees and schedules: entrance and/or lodging fees are classified in ranks: a. 250.000 Colombian pesos (US$125) 8) Recommendations to take into account before your trip 9) Contact details: telephone, mobile phone, e-mail and/or website

Name and management category of each site: Geographic location Classification of specialties at the site Some species to look for Services Access: describing how to get to the site Fees and schedules Recommendations to take into account before your trip Contact details 24 . Birdwatching Colombia

About this travel guide . 25

Birdwatching ethics

Although there no established rules for birdwatching any established rulesare forgenerally birdwatching in in Colombia some destinations such as National Parks do have rules e to make some suggestions for your birding that must be have followed. destinations already rules toHowever, follow as for those sites that don’t rules we would to make rks or implement some private reserves, butlike what we some suggestions for your trip. These are basedBirding on the proposals made by the beenbirding proposed the American American Birding Association (www.americanbirding.org): icanbirding.org):

Promote the welfare of birds and their environment. of birds1.and their environment.

2. Supportbird thehabitat. protection of important bird habitat. n of important

Avoid stressing or exercise exposing them to danger, exercise ds or 3. exposing them to birds danger, and caution during sound observation, photography, sound duringrestraint observation, photography, or filming. the use of recordings and other methods mit therecording, use of recordings andLimit other methods attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded neverofuse such methods in heavily birded areas,that or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, ny species is Threatened, Endangered, Special r is rareorinofyour localConcern, area; or is rare in your local area;

Keep well back fromroosts, nests and nesting colonies, roosts, display nests 4.and nesting colonies, display areas,Those and important feeding Those are sensitive areas and you ding sites. are sensitive areas sites. and you cause a permanent perturbation urbation

Limitforthefilming use oforartificial light for filming or photography, rtificial5. light photography, especially for close-ups.

7. Stay on roads, trails,otherwise and pathskeep where th 7. Stay on roads, trails, and paths where they exist; habitat disturbance to a minimum. habitat disturbance to a minimum.

8. Respect the law, and enter the rights of othe 8. Respect the law, and the rights of others. Do not private without the owner's explicit perm property without the owner's property explicit permission. 9.

9. courtesy Practice common courtesy inPractice contactscommon with other people.in cont Yo Your exemplary behavior w will generate goodwill w with birders and n non-birders alike.

10 10. Group birding, w whether organised or im impromptu, requires sp special care. Respect the in interests, rights, and skills Blue-necked Tanager (Julián Londoño) o of fellow birders, as well as people participating in other legitimate o as people participating in other legitimate outdoor activities.

Tourism operators bear a special 11. Tourism operators bear a11.special responsibility to place the resp welfare of birds and the benefits public k welfare of birds and the benefits of public knowledge ahead ofofthe company's commercial interests. Ideally, le company's commercial interests. Ideally, leaders should keep track tour sightings, document unusual oc of tour sightings, documentofunusual occurrences, and submit records to appropriate organizations. records to appropriate organisations.

6. Beforeof advertising presence he presence a rare bird,the evaluate the of a rare bird, evaluate the potential for disturbance to the bird, ce to the bird, its surroundings, and other its surroundings, and other people in the area, and people in the area, and proceed only if access proceed only if access can be controlled, can be controlled, disturbance minimized, disturbance minimized, and permission has and permission has been obtained from been obtained from private land-owners or private land-owners or the proper conservation the proper conservation authorities. authorities. White-necked Jacobin (Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org - Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

26 . Birdwatching Colombia

About this travel guide . 27

Andean region

Gallaria Kaestneri (Cundinamarca Antpitta)

The Andes of Colombia are considered an important biological hotspot and are a priority area for conservation at a global level. Unfortunately it is also one of the most degraded areas of the country and the most populated. However, it is still possible to find several areas where conservation is succeeding, recovering a space for wildlife. Now several IBAs have been established as well as many protected areas, both from the private and government sectors. The Andes in Colombia are subdivided in three mountain systems known locally as Eastern Andes (Cordillera Oriental), Central Andes (Cordillera Central) and Western Andes (Cordillera Occidental). Altitudes in the Andes of Colombia can reach more than 16400 feet above sea level.

Golden-headed Quetzal (Juan David Ramírez)

Bucaramanga

Medellín Tunja Pereira

Manizales Bogotá D.C.

Armenia Ibagué

Cali

Popayán

Eastern Andes

Jardín (José Castaño)

Central Andes

PNN Nevados

Sunrise view from Chicaque (Natalia Ocampo)

Neiva

Western Andes

PNN Chingaza (Natalia Ocampo)

Coffee crops (José Castaño)

The Eastern Andes, where Bogotá is located, is the longest and widest of the mountain ranges, where paramos, highland and montane forests, as well as wetlands are the main ecosystems. The precipitation is on average 2000mm annually. You will find several interesting places to bird watch around Bogotá and further north in Boyacá and Santander. The Central Andes is the most ancient and highest of the three mountain ranges. Humid mountain forest and paramos are the main ecosystems, with an average precipitation of 2000-3000 annually. Here you will find the famous Coffee triangle. At least 120 species of birds may be found in its mountains including several endemics. Finally, the Western Andes, are the lowest of the three cordilleras. Here the main ecosystems are Andean forests, paramos, cloud forests on the pacific slope and dry forests on its eastern slope; the average annual precipitation can reach 4500mm. This is one of the richest and most biodiverse areas in the world.

Bogotá Botanical Garden

José Celestino Mutis

Bogotá

Area managed by the District of Bogotá Bogotá D.C. Target species Bogota’s Botanical Garden is home to 49 bird species, including some near-endemic species such as the Rufous-browed Conebill (Conirostrum rufum); other birds to spot here include White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus), Yellow-backed Oriole (Icterus chrysater), Rusty Flowerpiercer (Diglossa sittoides), Fawn-breasted Tanager (Pipraeidea melanonota), Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) and a great variety of Neotropical migrants.

Bogotá

Bogota’s Botanical Garden is a green haven inside the city’s urban area. In its 50 acres, plant collections from different Colombian ecosystems are kept. You can find plants of Andean forests, paramo, lowland wet forests and even a wetland and a lake. Birds have found a safe haven here. Since it is an oasis in the big city, a great diversity of resident and migrant birds can be found. Many research projects take place in this Botanical Garden, mainly botany related, but also of birds and other taxonomic groups. Inside the Garden you will find an array of educational and fun activities for the general public. Two of the best places to watch birds inside the Garden are the paramo zone (where you get a good look at the Andean forests’ canopy) and the Fundador’s garden which is great for hummingbirds. Contact the Asociación Bogotana de Ornitología for more information about the birds of this place.

Megascops choliba

Services This is a place to visit during the day. There is a restaurant, cafeteria and public toilets as well as public telephones. Parking is not available inside the Gardens, but is available just outside the main gate. If you are going to visit and would like a guide you will need call and book before you visit. The Botanical Garden offers general guidance in Spanish and English . For a birdwatching guide you can contact Bogota’s Ornithology Association or a birding tour operator. Bogota has a variety of hotel accommodation to suit your needs and budget, and the Botanical Gardens can be visited very easily from your hotel.

How to get there

to the West of Bogota,Garden in 63 Street withto 68the Avenue, really The Botanical is located West of Bogota, on 63 Street with Avenue 68 , very Salitreclose Magico amusement It can accessed by amusement park. It can be accessed by to Simon Bolívar park. Park and thebeSalitre Magico te vehicles. Main roads to access are 68 vehicles. Avenue and public transportation or initprivate MainElroads to access it are Avenue 68 and El 30 . Birdwatching Colombia

Dorado Avenue or 26 Street. It is a well-known in Bogota so any can take you Doradoplace Avenue or 26 Street. It isdriver a well-known place in Bo there. It is preferably to travel by taxi. you there, preferably travel by taxi.

Tourist facilities Bogota’s Botanical Garden is a place fully adapted to tourism and environmental education. Its trails are well sign posted and have orientation maps. At the entrance you can get a map with the trails and attractions; you will have over 20 environments to visit. The entire garden can be walked though safely and it is adapted for people with physical disabilities as the trails are paved and wide.

Rates & Opening times Opening times are from Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m., and Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Note: bird watchers can enter the garden at 6:00 a.m if they announce their activity at the entrance. Entrance ticket: Adults and children (4 to 12 years old): Entrance is free for children under 3 and adults over 60 years of age.

Also look for Plant collections found in this Garden are very beautiful; it includes orchids, palms, trees and flowers, amongst others. Occasionally this Garden is home to expositions of different nature, one of the best ones is the National Orchid Exhibition.

Trails (Natalia Ocampo)

Recommendations If you wish to enter the garden before 6:00 a.m. you should send a letter before your visit, otherwise entrance is at 6:00 a.m. If you carry professional cameras and other professional optics, or laptops, these should be registered on entering and leaving the Garden. Bogotá is cold and sometimes rainy so take adequate clothing.

Panoramic of the Botanical Garden (Natalia Ocampo)

Contact Manager: Herman Martínez Landline phone: (+57) (1) 437 7060 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://www.jbb.gov.co Andes . 31

Bogotá

La Conejera Wetland Protected Area within the District of Bogotá Bogotá D.C.

Bogotá

Target species Many endemic, threatened and migratory birds have been recorded in the wetland. Some specialities here are: Bogota Rail (Rallus semiplumbeus), Spot-flanked Gallinule (Gallinula melanops bogotensis), Apolinar’s Marsh Wren (Cistothorus apolinari apolinari), Andean Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis andina), American Coot (Fulica americana columbiana), Yellow-hooded Blackbird (Chrysomus icterocephalus bogotensis), Rufous-browed Conebill (Conirrostrum rufum) and Silvery-throated Spinetail (Synallaxis subpudica).

This 160 acres wetland is an oasis immersed in the urban area of Bogotá. Here you will enjoy a wonderful birding trip with the chance to see over 114 species. The trails are inside secondary forest. There are designated places where you can look for rails and ducks walking on floating vegetation and swimming around. This wetland is an ideal to spend a morning or afternoon bird watching inside the city It is very accessible and you can get there by private vehicle or even on public transportation. La Conejera offers an incredible opportunity to observe and photograph some Bogotá endemics. This is one of the best conserved wetlands in the city and several environmental education programmes for the general public are carried out here. Contact the Asociación Bogotana de Ornitología (ABO) for more information about the birds of this locality.

Cistotorhus Apolinari (Apolinar ‘s wren)

Services La Conejera is a place to visit during the day. The park has public toilets, general guides, and specialised birding guides (with option of bilingual guides), you should always let them know of your visit and book these services in advance. There are no proper meal services to be found inside the park, but you can get snacks and drinks in the neighbourhood. Bogota has a variety of hotel accommodation to suit your needs and budget.

How to get there

cality ofLa Suba, insidewetland Bogota’sisurban There are inside Bogota’s urban area. There are Conejera in thearea. locality of Suba, ere: youseveral can take the Transmilenio tothere: Suba station, different ways to get you canaccess take the Transmilenio to Suba station, access or Avenue Cali 153rdde Cali , Las Mercedes avenue or 153rd on Ciudad Avenuede 170 , or, Las 91stMercedes Street, oravenue Avenueor Ciudad 32 . Birdwatching Colombia

Street and Suba avenue. You can accessStreet the place in anyavenue. type ofYou vehicle, including and Suba can access thepublic place in any buses (Suba-Compartir route) and city taxis. buses (Suba-Compartir route) and city taxis.

Tourist facilities La Conejera has a wide and well-sign posted trail leading around the wetland. At different points there are lookouts from where you can see the water and wetland birds. The trail takes an hour and a half but if you are birding you may take longer. If you are accompanied by a guide and Trails (Natalia Ocampo) have made a previous reservation you might be taken to another part of the wetland with access only to birders from where you get a better view of the wetland and the reeds.

Rates & Opening times Entering and visiting the wetland is free. Entrance times are flexible for birders, call the managers in advance to arrange your visit early in the morning. Guiding services are booked with Fundación Humedal La Conejera and it has an additional cost, which depends on the activity and required guidance. Guidance for bird watching offered by this Foundation can cost up to US $15 per person.

Also look for Fundación Humedal La Conejera offers environmental education workshops for the general public about the importance of wetland conservation. Ask the managers about the workshops costs.

Recommendations

Inferior: American Coot (Natalia Ocampo)

Bring your rain jacket, rubber boots and rucksacks for your equipment in case it rains. You should call before visiting to book the guiding service because bird watching guides are not available at all times, or ask for the company of a staff member for your visit.

Contact Manager: Fundación Humedal La Conejera Land line phone: (+57) (1) 226 7616; (+57) (1) 688 0768 Cell phone: (+57) (300) 221 1797 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Andes . 33

La Florida

Bogotá

District Regional Park Bogotá D.C., department of Cundinamarca Target species At least three endemics can be spotted here. In the reeds you can see the Bogota Rail (Rallus semiplumbeus) and Apolinar’s Marsh Wren (Cistothorus apolinari apolinari). In the forest and nearby bushes you can see Rufous-browed Conebill (Conirostrum rufum) and Silvery-throated Spinetail (Synallaxis subpudica). On the lake you can see three threatened birds (at a national level), the Spot-flanked Gallinule (Gallinula melanops bogotensis), Andean Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis andina) and the Subtropical Doradito (Pseudocolopteryx acutipennis). There is a big chance that you will see two endemic subspecies: American Coot (Fulica americana columbiana) and Yellow-hooded Blackbird (Chrysomus icterocephalus bogotensis).

Bogotá

La Florida Regional Park is a green haven of 198 acres inside the urban matrix of Bogotá. It is an ideal place to spend a morning or afternoon birding if you are in the city, where you will have the opportunity to see over 40 species, including endemic and threatened specialities. The park is quite large; it has a recreational area for the general public, and a lake that is the best area for birding. The lake has an area of open water and some reeds on the borders which is great for rails, ducks and other wetland specialities.

passing a pedestrian bridge turn right. From passing thisapoint pedestrian you need bridge to go turn0.6right. milesFrom untilthis youpoint yo reach the park’s entrance. reach the park’s entrance.

Tourist facilities There are plenty of paved trails to go around the place; you can do some bird watching around, around the lake and on the marshes surrounding it.

Rates & Opening times The park gates open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Entering and visiting the park is free for visitors going by themselves, but birding guides and tour operators are charged, and they need to send a letter to the managers indicating the motives of their visit. Contact the administration of the park with the specified contacts below.

Also look for

The park has a big area dedicated to passive and active recreation with big spaces for resting, benches, tables, barbecues for public use, soccer, basketball, and volleyball courts, amongst other attractions.

Recommendations Bring your rain jacket and backpacks for your equipment and optics in case it rains. If you are visiting the park on a weekend you will need to get there early to see some birds as the park gets many local visitors. Panoramic of the park (Natalia Ocampo)

Rallus semiplumbeus (Bogota Rail)

Services The park is open for day visits. They offer a cafeteria service where you can buy drinks and snacks. There are also public toilets and facilities for people with physical disabilities. The park does not offer a guide service, if you wish to hire a guide you should contact a birding tour operator or Bogota’s Ornithological Association for advice. Bogota has a variety of hotel accommodation to suit your needs and budget.

How to get there

d in theLa Bogota’s areaPark so you can access by publicurban area so you can access it by public Floridaurban Regional is located in theitBogota’s ar; roadstransport are all paved and in relative good condition. To in a relatively good condition. To get to or by private car; roads are all paved and 80th Street to the continue onStreet this road until youcontinue on this road until you pass the the park youWest, should take 80th to the West, fter about 1.8 miles fromAfter the bamboo you must bamboo bridge. about 1.8bridge miles past the bamboo bridge you will need to do a y 2,48 Miles afterand thehead return youeast, should see a sign and U-turn back approximately 2.5after miles after the return you will see a sign and 34 . Birdwatching Colombia

Trails (Foto Natalia Ocampo)

Contact

Manager: Instituto Distrital de Recreación y Deporte Landline phone: (+57) (1) 4336241 Cell phone: (+57) 3102205053 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.idrd.gov.co

Main entrance (Natalia Ocampo) Andes . 35

Chingaza National Natural Park

Bogotá

National Natural Park Bogotá

Chingaza National Natural Park

Villavicencio

Several municipalities in the departments of Cundinamarca and Meta Target species Over 250 bird species have been registered here, including two endemics. Some outstanding ones are Bogotá Rail (Rallus semiplumbeus), Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus), Black-and-chestnut Eagle (Oroetus isidori), Brown-breasted Parakeet (Pyrrhura calliptera), Rusty-faced Parrot (Hapalopsittaca amazonina), Bearded Helmetcrest (Oxypogon guerinii), Black-billed Mountain-toucan (Andigena nigrirostris), Yellow-billed Cacique (Amblycercus holosericeus) amongst many other species that are worth watching here.

Chingaza National Natural Park protects 190 000 acres of paramo, Andean forests, and East Andean foothill forests. Most of the park is covered by the paramo ecosystem which makes the park an important watershed: along the park you can find water sources for several rivers that provides almost 80% of Bogota’s drinking water and other nearby municipalities. In these paramos and Andean forests you will find a great variety of birds that find suitable habitat in the park, including our national bird, the majestic Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus). In Chingaza you can go from 13123 feet above sea level, on Cerro San Luis, to 2600 feet above sea level on Guatiquia’s river canyon in Meta; this altitudinal range provides a great diversity of ecosystems and birds. Due the large area covered by the park, you must consider travel distances between different birdwatching points.

Pirrhura calliptera (Brown-breasted Parakeet)

Services There is an excellent camping zone with capacity for 25 people with a small kitchen area and parking per tent. Bathrooms are shared among the guests and have hot water. The park has a visitors centre with restaurant service (fixed meals). Community guides offer a general guiding service, ask in advance about this. There is permanent electric power but there are no telephones or mobile phone signal.

from Bogota you can take public transport, fromyou La Calera youpublic can hire a taxi toand takefrom La fromand Bogota can take transport, you to the park (approximately US$25take to you “Piedras and US$60 toUS$25 “Monterreto theGordas” park (approximately to “Piedras G dondo”). The access road is fully sign posted. dondo”). The access road is fully signalized

Tourist facilities Chingaza National Natural Park has 4 main trails that go through paramos and Andean forests, each one with a different duration and difficulty level. Take in consideration that due to the high altitudes you may feel drowsy, so it is better walk slowly.

Rates & Opening times The park opens between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. You cannot enter after this hour. Entrance ticket Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children: Prices for camping and meals vary according Camping zone (Natalia Ocampo) to season. It is recommended that you speak to the National Parks office for up to day prices for accommodation and meals, and to book a guide, prior to your visit.

Also look for

The beauty of the park’s landscape and its wellconserved paramos and Andean forest make it a wonderful place to go hiking and to appreciate its attractive landscapes and associated fauna.

Recommendations Clothing should include comfortable waterproof hiking boots, or rubber boots if you visit during the rainy season (trails can be rather muddy and wet), protection from cold weather and rain (rain jacket). Before you visit you should ask if the park is open for overnight stays or just for day visits, sometimes the park is not open to the public. Park rangers and administrators have established rules of behaviour while you are a guest, please consult and follow them for a more pleasant visit (visit their webpage for more details).

Contact Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline: (+57) (1) 353-2400, ext. 138 y 139 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co

How to get there

park is byThe themain townaccess of La Calera, 9 miles (1/2ishour) from route to the park via the town of La Calera, 9 miles (1/2 hour) from the urbanBogota. area ofAbout La Calera, on the way Guasca, 0.6 miles after thetourban areayou of La Calera, heading towards Guasca, you ee a sign),should this road forwill about miles turn goes right on (you see 12.5 a sign). This(40road goes on for about 12.5 miles (40 ark entrance or “Piedras zone, you can enjoy minutes) until Gordas” you reach the here park entrance or “Piedras Gordas” zone, here you can enjoy this point,the 17 miles (50ecosystem. minutes) on an unpaved road you (50 minutes) on an unpaved road you paramo From this point, 17 miles tors centre and administrating offices. To reach La Calera will find ”Monterredondo” visitors centre and administration office. To reach La Calera 36 . Birdwatching Colombia

Glowing puffleg (Natalia Ocampo)

Paramo (Natalia Ocampo) Andes . 37

Encenillo Biological Reserve

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve Municipality of Guasca, department of Cundinamarca Target species Encenillo Biological Reserve has recorded over 73 species, including three endemics. Some outstanding ones are: Bogota Rail (Rallus semiplumbeus), Black Inca (Coeligena prunellei), Silvery-throated Spinetail (Synallaxis subpudica), Rufous Antpitta (Grallaria rufula) and Rufous-browed Conebill (Conirostrum rufum).

Bogotá Guasca

Encenillo Biological Reserve was donated by a Dutch family to Fundación Natura in 2007 with the main purpose of protecting “Encenillo” (Dwarf) forests and its associated fauna and flora. Ever since, Natura Foundation has worked to conserve and restore this important high Andean ecosystem. The Reserve is located between 9186 and 10498 feet above sea level, with a total area of 482 acres, of this at least 333 acres are covered by high Andean forests and the rest is pastureland for cattle. Encenillo Biological Reserve is located very close to Bogota and near Chingaza National Natural Park. It is an ideal place for bird watching with over 70 species, some good endemics and threatened specialities. The Bogotá’s Ornithological Association (ABO) can provide you with more information about the birds in the reserve.

Chaetocercus multsant Julián Londoño

Services

Basic accommodation for five people (shared rooms in bunk beds) in the visitors’ centre, or camping with a capacity of 40 people. There is a restaurant service that operates according to the needs of tourists, and a small store where you can buy drinks and snacks. Permanent general guiding service run by rural people that have been tained by Fundación Natura; it is possible to hire a bilingual bird watching guide, but booking in advance is essential or you can contact a bird watching tour operator or the ABO.

How to get there

Take the road to the town of La Calera from Bogota (9.3 miles). From La Calera take the road towards Guasca, until you reach a point called El Salitre (200m after the Guasca turn) where you must take the road to the village of La Trinidad and keep going along an unpaved road (4WD vehicles are recommended). Approximately 3.1 miles after the last turn you will find the entrance to Encenillo Biological Reserve. The road is sign posted to the visitor’s centre. From Bogota to the Reserve should take about an hour and a half. There is the option to take a public bus from Bogota to Guasca; once in the town of Guasca you should take a taxi and ask it to take you to the Reserve as far as the visitor’s centre. If you are travelling by taxi do not forget to arrange with the driver your return journey. 38 . Birdwatching Colombia

Tourist facilities

There are five trails with differing lengths and difficulty levels. Most of them are on steep mountains and go around or trough the high Andean forests or the different habitats present in the reserve. The trails are “El Cusumbo” that goes to the subparamo zone, “Las Orquideas” which takes you to the better-conserved Andean forest of the Reserve, “El Colibri” that ends on a viewpoint at 9800 feet above sea level, “El Horno” that takes you through an old lime oven and secondary forest areas, and the “Thomas van der Hammen” named after the important professor that left this huge legacy to Colombia’s biological sciences; this last trail takes you through many succession stages of the forest until reaching a well-conserved “Encenillo” forest.

Rates & Opening times Although there is no established opening time, you should always let the Reserve’s staff your time and date of arrival. Entrance ticket: Adults: Children, public schools and adults over 60: Guiding services are not included in the House of the reserve (Natalia Ocampo) entrance ticket and it is charged as an extra (around US$13, for groups up to 15 people). As a visitor you must be accompanied by a local guide. Ask for accommodation and meal rates to the specified contacts.

Also look for

There is a nice natural viewpoint from where you can see a good portion of Bogota’s Savannah. Along the “The Oven” trail your guide will explain to you the mining processes that took place here many years ago. The Reserve also offers environmental education activities for schools and companies.

Recommendations Accommodation and food services should be booked in advance. Visitors are asked not to take pets or any other objects that could disturb the enjoyment for the other visitors (such as radios or stereos, matches, lighters, cigarettes or alcoholic drinks). If you are taking any type of packed food or drink, you should keep the rubbish with you and take it back to Bogota. Always listen and follow the guide’s Panoramic of the reserve (Natalia Ocampo) recommendations. Clothing should include comfortable waterproof hiking boots if you visit during the rainy season and bring protection from the cold and rain.

Contact

Manager: Fundación Natura Landline: (+57) (1) 245 5700; (+57) (1) 245 5691 Cell phone: (+57) (311) 477 2961 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: www.natura.org.co Office Address: Carrera 21 # 39- 43, Bogotá D.C.

Andes . 39

Bogotá

Chicaque Natural Park Private Nature Reserve Municipality of San Antonio del Tequendama , department of Cundinamarca

Bogotá

Target species Some of the specialities include: Brown Tinamou (Crypturellus obsoletus), Andean Guan (Penelope montagnii), Black Inca (Coeligena prunellei), Golden-bellied Starfrontlet (Coeligena bonapartei), Blue-throated Starfrontlet (Coeligena helianthea), Silvery-throated Spinetail (Synallaxis subpudica), Turquoise Dacnis (Dacnis hartlaubi), Rufoues-browed Conebill (Conirostrum rufum) White-tipped Swift (Aeronautes montivagus), and the rare migrant Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica caerulea).

Chicaque has been dedicated to conservation and environmental education since 1990 thanks to the enthusiasm of the owners. The park area is located next to a huge rock canyon that protects the cloud forests of Chicaque that house a great diversity of species, even this close to Colombia’s biggest city. 258 species of birds have been recorded, including some specialities worth watching and photographing. The park is totally adapted to tourism and has a great network of trails to walk around the cloud forests, ancient oak forests, waterfalls and viewpoints. The Asociación Bogotana de Ornitología ABO can provide you with more information about the birds of the reserve.

Synallaxis Subpudica (Silvery-trhoated Spintail)

Services

Chicaque has an excellent accommodation infrastructure with options for private or shared accommodation and camping; some rooms have hot water. The restaurant has capacity for 80 people including day visitors and guests. There is a guide service for walks along the trails, but you need to book this service in advance; the same also applies to hiring a bird watching guide. The park offers transportation to and from the park. Contact the park staff for more information. There is permanent electricity in every room.

roundabout and turn left. Travel for 4.3 miles where you unpaved road for 1.8 miles to the park entrance. Althoug take longer due to traffic (not recommended on wee crossing for bicycles).

Tourist facilities Chicaque has a network of around 11 miles of trails inside the forest, most of them are suitable for every type of person although some have specific difficulty levels and duration. The trail from the park’s entrance to the Shelter is great for bird watching, as well as the trails that walk through the forest and past the waterfalls. The “Pico del Águila” trail is great to watch raptors. From this point you can continue onto the “Roquedal” trail or head back to the Shelter.

Rates & Opening times The park is open from everyday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., but you can enter the park on hours outside these hours by contacting the administration at least two days in advance of your visit, informing them of the day and hour that you expect to arrive. Entrance fee: Visitors centre (Natalia Ocampo) Adults: Accommodation fees vary according the plan you choose (usually all plans include meals), speak with the park staff about the option that best fits your needs and preferences: Single room: Private cabins: Guiding services are charged extra, you should ask the park staff for prices.

Also look for There are several viewpoints from where you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes. You can also rent horses to go horseback riding and enjoy the park.

Recommendations You should make your reservation by phone (no reservations by e-mail are valid) before your visit to the contacts below. The rainy season is usually between March and May, and between September and November. Take comfortable and waterproof hiking boots if you visit during the rainy season; also bring protection from the cold and rain. Chicaque has a very complete and comprehensible webpage for further information.

How to get there

Contact

Chicaque Natural Park is located just half an hour by car from Bogota, at km 21 on the La Mesa-Soacha road. There are two access routes. The easiest way to get to the park is along the road to La Mesa, taking 13th Street from the South of Bogotá, or the 80th Street in the West as far as the Mondoñedo toll; after the toll you should turn left taking the road towards Soacha. Travel about 3 miles until you see a notice “Chicaque” on your right, make a turn here and go on an unpaved road for 1.8 miles until you arrive at the park entrance. On this route you will find two tolls. The other option is to take the South Avenue from Bogotá to Soacha. Keep going until you pass the Carrefour supermarket; after passing two pedestrian bridges and one gas station take the next righ tas you as the 40 . Birdwatching Colombia

Manager: David Escobar Mejía Landline : (+57) (1) 3683114; (+57) (1) 368 3118; (+57) (1) 368 8733 Shelter cell phone (weekends): (+57) (316) 469 6542 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.chicaque.com Bogota’s office: Transversal 26B No. 41-51. Office opening times: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Panoramic of the reserve (Natalia Ocampo)

Andes . 41

Bogotá

Natural Reserve Tenasucá Laguna Pedro Palo

transport, taking a bus to La Mesa from transport, the Bus Terminal Bogotá, thefrom driver taking ainbus to La tell Mesa thethat Busyou Terminal o want to get off at Patio Bonito, from where willathave walkfrom by the roadyou to will the have to will getyou down Patio to Bonito, where reserve, which is located over a mountain top isinlocated front ofover the lake. which a mountain top in front of the lagoo

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR

Tourist facilities

Municipality of Tena, department of Cundinamarca Bogotá Tena

Target species In the reserve as well as the lagoon it is possible to observe a great variety of birds, including three endmics: Black Inca (Coeligena prunellei), Indigo-capped Hummingbird (Amazilia cyanifrons) and Turquoise Dacnis (Dacnis hartlaubi), as well as Black-backed Grosbeak (Pheucticus aureoventris).

This natural reserve is located nearby the famous Pedro Palo lake, and is part of the Bosques de la Falla del Tequendama IBA. It includes Andean forests as well as cattle-ranch plots on its 103,78 acres. The lake is considered a sacred place for the ancient Muisca culture, since they believed this was the first lake to see the sunrise in the world. Activities of ecological restoration have been carried out, along with the promotion of organic crops and cattle farming, products you may enjoy while visiting. This place is already known as an excellent place for birdwatching near Bogotá, where you may look for some endemics and endangered birds that have a refuge in this area. It is important to mention that Scientific Tourism is the only leisure activity allowed in the reserve. You may contact the Bogotá Ornithological Association (ABO) for more information about the birds of the reserve.

Services Odontophorus strophium (Gorgeted Wood Quail)

Lodging is in a cozy cabin that has a view over the lake. There is space for 10 people (private or shared accommodation according to availability). The reserve also offers a food service, included in the accommodation rate. There is a general guiding service (requires previous reservation). Sanitary services in the form of ecological latrines, as well as sinks and hot showers. Mobile phone signal is restricted.

The reserve has several trails for birdwatching, that must be visited with a guide. These trails are wide and easy to walk, however there are some steep and narrow points. You may also walk along the forest to a view point called Alto del Aguacate (Avocado tree point). On the way around the lake you may should look for aquatic birds.

Rates & Opening times There’s no offical opening time to visit the reserve but you should always call in advance and tell the managers about dates and time to visit, whether you are planning to stay House of the reserve (Natalia Ocampo) overnight or just visit during the day. General entrance fee (when visiting during the day): Lodging fees (per person, includes full meals): Ask the managers about the costs for other services as general guiding and meals.

Also look for

Trekking and the observation of flora and fauna are the main attractions, as well as visiting the lake. There is a native tree nursery for the ecological restoration program.

Recommendations Always call in advance to book the services. Never arrive without previous reservation with Forests of the reserve (Natalia Ocampo) the managers. The weather is cold and rain maybe frequent, bring a rain coat, appropriate foot wear and cold weather clothing.

Contact Administrator: Roberto Saenz-Gómez Landline: (+57) (1) 245 8184 Cell phone: (+57) (311) 263 6531 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: www.tenasuca.com

How to get there

along the road toAccess the town La Mesa (you the mayroad get to outthe town of La Mesa (you may get out of Terrestrial fromofBogotá taking Soacha).Bogotá Once you are in the area as Once Patio Bonito via 13th Street or viaknown Soacha). you are in the area known as Patio Bonito (km ow and 87) unpaved road. If you pass the of Tena you turn right along a narrow andtown unpaved road. Drive for 2.4 km to the reserve, located on o the reserve on side the right side of the road in theofvillage of the right of the road in the village Catalmonte. If you pass the town of Tena you for allhave vehicles. canAccess reach isthe reserveforby goneYou too far. possible all public vehicles. You can reach the reserve by public 42 . Birdwatching Colombia

Panoramic view (Natalia Ocampo)

Andes . 43

Bogotá

Junín

Bogotá

Cascadas de Sueva and Bosques Peña de Juiquín Reserve

Tourist facilities

Private Reserve and Community Area

Rates & Opening times

Municipality of Junín, departament of Cundinamarca

The reserve opens from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for day visits.

Target species You may look for Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata), Sickle-winged Guan (Chamaepetes goudotii), Brown-breasted Parakeet (Pyrrhura calliptera), Short-tailed Emerald (Chlorostilbon poortmanni), Golden-headed Quetzal (Pharomachrus auriceps), Black-billed Mountain-toucan (Andigena nigrirostris), Green-and-black Fruiteater (Pipreola riefferii), White-capped Tanager (Sericossypha albocristata), Hooded Mountain-tanager (Buthraupis montana) and Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia (Chlorophonia pyrrhophrys).

This area known as Sueva in the Andean cloud forests is well known for its beautiful landscapes and waterfalls, and where several birds and other species of fauna and flora are present. Sueva covers an area of about 4942 acres between 7267 and 8628 feet above sea level. It is located close to Chingaza National Park, although it doesn’t form part of it. The trails are managed by the local community through the NGO Adeagros. The best birding is on the area covered by the private reserve Bosques Peña de Juiquín.

Andigena nigrirostris Black-billed Mountain Toucan Phto Colombia Oculta Ivan Macias

Services The reserve has a cabin where visitors can stay (shared accommodation) and meals are available. There is also a camping area, parking lot and local guides; a birding guide is available by prior request.

How to get there From Bogotá take the road to La Calera-Guasca. Take the road to Junín looking for the vereda “Potreritos” and the aqueduct of Juiquín; there are 47 km from Bogotá and you will find at least one toll. Another option is to take the road Bogotá - Briceño - Sopó Guasca and then look for Junín. 44 . Birdwatching Colombia

There are several trails well marked. It is an obligation to hire a local guide to hike these trails.

Entrance fee Ask the managers about rates for lodging, meals and guides.

Trails (Colombia Oculta – Iván Macias)

Also look for This is an ideal place for photographing and enjoying nature among the many waterfalls. Ask the guides about the extinct Indian cultural remnants that have been found nearby. You may look for other fauna such as amphibians, large mammals such as deer and with some luck the Spectacled Bear.

Recommendations Always call in advance to the specified contacts to inform of your visit and coordinate the necessary logistics. The weather can be cold and sometimes wet; bring adequate warm clothing, protection for rain and waterproof footwear. Also bring sunscreen and a hat, and bring snacks and soft drinks. It is advised not to take baths in the rivers and waterfalls.

Contact Administration: NGO Adeagros Landline: (+57) (1) 478 3330 Cell phones: (+57) (311) 522 4703, (+57) (311) 527 3199, (+57) (300) 204 1275, (+57) (313) 290 9948 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: www.cascadasdesueva.org

Waterfalls (Colombia Oculta – Iván Macias)

Andes . 45

SFF Iguaque

Bogotá

National Protected Area Flora and Fauna Sanctuary Municipalities of Arcabuco and Villa de Leyva department of Boyacá Arcabuco

Target species More than 200 species have been recorded here. It is a good place to spot the near-endemic Golden-bellied Starfrontlet (Coeligena bonapartei). The Scarlet-bellied Mountain-tanager (Anisognathus igniventris) is very common an easy to spot. Other birds to look for here are Black-billed Peppershrike (Cycharis nigrirostris), Plush-capped Finch (Catamblyrhynchus diadema), Golden-fronted Whitestart (Myioborus ornatus). Black Inca (Coeligena prunellei) has been recorded recently.

Villa de Leyva

Tunja

This protected area is a refuge for some of the last remnants of Andean forests and paramo ecosystems in the area, and is an important watershed for the nearby towns. With plenty of legends about the extinct Muisca culture, the lagoons and paramo were a sacred place for the indigenous culture. Within an altitudinal range of 7,874 to 10,498 feet above sea level covering an area of about 16 679.43 acres, plenty of birds find suitable habitat in these ecosystems. Several ornithological and biodiversity surveys have been carried out here.

Services

Boissonea flavescens Julián Londoño

Tourist services are managed by the community organization Naturar Iguaque. They offer lodging options in comfortable rooms (shared) each with a private room and hot showers. There is a restaurant service and camping zone. General guiding services are available and a birdwatching guide can be oragnised in advance. Internet at night and mobile phone signal.

Tourist facilities The main trail departs from the parking lot until the paramo zone going through Andean forest; it may be difficult to hike especially the part before the paramo. There are other trails around the camping zone that are easy to walk. You can look for birds in all the trails.

Rates and Opening times The park opens from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but you may enter before the schedule asking for permit from the administrators. Entrance fee: Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children: Ask the administrators about fees for lodging and other services.

Also look for The nearby town of Villa de Leyva offers a great variety of tourist attractions and has a great services on offer. You may visit the Humboldt Institute in Villa de Leyva in order to buy the CD of the birds of Villa de Leyva and Iguaque.

Recommendations

Trails

Although it is not necessary to ask for permit to visit the park, you should call in advance if you intend to enter before the official opening time. It is also recommended that you book the services in advance. On local holidays and weekends there may be a lot of visitors, so you may prefer to visit during the week. The weather is cold and may rain heavily; bring adequate clothing and shoes.

Visitors centre

How to get there Access by car traveling from Bogotá to the city of Tunja. After the ”Puente de Boyaca” monument you have to turn left towards the town of Samacá and then take the road to Villa de Leyva, from where you take the road to Arcabuco for 9.3 miles until you reach the sign of the park. Turn left here along an unpaved road to the reserve; this is better for 4x4 vehicles, especially in the rainy season. Travelling time from Bogotá takes around 4 hours and you will pass 4 tolls. 46 . Birdwatching Colombia

Contact Tourist services administrator: Naturar iguaque Cell phone: (+57) 3125859892 E-mail: [email protected] Parques Naturales Nacionales de Colombia Landline: (57) (1) 3532400, ext. 138 -139 Web: http://www.parquesnacionales.gov.co

Panoramic view

Andes . 47

Rogitama Biodiversidad Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Arcabuco, department of Boyacá Arcabuco

Target species The main specialty of the reserve is the Black Inca (Coeligena prunellei), although other species that maybe seen here and include White-throated Screech-owl (Megascops albogularis), Golden-bellied Starfrontlet (Coeligena bonapartei), Silvery-throated Spinetail (Synallaxis subpudica), Black Flowerpiercer (Diglossa humeralis).

Tunja

This is a small private reserve where the owners have been making an extraordinary effort of ecological restoration over the last 20 years. Originally the place was an open field but now has been converted into a small green haven where biodiversity is recovering. It is located at 7,200 feet above sea level in an area known as “Oak corridor”, and although there are no Oak forest inside the reserve you will find important remnants around the farm. Thanks to the efforts of the owners it is possible now to find a great variety of birds, especially hummingbirds including the Black Inca, which is the emblematic bird of the reserve. The reserve promotes research as one of their main objectives, and students and researchers will find a place for their studies. Contact the Ornitological association Ixobrychus can for more information about the birds of the reserve.

Tourist facilities There are no trails but you can walk easily through the farm to different parts of the reserve. In the house you will find a nice vantage point to observe the birds and hummingbirds in the garden.

Rates & Opening times They don’t have opening times or entrance fees, but it is recommended that those people that are going to spent a day birding ask permition in advance with the owners. Lodging fees (includes three meals): There are special rates for students that are working on research in the reserve.

Also look for The town of Arcabuco is famous for the manufacture of traditional bakery products. Another attraction is a visit to the nearby town on Villa de Leyva, famous for its colonial architecture; the Iguaque National Park is also on the way to Villa de Leyva.

Rooms

Services Lodging is in five rooms with capacity for 17 people in shared accommodation; all rooms have private bathrooms with hot water. there is a food service for guests or visitors (with prior reservation). There are no guiding services but you may contact a local birding association or birdwatching tour operator.

Coeligena prunellei (Black Inca)

How to get there Access by car along the Bogotá – Tunja highway; once in Tunja take the road to Bucaramanga and after 40 minutes you will get to the town of Arcabuco. 3.7 miles after Arcabuco you will see a sign for the reserve on your right. Turn right on to the unpaved road immediately after the sign, the reserve is located about 1 mile ahead on the left hand side of the road. If you are travelling from Bogotá it will take 3 hours and there are three tolls; another option is travel from Villa de Leyva.

48 . Birdwatching Colombia

Panoramic view

Reccommendations Always call in advance to book lodge and food services. The Black Inca can be found here almost year round. The weather is cold and wet so bring adequate clothing.

Contact Administrator: Roberto Chavarro Chavarro Cell Phone: (+57) 3003834649 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]

Reforestation area Andes . 49

Soatá and Alto de Onzaga Private farms and Municipal reserves

Bogotá

Municipality of Soatá, department of Boyacá Soatá

Tunja

Target species The whole area bird list holds more than 400 species including 8 endemics. The Onzaga Peak area is the one to look for noisy groups of Mountain Grackles (Macroagelaius subalaris), Rusty-faced Parrot (Hapalopsittaca amazonina), Silvery-throated Spinetail (Synallaxis subpudica), and Moustached Brush-finch (Atlapetes albofrenatus). In the outskirts of the town, leading towards the Chicamocha Canyon, look for Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird (Amazilia castaneiventris) Indigo-capped Hummingbird (Amazilia cyanifrons), Lazuline Sabrewing (Campylopterus falcatus), Apical Flycatcher (Myiarchus apicalis) and Niceforo's Wren

This small town located in the hills above the Chicamocha Valley has been getting more and more birding attention in recent years. Several research projects carried out in the area have been responsible for rediscovering endemic bird populations, some just a few blocks away from the town’s main square as well as in the highlands. Here we highlight two different areas for birdwatching: oak forest in the Alto de Onzaga area and the town outskirts where among the gardens, houses and crops you can find dry forest birds. The environmental organization Ocotea has been working with the community in conservation programs and plan to start a community tourism program.

Services

Lodging and meals are possible at the “Isaías Duarte Cancino Seminary” in comfortable, clean and simple rooms, and are suitable for singles with private bathrooms. Birding at the seminary Macroagelaius subalaris gardens is quite good. At the Onzaga (Mountain Grackle) Peak, the Sanabria family (last house before the peak) know the birds very well and can help with guiding locally; this family can also sell you some food and hot drinks if advised in advance. All services from this family should be requested through Ocotea staff.

Tourist facilities

At Onzaga Peak you can birdwatch from the main road; to get there, take the old dirt road that people from Soatá use to take to Onzaga town and after 30 minutes along a relatively good road you will get to the oak forests eventually reaching the peak and descending to a montane forest lower area. In the dry forest area around town, you can walk along several short trails and paths among farmers’ properties. From the seminary you can also bird watch in a zone with some corn crops and pastures.

Rates & Opening times There is no established entrance fee at the moment and due to the heterogeneity of the zone, time is not relevant. However, it is highly desirable that you get in touch with Ocotea staff so they can let locals know about your visit.

Also look for

Recommendations Temperatures in the dry zone can be quite warm so try to program your birding for the early morning or at the end of the afternoon. If you are visiting the Onzaga Peak area get in touch with the Ocotea staff in advance so they can let local families know about your visit. We highly recommend stopping at the Sanabria’s place (they own and protect a lot of the oak forest, and are concerned about the grackles!); a tip of around US$20 is perfect in this case. Bring your own food and enough water as there are no facilities up there. Be polite with locals and avoid trespassing on private land.

Pearl Kite – Gampsonix swainsonii

Panoramic view (COLOMBIA Birding – Diego Calderón)

How to get there Get to Tunja either from Bogotá or Bucaramanga and carry on to Duitama where you should turn left passing the towns of Santa Rosa de Viterbo, Belén and Susacón; in this long journey (approximately 183 miles from Tunja) you will find several tolls depending on where you are coming from (Bogotá or Bucaramanga). The road is paved, but not well maintained especially just before Soatá. 50 . Birdwatching Colombia

Lodging at the Seminary

Soatá is the entrance gate to the Cañón Del Chicamocha and to the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy; therefore its nature and adventure tourism on offer is not small. Soatá is one of the few regions of Colombia where dates are planted, harvested, and produced.

Contact

Organización Ambiental Ocotea Cell phone: (+57) 301 577 4339 (Alejandro Hernández) y (+57) 313 325 3692 (Oswaldo Cortés) E-mail: [email protected] Seminario Menor Isaías Duarte Cancino Cell phone: (+57) 311 886 1247 (Padre Jacobo Rojas) Andes . 51 e-mail: [email protected]

Cerulean Warbler Bird Reserve

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve Bucaramanga

San Vicente de Chucurí

Municipality of San Vicente de Chucurí, department of Santander Target species At least six endemics may be spotted here including the Gorgeted Wood-Quail (Odontophorus strophium), Black Inca (Coeligena prunellei), Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird (Amazilia castaneiventris), White-mantled Barbet (Capito hypoleucus), Parker’s Antbird (Cercomacra parkeri), Upper Magdalena Tapaculo (Scytalopus latebricola) and Mountain Grackle (Macroagelaius subalaris). If you visit another nearby reserve owned by Proaves you can also look for Northern-Helmented Curassow (Pauxi pauxi) or the endemic Niceforo’s Wren (Thryothorus nicefori).

Amazalia castaneiventris (Chesnut-bellied Hummingbird)

The reserve was created in 2005 to protect part of the wintering habitat for a migratory bird from which the reserve takes its name: the Cerulean Warbler. It covers an area of 516.44 acres where Andean and Sub Andean forests mix together in a matrix with coffee crops in the buffer zone of the Yariguies National Natural Park. Cerulean Warbler Bird Reserve is located between 4,412 a 6,560 feet above sea level and is owned and managed by Fundación Proaves, who are developing several research and conservation activities in the area. There are other neaby Fundación Proaves reserves that may be visited from here: Pauxi pauxi and Cucarachero del Chicamocha bird reserves.

Services

The reserve has four comfortable rooms with private or shared accommodation, each one with private bathroom and hot showers. Lodging fees include all meals. There is option to obtain a birding guide by asking for service with the administrators.

How to get there

s by car or by plane from BogotáAccess to Bucaramanga. If you by car, or by plane from Bogotá to Bucaramanga. If you by car you may take the road Bogotá – Tunja – Bucaratravel by car you need to take the Bogotá – Tunja – Bucararaa, before you arrive to Bucaramanga take aroad main, road that manga before arriving in Bucaramanga take the main ake theroad secondary roadto to Girón-Lebrija San Vicente deand Chucuri that leads then (there take the secondary road to San Vicente de mangaChucuri -San Vicente in a 2-3 hours trip, and 267,19 Miles takes 2-3 hours, and 267 miles from (55 miles from Bucaramanga -San Vicente nother San option to travel to Bucaramanga fromisBogotá Vicente to Bogotá). Another option to travelisto Bucaramanga from Bogotá by taking Zipaquirá – Chiquinquirá. may also travel by air to You may also travel by air to Bucaraan alternative routeYou via Zipaquirá – Chiquinquirá. city takemanga, a car to and San Vicente, Thetoreserve once in via thisGirón-Lebrija. city take a car San Vicente, via Girón-Lebrija. The reserve is n of Sanlocated Vicente,3 in the from sectorthe known of the Miles townas of La SanSiberia Vicente, in the sector known as La Siberia near the o get out from of SanGermania. Vicente through the neighborhood of Vicente through the neighborhood village You need to get leave San 52 . Birdwatching Colombia

Angosturas, and head to the village Germania. Angosturas, 4x4 and vehicles headare tohighly the village recommended. Germania. 4x4 If vehic you travel by car you will find 6-7 tolls depending you travel by oncar theyou route willyou findtake. 6-7 tolls according the road

Tourist facilities There are two trails in the reserve that can last for at least three hours each. They are generally easy to walk along, though some parts are steep and difficult to walk due the mountainous terrain.

Rates & Opening times You should ask for permition to visit this reserve by contacting Ecoturs, the managers of the reserve and the ecotourism program. They are usually flexibility with the time if you call and book your visit in advance. Entrance fees (for visit any reserve of Proaves): Nationals: Foreigners: Lodging fees for Nationals (includes three meals): Lodging fees for foreigners (includes three meals):

Main cabin (Fundación Proaves)

Trails (Fundación Proaves)

Also look for Although observation of flora and fauna are the main attractions, you can visit the historical 24.85 mile long Legerke’s trail, that was made with pebbles by the German Geo Von Lengerke; this trail goes from San Vicente to the town of Zapatoca. The reserve offers handicrafts and there is the possibility to learn Lengerke’s trail (Fundación Proaves) about the coffee crops process. The National Natural Park Serrania de los Yariguies is also another attraction, you can visit it easily paying the entrance fee established by the National Natural Parks Administration and register yourself in the park entrance.

Recommendations

Always call in advance to book services with Ecoturs, since they administer all the ecoturism activities. The weather is nice and warm but at night it can be cold. Rain may be frequent so bring your rain coat and waterproof shoes.

Contact Administrator: Ecoturs Landline : (+57) 1 287 6592 / Cell phone: (+57) 313 8529158 E-mail: [email protected] / Web: www.ecoturs.org Office address: Carrera 20 # 36-61 Bogotá, Colombia

Andes . 53

Río Blanco Nature Reserve Bogotá

National Forest Reserve Municipality of Manizales, department of Caldas. Target species This place is perfect to spot several endemics and specialties such as Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Rusty-faced Parrot (Hapalopsittaca amazonina), Rufous-banded Owl (Strix albitarsus), Long-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus kingi), Black-billed Mountain-toucan (Andigena nigrirostris), Grey-breasted Mountain-toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), Brown-banded Antpitta (Grallaria milleri), White-capped Tanager (Sericossypha albocristata), Hooded Mountain-tanager (Buthraupis montana), Chestnut-capped Brush-Finch (Arremon brunneinucha) and Masked Saltator (Saltator cinctus).

Manizales

Rio Blanco is an important conservation area and IBA that is already recognised as one of the best birdwatching sites in Colombia at both national and international levels. The reserve has and altitudinal range between 7,349 to 12,139 feet covering an area of 7,949 acres where cloud forests and paramo are being protected. This is also an important watershed that provides water to the city of Manizales. More than 335 species have been recorded here, including several endemics and endangered species. Environmental education is an important part of the reserve where local children are being trained to bird watch with the aim to create an eco-culture for the preservation of biodiversity and water resources.

Tourist facilities The reserve has several trails of different durations and difficulty levels. One of the main attractions here are the two Antpitta feeders where you may easily observe Chestnut-crowned Antpitta (Grallaria rufocinerea) and Brown-banded Antpitta (G. milleri). Around the main house there are several feeders for hummingbirds where more than 20 species arrive.

Rates & Opening times There is no entrance fee or official opening time, but you must always call in advance. They charge for lodging and food services, ask the managers about the rates of that services, as well as guide fees.

Also look for

Brown-banded Antpitta (Grallaria milleri)

Sunset

The city of Manizales has several tourist options. From the reserve you may get to the PNN Los Nevados and other tourist attractions around this coffee region.

Services

Recommendations

There are six rooms for shared accommodation with shared bathrooms with hot showers. The nearby city of Manizales has a variety of hotels and Lodges too. If you are going to stay the night the reserve offers three meals. There are local birding guides (only in Spanish) and an option of English speaker birdwatching guide; both options require a prior reservation.

It is important to book in advance in order to guarantee lodging and food services, since the reserve is frequented by many visitors. All visitors must report at the entrance. The weather can be cold and wet, bring adequate clothing and rain protection for you and your equipment.

How to get there?

Contact

You may travel by air (30 minutes) or car (8 hours) to Manizales from Bogotá. If travelling by car you must take the road Bogotá - Medellín road, turning left in Honda towards Manizales . The reserve is located 7km from Manizales, heading to the district of La Toscana and then head along the unpaved road to the reserve entrance (4x4 vehicles are recommended). The reserve headquaters are a futher 6km from the gate. 54 . Birdwatching Colombia

House of the reserve

Trails

Administrator: Aguas de Manizales S.A. E.S.P.(Contact with Sergio Ocampo) Cell phone: (+57) 310 422 1883 E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected] Web: www.aguasdemanizales.com.co / www.fundegar.com Andes . 55

Los Alcazares Ecopark Tourist facilities

Bogotá

Municipal recreational park City of Manizales, department of Caldas. Manizales Target species More than 110 species of birds have been recorded at this site, including Highland Motmot (Momotus aequatorialis), Red-headed Barbet (Eubucco bourcieri), Scrub Tanager (Tangara vitriolina) and Flame-rumped Tanager (Ramphocelus flamigerus).

Flame-rumped Tanager (Julián Londoño)

If you are visiting Manizales, you may want to spend a morning bird watching in this park to enjoy. This is a small patch of mountain forest where you may observe a great variety of birds in a short period of time! The area is considered of environmental importance for the City. The aim is to protect almost 173 acres of forest where environmental and low impact recreational activities find a space in the city. The citizens and visitors have a place to enjoy nature and walks, scientific research and permaculture are also carried out here.

There is a trail that goes around the park and its main ecosystems which is suitable for observing birds; there is also a view point.

Rates & Opening times The park opens from 8:00am to 5:00pm, but you may call the specified contacts in advance in order to ask for permission access earlier in the morning and so the guard can let you in. There is no entrance fee.

Also look for There are other birdwatching destinations located in the vicinities of Manizales such as the Rio Blanco Reserve and PNN Los Nevados. The city of Manizales is an interesting place to visit as well as the surrounding coffee region.

Recommendations

The weather is warm but be ready for occasional rain. It is better if you arrive before the official opening time as the place is regularly visited by schools.

Services

Trails

This is a place to visit during the day. They don’t have lodging or restaurant services. General guiding is offered and sanitary services for visitors are available. If you require it, contact a tour operator or local bird watching association to ask for a birding guide

Contact

How to get there The park is located at the southwestern part of the city of Manizales, in the district of Los Alcazares. You can get here by car or public transport (taxi) from any part of the city.

56 . Birdwatching Colombia

Observation tower

Observation tower

Administrator: Instituto de Cultura y Turismo de Manizales Landline : (+57) (6) 872 0420 Cell phone: (+57) 315 498 3208 / (+57) 312 2814961 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.culturayturismomanizales.gov.co Andes . 57

Los Nevados National Natural Park

Bogotá

National Natural Park Manizales Pereira

Armenia

Parque Natural de Los Nevados

Ibagué

Several Municipalities in the departments of Caldas, Risaralda, Quindio and Tolima. Target species Although there is no official bird list for the park, is possible to observe more than 300 species given the great area covered by it. In the sector called Brisas, is easy to spot Bearded Helmetcrest (Oxypogon guerinii) and Tawny Antpitta (Grallaria quitensis). Other species include Golden-plumed Parakeet (Leptosittaca branickii), Grey-breasted Mountain-toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), Golden-crowned Tanager (Iridosornis rufivertex), Black-backed Bush-tanager (Urothraupis stolzmanni). It is also possible to see the the rare and local Rufous-fronted Parakeet (Bolborhynchus ferrugenifrons).

The three peaks with permanent snows that are present here, give this protected area its name. They are Santa Isabel, Nevado del Ruiz and Nevado de Tolima, the Ruiz is an active volcano. The park is located in the Central Andes, covering more than 93,899 acres between 8,530 and 17,388 feet above sea level. One of the main attractions here is trekking to the glaciers, however birding has been taken up recently in different parts of the park. For more information about birds to be found around contact the local birding association.

Services

Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons (Rufous-fronted Parakeet)

The concession manages great lodging and has a good restaurant; you may find these comforts somewhat necessary at over 13,000 feet above sea level. They manage the hotel El Cisne (the Swan) where you will find comfortable private rooms with hot showers. The park offers specialised guides for highland trekking, which is a prerequisite in order to get inside the park. There are also camping zones, cafeterias, and sanitary services at Arenales and El Cisne.

Tourist facilities You may bird watch on the road that goes to the hotel and shelter inside the park. There is also a trail around the hotel which is easy to walk, and another one from the hotel to Laguna Verde (green lagoon). At the entrance in the sector called “Brisas” there are two small trails in good condition and easy to walk.

Rates & Opening times The park opens from 7:30am - 2:30pm, don’t arrive after 2:00pm. You may arrive earlier without paying entrance and look for birds at Brisas, but if you are going to watch birds inside the park you will have to pay the entrance fees. Entrance fees: Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children:

Also look for Visit the glaciers of the El Ruiz and Santa Isabel Peaks is one of the main attractions, but you will be required to pay for a highland trekking guide.

Recommendations

El Cisne Hotel

The weather is cold or very cold, bring Winter clothing and rain protection. Note that you will reach more than 13,000 feet above sea level, so it is very important that you get acclimatised to high altitude.

Contact Tourist Concession Nevados - AVIATUR Landline : (+57) (6) 881 2075 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.concesionesparquesnaturales.com

How to get there Access by plane to Manizales from Bogota (30 minutes), and from Manizales you will have to take the road to Murillo until you find the turning to the park on the right (it takes almost one hour by car from Manizales to the entrance of Brisas). You can also travel by car from Bogotá to Manizales, and look for the sign to the park before the city on the left side of the road and head to the sector called Brisas (from Bogotá it takes almost 8 hours); you will find at least three tolls. 58 . Birdwatching Colombia

Nevado del Ruiz

Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline : (+57) (6) 887 1611 (+57) (6) 887 2275 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Plumbeus Sierra Finch

Andes . 59

Otún Quimbaya

Bogotá

Flora and Fauna Sanctuary Municipality of Pereira, department of Risaralda Pereira Target species More than 300 species including 3 endemics may be seen, including Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata), Cauca Guan (Penelope perspicax), Wattled Guan (Aburria aburri), Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Bronze-winged Parrot (Pionus chalcopterus), Bar-crested Antshrike (Thamnophilus multistriatus), Red-ruffed Fruitcrow (Pyroderus scutatus), Multicoloured Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima), Crested Ant-tanager (Habia cristata).

This national protected area was created in 1996 with the aim of protecting a section of the Andean cloud forests in the area, and belongs to the “Bosques del Oriente de Risaralda” IBA . It is located in the west slope of the central Andes in an area well recognized for its biological richness and of course its birds. The sanctuary has an extension of 1208 acres between 5,741 and 7,382 feet above sea level, where clouds drench the mountains with misty rains. A program of environmental education for local communities is carried out here.

Odontophorus hypeythrus (Chestnut Wood Quail)

Services

The community organization “Yarumo Blanco” manages the tourism services; they offer high standard lodging in comfortable rooms (options for private or shared accommodation) and a meals service. They also have general guides (not bilingual) for an additional charge.

The two main trails through the forest are narrow but are easy walking. Additionally, there is a network of trails that was part of an ancient rural road system that may be used for birding. However the preferred birding trail is the road that goes through the park. There are few cars that transit here making it a safe road for birdwatching.

Acommodations (José Castaño)

Rates & Opening times Always call the administration in advance in order to coordinate your entry with them. Entrance fee: Restaurant (José Castaño)

Lodging fees (without meals): Call the managers with the contacts below to enquire fees for meals and other services.

Also look for There is a permanent handicrafts exhibit, and they also have wildlife books and booklets for sale.

Recommendations You must call the managers of Yarumo Blanco community organization or the national parks system in advance to book and get an entrance permit. The weather is warm but take a rain jacket and waterproof footwear.

Contact

How to get there

Take the road from the city of Pereira to the town of of La Florida, bordering the Otun river; this will take you about 30 minutes on a paved road. From La Florida you need to take the unpaved road to “vereda La Suiza”. There are daily flights from Bogotá to Pereira. 60 . Birdwatching Colombia

Tourist facilities

Notice board (José Castaño)

Tourism services administration: Asociación Comunitaria Yarumo Blanco Landline : (+57) (6) 520 6124 Cell phone: (+57) 313 695 4305 E-mail: [email protected] Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline : (+ 57) (1) 353 2400 Ext. 138, 139 e-mail: [email protected] Web: http://www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Andes . 61

Bogotá

Filandia Circasia

Armenia

Area for conservation and

management Bremen La Popa Natural Forestal and Research Reserve Municipality of Filandia, department of Quindío. Target species With a list of more than 270 species of birds, at least four endemics have been recorded here. Some birds to look for include Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperhythrus), Cauca Guan (Penelope perspicax), Tropical Screech-owl (Megascops choliba), Yellow-headed Manakin (Xenopipo flavicapilla), Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea), Multicoloured Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima).

This reserve has an extension of 1845 acres between 4,921 and 6,889 feet above sea level, protecting an important remnant of Andean cloud forest in the central Andes. The reserve is located in the “Cañón del Río Barbas y Bremen” IBA , and was established in the 70’s with the intention of protecting the forests and watersheds. Part of the reserve is under forestry management and is covered by pine and cypress forest; the idea is to gradually restore some of these plantations back to native Andean forests. This area is managed by the Corporación Autónoma Regional del Quindío (CRQ). Collared Inca (Julián Londoño)

Services This reserve is ideal for a days outing, since they don’t have the infrastructure for lodging or a restaurant. However, in the cities of Armenia or Salento (both located some 30 minutes away) you will find different options according to your needs and budget, as well as restaurants. The reserve offers a general guide (not bilingual), service that you will need to book in advance . If you need a guide please contact a tourist operator or ornithological association.

How to get there Access by car from the city of Armenia, taking the road towards Pereira, and after 7.5 miles you will find the entrance of the reserve on your left (from south to north) in a place known as “Alto de Bremen” or the School of Bremen. You may arrive by plane in Pereira and then take a car to Armenia by 15.5 miles until you find the “Alto de Bremen” point and turn off to your right.

Tourist facilities There are two trails, one of about 1.86 miles and the second of 2.48 miles in length. The trails are over steep terrain but of easy access. The access road to the house of the reserve, along some secondary forests may also be birded. Forests of Bremen (José Castaño)

Rates & Opening times No entrance fee or timetables, however you must coordinate your visit and the hour of arrival in advance with the managers.

Also look for The town of Salento is a tourist destination in the coffee region due its beautiful architecture, and of easy access from the reserve. Here you may visit coffee farms or checkout the local handicrafts.

Recommendations Please always call the managers of the reserve in advance with the contacts below. Bring clothing for cold weather, protection from the rain and waterproof footwear. Try to plan your visit to this place carefully if you are in any of the neighbor cities, so you may enjoy the birding experience.

Contact Administrator: Corporación Autónoma Regional del Quindio – CRQ Landline : (+57) (6) 746 0641; (+57) (6) 7460645 E-mail: [email protected]

Access road (José Castaño)

62 . Birdwatching Colombia

Andes . 63

Bogotá

Area of conservation and

management Cañón Quindío Salento

Integrated Managed District (DMI) Municipality of Salento, department of Quindío.

Armenia

Target species Black-and-chestnut Eagle (Oroaetus isidori), Andean Guan (Penelope montagnii), Golden-plumed Parakeet (Leptosittaca branickii), Grey-breasted Mountain-toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), Black-billed Mountain-toucan (Andigena nigrirostris), Slate-crowned Antpitta (Grallaricula nana), White-capped Tanager (Sericossypha albochristata), Grass-green Tanager (Chlorornis rieferii). There is a recent report of the Chestnut-bellied Cotinga (Doliornis remseni) in the vicinities of the reserve.

This reserve is located in the highest part of the “Valle de Cocora” (Cocora valley) famous for its great concentration of Wax Palm (Colombia’s National tree); from here you will have a perfect view of the valley. It connects with other conservation areas and has an extension of more than 76,600 acres between 5,249 and 14,763 feet above sea level, being the highest part the peak of the Quindío volcano. Part of the reserve have been declared an IBA and other part is included in Los Nevados National Natural Park. Hummingbirds are well represented here.

Atlapetes flaviceps (Yellow-headed Brush-Finch )

Services

The house where the campesino rangers live offers very basic accommodation for 10 people with shared bathroom and basic meals prepared by the family. You may contact the local ornithological association to hire a birding guide (Sociedad Quindiana de Ornitología). Mobiles have good reception here. The neighbouring reserve of Acaime also offers accommodation.

Tourist facilities There is a trail that connects the reserve with its neighbour Acaime, that is also a frequent route for hikers that want to reach the Tolima volcano. There is a trail inside the reserve over steep terrain where you may look for the bird specialties, or bird watch along the access road, looking for parrots or birds of prey. Access road (José Castaño)

Rates & Opening times There are not rates or timetables established as yet, but you have to contact the managers asking for permission to visit this reserve.

Also look for The town of Salento is famous for the beautiful landscapes and typical campesino culture. Some attractions include typical food, handicrafts, visits to coffee farms, horse-riding and trekking through the Cocora valley or along ancient roads.

Recommendations You need a permit to visit this reserve, call the managers (Corporación Autónoma regional del Quindío, CRQ) prior to your visit. Weather is cold and humid, take warm clothing and waterproof shoes. Also take snacks and other personal provisions you may require.

Contact

Administrator: Corporación Autónoma regional del Quindío (CRQ), Alberto Echeverry Toro. Cell phone: (+57) 316 529 1487 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.crq.gov.co Sociedad Quindiana de Ornitologia (birding guide: Diego Duque): Cell phone: (+57) 313 749 6483

How to get there From the city of Armenia take the road to Pereira and approximately 20 minutes ahead turn right to Salento along a paved road (around 10 minutes from the turning). From Salento take the road to the valle de Cocora on a partially paved road for about 5.6 miles. At this point you may drive to the reserve (a 4x4 is highly recommended) or rent horses to the reserve, located 2.8 miles ahead. 64 . Birdwatching Colombia

Acommodation at the reserve (José Castaño)

Andes . 65

Agua Clara y Valle Lindo Nature Reserve

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Génova. department of Quindío.

Armenia

Target species Some 130 bird species have been recorded including several endemics and near endemics, such as Black-and-chestnut Eagle (Oroaetus isidori), Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Rufous-fronted Parakeet (Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons), Indigo-winged Parrot (Hapalopsittaca fuertesi), Golden-plumed Parakeet (Leptosittaca branikii), Gray-breasted Mountain-toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), Black-billed Mountain-toucan (Andigena nigrirostris), Crescent faced Antpitta (Grallaria lineifrons), Chestnut-bellied Cotinga (Doliornis remseni) and Agile Tit Tyrant (Anairetes agilis).

Génova

Indigo-winged Parrot (Hapalopsittaca fuertesi)

This reserve was created in 1993 to protect part of the Andean and paramo ecosystems, and belongs to the “Páramos y Bosques Altoandinos de Génova” IBA . It covers an area of 715 acres between 8,858 and 11,811 feet above sea level and is one of the several conservation efforts being carried in the area. They are just beginning with ecotourism as a means to obtain funds to help in the conservation of this precious habitat and the birds that are found here. Despite its difficult access it is well worth including in this guide due to the great birding that you can experience.

Services Very basic accommodation waits for you (mattresses on the bear ground for 2-3 people), as well as basic meals cooked by local peasants; their aim is to build two rooms in the future in order to offer better accommodation. You may find hotels in the neighbouring towns such as Génova. They offer general guiding and may find you a bilingual one if you call in advance.

Tourist facilities

The reserve has some trails that lead to the páramo and through the forest. The access trail from the road is a good option for birding. All trails are difficult to walk, and you may need a walking stick.

Rates & Opening times

The entrance needs to be coordinated in advance with the contacts below in order to advise the managers about dates and hour of arrival. They will help you to coordinate the necessary logistics for your visit. Ask them about lodging and meal fees. Entrance fee:

Also look for Some attractions nearby include the Quindio’s Botanical Garden, the National Coffee Park and Panaca. The municipality of Génova owns a reserve that is managed by Fundación Proaves that you can visit as well.

66 . Birdwatching Colombia

Andean forest (José Castaño)

Recommendations Contact the people of Fundación Las Mellizas in advance with the contacts below so you may coordinate your visit and required services. As we mentioned before, the terrain is very steep and cold, so you may want to take a sleeping bag, warm clothing, rain coat, and some snacks.

Contact Administrator: Fundación Ecológica Las Mellizas Landline: (+57) (6) 741 4893 Cell phone: (+57) (316) 480 8595 E-mail: [email protected] , [email protected]

How to get there Access by car from the city of Armenia to Génova (about one hour on paved road); from Génova you need to take the dirt road to “vereda Pedregales” and Finca Los Olivos (you will need a 4x4). From this point the access is by horse or walking approximately 1.5 hours over very steep terrain.

Access road (José Castaño)

To visit the Reserva Municipal El Mirador contact Ecoturs (www.ecoturs.org) Génova, Quindío (José Castaño) Andes . 67

Bogotá

Quindio’s Botanical Garden Public Area

Armenia Calarcá

Municipality of Calarcá, departament of Quindío. Target species You may look for Buff-necked Ibis (Theristicus caudatus), Spectacled Owl (Pulsatrix perspicillata), Red-headed Barbet (Eubucco bourcierii), Crimson-rumped Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus haematopygus), Bar-crested Antshrike (Thamnophilus multistriatus), Scrub Tanager (Tangara vitriolina), and recently the Turqoise Dacnis-Tanager (Dacnis hartlaubi) was reported here.

Tourist facilities There is a network of trails of about 1.2 miles of easy access and suitable for disabled people. The trails go through forest, open areas and “guaduales” (native bamboo forests). There is also a bird observatory – a small hide with reflective glass to observe birds at the feeders and an observation tower.

Rates & Opening times The Botanical Garden opens daily from 9am to 4pm; you can enter earlier asking for permit with the contacts below. Butterflies garden (José Castaño)

Entrance fees: Adults: Children and elderly: This area is committed to scientific research, conservation and environmental education through ecotourism, with the purpose of protecting native plants and related biodiversity. The Botanical Garden is a nonprofit organization and had been offering services to national and international visitors for 10 years. A good place to visit for the day, where you may look for birds along its trails and enjoy its infrastructure easily. This place is part of the National Network of Botanical Gardens.

Services

Dacnis hartlaubi (Turquoise Dacnis)

There is a cafeteria for snacks and drinks. Permanent guides (not birders) experienced in the subject of the Garden are the only available guides, so if you think you need a birding guide you must contact a tourist operator or local guide.

Also look for There is a butterfly garden, one of the biggest in the world. They offer interactive museums about geology and plants for both children and grown-ups, and boast a collection of native palm trees and heliconias from Colombia.

Recommendations

Hanging bridge (José Castaño)

Locals and tourists visit this place frequently so we recommend you that you try to get in before the official opening time, especially on weekends.

How to get there It is located very close to the city of Armenia from where you may access by paved road taking the road to Calarcá (or Ibagué), and just before you get into the centre of Calarcá turn right at the sign for the Botanical Garden. It is located on the Avenida Centenario 15-190, km 3 Vía al Valle, in Calarcá. From Armenia you will find two tolls but if you are arriving from Ibagué you will find only one.

68 . Birdwatchin Colombia

Contact Administrator: Carolina Cruz Hernández. Landline : (+57) (6) 742 5420 Cell phone: (+57) (310) 404 5223 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web : www.jardinbotanicoquindio.org. Andes . 69

Puracé Natural National Park

Bogotá

Natural National Park Popayán

Neiva

10 municipalities in the departments of Cauca and Huila.

Puracé

Target species Black-and-chestnut Eagle (Spizaetus isidori), Noble Snipe (Gallinago nobilis), Buff-winged Starfrontlet (Coeligena lutetiea), Rufous-vented Whitetip (Urosticte ruficrissa), Rainbow-bearded Thornbill (Chalcostigma herrani), Schwartz’s Antthrush (Chamaeza turdina), Black-chested Fruiteater (Pipreola lubomirskii), Black-backed Bush-Tanager (Urothraupis stolzmanni), Masked Mountain-Tanager (Buthraupis wetmoreii), Dusky-headed Brush-finch (Atlapetes fuscoolivaceus).

This park was created in 1968 to protect around 205,095 acres of Andean forests and paramos located between 8,202 and 16,404 feet above sea level and is part of a volcanic system called “Los Coconucos”, where high peaks may be found; weather is cold due to the high altitudes. There are environmental education programs for rural communities, which are mainly Paéz indigenous group. The park also manages a program for volunteers that are interested in learning more about the social and environmental aspects and help with the conservation effort.

Tourist facilities The park has several trails in good condition and of easy access, all suited for birdwatching. The access road is another option for birding. If you are going to hike the trails to the volcanoes, notice that you may require special equipment and preparation since are located at very high altitudes.

Rates & Opening times You require a permit to visit this park from the contacts below. Entrance fees Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children:

Also look for

Antocephala floriceps (Blossomcrown)

70 . Birdwatching Colombia

Camping (José Castaño)

You may visit the Puracé volcano (it is an active volcano) or the volcanic chain, on which you may visit 15 volcanos during a three day walking trip. The thermals of San Juan are famous.

Recommendations

Services

Always call in advance asking for permit to visit this park. The weather is cold and windy, take adequate clothing and protection for rain. You may need time to adjust to the altitude. It is an obligation to hire a local guide to visit the volcanoes.

The park owns three cabins, each one with a capacity of lodging 7 people; bathroom is shared. There is also a camping option. Restaurant service is available. There are general local guides, members of the indigenous communities and are expert high mountain guides.

Contact

How to get there

Terrestrial Access from the city of Popayán taking the road to El Crucero for 27 miles, and after passing the town of Puracé you will find the access road to the Park. At this point you will see a sign for the entrance to the park, and 11 miles furhter on you will find a control cabin where you will need to check in.

Trails and cabin (José Castaño)

Waterfall (José Castaño)

Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline : (+57)(2) 823 1223 (Popayán) PBX Bogotá: (+57)(1) 353 2400 Ext. 138-139 Fax: 102 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] , Web: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Andes . 71

Cueva de los Guácharos National Park

Bogotá

National Natural Park Popayán

Neiva

Cueva de los Guácharos National Park

Municipalities of Palestina and Acevedo, department of Huila. Municipality of San José de Fragua, department of Caquetá. Target species With more than 260 species to be seen here, you may look for Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja), Military Macaw (Ara militaris), Yellow-eared Parrot (Ognorhynchus icterotis), Oilbird (Steatornis caripennis), Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruviana), Black-chested Fruiteater (Pipreola lubomirskii), Dusky-headed Brush-finch (Atlapetes fuscoolivaceus), Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster).

This is the first protected area of Colombia, established in 1960 to protect the enormous Oilbird colonies that inhabit here. The park covers an area of 22,239 acres between 5,413 and 9,186 feet above sea level. Here you will enjoy the beautiful landscapes and pristine Andean forests as well as a great birding experience. May be you have read Hilty’s “Birds of Tropical America: a Watcher’s Introduction to Behaviour, Breeding and diversity”, where he describes the adventurous and difficult access to this place…well, we have to accept that it hasn’t really changed. However the installations are more welcoming now and the birding experience is still great. There is a program for volunteers that want to know more about the park and help in the conservation efforts.

Services

Dusky-headed Brush Finch (Atlapetes fuscoolivaceus)

The visitors centre offers 6 rooms for shared accommodation in bunk beds as well as shared bathrooms (no hot water) and meals are offered. The park rangers are good guides but you have to ask about their availability since they are usually on duty; if you require a birding guide it is better that you hire one in advance. They have a telephone service for emergencies.

How to get there You may travel by air from Bogotá to Neiva after which you need to drive to Pitalito; continue along the road to Palestina (1.5 hours); once in Palestina ask for “vereda Mensura”; it will take 30 minutes in a 4x4. From this point you will have to walk or rent a horse to the park cabins (located in the area known as Los Cedros). It is 5.3 miles over steep terrain to get to the reserve.

Tourist facilities There are six trails in the park that cover a total of 18.64 miles, all of which make for excellent birding. The park also has a complex of caves, not all entirely explored, and for which the park is famous for. Only four are open to the public.

Rates & Opening times Due to its remote location speculating on time schedules on arrival or departures is difficult and is imperative that you spend at least one night there. Ask the managers from the contacts below about lodging and meal fees. Entrance fees: Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children:

Trails (José Castaño)

Also look for You can visit the Cascada Cristales, La Lindosa and Las Gemelas, all waterfalls. Visitors centre (José Castaño)

Recommendations Electricity is only available for a few hours during the day. You must advise the Park System in Bogotá or Palestina (Huila) of your intentions to visit. Rubber boots are essential, and adequate clothing for the rain. The meals at the park are very basic, you must advise the managers of your preferences of diet and take some snacks.

Contact Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline : (+57) (8) 831 5702; (+57) (1) 353 2400 Ext. 138 ó 139 Cell phone: (+57) (313) 258 0268 E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected] Web: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Caves (José Castaño)

72 . Birdwatching Colombia

Andes . 73

Bogotá

San Sebastian-La Castellana Natural Reserve Municipal Reserve

Medellín

Municipality of El retiro, department of Antioquia.

El Retiro Target species At least 179 species have been recorded here including two endemics; some birds to look for are Chestnut Wood-Quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Yellow-Headed Manakin (Xenopipo flavicapilla), Bicoloured Antpitta (Grallaria rufocinerea), Purplish-mantled Tanager (Iridosornis porphyrocephalus), and Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster).

This reserve protects 494 acres of Andean forest between 6,561 and 9,350 feet above sea level and is part of the San Sebastián IBA . This is a destination to spend a morning birding through its secondary and primary forests, as it is very close to Medellín. The members of the Ornithological Association of Antioquia (SAO) can give you information about the birds of this reserve.

Services Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster)

They don´t offer lodging or food, but it is very close to Medellín. You can find plenty of choice there or in El Retiro. On the road to the reserve you will find several restaurants.

How to get there If you are in Medellín take the road known as “Loma del Escobero” in the south (in Envigado it is the same road that takes you to the international airport José María Córdoba); you will drive for about 6.8 miles until you see the entrance to some lots called “El Portón de Las Flores” and the school of San José de las Vegas on your right, where you must advise the porter that you are visiting the reserve. The reserve is located in “Vereda Carrizales” in the municipality of El Retiro, in a high point called “Alto de San Luis Gonzaga”. The roads are paved and suitable for all vehicles. 74 . Birdwatching Colombia

Tourist facilities There is one trail that goes through the reserve and reaches the highest part of it, from where you will have a view of the city of Medellín as well as the San Nicolás valley, where the towns of El Retiro and Rionegro are located. This trail is rocky and steep, so if you are not accustomed to this kind of effort bring a walking stick with you.

Visitors centre (José Castaño)

Rates & Opening times The reserve doesn’t manage entrance fees or timetables, but it is advisable for you to you call in advance in order to organise your visit and coordinate the time of arrival.

Also look for

Notice board (José Castaño)

You can visit the town of El Retiro where you may enjoy the colonial architecture and beautiful landscapes, or enjoy regional food.

Recommendations Contact the managers several days in advance in order to coordinate your visit. Clothing for cold weather, rain jacket and waterproof footwear are necessary and also take snacks and drinks with you.

Contact Administrator: Municipality of El Retiro Landline: (+57) (4) 4025450 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://elretiro-antioquia.gov.co

Andes . 75

Arrierito Antioqueño Bird Reserve

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve Anorí

Municipality of Anorí, department of Antioquia.

Medellín

Target species In the whole area more than 200 species of birds, including four endemics have been recorded, including Black Tinamou (Tinamus osgoodi), Semicollared Hawk (Accipiter collaris), Lanceolated Monklet (Micromonacha lanceolata), Parker’s Antbird (Cercomacra parkeri), Brown-billed Scythebill (Campylorhamphus pusillus), Stile’s Tapaculo (Scytalopus stilesi), Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea), Multicoloured Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima), Black-and-gold Tanager (Bangsia melanochlamys), and Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster).

Chestnut-capped Piha (Lipaugus weberi)

Arrierito Antioquieño holds its name due to a recently described species that inhabits the area: the Chestnut-capped Piha, and was created to protect part of its habitat. It is owned by Fundación Proaves where you will find sub Andean forests mixed with secondary forests and grasslands that are under restoration programs. It has an extension of 770 acres between 4,593 and 5,905 feet above sea level, on a steep and mountainous relief. This reserve and its neighbor “La Forzosa” reserve, property of CORANTIOQUIA, were established to protect the habitat of the emblematic Chestnut-capped Piha. Proaves performs several conservation and research projects in the area.

Tourist facilities

The reserve has a trail in very good condition, from where you may look for the most important species of birds. They also have hummingbirds feeders and a viewpoint.

Rates & Opening times

Forests at the reserve (José Castaño)

The entrance to this reserve must be arranged through Ecoturs, the Agency in charge of this reserve. Entrance fee Nationals: Foreigners: Lodging fees (per person/night, includes meals): Nationals: Foreigners:

Recommendations

Acommodations at Arrierito (Fundación Proaves)

Always call in advance in order to book services and to check availability. Take a rain coat and waterproof footwear. If you are not accustomed to walking on steep mountainous trails it is recommended that you bring a walking stick.

Services The reserve has very good infrastructure for lodging and a restaurant, where 12 guests can stay in comfortable rooms with hot showers. They offer a birding guide service (not bilingual).

Contact

How to get there Access by car taking the road from Medellín to Puerto Berrío; once you pass the town of Barbosa look for the road to Amalfi/Anorí on your left. The reserve is located in “vereda El Roble” near the of the town of Anorí. It takes 4-5 hours from Medellín. On this route you will find two tolls. If you are in the valley of the Magdalena river take the road that leads to Medellín from Puerto Berrío and turn right to Anorí, before you reach Barbosa; it will take you 5-6 hours and you will find one toll. 76 . Birdwatching Colombia

Trails (José Castaño)

Administrator: Ecoturs. Manager: Angela Gomez Landline: (+57) (1) 287 6592 Cell phone: (+57) 313 852 9158 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: www.ecoturs.org Address: Carrera 20 # 36-61 Bogotá, Colombia

Andes . 77

Bogotá

Cerro El Ingles and Cascada San Antonio – Alto Galapagos Private Nature Reserves Municipality of El Cairo, department of Valle del Cauca and Municipality of San José del Palmar department of Chocó

Quibdó

San José del Palmar El Cairo

Cali

Target species Over 300 species have been recorded including 6 endemic and at least 30 near-endemic species.. Some species to observe here include Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Cloud-forest Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium nubicola), Velvet-purple Coronet (Boissonneaua jardini), Toucan Barbet (Semnornis ramphastinus), Bicolored Antvireo (Dysithamnus occidentalis), Parker’s Antbird (Cercomacra parkeri), Yellow-breasted Antpitta (Grallaria flavotincta), Orange-breasted Fruiteater (Pipreola jucunda), Munchique Wood-wren (Henicorhina negreti), Gold-ringed Tanager (Bangsia aureocincta), Multicoloured Tanager (Chlorocrysa nitidissima), Crested Ant-tanager (Habia cristata), Beautiful Jay (Cyanolyca pulchra), Purplish-mantled Tanager (Iridosornis porphyrocephalus), Tanager-finch (Oreothraupis arremonops) and Dusky-bellied Bush-tanager (Chlorospingus semifuscus).

These are two reserves close together, that are part of the “Serranía de los Paraguas” IBA on the west slope of the west Andes, where you will find one of the best preserved areas of Andean and sub Andean forests in these mountains. The reserves are in between 5,249 and 8,530 feet above sea level, in one of the wettest places in the country; they form part of the conservation corridor of the Tatamá National Natural Park – Serrania de los Paraguas, where a high number of endemic and endangered species are present. There is a permanent environmental education program with the communities lead by the NGO Serraniagua, who are also in charge of a development of natural reserves network in the region focused on conservation and sustainable development.

Services

Accommodation and meals are only possible in the village of El Cairo, where visitors can find different options of hotels and restaurants, as well as communication services. Professional birding guides (bilingual) are available through Serraniagua, who also may help you to coordinate the transport and accommodation logistics.

that leads to Cerro El Inglés Reserve, the located milesReserve, from Ellocated Cairo. To visitmiles Alto from E Cerro12,48 El Inglés 12.48 Galapagos reserve you will need to takereserve the road youthat will leads need to to Cartago take the and roadthen that turn leadstoback tow San José del Palmar (Chocó), the reservetoisSan located 15,5Palmar miles (Chocó), from El Cairo. A 4X4 is vehicle José del the reserve located 15.5 is recommended. If you prefer, you may travel by air from Bogotá Medellín toair Pereira is essential. If you prefer, youor may travel by from Bogot and then travel by car to Cartago and Eltravel Cairo.by car to Cartago and El Cairo.

Tourist facilities There are secondary roads and trails that are used for birding by car, or on foot. Serraniagua can manage the logistics with local drivers with jeeps for carrying equipment like tripods and snacks.

Rates & Opening times Although there aren´t any timetables to arrive at El Cairo, it is necessary to coordinate the visit in advance with Serraniagua. Entrance fee Nationals: voluntary Foreigners: Ask Serraniagua about birding guides rates.

Also look for The NGO Serraniagua offers local products like organic food and crafts.

Recommendations

78 . Birdwatching Colombia

Serranía de los Paraguas forests (José Castaño)

Always call the managers of Serraniagua in advance with the contacts below in order to coordinate logistics, lodging, food and guiding services. Please don’t arrive without advising them previously. Rains are frequent throughout the year, so you will need to bring appropriate clothes and boots, and plastic bags for electronic equipment.

Contact Manager: Corporación Serraniagua - El Cairo Landline : (+57) (2) 207 7388 Cell phone: (+57) 312 770 6889 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.serraniagua.org.co

How to get there Travel by car from the city of Cartago (atTravel the by car from the city of Cartago (at the north of Valle del Cauca department),north and of the Valle del Cauca department), from there take the road to the towns andoffrom there take the road to the towns of Anserma and El Cairo. From Cartago Ansermanueva to El and El Cairo. The trip takes Habia cristata Cairo the trip takes about 2,5 hours on paved about 2.5 hours on a paved road (not in (Crested Ant Tanager) road (not in perfect conditions). Onceperfect in El conditions). Once in El Cairo you will Cairo you will need to take an unpavedneed road to take an unpaved road that leads to

Serranía de los Paraguas forests (José Castaño)

Access road (José Castaño) Andes . 79

Cerro Montezuma

Bogotá

Private farm / National Natural Park-buffer zone Municipality of Pueblo Rico, department of Risaralda Pueblo Rico

Pereira

Target species Some of the Western Andes cloud forest specialties are the Choco Vireo (Vireo masteri), Bicolored Antvireo (Dysithamnus occidentalis), Black Solitaire (Entomodestes coracinus), Toucan Barbet (Semnornis ramphastinus), Olivaceous Piha (Snowornis cryptolophus), and Fulvous-dotted Treerunner (Margarornis stellatus). Other endemics to look for include Black-and-gold Tanager (Bangsia melanochlamys), Gold-ringed Tanager (Bangsia aureocincta), Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Munchique Wood-wren (Henicorhina negreti), and a new undescribed Tapaculo (Scytalopus).

Bangsia melanochlamys (Black-and-gold tanager)

Montezuma Peak is one of the best birdwatching sites in the humid cloud forests of the Chocó slope in the Western Andes of Colombia. When you visit this place you will be based at Leopoldina Tapasco’s farm where you will receive an excellent service, very criollo, but with the highest standards, making your birding an unforgettable experience! Birdwatching starts at 4,265 feet above sea level around Leopoldina’s farm in the Tatamá National Park buffer area, reaching 7,874 feet above sea level, through pristine forests. You will find that the warmth and great service of the people are the key to its success, especially when after a glorious and long morning birdwatching , you see Leopoldina’s daughters arrive to set up a picnic blanket in the middle of the trail with all the gear for a lavish and delicious lunch…this may happen while you are still busy with a huge mixed flock!

How to get there

Services

They offer lodging in plain and simple but very clean and comforatble rooms. The rooms can lodge small and medium sized groups, but for larger groups sharing rooms and bunk beds is a must; for additional comfort the shower does have hot water!. Food is just magnificent, elegantly presented in banana leaves. Local guides are available; they know all the trails well and several of the target birds there; you can also opt to rent horses to reach the highest part of the ridge. Mobile signal is restricted to some areas of the house.

Access cartofrom Pereira/Cartago taking ago taking the by road La Virginia (Caldas) and thenthe theroad roadtotoLa Virginia (Caldas) and then the road to Quibdó (Chocó), passing by the town of Apia; approx. 2.5 hours from Pereira on a paved e town of Apia; after approx. 2.5 hours from Pereira onafter a paved 80 . Birdwatching Colombia

road you reach Pueblo Rico. From Puebloroad Ricoyou takereach the dirt road towards Quibdó and attake km 8the dirt r Pueblo Rico. From Pueblo Rico take the left entrance (first one you will findtheafter Pueblo Rico)you towards Vereda take left leaving entrance (first one will find after leavin Montebello which you will reach after 4.9Montebello miles of dirtwhich road. Ityou is absolutely to use a road. will reach necessary after 4.9 miles of dirt 4x4. If you plan to get there by public transportation, Leopoldina willby contact 4x4 drivers Leopo 4x4. If you plan to get there publicthe transportation, needed in town and arrange everythingneeded for you in to town be picked up in Pueblo Rico and, at the and arrange everything for you to be pick end of your stay, taken back to town. end of your stay, taken back to town.

Tourist facilities There is one main trail that takes you to Montezuma Peak starting at Leopoldina’s farm and climbs to an area known as Los Chorros. This trail is an old road built to access communication towers at the top of the mountain, where nowadays a military base is settled. There are also a couple of shelters to rest and wait for heavy rain to stop. Other trails around the main house are still under construction but they seem promising, especially those that lead to lower elevation areas.

Rates & Opening times There are no entrance fees or check-in hours as this place works totally customized for visitors. Always call Leopoldina in advance in order to coordinate the visit. Due to the relatively long distance to Pueblo Rico, it is recommended to lodge at the farm. Lodging fees (including food and accommodation): Local guide and horses are charged additionally.

Also look for

Black-and-gold Tanager (Colombia Birding Diego Calderón)

The advantage of staying at Leopoldina’s place, is to be with the local people that really know the area well! With the assistance of Leopoldina, you can arrange trekking trips to an endless array of beautiful trails and forests. Spider Monkey groups are not uncommon and the plenty of small creeks and absolutely pure waters of the rivers are best to swim in . Moreover, you can find beautiful handicrafts made by Leopoldina.

Recommendations It is highly recommended to call in advance to check availability and book. Don´t forget a flashlight if visiting this place as sometimes with so many birds you might have to walk the last part of the trail in the dark. Also, good rain gear is a must as you will be birdwatching in the wettest Andean forests in Colombia. Tipping will of course be welcome by the locals and it becomes a nice way to thank a countryside family that does its best to offer you an almost perfect service.

Contact Manager: Leopoldina Tapasco Cell phone: (+57) (18 347 9028; (+57) 317 734 2940 E-mail: [email protected] (note that she only checks it once in a while)

Cerro Montezuma (Colombia Birding Diego Calderón) Andes . 81

Yotoco

Bogotá

Protected Forest Reserve Municipality of Yotoco, departament of Valle del Cauca Yotoco

Target species Cauca Guan (Penelope perspicax), Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Greyish piculet (Picumnus granadensis), Yellow-headed Manakin (Xenopipo flavicapilla), Apical Flycatcher (Myiarchus apicalis), Bearded Tachuri (Polystictus pectoralis), Turquoise Dacnis (Dacnis hartlaubi), Multicoloured Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima).

Buga

Cali

This important remnant of sub Andean forest covers an area of 1,381 acres between 3,937 and 6,397 feet above sea level, on the east slope of the Western Andes and is a protected property of Corporación Autónoma Regional del Valle del Cauca (CVC). The reserve is also an IBA, and, although the vast majority of it is well preserved, some patches of coffee crops and grasslands exist while some portions of the reserve are crossed by a highway. However, there is a great biological richness and several endemics and endangered species found here.

Services Visitors will find lodge and meals services, but you must book in advance since there may be researchers working here. Accommodation is based on shared bedrooms with bed bunks, and toilet facilities are also shared. The reserve ranger may serve as general guide. The visitors centre offers a meeting room, dining room and a place for audiovisuals.

Rates & Opening times You must coordinate your visit in advance with the administration. Entrance fee:

Also look for Close to this reserve you will find other birding sites such as Laguna de Sonso or Lake Calima. Also in the vicinity, there are archeological sites and organic farms.

Recommendations To visit Yotoco you need to call the Universidad Nacional de Colombia (in Palmira), in advance who managing this reserve under Forest border (José Castaño) permission of the Corporación Autónoma regional del Valle del Cauca (CVC); call the contacts below to ask for a permit, enquire rates for services and book accommodation. The weather can be little cold and wet; take adequate clothing, waterproof protection and a rain jacket.

Contact Administrator: Universidad Nacional de Colombia (Palmira), Carlos Alberto Jaramillo Cruz Landline : (+57) (2) 271 7000, ext.: 35127 E-mail: [email protected] Auditorium (José Castaño)

Penelope perspicax (Cauca Guan)

How to get there Access by car from Cali to Buga and then take the road towards Buenaventura, approx. 20 minutes ahead you will see the entrance to the reserve, located in the Vereda Puente Tierra. The trip will take around 90 minutes from Cali along a paved road. If you are in Pereira or the coffee zone, take the road to Cali and Buga, and then head towards Yotoco.

Tourist facilities There are two trails of easy access through forested areas or around the coffee crops. 82 . Birdwatching Colomiba

Visitors centre (José Castaño) Andes . 83

Yanalá

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Cali, department of Valle del Cauca Yotoco Cali

Target species Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Cloud Forest Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium nubicola), Lyre-tailed Nightjar (Uropsalis lyra), Fawn-breasted Brilliant (Heliodoxa rubinoides), Blue-headed Sapphire (Hylocharis grayi), Chestnut-crested Cotinga (Ampelion rufaxilla), Black Solitaire (Entomodestes coracinus), Yellow-headed Manakin (Xenopipo flavicapilla), Multicoloured Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima).

Yanalá is a small private cloud forest reserve located in the east side of the west Andes. It covers just 14.82 acres at 6,233 feet above sea level. The reserve is also part of the KM18 IBA, so you can expect a great birding experience as well as around the neighbouring reserves. If you require more information about the birds of the area contact a local ornithological association or the NGO Asociación Río Cali.

Rates & Opening times Fees and timetables must be coordinated with the administration in the specified contacts.

Also look for Neighbouring reserves offer trekking and visits to organic crop farms. Visitors centre (José Castaño)

Recommendations Always call in advance and coordinate with the administration in order to visit this reserve and to coordinate logistics for your visit. Take a raincoat and waterproof footwear.

Services

They offer accommodation for 4 people with breakfast included. You will find several hostels associated with this reserve, that also offer meals. The reserve offers birding guides (not bilingual) and if you require they may transport you from Cali to the reserve

How to get there

Km 18 IBA (José Castaño)

Picumnus granadensis (Greyish Piculet)

Access by car from Cali taking the road to Buenaventura over paved road in good condition, once you reach the settlement of “La Elvira” at the KM18, turn left and continue another 0.6 miles along an unpaved road to the reserve. The trip from Cali will take you around 30 – 40 minutes.

84 . Birdwatching Colombia

Contact Administrator: Miguel Enrique Alvarez Cell phone: (+57) 315 287 1020 E-mail: [email protected]

Tourist facilities There is a small and narrow trail inside the forest of the reserve. We recommend you use the access road to the reserve that goes through forests that belongs to a forestry reserve and where you may find several bird specialties. Inside Yanalá there is a beautiful garden where you may rest and enjoy looking at the visitors coming to the hummingbird feeders.

Trails (José Castaño)

Km 18 IBA (José Castaño) Andes . 85

El Refugio

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Dagua, department of Valle del Cauca Dagua

Cali

Target species Around 100 species have been reported here, such as Chestnut Wood-quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), Cloud Forest Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium nubicola), Lyre-tailed Nightjar (Uropsalis lyra), Fawn-breasted Brilliant (Heliodoxa rubinoides), Blue-headed Sapphire (Hylocharis grayi), Black Solitaire (Entomodestes coracinus), Yellow-headed Manakin (Xenopipo flavicapilla), Multicoloured Tanager (Chlorochrysa nitidissima).

This reserve is at the famous birding location and also KM18 IBA. El Refugio has been attending the public for 20 years ago. With an extension of 44.45 acres between 5,905 and 6,890 feet above sea level, more than 39.5 acres are of pristine Andean cloud forest and the rest belongs to gardens and the reserve infrastructure. This reserve is the property of a biologist and expert botanist, who dedicates his life to the preservation of Andean flora of Colombia.

Rates & Opening times There isn´t a timetable but always call in advance with the contact details below. They will inform you about actual rates for lodging and meals.

Also look for The owner is a botanist with a wide knowledge of the orchids of Colombia. He boasts a beautiful live collection of these plants and others native species.

Recommendations This place is the perfect for people of all ages and suitable to visit all year round. They don’t receive groups larger than 25 people at any one time, so always call in advance to ask for a permit and enquire about availability. Forests of the reserve (Eduardo Calderón)

Choloracrysa nitidissima (Multicoloured Tanager)

Services

The reserve boasts a comfortable house that lodges visitors in private or shared accommodation; bathrooms with hot showers. They offer meals, but you must ask for it in advance. They speak Spanish, English and German.

How to get there Access by car from Cali taking the road to Buenaventura, after the settlement of “La Elvira” in the KM18 look for the turn right into the reserve at KM23. The trip from Cali will take you around 30 – 40 minutes along a paved road in good condition.

Forests of the reserve (Jose Castaño)

Contact Manager: Eduardo Calderón Sáenz Cell phone: (+57) (300) 687 8845 E-mail: [email protected]

Tourist facilities 5 acres of the reserve are committed to a botanical garden, where you may walk and see the majority of birds of the area. They also have a narrow trail inside the forest. 86 . Birdwatching Colombia

House and garden (Eduardo Calderón)

Andes . 87

Bogotá

Colibrí del Sol Bird Reserve Private Nature Reserve Municipality of Urrao, department of Antioquia

Urrao

Medellín

Target species Some species to look for here are Dusky Starfrontlet (Coeligena orina), Sword-billed Hummingbird (Ensiferaensifera), Urrao Antpitta (Grallaria urraoensis), Paramo Tapaculo (Scytalopus cannus), Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer (Diglossa gloriosissima), Black-throated Flowerpiercer (Diglossa brunneiventris), Purpish-mantled Tanager (Iridosornis porphyrocephala) and White-capped Tanager (Sericossypha albocristata).

This reserve was acquired by Fundación Proaves after the rediscovery of a population of the Dusky Starfrontlet. It covers 1,438 acres between 8,694 and 12,303 feet above sea level in steep terrain. Vegetation is mainly Andean oak forests and paramo in its highest reaches. In the paramo you will find a great landscape covered by “frailejones” (paramo vegetation) and elfin forests. The reserve manages a program of volunteers for those interested in helping them with the bird monitoring or reforestation programs.

Services

Tourist facilities There are two trails, both difficult to walk through because of the steep terrain. The first one is the pedestrian access from the road, reaching the house of the reserve and continues to the paramo; the last portion is the most difficult and demanding. In this trail you will find two benches to rest, where there are also hummingbird feeders. The other trail goes through oak forests.

Rates & Opening times Entrance to this reserve needs to be coordinated in advance with Ecoturs, the managers of the ecotourism program. Entrance fee: Lodging fees (meals included): Nationals: Foreigners:

Recommendations The trails in this reserve are located over steep terrain, you may want to rent horses to ride to the highest part in the paramo, but if you do so, don’t Panoramic view of the reserve (Fundación Proaves) ride them to get down since it may dangerous. Weather is cold and wet, take adequate clothing and a rain coat, as well as waterproof boots. It is better to arrive at the reserve during daylight.

Basic lodging services, no private rooms and bathroom; showers with hot water. They offer meals service of very good quality included in the plan. The reserve ranger is also a local birdwatching guide (not bilingual).

Grallaria urraoencis (Urrao Antpitta)

How to get there

88 . Birdwatching Colombia

Access by car from Medellín taking the road to Bolombolo, cross the Cauca river on the same road to the towns of Concordia, Betulia and Urrao. From Urrao take the secondary road to vereda El Chuscal (you will need a 4x4), up to this point the trip should take about 5 hours and you will find one toll; from El Chuscal you will need to walk or rent a horse to the reserve for approx. 2 hours. If you are travelling from Cali or Manizales, take the road to Medellín and once you arrive to La Pintada take the road to the settlement Peña Lisa, located 1.2 miles from Bolombolo, and continue to this last town and the reserve as described above. From Manizales the trip should take about 6 hours and you will find 3 tolls.

Paramo (Fundación Proaves)

Trails (Fundación Proaves)

Contact Manager: Ecoturs; Angela Gómez Landline : (+57) (1) 287 6592 Cell phone: (+57) (313) 852 9158 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ecoturs.org Office address: Carrera 20 # 36-61 Bogotá D.C.

Andes . 89

Bogotá

Las Tangaras Bird reserve Private Nature Reserve Municipality of El Carmen de Atrato, department of Chocó

Carmen de Atrato

Quibdó

Target species Chocó Vireo (Vireo masteri), Gold-ringed Tanager (Bangsia aureocincta), Black-and-gold Tanager (Bangsia melanochlamis), Black Solitaire (Entomodestes coracinus), Toucan Barbet (Semnornis ramphastinus), Yellow-breasted Antpitta (Grallaria flavotincta), Glistening-green Tanager (Chlorochrysa phoenicotis), White-headed Wren (Campylorhynchus albobrunneus), Velvet-purple Coronet (Boissonneaua jardini), Empress Brilliant (Heliodoxa imperatrix), White-tailed Hillstar (Urochroa bougueri).

Tourist facilities One trail through the forest of the reserve of easy access. There is also the possibility to bird watch along the access road to the reserve that crosses the forest of the reserve; you must be accompanied by the reserve ranger.

Rates & Opening times Contact Ecoturs (Managers of the reserve) in advance in order to coordinate the entrance to the reserve. Entrance fee Nationals: Foreigners: Access Road (José Castaño)

Las Tangaras Bird reserve was established in 2010 by Fundación Proaves to protect a section of sub Andean forest on the west slope of the west Andes in the department of Chocó, close to the source of the Atrato river. Communities in the area are primarily settlers from Antioquia although there are also some descendents of afro americans and Indians from the emberá Katio ethnicity. The reserve is located in the sub andean forest between 5,413 and 6,890 feet above sea level.

Recommendations Always contact the managers to coordinate permissions, reservations and logistics when visiting this reserve. Try to arrive at this reserve during daylight. Take rain coat and waterproof footwear.

Services A lodge has been build recently. In El Carmen de Atrato you will find two hotels that offer some basic accommodation and small restaurants. The reserve ranger serves as a general guide (not bilingual).

How to get there Access by car from Medellín or Manizales. From Medellín take the road to Quibdó, that goes through Amagá and Bolombolo, pass the bridge over the Cauca river and continue to Ciudad Gold-ringed Tanager (Bangsia aureocincta) Bolívar taking a left at a place known as “El Remolino”, until you find the settlement “El Siete” look for the crossing to El Carmen de Atrato and to the reserve; the trip has a duration of about 5 hours; there are no sign posts to the reserve. The road is just partially paved, it is recommended you travel in a 4x4 vehicle. You will find one toll between Medellín and the reserve. 90 . Birdwatching Colombia

Waterfalls (José Castaño)

Trails (José Castaño)

Contact Administrator: Ecoturs (Manager: Angela Gómez) Landline : (+57) (1) 287 6592 Cell phone: (+57) (313) 852 9158 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ecoturs.org Office address: Carrera 20 # 36-61 Bogotá, Colombia

Andes . 91

Forests of Jardín

Bogotá

Integrated Managed District Cuchilla Járdin-Támesis; private reserve and private farms Municipality of Jardín, department of Antioquia Target species Plenty of specialties may be found here, such as Yellow-eared Parrot (Ognorhynchus icterotis), Dusky Starfrontlet (Coeligena orina), Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruvianus sanguinolentus), Ocellated Tapaculo (Acropternis orthonix), Parker’s Antbird (Cercomacra parkeri), Chestnut-crested Cotinga (Ampelion rufaxila), Munchique Wood-wren (Henicorhyna negreti), Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster), Tanager-finch (Oreothraupis arremonops), White-capped Tanager (Sericossypha albocristata) and Flame-rumped Tanager (Ramphocelus flamigerus).

Medellín Jardín

Tourist facilities Birdwatching is mainly along the road that leads to the town of Rio Sucio (Caldas). Other options are to go through secondary roads and pedestrian trails that connect the roads; a guide will be indispensable to have a perfect birding experience since they know the trails perfectly.

Rates & Opening times There are no fees or entrance times. Although it is not an obligation, we recommend you contact the UMATA (Technical Environmental Unit of the Municipality) with the contacts below, they will help you to contact a guide and help with logistics for your visit.

Also look for Due to its beautiful landscapes this town is a tourist destination, where you may visit several waterfalls or the traditional cane mills (trapiches) and coffee farms. There is also an Indigenous reserve of the etnia Emberá Chamí that you can visit.

Recommendations

Ecotourism trails (José Castaño)

You can visit this place without a permit, but try to hire a guide in order to obtain the best birding experience. Remember that you will be birding along public roads that may have occasional traffic, be careful.

Coeligena orina (Dusky Starfrontlet)

The forests around the town of Jardín in southwest Antioquia have been famous with birders since a new population of the Yellow-eared Parrot was discovered here in 2000. Since then several scientific expeditions have followed and new reports of interesting bird populations were made, such as a lek of Andean Cock-of-the-rock located very close to town. The forest starts at 4,921 reaching almost 10,500 feet above sea level. The town is at 5,741 feet above sea level, with an outstanding colonial architecture in the middle of beautiful Andean forests. It is also a place where natural resources are being protected by a warm and conscientious population. Fundación Proaves is one of the entities that has been helping in the research and conservation of the area, and they also own a reserve here. However, the birdwatching occurs along municipal roads not in the reserve and the tourist services are also in the town.

Peña Lisa (close to Bolombolo) and take Lisaa(close left totoAndes Bolombolo) and Jardín. and take Thisa trip left to willAndes take and Ja around 5 hours and you will find three tolls. hoursThere and you is public will find transport three tolls. daily There from Medellín. is public transpo

Services

You will find a variety of hotels and restaurants in the town, according to your budget and taste. It is possible to find local birding guides (some bilingual). Internet access and public phones can be found as well.

How to get there

or Manizales. Fromby Medellín take the road to Amagá From and Medellín take the road to Amagá and Access car from Medellín or Manizales. o the town of Andes and then to Jardín; there areof almost Bolombolo, and continue to the town Andes and then to Jardín; it is about 82 miles You will find one toll. If youroad. are inYou Manizales, take thetoll. road along a paved will find one If you are in Manizales, take the road to La Pintada, Medellín from where need take the road to you will need to take the road to Peña untilyou youwill reach La to Pintada, from where 92 . Birdwatching Colombia

Yellow-eared Parrot (José Castaño)

Waterfalls (José Castaño)

Contact UMATA of Jardín Landline : (+57) (4) 845 5668 Cell phone: (+57) (314) 821 5090 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: www.eljardin-antioquia.gov.co

Andes . 93

Mid Magdalena valley This region is located between the Eastern and Central Andes, and is an important refuge for fauna and flora with plenty of endemics to look for within its forests, mainly “Tropical Humid Forest”. Naturally its name derives from the huge river that drains in to the Caribbean, the Magdalena river. The climate is generally hot, with two main wet seasons between April – May and September – November; the wettest month is October and the driest January. Sunset at Maná Dulce, Agua de Dios

Magdalena River

Medellín Tunja Manizales

Bogotá

IBA Victoria

Although the ecosystem of the mid Magdalena valley has been severely altered and transformed into agricultural land, it is possible to find important remnants of forests. This region is poorly represented in the protected areas national system, but fortunately the relevance of the area has recently been recognized and several IBAs now exists in the region.

Amazilia cyanifuons (Indigo-capped Hummingbird)

Río Claro Natural Reserve (José Castaño)

Blue-and-yellow Macaw (COLOMBIA Birding-Diego Calderón)

Rufous-tailed Jacamar

El Paujil Natural Reserve (Fundación Proaves)

Bogotá

Río Claro

Tourist facilities

Private Nature Reserve and Hotel Municipality of San Francisco, departament of Antioquia

Medellin

San Fransisco

Target species You can expect three endemics and two near-endemics birds here. Some birds here include Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis), Saffron-headed Parrot (Pionopsitta pyrilia), White-mantled Barbet (Capito hypoleucus), Citron-throated Toucan (Ramphastos citroleumus), Beautiful Woodpecker (Melanerpes pulcher), Short-tailed Pygmy-Tyrant (Myiornis ecaudatus), Antioquia Bristle-tyrant (Phylloscartes lanyoni) and Sooty Ant-Tanager (Habia guturalis).

This is a private project that began in 1970 with the purpose of protecting remnants of lowland tropical rain forest. The reserve has an extension of 617 acres, that range from 1,148 to 1,968 feet above sea level, where karstic formations, pristine forests and crystalline rivers with a marble bedrock are found. Without doubt birding this place will be a great experience! If you require more information about the birds of this reserve, contact a local birding association such as the Sociedad Antioqueña de Ornitología (SAO).

There is a trail that goes through the forest which is easy to walk. There are also viewpoints where you may observe the Oilbirds in the afternoons and a canopy tower.

Rates & Opening times There is an entrance at the reserve with a guard, it opens at 7:00 a.m. and closes at 9:00 p.m. Entrance fee: Lodging fees (meals included):

Also look for Several activities may be practiced here such as canopy, Kayak and rafting. The Cóndor Cave is very close to the reserve, where you may look for the Oilbirds.

Recommendations

Contact

Services

Capito hypoleucus (White-mantle Barbet)

Forests and river at Rio Claro canyon

If you are going to lodge here please book in advance. (José Castaño) Reservations are possible only by phone, calling between 8:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. and from 2:00-6:00 p.m. The weather is hot and humid, take light clothing and a rain jacket in the wet season. Also take sun block and mosquito repellent. Visit their website in order to obtain important details and recommendations before your visit.

Land line: (+57) (4) 268 8855 Cellphone (weekdays): (+57) 311 354 0119 (Sunday and festive days): (+57) 313 671 44 59 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.rioclaroelrefugio.com

Several options for lodging in bungalows, hotel or the eco-lodge with options for private or shared accommodation that vary in price and conditions. They also have a camping area, restaurant and cafeteria. The reserve offers general guide services. There is very good coverage for mobile phones. Rooms (José Castaño)

How to get there Access by car from Bogotá taking the road to Medellín and pass the settlement of Doradal until you pass the entrance of the reserve on your left at KM 264. It will take around a 5 hours; you will find 4 tolls. If you are traveling from Medellín take the road to Bogotá, the reserve is at KM 152 on the right side; there are 2 tolls. 96 . Birdwatching Colombia

Oilbirds cave (José Castaño)

Magdalena . 97

Manizales

Bogotá

Victoria

IBA Victoria Bellavista Natural Reserve

Tourist facilities

Municipal Natural Reserve and private farms

Rates & Opening times

Municipality of Victoria, departament of Caldas

Manizales

Target species Three endemics can be spotted here including White-mantled Barbet (Capito hypoleucus), Antioquia Bristle-Tyrant (Phylloscartes lanyoni), and Sooty Ant-tanager (Habia gutturalis). It is also possible to observe the Tody Motmot (Hylomanes momotula) in its Eastern distribution.

There is a network of trails and private roads inside the reserve, all easy to walk.

The reserve has no opening times or fees established, but the personnel of the UMATA (Municipality technicians that manage the reserve) prefers that you contact them in advance in order to have a control on the numbers of visitors to the reserve. Panoramic view of the reserve

Recommendations

Bellavista Natural reserve is on the east side of the Central Andes, close by the town of Victoria from which the IBA receives its name. The reserve consists of a well preserved remnant of tropical lowland rainforest between 2,624 and 3,280 feet above sea level. Some of the land is owned by the municipality and other areas are private. You may find this place easy to reach and walk while you observe several bird specialties in relatively short time. In the area there is a group of local birdwatching children that have been trained to support birdwatching activities and the conservation of local birds.

As mentioned above, and although you are not obliged, it is recommended by the UMATA technicians to advise about your visit, they need this information to have visitors statistics. If you want they can help you as well with information about hotels and local guides. The weather is warm with two important rainy seasons between April - May and September October, however rains may be frequent in other months; bring a rain coat and waterproof shoes.

Services The town has two hotels, the most recommended is Victoria Plaza in the central park. There are few restaurants that offer local food. There are some places with internet and phone services.

Habia gutturalis (Sooty Ant Tanager)

How to get there

98 . Birdwatching Colombia

Access by car from Bogotá taking the highway Bogotá to Medellín. Once you get to the town of Honda take the road to Medellín (to the right) and about 9.3 miles away turn to the left to Victoria. From this point to the town it is about half an hour though the road is not completely paved. From Victoria to the reserve you will have to take the unpaved road to Samaná, the reserve is 3.1 miles from the town on the left side. There are at least three tolls from Bogotá.

Entrance to the reserve

Contact The town of Victoria Landline: (+57) 986 552228 - 85552229 E-mail: [email protected] (técnico UMATA) Web: victoria-caldas.gov.co/

Magdalena . 99

Bogotá

El Paujil

Bird Reserve

Private Nature Reserve Municipality of Puerto Boyacá, department of Boyacá Puerto Boyacá

Tunja

Target species Endemic birds and those restricted to the Magdalena Valley are the main targets in this reserve, the Blue-billed Curassow being the most charismatic one. Other interesting birds to look for are Northern Screamers (Chauna chavaria), White-mantled Barbet (Capito hypoleucus), Beautiful Woodpecker (Melanerpes pulcher), Bare-crowned Antbird (Gymnocichla nudiceps), Black-billed Flycatcher (Aphanotriccus audax) and Sooty Ant-tanager (Habia gutturalis). Some of these bird species require quiet and slow searching while covering a lot of ground in the reserve.

El Paujil Reserve was created in November 2003 by Fundación Proaves and named after the endemic and endangered Blue-billed Curassow that is found in the area. This reserve is located on the western base of the Serranía de las Quinchas mountain range which is one of the last forested remnants of the mid Magdalena. The reserve has an extension of 2,396 acres between 623 and 2,460 feet above sea level. Proaves includes it as one of their volunteering program sites; furthermore, environmental training and handcrafting activities are carried out with the local community. In this reserve, you can enjoy the humid tropical forest of the Magdalena River valley, one of the areas that have sadly been severely degraded by human activities in our country.

Services

Crax alberti (Blue-billed Curassow)

How to get there

In this reserve you will find high quality lodging, and two spacious rooms with the possibility of private or shared accommodation (the rooms have air conditioning). There is also the possibility to accommodate up to 20 people using two additional simpler cabins and bunkbeds. The facilities are comfortable and clean. The reserve runs its own very good restaurant and timetables match completely with the visitor requirements; even more, the ranger can bring packed lunch into the field to any place you may find yourself birding in the reserve.

Terrestrial Access taking the road from Bogotá to Honda and then to Puerto Boyacá; at the from Bogotá to Honda and then at the roundabout follow the signtotoPuerto Santa Boyacá; Marta; after 15 minutes in a village called 2.5 turn right anta Marta; after 15 inPuerto a villagePinzón called(this 2.5 turn right before Puerto Boyacá); There are 3 tolls towards theminutes village of is before zón (this is before before Puerto Boyacá); There are 3 tolls 100 . Birdwatching Colombia

point. From here on, the road is not paved to this point. From here on, the road is to notthis paved (4x4 is highly recommended) and you (4x4 is askaswhere turn off for Puerto Pinzon as there is must ask where to turn off for to Puertomust Pinzon there to is no signs forto it (Reserve signs are only available fewthis kilometers before Puerto Pinzon). On only available a few kilometers before Puerto Pinzon).aOn road, there is one unofficial toll that localUS$2). people charges by themselves toll that local people charges by themselves (about After 1.5 hours on this dirt(about road US$2) reach Puerto Pinzon where youleads maytotake you will reach Puerto Pinzon where youyou maywill take the secondary dirt road that thethe seco reserve (approx. 20 minutes) and then walk reserve (approx. 20 minutes) and then walk or ifhorseride for another 20 minutes, or if or horseride for another 20 minutes, or the water level is high enough, you can the water level is high enough, you can take a boat along the Río Ermitaño for some take a boat along the Río Ermitaño for some 30 minutes to the reserve. 30 minutes to the reserve.

Tourist facilities

There are several trails covering different habitats inside the reserve; these trails are well Lodging cabins (COLOMBIA Birding – Diego Calderón) kept but are only partially marked, so as there is more than one route without any signs, it is easy to get los without a guide. There is a viewpoint that is quite good to locate nocturnal birds.

Rates & Opening times Check-in times to this reserve must be arranged with Ecoturs; by request, you can get to the reserve at any time you arrive in the area, but it is highly recommended you take advantage of daylight hours due the poor road conditions. Entrance fees: Nationals: Foreigners: Lodging rates (include all meals): Nationals:

Megascops choliba – Tropical Screech Owl (COLOMBIA Birding – Diego Calderón)

Recommendations

Rooms (COLOMBIA Birding – Diego Calderón)

Get in touch directly with Ecoturs to arrange your visit and check availability. As this is a lowland area, you will need some mosquito protection, as well as rubber boots for muddy trails and sunscreen protection. Please always follow the ranger and local guides’ recommendations. It is not recommended to get to or leave the reserve at night.

Contact

Administrator: Ecoturs, Gerente: Ángela Gómez Landline: (+57) (1) 287 6592 Cell phone: (+57) 313 852 9158 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ecoturs.org Office address: Carrera 20 # 36-61 Bogotá,

Magdalena . 101

Bogotá

Maná Dulce Natural and Agricultural Park Private farm Agua de Dios Municipality, departament of Cundinamarca

Bogotá Agua de Dios

Target species More than 110 bird species have been registered here, being a special place to look for dry forest birds including two Colombian endemics. You should look for the Pheasant Cuckoo (Dromococcyx phasianellus), Red-billed Scythebill (Campyloramphus trochilirostris), Lance-tailed Manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata), Apical Flycatcher (Myiarchus apicalis) and Velvet-fronted Euphonia (Euphonia concinna).

Tourist facilities There is a network of trails inside the park all of them easy to walk, however there are some pebbled tracks that may get slimy in the rain season. You may ask the managers or your birding guide about the best places to see the birds you are looking for.

Rates & Opening times Although there is no official opening time, it is important to book in advance and never arrive without calling beforehand. Entrance fee: Lodging rate (includes three meals): Consult with the administration about the rates for other services such as guiding or camping.

Also look for Since the place offers environmental education activities, they have special infrastructure for this. There is also the option of visiting some natural attractions such as bat caves and the stone bridge.

This private farm and natural park is located in an ecosystem of dry forest on the Magdalena river valley. Here the owners have started a conservation project in combination with environmental education activities. You will find this a great place to walk through the forest, enjoying and learning from nature, since this place is dedicated to this. You will feel the commitment of the owners to the conservation of this area in the special care you will receive while visiting Maná Dulce.

Recommendations

Services The lodging option in basic but clean and comfortable, in shared accommodation. There is also a camping area and food is included in the lodging rate. The reserve offers a birdwatching guide service (only in Spanish). If you require you may coordinate with the managers for transport from Agua de Dios or Tocaima to the reserve. Cell phone signal is poor. Euphonia concinna (Velvet-fronted Euphonia)

102 . Birdwatching Colombia

Stone bridge

This place receives schools and visitors for environmental education activities, so it is recommended that you call in advance asking for availability and booking of services. Weather is hot so bring light clothes. It is very important that you bring mosquito repellent since there are a lot of them!

Contact Cell phone: (+57) 312 4124336 (+57) 311 2142191 (+57) 311 5115618 E-mail: [email protected]

How to get there

Terrestrial access taking the road from Bogotá to La Mesa and Tocaima; you may get out of the city from the 13th Street (Calle 13) in the south of Bogotá, or taking the 80th street (Calle 80) in the west. Once you are in the town of Tocaima look for the sign to Agua de Dios and from Agua de Dios the road to Nilo, where you must follow the signs to Manadulce, which is located 2.48 miles from the town, in the village called Belen de Malachi. From Bogota you will find three tolls.

Main cabin

Trails Magdalena . 103

Manizales

Bogotá

Río Manso Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR

Norcasia

Manizales

Municipality of Norcasia, department of Caldas Target species Saffron-headed Parrot (Pionopsitta pyrilia), Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis), Citron-throated Toucan (Ramphastos citroleumus), White-mantled Barbet (Capito hypoleucus), Beautiful Woodpecker (Melanerpes pulcher), Cinnamon Woodpecker (Celeus loricatus), Blue-crowned Manakin (Lepidothrix coronata), Antioquia-bristle Tyrant (Phylloscartes lanyoni) and Sooty Ant-tanager (Habia gutturalis).

Río Manso is a private reserve in the mid Magdalena river valley located on the shores of the river La Miel, and gets its name from the waters of another river that borders it: río Manso (calm). With an area of about 741 acres, most of it is covered by tropical rain forest, thanks to the efforts of the owners; the reserve has been the property of the same family for four generations. They also aid scientific research that helps with the continuing inventory of the regional flora and fauna.

Services In the reserve there is the option for lodging in basic accommodation and meals for 6 people. They also offer general guiding services (not bilingual).

Tourist facilities There is trail through the forest, where is also a permanent research plot of about 2.47 acres called “Biotrop”. You can also bird watch along the shores of the rivers.

Rates & Opening times They don´t have timetables due the remote location, but always call in advance and advise of your visit in order to coordinate the necessary logistics. Enquire about rates for lodging, meals and guiding services.

Also look for

Río La Miel is famous due its crystalline and calm water; you may also go fishing here.

Recommendations As we mentioned before, you have to call in advance of your visit in order to arrange the logistics for your visit such as transport, meals and lodging. Weather is hot and humid, take light clothing and rubber boats La Miel river (José Castaño) since the trails may be muddy, as well as sun block and mosquito repellent. Since the reserve is far away from stores, bring all necessary things.

Contact

Melanerpes pulcher (Beautiful Woodpecker)

How to get there

104 . Birdwatching Colombia

From Bogotá take the road to Medellín and once you reach the town of La Dorada, turn to Norcasia and then look for the road to río La Miel from where you will need to take a boat to rí Manso (you need to book in advance in order to arrange the boat about 10 minutes), and after that you will need to walk or ride a horse to the house at the reserve.

Panoramic view of the reserve (José Castaño)

Trails (José Castaño)

Administrator: Ana Maria Jaramillo Landline: (+57) (6) 871 4280 Cell phone: (+57) 310 457 5003 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Web: http:/es.netlog.com/riomanso

Magdalena . 105

Río Alicante Canyon

Bogotá

Integrated Managed District, Municipality Reserve, Private Farms Municipalities of Maceo and Puerto Berrío, department of Antioquia

Maceo Puerto Berrío Medellin

Target species Around 330 species are reported including three endemics. Some birds to look for here are Blue-billed Curasow (Crax alberti), Watled Guan (Aburri aburri), Saffron-headed Parrot (Pionopsitta pyrilia), Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis), White-mantled Barbet (Capito hypoleucus), Citron-throated Toucan (Ramphastos citreolaemus), Russet-throated Puffbird (Hypnellus ruficollis), Stripe-backed Wren (Campylorhynchus nuchalis), Sooty Ant-tanager (Habia gutturalis) and Black Oropendola (Psarocolius guatimozinus).

Tourist facilities Inside the Municipal Reserve there is a trail of about 2 hours and of medium difficulty. You can also look for birds along the access road or along an abandoned road.

Rates & Opening times Although there are no official opening time, it is better if you coordinate your arrival with the managers in advance. Lodging fees in the farm: (meals include): Adults: Children:

Also look for The karstic caves system of the area are Panoramic view of the farms (José Castaño) famous, where you will find ancient Indian tombs and wall paintings. The river is also a tourist destination.

Recommendations

Cañón del río Alicante is located between the municipalities of Maceo and Puerto Berrío on the eastern slope of the Central Andes. Previously exploited for agricultural production where cattle, coffee and cacao farms were present, now after several research expeditions the ecological relevance of the area has taken priority. The portion under protection of this IBA is primarily tropical rain forest, covering an area of 15,662 acres between 984 and 2,264 feet above sea level. Actually the area is under mixed management where protected areas and private productive farms are present. The program “Fair trade and Biodiversity” is working with local peasants producing organic cacao and ginger while at the same time helping to protect the forests.

Contact the managers in advance using the details below in order to ask for an entrance permit and coordinate transport and lodge logistics for your visit, and advise them if you will require a local birding guide. The weather is hot and humid, bring light clothing, sun block and mosquito repellent; the trails may be muddy, so take rubber boats.

Services The farm managed by the fair trade program offers lodging for 8 people in a comfortable bungalow and meals. They also have a camping zone. Toilet services are shared. There are local guides experienced in the birds of the area (not bilingual). Cell phone signal is very limited. Phylloscartes lanyoni (Antioquia Bristle Bristle Tyrant)

How to get there

Access by car from Medellín taking the road to Puerto Berrío, you will pass the towns of Barbosa and San José del Nus and then turn to Maceo; this will take you around three hours and there are three tolls. Once in Maceo you will need to take a secondary road to the reserve, there are no signs to the reserve, so ask the way to it; the reserve is located 15.5 miles from Maceo. If you are in the mid Magdalena valley you may take the road that leads from Puerto Berrío to Medellín, and then go to Maceo and the reserve; you will find one toll. 106 . Birdwatching Colombia

Trails (José Castaño)

Contact Lodge and meals with the organic farm Administrators: Katharina Lechle / Andrés Alvarez Cell phone: (+57) 321 636 6365 / (+57) 311 488 4216 e-mail: [email protected] [email protected]

Trails (José Castaño)

Local guide Miguel Gonzales Cell phone: (+57) 314 758 4720 Magdalena . 107

Pacific region This region is not only one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, but it is also one of the wettest, with an annual average precipitation of about 6,500mm. You will find several ecosystems including mangroves, beaches, rain forests and cloud forests on the Andean slopes. Some 650 species of birds may be found here, but also several poison arrow frogs, and mammals such as Jaguar or Tapir. The Baudó and Darién mountains are located here, and home of a rich flora and fauna.

Bucco noanamae (Sooty-capped puffbird)

PNN Utría

Quibdó

El Almejal

Gray-headed Tanager (Julian Londoño)

Conservation action on the Pacific includes National Natural Parks, private reserves and several IBAs. The most accessible zone for birdwatching at this moment is the area of Bahia Solano and Nuquí, where Utria National Park is located. Access to Bahia Solano is only possible by air and many areas in the region that are good for birding will require travel by boat.

Emberá at PNN Utria

El Almejal Lodge

Punta Huina, Bahia Solano

Bogotá

El Almejal Lodge & Reserve Private Nature Reserve and Hotel Bahia Solano Municipality, department of Chocó

Bahía Solano Quibdó

Target species More than 165 bird species have been recorded in the Lodge and Reserve area, including several near-endemic birds from Colombia. Some species include the Purple-chested Hummingbird (Amazilia rosenbergi), Spot-crowned Barbet (Capito maculicoronatus), Yellow-eared Toucanet (Selenidera spectabilis), Blue Cotinga (Cotinga nattereri), Scarlet-thighed Dacnis (Dacnis venustus) and Scarlet-and-white Tanager (Chrysothlypis (Erythrothlypis) salmoni).

This place is considered an essential stop on the Pacific Coast for all those birdwatching fans, since it is quite easy to observe some of the more representative birds of the area. El Almejal is a small and comfortable lodge looking out over the Pacific Ocean, where there is also a small private reserve to protect the rainforest. The owner is also a birdwatcher and knows the best places to find the birds and the new canopy platform is now an important place to spot some of the specialties (for those who are not afraid of heights!). You will find people with a passion and commitment for conservation and where environmental education is also an important activity. They are also working on a conservation program for marine turtles that lay their eggs on the beach.

Services

Tourist facilities There are two trails inside the reserve that last about two hours. The trails may be difficult to walk especially if it has been raining, because the steep slopes can get very slippery. However trails are well maintained and you can ask for walking sticks. There are two viewpoints and a canopy platform.

Rates & Opening times There are no schedules or entrance fees, since services are only for guests. We recommend check with the managers the current lodging rates. Lodging fees (includes three meals a day):

Also look for Utria National Park can be visited The Pacific from the reserve from here and the hotel can organize a trip along the El Valle – Utria trail, where you may spot other specialties such as Baudo Guan (Penelope ortoni) or the nesting colony of Baudo Oropendola (Psarocolius cassini). In the appropriate season you can take an excursión to watch Humpback Whales or participate in the conservation program that aims to protect marine turtles nests.

Recommendations Since services are only for guests, it is highly recommended that you book in advance of your visit. The Chocó is known as one of the wettest places in the world, so rains are frequent throughout the year, bring your rain coat and proper shoes. Don’t forget to also bring mosquito repellent.

Cotinga nattereri (Cesar Isaza)

The hotel offers one of the best lodging options, with private rooms (for 2-6 people) and has an excellent restaurant service. There is the option to hire a local birdwatching guide (he only speaks Spanish), ask for the conditions and prices for this service. The owner speaks English, French and Spanish. Electricity is permanent, cell phone signal is only in certain parts.

How to get there

You must take a flight from Bogotá or Medellín to Bahía Solano, from where you will have to rent a taxi (local public transport) to the village of El Valle; the trip has a duration of about one and a half hours, by an unpaved road (mainly) only suitable for 4x4 vehicles, although it is being repaired. The hotel is located 10 minutes by car from El Valle, ona beach that holds the same name: El Almejal. 110 . Birdwatching Colombia

Trail and gazer

Contact

Basilisk Lizard at El Almejal

Landline: (+57) (4) 2306060 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.almejal.com.co Pacific . 111

Parque Nacional Natural Utría

Bogotá

Natural National Park Municipalities of Bahía Solano, Nuquí, Alto Baudó and Bojayá, department of Chocó Target species There is no official list of the park, but the number of species is around 400. Some birds to look for here include Choco Tinamou (Crypturellus kerriae), Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja), Baudo Guan (Penelope ortoni), Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus), Scarlet-thighed Dacnis (Dacnis venustus) and Baudo Oropendola (Psarocolius cassini).

Bahía Solano Ensenada de Utría

Quibdó

Rainforest, birds and the sea…there are few places in the world that join these features in one place, and where the beauty of the landscapes will leave you speechless. The park was created in 1987 with the aim to protecting the coral reefs, beaches, mangroves and rainforests, as well as several migratory species that arrive in the area (including birds, whales and turtles) in the more than 133,435 acres of national park. Indigenous (Embera-Katios) and black communities live together in the area. It is important to mention that although this place is an IBA, the birdwatching tourism program is just beginning and you may not get much help from the locals while birding. However, don’t miss the experience and go by yourself to watch the birds in this fantastic place.

Services

In the visitors centre “Jaibaná” there are pleasant private rooms plus there is also the option of shared accommodation. There is an excellent restaurant that offers local food (mainly fish and seafood). These services are managed by a Community Organization called Manocambiada. There is only a general guiding service. No electricity is available and the cell phone signal is poor.

Tourist facilities

The best option for birdwatching is along the El Valle-Utria trail; this is a long trail thay may take 4 hours walking to the edge of the park (you will have to take a boat to the end of the Ensenada; note that the Baudó Oropendola nesting colony is located just inside the boundary of the Park). If you are looking for shorebirds and aquatic birds the Estero Grande trail through the mangroves is a good option. Both trails are easy to walk.

Rates & Opening times Entrance fees are: Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children: It is recommended that you ask for actual lodging and food rates from the managers.

Also look for The Ensenada is a nursery area of Humpback Whales, which are present between July and September and are easy to observe. Marine turtles also arrive to lay their eggs here between August and October. The Park has one of the finest and most beautiful beaches on the Pacific Coast of Colombia.

Recommendations

Please always book the services in advance and never arrive without a reservation to the Park, even if you are going to enter just for one day. Since the access is not easy, it is better to spent at least one night so you can enjoy your birdwatching better. The best birdwatching season is at the beginning of the year (driest season) however, the migratory birds season Rooms may be interesting, especially for shorebirds. The weather is hot and humid, and rains are frequent, so bring a rain coat and appropriate shoes. There are not many mosquitoes but bring insect repellent just in case .

Contact

Corporación Mano Cambiada Landline : (+57) 1 3403565 ext. 107 Cell phone: (+57) 311 8727887 / 316 8226157 E-mail: corporació[email protected] [email protected] Web: www.nuquipacifico.com

Psarocolius cassini (Baudo Oropendola)

How to get there You must take a flight from Bogotá or Medellín to Bahía Solano, and from there you have to rent a car (local public transport are 4x4 vehicles) to the village of El Valle, located one hour and a half aways traveling along an unpaved road. Once in El Valle access is a 20 minute journey by boat (maritime access). With an advanced reservation the managers of Manocambiada can pick you up at El Valle.

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Beach at Ensenada Utría

Harlequin frog

Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline : (+57) (1) 3532400, ext. 138-139 e-mail: [email protected] Web: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co

Pacific . 113

Bogotá

Punta Huina Playa de Oro Lodge Private Hotel Municipality of Bahía Solano, department of Chocó

Bahía Solano Quibdó

Target species Around 150 birds have been recorded up to now, and some interesting species can be spotted here such as Saffron-headed Parrot (Pyrilia pyrilia), Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus), Pied Puffbid (Notharcus tectus), or Dusky-faced Tanager (Mitrospingus cassinii). At the end of one of the trails in an open area surrounded with forests, it is possible to look for Black-tipped Cotinga (Carpodectes hopkei).

The area of Punta Huina is recognized as a traditional place for beach tourism and sport fishing. However, the Hotel Playa de Oro has recently started to include the activity of birdwatching, and are surveying the birds and the local guides are learning to identify them. You can observe birds in the hotel grounds as well as along community trails that go through crop areas and patches of forest. Although they are just starting with the birdwatching program, don’t underestimate this place as it is well worth a visit and will help ensure the continuity of the inventories and conservation initiatives.

Tourist facilities There are no official trails, since the observation of birds occur inside the grounds of the Hotel and along local community paths, that may be slippery and muddy; ask for a walking stick in the Hotel. The Hotel has a viewpoint.

Rates & Opening times There is no entrance fee or opening time, since services are only for guests. Otherwise, you can watch birds along the community trails at any time. Lodge fee (per person/day meals included): Ask the managers about actual rates for lodge and food, as well as guiding prices.

Also look for

Borde de Bosque Yotoco

Playa de Oro Lodge

The Hotel specilises in in Sport fishing. You can arrange with them for expeditions to see the whales in the right season.

Recommendations

Since services are only for guests you must book in advance with the contacts below. Rains are frequent in the area and you must be prepared with rain coat, boots or rubber boats as well as mosquito repellent.

Services

Cholorophanes spiza (Julian Londoño)

The Hotel Playa de Oro offers accomodation in private rooms, as well as a restaurant service (mainly sea food). There is the option to hire a local guide, at an additional cost, that has been trained in the identification of birds. However, it is possible to hire a specialist birdwatching guide by request in advance to the Hotel administration.

How to get there

Playa de Oro Lodge

Contact Manager: Héctor Palacio Landline: (+57) (4) 3617809 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.hotelesdecostaacosta.com

Travel by air from Bogotá or Medellín to Bahía Solano. Once in Bahía Solano you must take a taxi to the local port and take a boat by the sea to reach the Hotel (around 15 minutes). With an advence reservation the Hotel may pick you up at the airport. Trails 114 . Birdwatching Colombia

Pacific . 115

Amazon region The largest tropical rain forest in the world, where the most striking and rich flora and fauna may be found, as well as several indigenous cultures who make their home in these forests. In Colombia it covers over 25% of the territory including the departments of Amazonas, Vaupés, Caquetá, Putumayo, Guainía and Guaviare.

Thraupis episcopus (Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org - Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

You will find a rich avifauna, with more than 700 species of birds including Macaws, Toucans, Parrots, Antbirds, just to mention a few of the most important groups, as well as the most interesting aquatic mammals, a great variety of fishes and an extraordinary flora.

RN Cerca Viva

Leticia

Panoramic view of the Amazonian forests

Pier at the Amazon river

Paradise Tanager (Juan David Ramirez)

PNN Amacayacu

RN Tanimboca

The Amazon is probably the best preserved region of Colombia, because there are almost no roads and most access from Bogotá is only really possible by plane. The biggest national parks of the country are here, and include PNN Chiribiquete, Yaigojé-Apaporis, Río Puré and Amacayacu. Leticia and its surroundings offer the most accessible options for birdwatching, but if you are looking for a more adventurous experience, you will need to delve deeper into the jungle. The Amazon river and its tributaries, are an excellent option for birdwatching and enjoying magnificent landscapes.

Parque Nacional Natural

Amacayacu & Mocagua and Zaragocilla Islands

Bogotá

National Natural Park and Indigenous zone Municipalities of Puerto Nariño and Leticia, department of Amazonas Puerto Nariño Leticia

Target species Some birds to spot here include: Ornate Hawk-eagle (Spizaetus ornatus), Crested Eagle (Morphnus guianensis), Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao), Red-and-Green Macaw (Ara chloroptera), Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin), Amazonian Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus ornatus) and Hooded Tanager (Nemosia pileata). On Mocagua Island it is relatively easy to spot the rare and local Wattled Curassow (Crax globulosa) and several other species, including several species of macaws and toucans. The park is a good place to look for Antbirds.

Amacayacu is located in the southern part of Colombia. Covering near 725,246 acres, at 328 feet above sea level. It is known for its high biodiversity as well as cultural richness, it is also home to several indigenous communities. The main ecosystem is varzea forest, which is a seasonal flood forest. The islands Mocagua and Zaragocilla located in front of the park on the Amazon river, are the favoured habitat of the Wattled Curassow, flagship species for conservation of the area. Some 500 species have been reported from Amacayacu and the surroundings areas and the park is an IBA. Tyranopsis sulphurea (Foto Juan David Ramirez)

Services Inside the Park there is a private concession with good quality facilities, and options for private or shared rooms; private rooms have bathrooms with hot showers. Restaurant facilities are also available. Local birdwatching guides available with the people of the Mocagua community (only in Spanish), and there is also an option to have local meals with members of the community, ask your local guide about this. In Leticia there are several options for hotels and restaurants.

How to get there You can access Leticia by plane from Bogotá, it will take you one and a half hours, and from Leticia fluvial access by boat. In Leticia you can take public transport from the port, or rent a private boat. Both the park and Mocagua/Zaragocilla islands are located 37 miles up the river Amazon.

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Tourist facilities Inside the park there are two trails for tourism, the first is an elevated path way around the park facilities, and the other goes along the varzea forest, so in the rainy season it is not accessible on foot (about 2-4 hours ). The private concession manages a canopy platform, and the Mocagua community manages two towers for bird watching.

Rates & Opening times There are no official schedules, since the park is located far away from Leticia However, please call private concession or the Park administration in advance in order to check availability and enquire up to date rates for lodging; it is recommended to pass a night in the park or travel very early in the morning from Leticia in a private boat. Entrance fees: Nationals: Foraigners: Choldren and students:

Room (Aviatur)

Also look for You can practice trekking and fishing. There is a canopy platform. In the community of Macedonia and inside the Park there are fine crafts for sale.

Recommendations

Sunrise at the Amazon river

If you are going to watch birds inside the Park it is an obligation to hire a local guide. Note that they have strict schedule for breakfast, lunch and dinner, please be aware of it and talk in advance with the administration in case you need meals out of the established hours. Climate in the Amazon is hot and humid, and there are occasional heavy showers even in the dry season; please take waterproof protection and appropriate footwear. Birdwatching on Mocagua Island is only recommended in the low water season (June to November), otherwise you can only go around by boat. It is a requisite when traveling to Leticia to have a yellow fever vaccination certificate. You are required to pay a COP17000 (US$9) tax at the airport in Leticia.

Contacto Private concession-AVIATUR Telephone: (+57) (1) 6071500 - (1) 6071581 Website: http://www.concesionesparquesnaturales.com Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia: Telephone: (+57) (8) 5927124 / (+57) (1) 3532400, ext. 138-139 Email: [email protected] / [email protected] Website: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co

Amazonas . 119

Cerca Viva Nature Reserve Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR

Tourist facilities There is a trail easy to walk through, however in the rainy season it may be muddy.

Municipality of Leticia, department of Amazonas.

Leticia

Target species More than 200 species have been recorded here. The main atraction is the lek of Golden-headed Manakin (Pipra erythrocephala). Other birds include Pavonine Quetzal (Pharomacrus pavoninus), Purple-throated Fruitcrow (Querula purpurata), Helmeted Pygmy-tyrant (Lophotriccus galeatus) and Musician Wren (Cyphorhinus arada).

At Cerca Viva the owners are trying to show to visitors and locals that a sustainable living is not only possible but a reality. The reserve has a small area of 74 acres of rainforest, where more than 200 species have been registered; however the main attraction is a lek of manakins that is possible to see throughout the year. The main purpose of this reserve is to promote environmental education activities for local people and visitors, where people may have the opportunity to experience firsthand the complex dynamics of the Amazonian rainforests. Since the reserve is very close to Leticia, it is a perfect place to spend a morning bird watching .

Rates & Opening times

Forest interior

There are no official opening times, but always call in advance to the specified contacts below. The entrance fee is: The reserve does not admit groups bigger than 10 people.

Recommendations Always call in advance to obtain admission, as well as to reserve food services. There are occasional rains even in the dry season, so take waterproof protection and appropriate footwear. It is a prerequisite when traveling to Leticia to have a yellow fever vaccination certificate. In the airport of Leticia you will have to pay a tax charge (COP17000, US$9).

Sporophila castaneiventris (Juan David Ramirez)

Services They offer food and guide services (only with prior reservation). There is no lodging option. However Leticia has a great variety of hotels and Tanimboca Reserve, located very close to Cercaviva also offers lodging options.

Entrance to the reserve

How to get there

You have to travel by air from Bogotá (one and a half hours travel), and from Leticia terrestrial access by car, taking the road to Tarapaca. The reserve is located on the KM10.7 on your right. All taxis in Leticia know the place.

Contact Administrator: Oscar Tamayo Cell phone: (+57) (310) 8149908 / 07 Address: Km 10.7 via Tarapaca, Leticia E-mail: [email protected] Trails

120. Birdwatching Colombia

Amazonía . 121

Tanimboca Reserve Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Leticia, department of Amazonas

Leticia

Target species More than 220 species have been recorded here including the Spotted Puffbird (Bucco tamatia), Rusty-breasted Nunlet (Nonnula rubecula), Rusty-belted Tapaculo (Liosceles thoracicus) and Magpie Tanager (Cissopis leveriana).

Tanimboca is a small private reserve which preserves a patch of Amazonian rainforest, where low impact tourism and environmental education are the central activities. The reserve is actually composed of two plots, the main one located over the highway with a small serpentarium aiming to educate people about these animals while the other plot is a one hour walk through the jungle, where the best birdwatching experience will take place.

Bucco Tamatia (Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

Falta Nombre (Falta Nombre)

Services

122 . Birdwatching Colombia

In the main plot there are options of shared lodging in the maloka, as well as a pair of tree cabins for three to five people with bathroom. In the other plot there is a small cabin (shared lodging). Food service only for guests, but there is a restaurant very close. You can hire a bilingual birdwatching guide asking in advance with the administration in order to guarantee the service. Disabled visitors will find a suitable place to enjoy nature.

Tourist facilities In the main plot there are several trails of different durations (among 1 – 3 hours) and easy access. There is also a canopy platform which is good to spot birds from. If you want to watch birds in the other plot, the trail can take up to 6 hours to complete (you will require a guide).

Rates & Opening times Official opening is from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. if you are not lodging here, but you may ask in advance in order to get in earlier. There is no entrance fee, but they have tariffs for each activity to do in the reserve; ask the administrator in order to find actual rates for lodging, food and the other services.

Tree house, bathrooms inside (RN Tanimboca)

Also look for There is a canopy platform and options of trekking and kayak trips.

Recommendations If you are going to stay here you have to book in advance and check availability. Remember to ask for the bilingual guide for birdwatching. Since the trails may be flooded bring correct footwear and waterproof protection. Don’t forget the insect repellent. Don’t forget that you must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. You are required to pay a tax at Leticia’s airport.

How to get there

Contact

Take a plane to Leticia from Bogotá (One and a half hours); from Leticia you will have to take the road to Tarapacá, the reserve is on the Km 11.5 to the left. All taxis in Leticia know the location of the place.

Phone number: (+57) 8 5927679 (office in Leticia) Address (office in Leticia): Cra 10 No. 11- 69 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.tanimboca.com

Amazonas . 123

Palmari Nature Reserve

Bogotá

Nature reserve and lodge Benjamin Constance, Brazil

Leticia Benjamin Constance, Brasil

Target species The bird list includes more than 500 species, check the bird list on the website which is truly impressive. A good place to look for Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja), Fiery Topaz (Topaza pyra), Gray Wren (Cantorchilus griseus), Amazonian Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus ornatus); it is also a great place for antbirds, with more than 50 species recorded here! In the afternoon the canopy platforms area good place to watch toucans and macaws.

Yes, you have read correctly …Palmari is a natural reserve in the Brazilian Amazon, a point where borders are blurred. This place was created originally for birdwatchers and it operates from Colombia, you may be interested in visiting this place especially since the access is easier from Colombia. It is located on the banks of the Javari river in terra firme forest, an ecosystem that doesn’t flood year round, allowing walks along the trails. From the visitors center you may enjoy a beautiful view of the river and the jungle in all its splendor, watching flocks of parrots and macaws. The reserve has had a social approach involving neighbouring communities in all tourism activities, research and environmental education which are Palmari’s priorities. There is also a volunteer program for people interested in advancing research in the area.

Trogon curucui (Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

Services

Several options of accommodation including private cabins or shared accommodation, and an excellent food service adapted to the schedules of birdwatchers. Services are offered just for visitors in an “all inclusive” mode (accommodation, meals, guiding and transport from Leticia). There are options to pre-arranged a bilingual guide for birdwatching, as well as local guides and internet service (Wi-Fi). The information in the website is very complete and accurate, look for more information and contact them about special needs you have.

How to get there

Access by plane from Bogota to Leticia (1.5 hours), once in Leticia you have to register your passport in Leticia and Tabatinga (Brazil). The reserve offers transport by boat from Leticia but if you prefer to travel by yourself, you will have to hire a boat in the port of Tabatinga to the reserve, or take public transport, however it is recommended to take the reserve transport. The journey can vary between 3 and 5 hours depending on river level. 124 . Birdwatching Colombia

Tourist facilities There are several trails of different durations (from 1 hour to days, if trekking through the jungle). Excellent canopy infrastructure with three platforms in terra firme, and another in the flooded forest as well as an observation tower at the visitors center.

Rates & Opening times

Sunrise at Javari river

There are no official opening times or entrance fees since services are only for customers. Contact the managers with the details below about the rates for lodging, meals and other services.

Also look for Another specialty of the reserve is sport fishing and kayaking. Look on the website for more information. There are indigenous crafts available.

Recommendations Call in advance and ask for availability and reserve the services with anticipation. The reserve has established rules and policies of behaviour inside the place and surrounding areas, please take notice of that and follow their recommendations. Never walk along the trails alone, they have a staff of local guides available to you. When entering through Leticia it is important to report yourself both with the Colombian and Brazilian customs authorities. Please look at the website for complete information before your visit.

Contact Administrator: Axel Antoine-Feil Phone number: (+57) (1) 610 3514 Address in Bogotá (Office): Cra. 10 # 93-72, Apartment 602, Bogotá D. C., Colombia E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.palmari.org

Canopy Amazonia . 125

Orinoquia

The Orinoquia is the eastern most region of Colombia, between most region Colombia, between theofeastern slopes of the Cordillera Oriental, the Orinoco River and llera Oriental, the Orinoco River andIt includes the departments of Meta, the Amazon rainforest. cludes theArauca, departments of Meta, Vichada, Casanare and part of Guaviare, and is one of the d part of Guaviare, and is oneregions of the of the country. The terrain is mostly flat largest unexplored he country. The terrain is mostly but also includes theflat Andean foothills and the Serrania de la n foothillsMacarena, and the as Serrania de well as thelaGuyanan tepuis. nan tepuis.

Various ecosystems are found in this region: the sub-Andean d in this forests region: the sub-Andean in the foothills of the Andes, high well-drained and e Andes,flooded high well-drained and and morichales; altillanura forests, savannas, marshes and morichales; galleryaltillanura forests andforests, isolated bushes that adorn the large pastures ushes that adorn the large pastures

Puerto Carreño

Yopal

Villavicencio

as patches and corridors; ecos as patches and corridors; ecosystems associated theOrinoco Guyanan Shieldwith in the Guyanan Shield in the Orinoco river;Serrania lowlanddeforests in the and Gu la Macarena Serrania de la Macarena and Guaviare,with mountains contrasting the plains of the savannas and with the plains of the savannas and a wide hydrographic network that focuses its waters towards the that focuses its waters towards the huge Orinoco river.

The region has over 800 bird spec The region has over 800 bird species that findecosystems. suitable habitat these Theseinbirds, as w these ecosystems. These birds, as well asflora, the rest of the fauna must adapt to and a marked s flora, must adapt to a marked seasonality: for more than months of the year the six land remain months of the year the land remains flooded, whilelack theof restrain of the time the causes sev time the lack of rain causes severe drought, fires and water shortages in most of the territory. shortages in most of the territory.

Birding in this vast region is possib Birding in this vast region is possible onNational Private Natural Reserves, Parks and private farms. It National Parks and private farms. It is important to note that travelin a the ra distances are long, and distances are long, and in a the rainy season roads are not it is po suitablethe for transit, although suitable for transit, although it is possible get to bytoplane orvarious boat. places by plane or boat.

Pulsatrix perspicillata (Foto Julián Londoño)

Las Unamas Natural Reserve (Natalia Ocampo)

Black Skimmer (Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org - Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

Red-howler Monkey (Natalia Ocampo)

Capibaras at Hato Aurora (Natalia Ocampo)

Bogotá

Matarredonda and Rey Zamuro Private Nature Reserves Nature Private Reserve adcrite to RESNATUR

Villavicencio San Martín

Municipality of San Martín, department of Meta Target species In Matarredonda and Rey Zamuro 110 bird species have been recorded, some worth highlighting are: King Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa), Cocoa Thrush (Turdus fumigatus), Short-billed Leaftosser (Sclerurus rufigularis), Chestnut Woodpecker (Celeus elegans), Collared Forest-falcon (Micrastur semitorquatus), Spix’s Guan (Penelope jacquacu), and Channel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos vitellinus).

Matarredonda and Rey Zamuro Reserves cover a total area of 7,413 acres, located at 600 feet above sea level, which explains the hot and humid weather. The Reserves are located in a transition zone between savannah and serrania. Therefore the landscape varies from flat savannahs to low hills interrupted by narrow riparian forests. This place is full of tradition and culture; it is a typical llanero ranch with a construction representative of the culture. Over 110 bird species have been registered including birds typical of the natural savannahs and riparian forests, and several specialities too. Some special birds around the area include King Vulture (Rey Zamuro in Spanish, Sarcoramphus papa) after which one of the Reserves is named. Serrania is a unique landscape, from the top of the hills you get a panoramic view of the entire area from where you can take great pictures.

Services

Brachygalba lugubris Euphonia laniirostris (Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

How to get there

The Reserve offers accommodation for nine people in shared rooms with the possibility of private accommodation in the house of Matarredonda Private Natural Reserve plus a camping area; meals are included in the packages offered. General guiding service is available (requires prior reservation), the guide speaks Spanish, English and French. Electric power is permanent.

Villavicencio can be accessed by plane or by road; from Villavicencio to San Martin you can take a paved road. These two Reserves are located 28 miles (45 minutes) away from the town of San Martin, 41 miles (3 hrs) away from Villavicencio, and 95 miles (6 hrs) away from Bogota. Once in the town of San Martin you should take the road to San Francisco and travel along the unpaved road until you get to the end of it where you will find a red gate, this is the entrance to Las Unamas Private Natural Reserve, go passed this Reserve for 7 miles (30 minutes) on an unpaved road (4x4 is highly recommended) until you reach Matarredonda’s house. From Villavicencio you have to pay a toll, if you are travelling by road from Bogota it’s a total of four tolls. 128 . Birdwatching Colombia

Tourist facilities There are five hiking trails inside the riparian forests, through the Serrania (a hilly landscape, unique to this part of Colombia) and the natural savannahs. One of the best birding spots is the “Guayabal” lagoon; this place should be accessed by car or horse and it is about 15 minutes from the house; in this lagoon you can find forest birds, aquatic species, raptors, migrants and other animals.

Rates & Opening times

The Reserve’s schedules adapt to the tourists’ preferences and needs as long as you book in advance and tell the staff about your time and date of arrival. This place is adapted to birding tourists and very flexible. Contact the Reserve’s staff for further information for accommodation, meals and transport (to and from the Reserve) prices. The entrance fees (lodging and meals not included) are: Nationals: Foreigners:

Also look for In November, in the nearby town of San Martin, the “Cuadrillas de San Martin” are celebrated, this is a folkloric show about this area’s colonization. This event has been going on for 42 years and was recently declared a Cultural Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO.

Recommendations

House of the reserve (Natalia Ocampo)

We recommend that you include this Reserve in a tourist circuit with two other nearby Reserves that are also very good for bird watching: Las Unamas and El Caduceo. Before your visit you should book the services with the specified contacts. The dry season is between November and March, the rest is the wet season; a good time of year to visit is November-December when all the plants have fruits. If you Vanellus chilensis (Natalia Ocampo) visit during the rainy season it is recommended that you take rubber boots because the trails will be flooded; protection from the sun and mosquitoes is highly recommended.

Contact

Manager: Cesar Barrera Landline : (+57) 1 6264232 Cell phone: (+57) 310 8662343 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: http://www.renarzam.com Orinoquía . 129

Bogotá

Las Unamas

the rainy season you should be very cautious because carmud. might get stuck on the vehicle stuck in theyour stuck mud.

Nature Private Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR

Tourist facilities

Municipality of San Martin, department of Meta Target species 110 bird species have been recorded, some worth highlighting are: Black-headed Parrot (Pionites melanocephala), Spangled Cotinga (Cotinga cayana), Crested Eagle (Morphnus guianensis), Paradise Tanager (Tangara chilensis), Bicoloured Antbird (Gymnopithys leucaspis), Yellowish Pipit (Anthus lutescens), Ivory-billed Araçari (Pteroglossus azara), Cinereous Mourner (Laniocera hypopyrra) and Greater Yellow-headed Vulture (Cathartes melambrotus).

Villavicencio San Martín

The great density of Unama Palms (Oenocarpus bataua) which give its name to this Private Nature Reserve, has an area of 9,390 acres and is adjacent to two other natural reserves: Matarredonda and Rey Zamuro. Las Unamas is located at about 656 feet above sea level on a transition zone between East Andes foothills and the Amazonian humid forests, where vast natural savannahs and pastures with cattle mix with riparian forests and a relict of forest of 2,471 acres, possible be the last one standing of this ecosystem in the area. The weather is hot and humid. One of the main attractions is the number of bird species typical of Amazonian forests that can be observed here as well as those species from natural savannahs and riparian forests. This Reserve has turned into a “must visit” place for birders that tour the Llanos looking for new birds to watch and photograph.

Trogon viridis (Reserva Natural Palmari - www.palmari.org Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

Services

Accommodation for 24 people in shared rooms with the possibility of private accommodation and camping. There are two dining rooms where meals are included. The schedules are fully adapted to birders’ needs. General and bird specialized guiding is offered, but you must book this service in advance. Electric power only at night (both solar and power plant). Internet service and cell phone signal in some specific areas.

How to get there

cencio can be accessed by planeVillavicencio or by road;can andbefrom accessed by plane or by road; and from ad. San Martin is located 41 Martin miles (1½ hrs) from Villavicencio to San by road. San Villavicencio Martin is located 41 miles (1½ hrs) from Villavicencio Bogota,and roads fully andfrom in good condition. Lasfully paved and in good condition. Las 95 are miles (4 paved hrs) away Bogota, roads are from theUnamas town ofisSan Martin. have 82 miles (1From or 1½Villavicencio hrs) from theyou town of to San Martin. From Villavicencio you have to by road from Bogota thereBogota are fourthere in total. in the town pay one toll, from areOnce four tolls. Once in the town of San Martin you should take e road (unpaved, use a 4WD vehicle)totoSan SanFrancisco Franciscountil untilyou get to the red gate, the entrance to the road (use 4x4 vehicle) ou will find red door, the entrance thethe Reserve. During you should be careful not to get your the aReserve. When driving intothe wet season 130 . Birdwatching Colombia

There are six wide and easy-to-walk hiking trails for bird watching inside the riparian and Altillanura forests; you can also look for birds on the forest edge and savannahs. The Altillanura forest patch has four trails: “Panguana (The Tinamou)”, “Cotinga Real (Spangled Cotinga)”, “Águila Moñuda (Crested Eagle)” and “Guahibo (Black-headed Parrot)”; the other two trails go through riparian forests.

Rates & Opening times

There are no established opening times, but it is highly recommended that you book in advance and tell the staff about date and time of arrival. This place is adapted to birding tourists and flexible to fit their needs. Contact the Reserve’s staff for further information about prices on accommodation, meals and transport (to and from the Reserve). The entrance fees (stay and meals not included) are: Nationals: Foreigners:

Also look for A folkloric show about this area’s colonization is a custom in November (Cuadrillas de San Martín). This event has been going on for 42 years and was recently declared a Cultural Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO.

Recommendations

Canopy (Natalia Ocampo)

We recommend that you include this Reserve in a tourist circuit with other three nearby Reserves that are also very good for bird watching: El Caduceo, Rey Zamuro y Matarredonda. Before your visit you should book the service with the specified contacts. The dry season is between November and March, the rest is the wet season; a good time of year to visit is in November-December when all the plants have fruits. If you visit during the rainy season it is recommended that you take rubber boots because the trails can be flooded; protection from the sun and mosquitoes is highly Infrastructure (Natalia Ocampo) recommended.

Contact

Manager: Eduardo Enciso Arias Landline: (+57) 1 6265080 Cell phone: (+57) 310 2077843 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: http://www.lasunamas.com Orinoquía . 131

El Caduceo

Bogotá

Nature Private Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of San Martín, department of Meta

Villavicencio

Target species About 152 bird species have been registered in this Reserve; one of the main attractions is the great variety of Jacamars such as White-chinned Jacamar (Galbula tombacea), Rufous-tailed Jacamar (Galbula ruficauda), Brown Jacamar (Brachygalba lugubris), as well as the Red-billed Toucan (Ramphastos tucanus), Dot-winged Antwren (Microrhopias quixensis) and Olive Oropendola (Psarocolius yuracares).

San Martín

El Caduceo Private Natural Reserve is a well-conserved area of typical riparian forests, natural savannahs and second growth forests, one of the last relicts of these ecosystems in the area. With a total of 88 acres, the Reserve is crossed by the Camoa river and is surrounded by riparian forests. El Caduceo is dedicated to research and ecotourism and many university groups visit it, using the reserve as a living laboratory to learn about the ecosystems, fauna and flora of the East Andes foothills. Many national and international tourists enjoy the Reserve’s forests and savannahs where you can observe over 152 bird species, 250 plant species and 45 species of mammals on more than 3 miles of trails.

Tourist facilities El Caduceo Private Natural Reserve has over 3.1 miles of hiking trails that go through the forest or around it. Trails inside the forest are rather thin and not very good for bird watching, but routes that go around the forests and on water shed borders are ideal for bird observation, and even the secondary growth forests. The canopy platforms are ideal for bird watching.

Rates & Opening times

It is recommended that you book in advance. This is a place for birders and fully adapted to their needs. There is no entrance charge since services are only for guests. Accommodation (includes three meals): Nationals: Foreigners: A special rate has been established for biologists that wish to pursue any research in the Reserve; there is a special rate for students as well. Contact the managers to obtain more details about rates and conditions.

Also look for We recommend that you include this Reserve in a tourist Forests (Natalia Ocampo) circuit with three other nearby Reserves that are also very good for bird watching: Las Unamas, Rey Zamuro and Matarredonda. In November, the “Cuadrillas de San Martin” are celebrated, this is a folkloric show about this area’s colonization. This event has been going on for 42 years and was recently declared a Cultural Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO. The Reserve also offers extreme sports activities, including a wall climbing, three canopies (43, 110 and 180m) and rappel.

Recommendations

Services Accommodation for 26 people in shared rooms with the possibility of private accommodation. There is also a camping zone. The restaurant “El Pepeo” offers typical food on schedules fully adapted to birders. General guides are available, and there is an Internet service, electricity and good cell phone signal. Brachygalba lugubris (Natalia Ocampo)

How to get there Villavicencio can be accessed by plane or by road; from Villavicencio to San Martin you can take a paved road. San Martin is located 41 miles (1½ hrs) from Villavicencio and 95 miles (4 hrs) from Bogota, roads are fully paved and in good condition. El Caduceo is located 2.5 miles (10 minutes) from the town of San Martin (Meta). From Villavicencio you have to pay one toll, if you are travelling by road from Bogota it’s a total of four. Once in the town of San Martin you should take the road to San Francisco, on the road you will find good signs that will guide you to the Reserve. The access to the Reserve can be done in any type of vehicle, the road is fully paved and in good condition. 132 . Birdwatching Colombia

Restaurant (Natalia Ocampo)

Before your visit you should book the service with the specified contacts. The dry season is between November and March, the rest is the rainy season; a good time of year to visit is in November December when all the plants have fruits. If you visit during the wet season it is recommended that you take rubber boots because the trails will be flooded; protection from the sun and mosquitoes is highly recommended.

Contact

Manager: Miguel Ángel Suárez Landline: (+57) (1) 6133746 Cell phone: (+57) 311 5225944 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: http://rnelacduceo.blogspot.com/2009/06/ecoturismo.html Orinoquía . 133

Ventanas Nature Reserve

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Puerto Carreño

Municipality of Puerto Carreño, department of Vichada Target species In Ventanas more than 56 species have been registered, some worth highlighting are: Undulated Tinamou (Crypturellus undulatus), Pied Lapwing (Vanellus cayanus), Collared Plover (Charadrius collaris), Fork-tailed Palm-swift (Tachornis squamata) and a great variety of Herons and Egrets (Ardeidae).

This reserve is located on the Colombian side of the great Orinoco River, from where you can see the rapids of which the reserve is named after: Ventanas. The visitors centre is placed on top of a tepui overlooking the river bank, there are two other tepuis or rocky mountains of the Guyanan Shield on the 24,710 acres covered by the Reserve. During the dry season it is common to observe aquatic and shorebirds on the rocks that show above the strong waters of the rapids. There are many ecosystems that can be enjoyed on this Reserve: natural savannahs, riparian forests, morichales (Moriche palms forests in the middle of savannahs) and forests that grows on the base of the tepuis, all habitat of a great diversity of birds. The panoramic view of this portion of the Orinoco region from the tepuis is amazing. One of the main attractions of this Reserve is a very special tree: “Cavalinesia”, these giant bombacaceus trees grow on top of the tepuis and are a unique phenomenon in the area.

Services

The Reserve offers accommodation for up to 20 people in hammocks in kiosks that are located on a tepui right in front of the Orinoco River. There will soon be a cabin with capacity for 10 beds. The Reserve has a restaurant service, bathrooms for guests, general guides are available at all times and there is cell phone reception.

How to get there Melanerpes rubricapillus (Reserva Natural Palmari www.palmari.org - Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

Puerto Carreño can be accessed by plane from Bogota or Villavicencio on commercial flights; during the dry season you can also get to Puerto Carreño by road on a 12-hour trip from Villavicencio, we recommend you get there by plane. Ventanas is located an hour away from the town of Puerto Carreño by boat on the Orinoco River, or three hours away on unpaved road (only during the dry season), access is only for 4x4 vehicles. A public transportation boat is available from Puerto Carreño to Causarito leaving early in the morning and coming back in the afternoon, you can take this boat to get to Ventanas. The Reserve offers the transportation service by boat to and from Ventanas from Puerto Carreño, you should book this service in advance and ask for current rates. 134 . Birdwatching Colombia

Tourist facilities The Reserve has five hiking trails of different lengths and difficulty with a duration of between one and three hours (most of the trails can only be used during the dry season). One of the most recommended trails is the one leading to the “Cavalinesias”. During the rainy season the aquatic routes can be used, the duration is approximately one hour; the Reserve offers the boat and driver for these trips. There is the possibility of horseback riding trips in order to go to places located too far away such as some of the surrounding tepuis.

Rates & Opening times The Reserve’s schedules are adapted to the birding tourists’ needs as long as you communicate with the Reserve’s staff the time and date of your arrival; Services are only for guests. Accommodation prices (includes three meals): Nationals: Orinoco river (Natalia Ocampo) Foreigners: Biologists doing research on the Reserve have a special rate including three meals

Also look for This Reserve has three tepuis that stand out as the main attraction of this place, you can access the tepuis hiking and from the top you will get a great 360 degree view of the savannahs, forests and morichales; this activity complements the great bird watching trip that you will have. There is an optional visit to the indigenous tribe of “Guaripa” of the Sikuani ethnic group, here you will find ancient rock paintings , it is an activity for those who also enjoy a little history and art. The Ventanas torrents make this Reserve famous. These can be observed from the Reserve’s viewpoints

Recommendations

Prehistoric wall paintings (Natalia Ocampo)

We recommend you include this Reserve in a tourist circuit with Bojonawi Private Natural Reserve located only half an hour away from Ventanas by boat on the Orinoco River. Make your reservation using the specified contacts before your visit. The dry season is between November and March, the rest is the wet season; a good time of year to visit is in November-December when all the plants have fruits. If you visit during the rainy season it is recommended that you take rubber boots because the trails will be flooded; protection from the sun and mosquitoes is highly recommended.

Contact

Manager: Inés Zuluaga Díaz Cell phone: (+57) 311 5925406 / 3134861915 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Savannahs (Natalia Ocampo)

Orinoquía . 135

Bogotá

Puerto Carreño

Refugio Nimajay

There is an option to visit two very good There lagoons foroption bird watching: “Laguna Escondida (Hidden is an to visit two very good lagoons for bird watch Lagoon)” and “Laguna Nimajay (Nimajay Lagoon)”. Lagoon)” and “Laguna Nimajay (Nimajay Lagoon)”.

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR

Rates & Opening times

Municipality of Puerto Carreño, department of Vichada

The Reserve’s schedules are adapted to the birding tourists’ needs as long as you communicate to the Reserve’s staff the time and date of your arrival. Services are only for guests.

Target species At least 67 bird species have been recorded, some worth highlighting are Chestnut Woodpecker (Celeus elegans), White-tailed Goldenthroat (Polytmus guainumbi), Amazonian Inezia (Inezia subflava), and the North America migrant Black-whiskered Vireo (Vireo altiloquus). This reserve, located on the banks of the Bita river and specializes in sport fishing for Peacock Bass. However its 4,972 acres of riparian forests and natural savannahs serve as habitat for over 67 species of birds. During the rainy season the riparian forests floods and only a boat can reach into them, allowing you to do some bird watching inside these forests; there are aquatic routes on the Bita river and other creeks that are also very good for watching birds and other animals and these may be seen during the dry season too. Nimajay has a 99 acres of Cashew Nut crop, a native bush that produces one of the world’s most famous nut. Chloroceryle amazona (Reserva Natural Palmari www.palmari.org - Foto Axel Antoine Feil)

Services

Accommodation for up to 12 people in shared rooms (2 or 3 beds) each with a private bathroom. Meals are included in the daily rate; telephone service is available from a Venezuelan phone with an additional cost; general guiding service is available at all times. Boat service and boat drivers are available. Electric power is provided by a power plant that only works during the night.

How to get there

Daily accommodation rate for national and foreigners: Bita river (Natalia Ocampo) (around US$60, but ask the managers about actual rates). Includes meals, transportation inside Nimajay, and transport to and from Puerto Carreño. Minimum 2 people and maximum 12 at the same time.

Also look for

Nimajay has been famous since 1992 for its sport fishing, specifically Peacock Bass fishing and other big fresh water fish; Nimajay offers specialized tours for this activity during the fishing season (15 Dec-30 Apr) and specialist fishing guides are available. Another attraction of this Reserve is the Cashew Nut crop, a bush that produces one of the world’s most famous and expensive nuts. From the hills of the serrania you can get a nice view of the natural savannahs and forests of Nimajay, it is a great place to see sunrises and sunsets.

Recommendations

Book the services and confirm availability in advance, with the contacts specified. When booking the services, remember to Glittering-throated Emerald (Natalia Ocampo) arrange with the Reserve’s staff your pick-up at the airport or Puerto Carreño Hotel to travel to Nimajay. The dry season is between November and March, the rest is the wet season; a good time of year to visit is in November-December when all the plants have fruits. If you visit during the wet season it is recommended that you take rubber boots because the trails will be flooded; protection from the sun and mosquitoes is highly recommended.

Puerto Carreño can be accessed by plane from Bogota or Villavicencio on commercial flights; during the dry season you can also get to Puerto Carreño by road on a 12-hour trip from Villavicencio, we recommend you get there by plane. From Puerto Carreño, you will travel for 26 miles (1 hour) on an unpaved road; Nimajay is located only 2.5 miles away from the main road that leads to Casuarito, the road is only suitable for 4x4 vehicles. The Reserve’s daily rate includes transportation to and from Puerto Carreño to Nimajay.

Contact

Tourist facilities

a short hiking trailPrivate of 20 minutes of duration. canhiking watchtrail birds Nimajay Natural Reserve has You a short of 20 minutes duration. You can watch birds e savannahs, and can also access almost any riparian forest around theyou riparian forests from the savannahs, and you can also access almost any riparian forest dense, but be surethe to always be accompanied by abut guide. Aquatic because vegetation is not too dense, be sure to always be accompanied by a guide. Aquatic the Bitaroutes River, “Caño Creek)”onand small“Caño creeks.Negro (Black Creek)” and other small creeks. can beNegro done(Black year-round theother Bita River, 136 . Birdwatching Colombia

Accommodations (Natalia Ocampo)

Manager: Ricardo Madriñán Valderrama Landline: (+57) 8 5654423 Cell phone: (+57) 3118563259 Venezuelan phone: (+ 58) 2486864632 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.refugionimajay.com

Orinoquía . 137

Bojonawi Nature Reserve

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR

Puerto Carreño

Municipality of Puerto Carreño, department of Vichada Target species Over 230 bird species have been registered. Some interesting birds include the North American migrant Black-whiskered Vireo (Vireo altiloquus), Hook-billed Kite (Chondrohierax uncinatus), Black-and-white Hawk-eagle (Spizastur melanoleucus), Black Curassow (Crax alector), Lesser Razor-billed Curassow (Mitu tomentosum), and the recent new record for Colombia Orinoco Piculet (Picumnus pumilus).

Bojonawi Private Natural Reserve is located on one side of the Orinoco River and is part of Tuparro’s Biosfere Reserve; here you can see tepuis and rocky mountains of the Guyanan Shield. One of the highlights of this Reserve is the lagoon called “El Pañuelo” where you may see river dolphins, river otters and riparian forest birds. The main purposes of this reserve is to conserve the habitat and allow for research on its 11,569 acres. Fundación Omacha owns the reserve and has been working on the study and conservation of ecosystems and species on this part of the Orinoco River; this is a good place to see the bird species typical of the Orinoco region.

Services The reserve offers a restaurant service (you have to book in advance) as well as accommodation for guests, that can be in hammocks or mattresses on the floor inside a very nice cabin at the Orinoco Station; there are two complete bathrooms for guests. General guiding service is available on the Reserve, with an option for English speaking guides, but they don’t offer birding specialist guides, this service has to be booked in advance.

Tourist facilities

There are various hiking trails of different length and difficulty levels, some are inside the forests and others go through savannahs in order to reach a specific tepui. The Reserve has aquatic routes too and offer the service of boat and driver for guests with an additional cost (the cost depends on the trip’s duration and the fuel spent).

Rates & Opening times There is no official opening time, but is recommended that birding tourists’ communicate with the Reserve’s staff. Special in advance; rates have been established for biologists that wish to pursue any research on the Reserve. Entrance fee: Nationals: Foreigners: Lodging fees (meals included): Nationals: Foreigners: Additional services are charged as extras.

Tepuy (Natalia Ocampo)

Also look for One of the main attractions of the place are the tepuis, from where you can have panoramic views of the river, the savannahs and is also very good to watch birds since you Orinoco station (Natalia Ocampo) will have a nice view of the forest’s canopy. Dolphin and aquatic fauna observation is also offered on this Reserve, on the lagoon and the Orinoco River. Activities this can be done depending on the season you visit and the flooding cycles.

Recommendations

Red-and-green Macaw (Natalia Ocampo)

How to get there Puerto Carreño can be accessed by plane from Bogota or Villavicencio on commercial flights; during the dry season you can also get to Puerto Carreño by road on a 12-hour trip from Villavicencio; we recommend to get there by plane. Bojonawi is located half an hour away from the town of Puerto Carreño by boat on the Orinoco River, or two hours away by road (only during the dry season), access is only for 4WD vehicles. A public transportation boat is available from Puerto Carreño leaving early in the morning and coming back in the afternoon, you can take this boat to get to Bojonawi. The Reserve offers the transportation service by boat from and to Bojonawi from Puerto Carreño, you should book this service in advance

138 . Birdwatching Colombia

Orinoco river (Natalia Ocampo)

Contact

Manager: Fundación Omacha Landline: (+57) (1) 2362686 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Web: www.omacha.org

Make your reservation with the specified contacts in advance. A good time of year to visit is in November-December when all the plants have fruits. If you visit during the rainy season it is recommended that you take rubber boots because the trails will be flooded; protection from the sun and mosquitoes is highly recommended. Electric power only at night (power plant) and full cell phone reception at the Orinoco Station.

Orinoquía . 139

El Tesoro

Bogotá Bogotá

Puerto Carreño

Private farm

In the dry season there is a 1.9mile trail inside the riparian forests that can be hiked. The lagoon and nearby creeks can be visited by canoe, looking for birds.

Municipality of Puerto Carreño, departament of Vichada

Rates & Opening time

Target species There are more than 48 bird species to enjoy. The most common bird species at El Tesoro is the Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin); there is a significant variety of egrets and herons like Black-crowned Night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax), Great Egret (Ardea alba), Cocoi Heron (Ardea cocoi) and Snowy Egret (Egretta thula). Also the Wood Stork (Mycteria americana), Roseate Spoonbill (Platalea ajaja), Black-collared Hawk (Busarellus nigricollis), and shorebirds such as Pied Lapwing. El Tesoro is a private farm that owes its name to the jewel it holds, a huge lagoon with suitable habitat for aquatic birds, shorebirds and raptors, amongst many others. The main attraction and one of the best ways to watch and photograph birds is to paddle a canoe along the borders of the lagoon and nearby creeks looking for birds that perch and feed in the forests around the lagoon. During the dry season some grassland remains flooded and egrets, herons and storks find a suitable place to look for food between the vegetation; migrant birds also find in this place ideal conditions for their stay. This place is very close to the town of Puerto Carreño and is ideal for spending a nice morning or afternoon bird watching.

Services

Bussarellus nigricollis (Natalia Ocampo)

Tourist facilities

El Tesoro is a good place for a morning or afternoon birding. Here you can get drinks and snacks. General guiding service is offered, and hammocks for resting. In the town of Puerto Carreño there are several hotel options for different budgets and needs, such as: “Hostal Orinoco”, “Hotel del Lago”, “Hotel Mami” (cheap), “Hotel La Vorágine”, amongst others.

The farm’s opening times are adapted to the birding tourists’ needs as long as you communicate to the staff the time and date of your arrival. Entrance Nationals: Foreigners:

Recommendations You should call the farm’s staff before your visit to let them know the date and time of your arrival. El Tesoro lagoon (Natalia Ocampo) Bring protection from the sun and mosquitoes. Plastic bags are useful for equipment given you could have occasional rain. When going around the lagoon you should do it by canoe, so you don’t scare the birds away.

Contact Manager Albeiro Rodriguez and-or Manuel Rodriguez Cell phone: (+57) 313 4923360 / 314 4513948

How to get there? Puerto Carreño can be accessed by plane from Bogota or Villavicencio on commercial flights; during the dry season you can also get to Puerto Carreño by road on a 12-hour trip from Villavicencio, we recommend you get there by plane. El Tesoro is located 20 minutes away from the town of Puerto Carreño on a road. From the downtown you should take the road leading to Villavicencio, go for 5 miles on a paved road (12 minutes) and another 5miles (12 minutes) on a dirt road; when you see the sign with the farm’s name turn right and go for another 2.2 miles until you reach El Tesoro. The place can be accessed in any kind of vehicles during the dry season. 140 . Birdwatching Colombia

Hoatzin (Natalia Ocampo)

El Tesoro lagoon (Natalia Ocampo)

Orinoquía . 141

Hato La Aurora

Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve Municipalities of Hato Corozal and Paz de Ariporo, department of Casanare Hato Corozal Paz de Ariporo

Hato La Aurora

Yopal

Target species More than 140 species of birds can be observed here including a diversity of aquatic birds. Look for Jabiru (Jabiru mycteria), Wood Stork (Mycteria americana), Maguari Stork (Ciconia maguiari), Cocoi Heron (Ardea cocoi), Rufescent Tiger Heron (Tigrisoma lineatum), Whistling Heron (Syrigma sibilatrix)and Chestnut-fronted Macaw (Ara severus). One of the specialities is the Orinoco Goose (Neochen jubata).

Hato La Aurora is a sanctuary where culture still persist without conflict with the conservation of wildlife and a traditional system of extensive livestock farming. The Reserve covers an area of 39,536 acres making it the perfect place to observe wildlife; may be one of the main attractions is the facility to observe and photograph birds and mammals typical of the savannahs. In general, everything in Hato La Aurora is representative of the local culture and tradition: every object, every activity, every word and every person, the reserve is a good example about how biodiversity conservation can be done simultaneously with local traditions and cattle production. Here you will get an exclusive and special service.

Services

Lodging option in rooms with private bathroom or shared accommodation in a traditional construction. The food offered here is also typical of the area and prepared in a traditional way. Local guides available (Spanish talking) and bilingual guides for an additional cost (ask previously for this service). Electric power is available only at night and cell phone signal is limited.

How to get there

Travel by air to Yopal from Bogotá (takes Travelabout by airan to Yopal from Bogotá (takes about an hour) or by car in private vehicle or commercial buses hour) or by car in private vehicle or commercial buses (up to 8 hours from Bogota via Villavicencio). (up to 8Once hoursinfrom Bogota via Villavicencio). Once in Yopal you should head to the town ofYopal Paz deyou Ariporo should head to the town of Paz de Ariporo Goose of 65 miles (commercial on aOrinoco journey travelof 65 miles (commercial buses travel onbuses a journey (Foto Natalia Ocampo) constantly). To reach the Reserve you should take the constantly). To reach the Reserve you should take the e villageroad of Montañas delAriporo Totumoto(58 of which only del Totumo (58 miles of which only from Paz de themiles village of Montañas point you be are traveling onfrom unpaved roadsyou onlywill suited for 24will miles paved), that point be traveling on unpaved roads only suitable Montañas should turn left on the road to for del 4x4Totumo, vehicles.you Once you reach Montañas del Totumo, you should turn left on the road mile oftothis road towards of Lasthis Vegas, San Luisturn del left Ariporo, afterthe 7.5village mile along road turn left to the village of Las Vegas, 142 . Birdwatching Colombia

from here to the reserve it is 1.8 miles.from You can with the Reserve pick you with th herearrange to the reserve it 1.8 miles.staff Youto can arrange up in Paz de Ariporo. During the wet season to October) you can travel by boat from in Paz(April de Ariporo. During the wet season (April to Octobe the village La Chapa, located the banksthe of the Ariporo Fromlocated that point the reserve village of Lariver. Chapa, the to banks of the Ariporo the boat takes 2 hours downstream, capacity people reserve of thesixboat takesseated. 2 hours downstream, capacity of six

Tourist facilities The Reserve has four trails for 4x4 vehicles that can be used only during the dry season (November to March), each trail takes about an hour and a half. There are two water trails that last two hours each along the Ariporo river and its smaller tributary streams.

Rates & Opening times Due to the site conditions there is no formal entrance fee or opening time . Prices vary according to accommodation conditions: Private room (1-3 people) Shared room (4 or more people) Cost per person/night, includes room overnight, meals, activities within the Reserve, Spanish speaking guides (you can get English speaking guides extra), transportation inside the Reserve,. Doesn’t include taxes, transport to and from the Reserve.

Also look for

Hato La Aurora offers day and night photographic safaris. The Reserve staff have seen felines (jaguars, pumas and jaguarundi) around and if you are lucky you might see one! This is a good place to watch beautiful sunsets; you can also enjoy the cattle management activities traditional of the culture. The ranch is an old long-established construction that has been used for decades by the landowner and his cowboys. Horseback riding trips or fishing are other activities. At night you can enjoy a concert of typical llanero music with harp, maracas and cuatro.

Recommendations

Typical scene of the Llanos (Natalia Ocampo)

You should always alert the Reserve’s staff about your visit and make a reservation for it. It is also important to always listen your guides and their recommendations to avoid accidents. Bring light clothes since the climate is very hot (25°C a 35°C). The best time to visit is in dry Season from November to March (rainy season the rest of the year). You should have protection against the sun and mosquitoes. During the rainy season rubber boots are recommended.

Contact

Manager: Nelson Barragán Landline: (+57) (8) 634 5723 Cell phone: (+57) 320 342 6409; (+57) 313 333 9251; (+57) 311 202 0193 E-mail: [email protected]

Hacienda house (Natalia Ocampo)

Orinoquía . 143

Caribbean

White sandy beaches, a turquoise or deep blue sea, mangroves, dry forest, the unique Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a mountain system with permanent glaciers on the highest peaks and right next to the Caribbean Sea, the biggest wetland system in Colombia (Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta)…those are just some of the characteristics of the northern most region of Colombia. Birding this zone will be an incredible experience, where several specialties of dry and montane forests plus some birds of the paramo and many specialties in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a very important endemic bird area. Santa Marta

Sapsurro (Jose Castaño)

Riohacha

Valledupar

Caribe Chocoano

Quibdó

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

Conservation actions in the region rank from the establishment of protected areas, research to habitat restoration. There are 9 national protected areas (including the natural national park of San Andres and Providencia Islands) as well as several private nature reserves, many of which have been declared as IBAs. In these reserves, birdwatching and observation of nature is possible.

Pyrrhura viridicata (Foto Juan Alzate)

Entrance to El Matuy Natural Reserve

Cottontop Tamarin at PNN Tayrona

SFF Flamencos

Guacamaya Verde Natural Reserve

Some activities can include birdwatching (nearly 700 species may be found here, including several endemics), diving on the coral reefs and observation of flora and fauna, including aquatic mammals.

Tayrona National Natural Park

Bogotá

Santa Marta

National Natural Park Munipality of Santa Marta, department of Magdalena. Target species The park boasts some 370 species of birds. In the dry part you can see Ruby Topaz Hummingbird (Chrysolampis mosquitus), and Black-backed Antshrike (Sakesphorus melanonotus). In the humid part look for Blue-billed Curassow (Crax alberti), White-chinned Sapphire (Hylocharis cyanus), Lance-tailed Manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata) and White-bellied Antbird. The park is a good place to look for raptors.

This is a great place to bird watch in both dry forest and humid forest as well as pelagic birds. Vestiges of the ancient indigenous Tayrona culture that once lived here are present in the park. The park is also part of the lower mountain chain of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta which reaches the ocean, all this in a 18.64 mile long stretch of forest. The scenic natural beauty together with the presence of various bird specialties make this a sensational birding spot. There are several entrances to the park: Neguange (dry forest), Calabazos and Cañaveral (humid forest). All trails from the entrances lead to the sea. Through Calabazos you can reach “El Pueblito”, an ancient Tayrona archeological site.

Services

Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird (Lepidopyga lilliae)

Excellent accommodation in private bungalows (Ecohabs) are available on the premises managed by the tourist concession. The Ecohabs are luxury bungalows with private bathrooms. They also offer a camping area. Restaurant services opens at 7 a.m. closing hours are 9 p.m., with flexible service in between these hours. There are guides for general information but no bird guides available, contact your own. Internet is available for those guests that might need it.

Tourist facilities The park has several trails accesible at different points (see How to get there section). To see humid forest birds you should enter through Cañaveral and take the Naranjo or Nueve Piedras trails, where there is a look out. Neguange is preferable for dry forest birds.

Rates & Opening times Entrance opening for a day visit is 8 a.m. exit hour 5 p.m. If you want to birdwatch earlier you can get an out of hour permit with the administrators. If you want to spend the night you have a free timetable, but remember breakfast is at seven. Entrance fees: Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children:

Beach and forests at Tayrona

Also look for The park’s beaches are famous for their beauty. Trekking and scuba diving are other options. Remember to look for the Cotton-top Tamarin (Saguinus oedipus), an endemic primate that is also endangered.

Recommendations Remember to book in advance if you are going to stay for the night at the tourist concession; rates usually include meals, entrance fees and a general guide, enquire about the offers. Weather is hot, so bring adequate clothing and raincoat in the wet season, as well as mosquito repellent and sun block. Important: note that not all the beaches are safe to swim.

Contact

Tourist Concession AVIATUR: Landline: (+57) 5 4213848 / 4213840 Cell phone: (+57) 315 3332406 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://www.concesionesparquesnaturales.com

How to get there After you arrive at Santa Marta you take the road to Riohacha, on this road there are several entrances to access the park. If you want to visit the dry forest you should turn at Km 7 before the toll to your left, this is the way to Neguange. If you want to go to Pueblito, you must stop at the village called Calabazos on Km 21, there is a footpath with a park system notice indicating the way in. The way to the Ecohabs and restaurant, is accessible from the entrance called El Zaino on Km 35. This is the turn to Cañaveral and the main entrance to the park and also the way to El Naranjo, Nueve Piedras and Arrecifes. 146 . Birdwatching Colombia

Ecohabs (Foto Aviatur)

Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline: (+57) (1) 3532400, ext 138-139 E-mail: [email protected] www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Trails

Caribbean . 147

Isla Salamanca

Bogotá

Park Way National Park Santa Marta

Municipalities of Sitio Nuevo y Pueblo Viejo,

department of Magdalena. Target species More than 200 bird species have been reported in the park; it is a good place to look for shorebirds and aquatic birds. Inside the park along the trails you may look for Chestnut-winged Chachalaca Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird (Lepidopyga lilliae), Chestnut Piculet (Picumnus cinnamomeus), and Bicolored Conebill (Conirostrum bicolor).

This protected area is the only one in the country that belongs to the management category of “Park Way”, since the highway that connects the cities of Barranquilla and Santa Marta crossed the park though its length. Several wetlands, lagoons and mangroves cover the area, habitat for several species of fauna and flora. Local communities fish these wetlands making it important for them. The area is an IBA and RAMSAR site by itself. Great extensions of well preserved mangroves are located inside the park and many birds are associated with this habitat. You may travel by boat through lagoons and watercourses observing aquatic birds. Around the park you will see bits of dead mangroves, a sad consequence of the first experiment of a highway that was built years ago, since it blocked the natural flow and interchange of fresh and sea water; fortunately it was corrected later and now mangroves are recovering.

Services Molothrus armenti (Bronze-brown Cowbird)

Tourism services are managed by Corporación Bioparque. There are restaurant service, an auditorium and general tourist guiding. Although there is no lodging service, the cities of Barranquilla and Santa Marta offer a great variety of hotels. There are small parking lots in the area of Cangaru and Los Cocos.

Tourist facilities There are four trails through the mangroves and a viewing area. You can also take a boat to the lagoons.

Rates & Opening times Timetable is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but you may ask for a permit in order to get in to the visitors centre (Los Cocos) earlier through the contacts below.

Wetlands and magroves

Entrance fees: Nationals: Foreigners: Students y children:

Also look for

Trails

The larger coastal lagoon and wetland of Colombia, the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, is very close, ask your local guide or tourism operator about how to visit this place.

Recommendations Take your hat, light clothing, and mosquito repellent -¡there are plenty of mosquitos!, don’t visit this place with shorts pants - and take adequate footwear since the trails inside the mangroves may be muddy; during the wet season (April-October) you will need a rain jacket. From October to March it is possible to see migratory birds.

Contact

Corporación Bioparque Landline: (5) 3 735-909; (1) 5 308-333 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.parquesalamanca.org

How to get there You may arrive in Barranquilla or Santa Marta by plane. The park is on the road that connects these cities. From Barranquilla you will find the main entrance to the visitors centre on the right, in the area known as “Los Cocos”; it will take you around 15 minutes from Barranquilla. On the same road you will find the sector known as “Cangarú” at Km 27. Travelling from Santa Marta you will reach the edge of the park in the village of “Tasajera” a little away from the toll; continue on this road until you find the entrance to the visitors centre on your left. From the road you will find several places where aquatic birds congregate.

Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline: (+57) (1) 3532400, ext 138-139 E-mail: [email protected] www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Roseate Spoobill

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Los Flamencos

Bogotá

Flora and Fauna Sanctuary Municipality of Riohacha, department of La Guajira. Riohacha

Target species More than 145 species of birds have been recorded in the IBA area. Although the Flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber) are a big attraction, it is a good place to look for Chestnut Piculet (Picumnus cinnamomeus), Bare-eyed Pigeon (Columba corensis), White-whiskered Spinetail (Synallaxis candei) and Vermilion Cardinal (Cardinalis phoeniceus) plus several migratory waders.

This sanctuary was created to protect the only Flamingo colony in Colombia, 5000 of these birds congregate here. However, not only Flamingos are to be seen here, but dry forest birds as well. This Sanctuary is part of a coastal wetlands of the Guajira Peninsula, a dry zone historically inhabited by the people of the Wayuu indigenous culture. Although this place is legally protected and is part of an IBA, it presents some conservation problems, however birding this place is always fantastic.

Services Shared bungallows to spent the night, with shared bathrooms. At Riohacha you may find a hotel and drive to Los Flamencos early in the morning. The restaurants in the area offer local food, mainly seafood. Local community guides are available only for Flamingo observation and they offer also boat service, but if you want to watch birds in the dry forest, there are two park rangers who are good birders or contact your own guide before your trip. There is no electricity or drinking water.

Tourist facilities

Although there are several trails they aren’t sign posted, it is recommended to follow the trail known as “Arranchaderos” that leaves from the Visitors Centre into the dry forest around the coastal lagoons; ask the park rangers how to find this trail, where there are also two observation towers. It is possible to rent a boat with a local guide to go into the lagoon where the Flamingos are, but always ask the park rangers in advance about the location of the colony, since they know their location.

Rates & Opening times There are no timetables, but it is recommended to visit this place very early in the morning to avoid the heat; the park rangers prefer that you let them know about your visit in advance in order to wait for you, especially if you want to spend the night here. Entrance fees: Nationals: Foreigners: Students and children:

Please always pay the entrance fee at the visitors centre. Weather is very hot, bring light clothing, hat, sun block and in the wet season you will need a rain jacket. If you want to see the Flamingos, the colony is usually in the lagoon known as Laguna Grande, but ask the rangers of their whereabouts.

How to get there

150 . Guía Aviturismo Colombia

Cabins

Recommendations

Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber)

From Santa Marta take the road to Riohacha, it will take about 2.5 hours to cover the 105 miles to the village of Camarones, where you may turn left to the Sanctuary (at this point you can see cell phone towers on the right, in front of the road to Camarones); approximately 3 miles ahead you will find yourself at the lagoons. There are two tolls from Santa Marta. If you are traveling from Riohacha, the Sanctuary is located within 15 minutes taking the road to Santa Marta, until you reach Camarones, where you will need to turn right.

Visitors centre view

Contact

Vermilion Cardinal

Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia Landline: (+57) (1) 3532400, ext 138-139 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Web: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co Caribbean . 151

Bogotá

El Matuy Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Dibulla, department of La Guajira.

Riohacha

Dibulla

Target species The list of the reserve includes around 50 species of birds, including Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), Russet-throated Puffbird (Hypnellus ruficollis), White-fringed Antwren (Formicivora grisea), Buff-breasted Wren (Thryothorus leucotis) and Glaucous Tanager (Thraupis glaucocolpa). Note that you may also look for the birds reported in the IBA of Valle de San Salvador such as Black-fronted Wood-quail (Odontophorus atrifrons), Semicollared Hawk (Accipiter collaris) and Military Macaw (Ara militaris), amongst the 300 species recorded in the IBA.

This is a small reserve associated with the civil society reserves network of Colombia, located in the department of La Guajira between Santa Marta and Riohacha. It is of easy access from either city (about 1 hour). It is a traditional beach resort with infrastructure adequate for a weekend relaxing. A stretch of dry forest lies between the hotel installation (the beach) and the main road. There is also a large pond where waterfowl are to be expected and some estuary birds. This private reserve is within Valle de San Salvador IBA, even though the reserve area is quite small you can also access the San Salvador river and some mangroves easily on foot along the beach or by boat. It is an ideal spot to stay and use as a base to visit other interesting places nearby.

Tourist facilities The access from the main road to the hotel (unpaved) is a good trail for birding early in the morning; it is of easy access (40 minutes to one hour). The boat you can rent to go to the river belongs to local fishermen. Wetlands

Rates & Opening times

There are no entry timetables or entrance fees since all services are exclusively for guests. If you wish to spend some time at this leisure spot please book in advance with the administration. Lodging fees (meals included):

Also look for This is a place for resting and beach tourism, but you can easily access other birding destinations such as Los Flamencos Sanctuary.

Recommendations

Pyrocephalus rubinus (Vermiliion flycatcher)

Services

Weather is hot, so bring adequate clothing as well as mosquito repellent and sun block.

El Matuy has 6 comfortable bungalows with private bathrooms, but no electricity. The meal service is excellent but if you need early morning service don’t count on it unless you advise in good time; restaurant opens at 7 a.m. There is no guide service so you would have to take one or contact a tour operator. If you want to visit the river by boat you need to arrange this in advance with the managers.

Contact Administrator: Ernesto Uribe Landline: (+57) (1) 2111091 Cell phone: (+57) (315) 7518456 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.elmatuy.com

How to get there El Matuy is 43.5 miles from Santa Marta and 56 miles from Riohacha, an hour drive by car. If you approach from Santa Marta you need to drive through the village of Palomino, and at the second entrance you turn towards the beach on your left (there is no notice or signs). There is a toll to pay leaving Santa Marta and one out of Riohacha. 152 . Birdwatching Colombia

Cabins

Caribbean . 153

El Dorado Bird Reserve Bogotá

Private Nature Reserve Santa Marta

Municipality of Santa Marta, department of Magdalena. Target species The reserve boasts a list of more than 400 species, amongst them White-tailed Starfrontlet (Coeligena phalerata), Santa Marta Sabrewing (Campylopterus phainopeplus), Santa Marta Woodstar (Chaetocercus astreans), White-tipped Quetzal (Pharomacrus fulgidus), Santa Marta Antpitta (Grallaria bangsi), Golden-breasted Fruiteater (Pipreola aureopectus), White-lored Warbler (Basileuterus conspicillatus), Santa Marta Mountain Tanager (Anisognathus melanogenys) and Santa Marta Parakeet (Pyrrhura viridicata).

This reserve is owned by Fundación Proaves. It protects some 1,729 acres of cloud forest between 2,952 and 8,530 feet above sea level and was created to protect part of this important area of endemism called Cuchilla de San Lorenzo, which is part of the buffer zone of Sierra de Santa Marta National Park. It boasts the best installations “lodgings” for birdwatchers in the region, with comfortable rooms and restaurant, it has several hummingbird feeders in the garden where some endemic species can be easily seen. Proaves and Ecoturs managed a program of volunteers that works in involving people interested and eager to learn more about the area.

Services Six comfortable private rooms completely equipped to host 12 guests, hot water a necessary luxury for the cold weather!, there are also shared bedrooms for 22 guests. A good restaurant service perfectly adapted for birding schedules wait for you. Although there is no permanent guide service if you require one it is imperative you advise the administration in advance so as to secure one in time for you.

Tourist facilities There are 4 trails at El Dorado, although the best one follows the road up towards the ridge. There are 30 minutes trails and the longest around three hours. There is also an observation tower.

Rates & Opening times Services are usually for guests but if you wish to drive up for the day, you must advise the reserve administration and enquire about meals. If you want to eat there you must advise and enquire about the costs. Entrance fees: Naionals: Foreigners: Lodging fees (include meals, entrance and a general guide):

Also look for The reserve was created for research and ecotourism, although you can visit coffee crops and there are handicrafts for sale made by local women.

Recommendations Always book services in advance and check availability. You may visit for a morning’s birding paying the entrance fee but you have to ask the administration in advance. Bring your raincoat and clothing for cold weather. The administration has strict rules to follow, please abide by them.

Contact Administrator: Angela Gómez (Ecoturs) Landline: (+57) (1) 287 6592 Cell phone: (+57) )(313) 852 9158 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ecoturs.org

Santa Marta Mountain Tanager (Anisognathus melanogenys)

How to get there Once in Santa Marta you take the road to Minca, initially paved for 8.69 miles, then turns into a dirt road (4x4 vehicle is a must), you go on to “vereda” Bella Vista, once you get to the turn to San Lorenzo – La Tagua, turn left to Cerro Kennedy, and 5.6 miles later you will be at the entrance of El Dorado. The lodge is a little further on.

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Waterfalls

Rooms

Caribbean . 155

Bogotá

Santa Marta Resrva Guacamaya Verde & Reserva Caoba

Guacamaya Verde & Caoba Nature Reserves Private Nature Reserves Municipality of Santa Marta, department of Magdalena Target species Between the two reserves there are around 190 species on their list. Birds of prey are to be expected. Other species to look for are Black-fronted Wood-quail (Odontophorus atrifrons atrifrons), Military Macaw (Ara militaris), Santa Marta Woodstar (Chaetocercus astreans), Coppery Emerald (Chlorostilbon russatus), Lance-tailed Manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata), Royal Flycatcher (Onychorhynchus mexicanus), Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea) and Blue Dacnis (Dacnis cayana).

Situated in the transitional zone between dry and mountain forest, starting at 984 feet above sea level and reaching 1,968 feet above sea level, these two reserves are next to each other and united in their effort of educating and promoting conservation in the area. Guacamaya verde was founded specifically with the aim of saving the Miltary Macaw after which it is named. Migratory species have been monitored here for years. Caoba has concentrated its efforts on environmental education and has infrastructure for ecotourism, where in and around the gardens and surrounding areas there are many birds to be seen.

Tourist facilities There are trails on both reserves. Your main trail for birdwatching will be the one that takes you to Guacamaya Verde. The hike is about 6 hours depending on the bird activity. Caoba has trails in and around the gardens.

Rates & Opening times No entry fees are charged on either of the reserves, although they accept donations for their maintenance. Other services required will cost (consult administration).

Also look for

Recommendations We recommend that you always call in advance and book services. It is important to take clothing for hot weather, sun block and mosquito repellent. Protection for the rain and waterproof footwear may be important since you will need to cross streams.

Services Santa Marta woodstar (Chaetocercus astreans)

Caoba has two private cabins for visitors and the option of shared accommodation. They also provide meals and adapt to the visitors requirements. The Guacamaya Verde reserve offers birding guides (not bilingual) or you should ask in advance in order to find one prior to your trip to the reserves since it might be difficult to find a bilingual one. The owners of Caoba Reserve are fluent in Spanish, English and German.

How to get there From Santa Marta you have to take the road to Riohacha and at about Km 5 you take the turn to Bonda on your right on a dirt road. Keep a look out for via Paso del Mango, continue for another 5 miles, suitable only for 4x4 vehicles. You should then cross the rio Manzanares (Manzanares river) where there is no bridge; Caoba reserve is straight ahead. Once on Caoba you can access Guacamaya Verde on foot.

156 . Birdwatching Colombia

Forest interior

At Caoba reserve there are still vestiges of indigenous pathways and it boasts a collection of medicinal plants in their garden. There is also an aquarium and a butterfly garden.

Contact

Trails

Caoba reserve administrator: Gloria Carmona Cell phone: (+57) 317 – 3781943 / 300 8016686 E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected] Web: http://www.reserva-biologica-caoba.com Guacamaya Verde reserve administrators: Juan Alzate / Cristobal Navarro Cell phone: (+57) 313 5343754 (+57) 316 846 1977 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://www.alpec.com Caribbean . 157

Mamancana Nature Reserve

Tourist facilites

Private Nature Reserve

Trails for birdwatching are of easy access and can be covered completely in about three hours.

Bogotá

Santa Marta

Municipality of Santa Marta, department of Magdalena. Target species There are around 80 species that have been recorded in the area, among them includes Russet-throated Puffbird (Hypnellus ruficollis), Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulphuratus), Chestnut Piculet (Picumnus cinnamomeus), Black-crested Antshrike (Sakesphorus canadensis), Black-backed Antshrike (Sakesphorus melanonotus) and Scrub Greenlet (Hylophilus flavipes).

Rates & Opening times There is no opening time or fees charged, but anyone visiting must first advise so the guard is warned of your arrival. Find out with the administration about the cost of meals if you so wish to eat there.

Visitors centre

Also look for There are other activities such as sport adventure.

Recommendations Prepare for very hot weather so take suitable clothing, mosquito repellent and sun block.

Mamancana is a dry forest reserve on the outskirts of Santa Marta. Even though much of the reserve operates as a recreational park for adventure sports it has several trails where it is possible to watch several bird species of this ecosystem. If you are in Santa Marta and have spare time, this would be an ideal place to spend a morning looking for some of the 80 species of birds reported here.

Services

There is no accommodation to spend the night, it is a place to spend a day´s birding. There is a restaurant for visitors but for meal services contact in advance using information specified below. There are no permanent guide services, so you would have to contact one at a tour operator that offers bird guide services or find a local one. There are restrooms for visitors.

Trails

Dry forest

Contact How to get there Once you arrive at Santa Marta, the reserve is 3.72 Miles on the road to Barranquilla the reserve is on your left so you will have to find a U turn to access the entrance, once you leave the paved highway you might need a 4x4. Black-crested Antshrike (Diego Calderón-F. www.colombiabirding.com)

Administrator: Gerardo Muriel Cell Phone: (+57) 313 7254982 E-mail: [email protected]

Visitors centre 158 . Birdwatching Colombia

Caribbean . 159

Bogotá

Santa Marta

La Cumbre Nature Reserve

Tourist facilities

Private Nature Reserve

The trail from the house towards the top of the mountain is of difficult access but well worth it since the birds will be a great incentive.

Municipality of Santa Marta, department of Magdalena Target species La Cumbre is part of the San Lorenzo IBA , and has a big concentration of endemics. The reserve boasts 200 species; early in the morning you can see all the endemics around the forested areas including Santa Marta Parakeet (Pyrrhura viridicata), Rusty-headed Spinetail (Synallaxis fuscorufa), Streak-capped Spinetail (Cranioleuca hellmayri), Santa Marta Bush-tyrant (Myiotheretes pernix), Santa Marta Antpitta (Grallaria bangsi), Yellow-crowned Whitestart (Myioborus flavivertex), Santa Marta Warbler (Basileuterus basilicus) and Santa Marta Brush-Finch (Atlapetes melanocephalus).

This small reserve of 173 acres is the property of a local “campesino” family who love nature and want to find a way to protect their property and gradually restore it, since the most part of it is still under agricultural production. It is strikingly beautiful to wake up in the morning and see the snow peaks of Sierra Nevada amongst the forested mountains and Ciénaga Grande beyond; this is what makes La Cumbre a fantastic attraction. The access to this reserve is not easy, but it is well worth the walk, since you might be compensated with the greatest of birding experiences, nearly all the endemics of the Sierra Nevada are possible to see here. For some years now the Santa Marta Parakeet has been observed and monitored at La Cumbre, an initiative of the NGO Alianza para los Ecosistemas Críticos (Alliance for Critical Ecosystems).

Services

Santa Marta Parakeet (Pyrrhura viridicata)

Rates & Opening times If you would like to hike to La Cumbre for the day, you will have to contact administration in advance, so you can pay a fee, the money of which is used to restore the habitat of the Santa Marta Parakeet. Always check and made sure you book to reserve a place. Entrance fee: Nationals: Foreigners: Lodging fees (includes meals, entrance and birding guidance):

Also look for The scenery makes it a great place to practice photography.

Recommendations Always take a rain jacket and clothes for cold weather if spending the night. Relatively good physical condition is a must since there is certain degree of difficulty to the access trail.

Shared accomodation in two rooms for a máximum of 6 guests, no luxuries but comfortable and clean beds. The bathroom is also shared. As a plus, meals are offered according to the requirements of the visitors. They offer specialized birding guides (not bilingual) that is included in the package, but you will need to ask for this service in advance from the managers.

160 . Birdwatching Colombia

View of Sierra Nevada from La Cumbre

Contact

How to get there Once in Santa Marta you take the road to Minca , initially paved for 8.69 miles, then turns into a dirt road (you will need a 4x4 vehicle), you go on to “vereda” Bella Vista, once you get to the turn to San Lorenzo – La Tagua, turn left to Cerro Kennedy and pass San Lorenzo Experimental Station till you get to the top of the mountain, the reserve is on your right, there is a notice indicating the entrance. From here you will need to walk down the mountain until you reach the house.

Santa Marta Parakeet

Trails

Administrators: Yurgen Vega / Cristobal Navarro (ALPEC) Cell phones: (+57) 310 6382433 / (+57) 310 729 7012 / (+57) 316 846 1977 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.alpec.org (Spanish) www.santa-marta.de (German)

Caribbean . 161

Tacarcunas

Bogotá

Acandí

Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Acandí, departament of Chocó.

Quibdó

Target species Some species include Great curassow (Crax rubra), Plumbeous Hawk (Leucopternis plumbeous), Russet-crowned Quail-dove (Geotrigon goldmani), Violet-capped Hummingbird (Goldmania violiceps), Spiny-faced Antshrike (Xenornis setifrons) and Viridian Dacnis (Dacnis viguieri).

Tacarcunas reserve is 0.12 miles from the beach on the Caribbean sea, from where you may visit rainforest and beaches. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about the afro-descendant communities and indigenous Kuna that live in the area. It is on the border between Colombia and Panama, and a part of the Capurgana IBA . It is a good place to enjoy nature and rest.

Tourist facilities There is a trail that leads through the forest and agricultural productive plots, where you may find several species of this ecosystems. The trails connect the infrastructure facilities with the forest and the beach, where you may expect several shorebirds. You may also want to walk to Capurgana from the beach through forested and semi-open areas.

Rates & Opening times There are no fixed times to enter the reserve, but you will need to call the specified contacts below in advance. Lodging fee (doesn’t include meals):

Nyctibius griseus (Foto Julian Londoño)

Services They have lodging service in two comfortable bungalows and meals are also offered, and in the vicinity of Sapsurro there are several options of hotels and restaurants. They offer a general guide service (bilingual) and may help you to program the visit to other birding places nearby. Internet and cell phone services available for guests.

Also look for

How to get there

Recommendations

Access by plane from Medellín to Turbo or Capurgana. From either of these points you will have to take a boat by sea, or travel by car. If travelling by boat, you may rent one from Turbo to Sapsurro (3 hours) or from Capurgana (10 minutes). There is public boat from Turbo each morning at 8 a.m., but tides may vary this schedule. If you want to travel by car, the best option is to leave Medellín by the road to Santa Fé de Antioquia and Urabá, until you reach Turbo, where you will need to take a boat at the port, it will take you to Sapsurro and the reserve. There is public transport to Turbo from the northern Bus Station in Medellín. 162 . Birdwatching Colombia

(José Castaño)

Cabins (José Castaño)

Sapsurro offers a great variety of tourism services and attractions, including sport fishing, snorkeling, quiet and clean beaches and handicrafts. It is possible to visit the Archipelago of San Blas (Panamá) home of a community of Kuna indigenous. In the Holy Week season (March-April) there is a festival of the Sea Turtles that arrive on this beach to lay eggs; there is also a voluntary program for people who want to help protect the turtles nests.

You must always book services in advance and ask for availability if you are planning to spend the night here. Light clothing for hot weather is recommended as well as a raincoat. Don’t forget sun block and mosquito repellent. It is important to bring light luggage since there are limitations in the weight allowed for both air and sea transport and you may be charged for excess of baggage.

Contact Administrators: Martha Rubio y Fabio Jiménez Cell phone: (+57) (314) 6223149 E-mail: [email protected] Sapsurro (José Castaño) Caribbean . 163

Bogotá

Acandí

Parke Agua Viva Private Nature Reserve adscrite to RESNATUR Municipality of Acandí, departamento of Chocó

Quibdó

Target species Agua Viva is part of the IBA, where more than 200 species have been reported including Great Currasow (Crax rubra), Plumbeous Hawk (Leucopternis plumbeous), Great Green Macaw (Ara ambigua), Violet-capped hummingbird (Goldmania violiceps), Spot-crowned Barbet (Capito maculicoronatus), Spiny-faced Antshrike (Xenornis setifrons), Viridian Dacnis (Dacnis vieguieri) and Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea).

Pteroglossus torquatos (Juan David Ramirez)

This small reserve located on the border between Panama and Colombia on the Caribbean coast and covers an area of 37 acres of rainforest and is part of the Capurgana IBA. There are afro-descendant communities as well as indigenous groups of the Tule etnia (Kuna), that live from tourism and fishing. The forests of the reserve are part of the Darien Forest zone, being this an ideal place to look for birds typical of this area as well as plant endemism.

Services

The reserve can´t accommodate you and has no restaurant services, but in Sapsurro you may find plenty of offers. The owner is an experienced guide (only in Spanish) that knows about the ecosystems and is also a good sailor and fisherman.

Tourist facilities There is a trail of medium difficulty that crosses the forest along a hill and then goes down to the beach (from here you may walk bordering the sea to Capurganá). From the highest point of the trail you will have a good view of Sapsurro Bay.

Rates & Opening times

Panoramic view of Sapsurro (José Castaño)

There are no entrance fees or schedules to enter the reserve, since it depends on the time of your arrival in Sapsurro, but always notify the managers of your visit. Ask for guide service rates.

Also look for

Panoramic view of Sapsurro (José Castaño)

In Sapsurro there are plenty of tourism services and attractions such as sport fishing, snorkeling, quiet and clean beaches and handicrafts. It is possible to visit the Archipelago of San Blas (Panamá) home to a community of Kuna indians. In the Holy Week season (March-April) there is a festival of the Sea Turtles that arrive on the beach to lay eggs; there is also a voluntary program for people to want to help to protect the turtles.

Recommendations If you want to visit this reserve you must use the contacts below. You will need to take light clothing for hot weather and a rain jacket may be important. Don’t forget sun block and mosquito repellent. It would be important to bring light luggage since there are limitations in the weight allowed for both air and sea transport and you may be charged for excess of baggage.

How to get there Contact

Access by plane from Medellín to Turbo or Capurgana. From either of these points you will have to take a boat by sea, or travel by car. If travelling by boat, you can rent one from Turbo to Sapsurro (3 hours) or from Capurgana (10 minutes). There is public boat transport from Turbo each morning at 8 a.m., but tides may vary this schedule. If you want to travel by car, the best option is to leave Medellín and take the road to Santa Fé de Antioquia and Urabá, until you reach Turbo, where you will need to take a boat at the port. There are public buses to Turbo from the northern Bus Station in Medellín.

164 . Birdwatching Colombia

Administrador: Andrés Upegui E-mail: [email protected] Teléfono: (+57) 314 6503625

Panoramic view of Sapsurro (José Castaño)

Caribbean . 165

Valledupar

Bogotá

Los Besotes Ecopark Nature Private Reserve

Valledupar

Municipality of Valledupar, department of Cesar. Target species The most important species for birdwatching are Red-legged Tinamou (Crypturellus erythropus), Blue-billed Curassow (Crax alberti), Crested Bobwhite (Colinus cristatus), Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus), Black Hawk-eagle (Spizaetus tyrannus), Ornate Hawk-eagle (Spizaetus ornatus), Military Macaw (Ara militaris), Red-billed emerald (Chlorostilbon gibsoni), Coppery Emerald (Chlorostilbon russatus), Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus), White-whiskered Spinetail (Synallaxis candei), Black-backed Antshrike (Sakesphorus melanonotus), Slender-billed Inezia (Inezia tenuirostris), Tocuyo Sparrow (Arremonops tocuyensis) and Vermilion Cardinal (Cardinalis phoeniceus).

This nature reserve has been a private protected area since 1990, when the first conservation actions to protect this area were made. Previously exploited agriculturally, it has now has been set aside for protection and hopefully gradual recovery of the habitat and protection for the remnants of tropical dry forest ecosystems. This area is recognized for its rich flora and fauna. The reserve is located very close to the city of Valledupar, between the rivers Cesar and Rancheria, protecting 8,786 acres between 623 to 5,512 feet above sea level. This was Colombia’s first IBA.

Services

The reserve offers basic food and room service in the main house, where visitors can sleep in hammocks or mattresses on the floor in a common-room with a maximum Ortalis garrula capacity of ten people. (Chestnut-winged Chachalaca) They also offers non-bilingual local guides with a high experience in the avifauna of the reserve and surroundings. There is no internet or telephone service available in the reserve, but there is good coverage for cell phones.

How to get there Travel by air from Bogotá to Valledupar (about 1 hour) or by car from Bogotá (505 miles) or from Santa Marta (83 miles). Take the road to the town of Patillal from Valledupar by paved road for 3.41 miles and then through a non-paved road for 2.17 miles until the entrance of the reserve in the village of Los Corazones; from this place it is necessary to walk for about one hour to the house of the Ecopark; this trail is perfect to start birding. 166 . Birdwatching Colombia

Facilities The reserve has a network of eleven trails with different possibilities in distances, difficulty and species. On the trails the visitor can find cabins located strategically to observe wildlife, plus in the highest part there are natural viewpoints to look for birds of prey.

Rates & Opening times

Cabin for researchers (José Castaño)

There are no formal opening times to entrance into the reserve since the entrance must be coordinated with the administration in advance. Lodging fees (includes accommodation, meals, and the logistics) Nationals: Foreigners: They offer special rates for students

Also look for

Los Besotes Peak (José Castaño)

The city of Valledupar is recognized as an important centre of the “Vallenato” culture in Colombia and the Caribbean region as well as for the indigenous cultures of the Santa Marta mountains. There is a festival every year called the “Leyenda Vallenata” (Vallenato Legend), the most important of the country in this music genre. The Guatapurí River, beside the city, is the most popular natural watering place and brings fresh and cold water from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

Recommendations Always call in advance to coordinate the entrance, logistics and guiding service. It is recommended to bring adequate clothing for the hot climate, sunscreen and insect repellent. The reserve is recommendeded for experienced birders with good walking capabilities. Trails (José Castaño)

Contact Administrator: Tomás Dario Gutierrez Landline: (+57) (5) 5736761 Cell phone: (+57) (314) 5403733 E-mail: [email protected]

Caribbean . 167

Directory

Emergency numbers and / Free national phone numbers and links e national phone numbers links Police: 112 Emergencies: 123 3 Civil Defense (Defensa Civil): 144 efensa Civil): 144 Cross: (+57) (1)Colombian 437 6300 Red Cross: (+57) (1) 437 6300 d Cross: 132 Emergencies Red Cross: 132

Links of interest Colombia travel www.colombia.travel/ www.colombia.travel/ ortal.unesco.orgUnesco www.portal.unesco.org Proexport www.proexport.gov.co proexport.gov.co Parques Nacionales www.parquesnacionales.gov.co les www.parquesnacionales.gov.co IBA’s Colombia http://aicas.humboldt.org.co/ http://aicas.humboldt.org.co/

Grupo de Observadores de Aves del Tolima: Grupo de Observadores de Aves del Tolima: http://www.goat.rnoa.org/ Instituto Alexander von Humboldt: http://www.goat.rnoa.org/ http://www.humboldt.org.c Instituto Alexander von Humboldt: Red Nacional de Observadores de Aves de C http://www.humboldt.org.co http://www.rnoa.org Red Nacional de Observadores de Aves de Colombia-RNOA*: Sociedad Antioqueña de Ornitología http://www.rnoa.org http://www.sao.org.co Sociedad Antioqueña de Ornitología http://www.sao.org.co *In the webpage of the RNOA you will find associations. *On the webpage of the RNOAother you ornithological will find contact information for other ornithological associations.

ORNITHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATIONS GICALNATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS RELATED WITH BIRDS ORGANIZATIONS RELATED WITH BIRDS

Alianza para los Ecosistemas Críticos: mas Críticos: http://www.alpec.org www.alpec.org Asociación Bogotana de Ornitología: Ornitología: http://www.abo.rnoa.org www.abo.rnoa.org Asociación Colombiana de Ornitología: de Ornitología: http://www.ornitologiacolombiana.org www.ornitologiacolombiana.org Asociación Río Cali soriocali.tripod.com http://asoriocali.tripod.com

Asociación para el Estudio y laen Conservación Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas Colombia de las Aves Acuáticas en Colombia

http://calidris.org.co/ alidris.org.co/ Centro de investigaciones del café - CENICAFE tigaciones delnacional café - CENICAFE http://www.cenicafe.org www.cenicafe.org Fundación Ecológica Gabriel Arango Restrepo: briel Arango Restrepo: http://www.fundegar.com www.fundegar.com de Fundación Horizonte Verde http://www.horizonteverde.org.co www.horizonteverde.org.co Fundación ProAves: http://www.proaves.org www.proaves.org 168 . Birdwatching Colombia

Punta Huina

Guyanan Shield (Natalia Ocampo)

Playa de Oro Lodge

BIRDWATCHING TOUR OPERATORS WORK BIRDWATCHING TOUR OPERATORS WORKING IN COLOMBIA Agroecotur Colombian company formed by a network Agroecotur tourists and visitors in their and natur Colombian company formed by a network of families thatfarms welcome culture localreserves, conservation efforts. tourists and visitors in their farms andand natural to share ruralEnglish reservas@agroe culture and local conservation e-mail: efforts. [email protected]; English speaking guides. Phone: (+57) (6) 7585884 e-mail: [email protected]; [email protected] Cell phone: (+57) (315) 58587937; (310) 4215 Phone: (+57) (6) 7585884 http://www.agroecotur.org Cell phone: (+57) 315 58587937; 310 4215250 http://www.agroecotur.org Directory . 169

Birding Colombia Company based in Colombia. They have specialised in birding tours in d Colombia. They specialize in birding Colombia for over 16 years. English/Spanish speaking guides. ears. English speaking guides. com E-mail: [email protected] com http://www.birding-colombia.com

Birding Tropics Colombian company operating g recently from the U.S., offering tours from the U.S., offering tours to the Caribbean, Sierra Nevada dethe Santa Marta and other areas of the a de Santa Marta and other areas of country. Bilingual guides. : [email protected]; [email protected] s.com;E-mail [email protected] http://www.birdingtropics.com/ m/

BIRDQUEST Birdquest offers exciting, and small-group birding holidays designed mall-group birding holidays designed and guided by a team of expert leaders. t leaders. Phone: (+44) (0) 1254 826317 E-mail:[email protected] http://www.birdquest.co.uk/index.cfm dex.cfm

COLOMBIA Birding Located in Medellin but guiding throughout the country, especially in Central and Western especially Andes andinAndean valleys. Full custom tours for g throughout the country, customers of tours number d Andean valleys.regardless Full custom for of days or target birds. They manage smallorgroups to maximize the quality of the tour. Bilingual guides. er of days target birds. They manage phone: 314guides. 896 3151 qualityCell of the tour.(+57) Bilingual E-mail: [email protected] 51 g.comhttp://www.colombiabirding.com om COLOMBIA OCULTA Nature Tours urs It is a tour operator agency based in Bogotá. Organize tours and to exotic and natural basedtravels in Bogotá. Organize toursplaces and around Bogota and other locations in Colombia, birding tours. Spanish speaking only. ces around Bogota including and othersoft locations LandSpanish line phone: (+57) only. (1) 630 3172 ext. 112 ding tours. speaking Cell112 phone: (+57) (311) 239 7809 3172 ext. E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected] 09 http://www.colombiaoculta.org g; [email protected] g 170 . Birdwatching Colombia

Colombia Wild Ecotours Colombia Wild Ecotours Colombia Wild Ecotours is a Colombian company based in isBritish Colombia Wild Ecotours a Colomb Columbia, Canada. They specialize inColumbia, birding tours and ecotourism in in b Canada. They specialize several locations in Western and Central Bilingual Englishand - Cen severalAndes. locations in Western Spanish. Spanish. Cell phones: (+1) 250 682 82 58; (+1) Cell 250 phones: 682 82 57; (+1) (+1) 250360 682831 829254 58; (+1) 2 E-mail: E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected] [email protected] / ktauerb http://www.colombiawild.com http://www.colombiawild.com

Colombian Highlands Colombian Highlands Travel operator agency based in VillaTravel de Leyva, Colombia. operator agencySpecializes based in Villa d in ecotours and recently offering birding tours around Villa deoffering Leyva, birdi in ecotours and recently SFF Iguaque, and Arcabuco. General SFF bilingual guides French, Iguaque, and(English, Arcabuco. General b Spanish) and experienced birding guides bilingual English-Spanish. Spanish) and experienced birding guid Land line phone: (+57) (8) 732 1201; (+57) (8) 732 1379(+57) (8) 732 1201; (+ Land line phone: Cell phone: (+57) 311 308 3739; (+57)Cell 310phone: 552 9079 (+57) (311) 308 3739; (+57 E.mail: E.mail: [email protected] / [email protected] [email protected] / colom http://www.colombianhighlands.com http://www.colombianhighlands.com Address: Carrera 9 No. 11 - 02. Villa deAddress: Leyva , Boyacá Carrera 9 No. 11 - 02. Villa de L

Birding Tours Colombia Birding Tours Colombia Offer birding excursions for advanced, intermediate and newfor birders, Offer birding excursions advanced, as well as for photographers. They organize excursions according They to org as well as for photographers. the needs and interests of the clients.the English guides. needsspeaking and interests of the clients. E Cell phone: (+57) 315 585 7937; (+57)Cell 310phone: 421 5250 (+57) (315) 585 7937; (+57 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] http://danieluribe.com http://danieluribe.com

Dunanzhe Tours Dunanzhe Tours Colombian company is based in Santa Martacompany and specializes Colombian based inin Santa guided tours for bird watchers andtours nature photographers in nature the ph for bird watchers and Caribbean. They are also venturing They into other areas such as into Chocó, are also venturing other are Andes and Amazon. Bilingual guidesAmazon. English - Bilingual Spanish. guides English - Spa Cell phone: (+57) 316 549 5016; (+57) 300 428 4443 Cell phone: (+57) (316) 549 5016; (+57 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] http://www.dunanzhe.com http://www.dunanzhe.com Directory . 171

Ecoturs Colombia S.A. in Colombia, specialists mbia, Company specialistsbased in nature tourism and bird in nature tourism and bird watching throughout the ofcountry in Nature Reserves of the Civil he country in Nature Reserves the Civil Society and Natural Parksornithologists. of Colombia. Expert bilingual ornithologists. of Colombia. Expert bilingual a strategic alliance with Fundación ProAves, Colombian lianceThey with have Fundación ProAves, Colombian that reserves. has its own network of nature reserves. twork NGO of nature Landline: (+57) (1) 287 ) 287 6592; (+57) (1) 287 65926592; (+57) (1) 287 6592 Cell(+57) phone: (+57) 748 0266; (+57) 313 852 9158 48 0266; (313) 852316 9158 E-mail: [email protected] g http://www.ecoturs.org

Jaguarundi Travel Jaguarundi Travel Venture based in Bogota that offers scientific sustainable tourism Venture based and in Bogota that offers scientific in the entire country. With professional bilingualWith guides in the entire country. professi (Ornithologist, photographers,(Ornithologist, anthropologists, etc.), they also offer photographers, anthropolog specialized transportation andspecialized technical transportation equipment for and open-field technical eq activities. Personalized service. activities. Attend groups of 10 people or Attend less. group Personalized service. Landline : (+57) (1) 249 0290 Land line phone: (+57) (1)249 0290 Cell phone: (+57) 312 585 9630Cell phone: (+57) (312) 585 9630 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] http://www.jaguarunditravel.com http://www.jaguarunditravel.com

El Chamicero Colombian company based in Bogotá with expertise in different ased in Bogotá with expertise in different endemic species birds and other Bogotá endangered er endangered around and species around Bogotá and Boyacá. They form alliances other operators to offer an extensive ces with other operators to offerwith extensive birdtowatching during your visit to Bogota. Bilingual hing experience during yourinvisit Bogota. Bilingual guides. Cell phone: (+57) 310 556 6855 56 6855 .com E-mail: [email protected] com http://www.elchamicero.com Facebook: facebook.com/elchamicero /elchamicero

Mapalina Mapalina Local birding initiative of the Asociación Río Cali (Cali river association). Local birding initiative of the Asociación Río C They operated initially in the AICA San initially Antonioinand 18Forest via Sa TheyForest operated theKm AICA Buenaventura Cali, and has been expandingCali, in the of Buenaventura anddepartment has been expandin Valle del Cauca. Bilingual guides. Valle del Cauca. Bilingual guides. E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] http://www.mapalina.com http://www.mapalina.com

FIELDGUIDES Field USA. Guides based in Texas, USA. They has been operating in Texas, Theyis has been operating birdingare tours sincetours 1985 in and recently are offering tours in s sincehigh-quality 1985 and recently offering Colombia. Phone: (+1) -512-263-7295 95 E-mail: [email protected] guides.com http://fieldguides.com/

Heliangelus Nature Tours s Tour company based in but Sweden, offering nature tours but specialized weden, offering nature tours specialized in de birding also the leader guide and likes to er is also leadertours. guideThe andowner likes to is manage manage small groups. Swedish and English spoken. nd English spoken. 10744 Telephone: (+46) 0140 - 10744 a.com E-mail: [email protected] http://www.heliangelus.se se

172 . Birdwatching Colombia

Manakin Nature Tours Manakin Nature Tours Colombian company specialists in tours forcompany endemicspecialists birds andin other Colombian tours for specialties in several locationsspecialties in the country offering high-quality in several locations in the countr tourism. Personalized service. Bilingual guides, 100%service. Colombian. tourism. Personalized Bilingual guid Landline : (+57) (8) 743 6914; Land line phone: (+57) (8) 743 6914; Cell phone: (+57) 310 269 4551; 313(+57) 237 (310) 8679;269 (+57) 316(+57) 833 (313) Cell(+57) phone: 4551; 0833 0833 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] http://www.manakinnaturetours.com http://www.manakinnaturetours.com Address: Calle 37 A # 4c-15 Apto. 301, (Edificio TunjaApto. , Boyacá Address: Calle 37Dudai) A # 4c-15 301, (Edifici

Promotora Neptuno Promotora Neptuno Colombian-German companyColombian-German based in Bogotá company specializing in in based incoming tourism, with extensive experience andwith knowledge ofexperienc the incoming tourism, extensive country. Organize and executecountry. any type of traveland to every corner of of Organize execute any type Colombia, such as cultural tours, adventure, nature and special Colombia, such as cultural tours, topics adventure, such as bird watching. such as bird watching. Landline: (+57) (1) 520 5620 ext.Land 106line phone: (+57) (1) 520 5620 ext. 106 Fax: (+57) (1) 215 8835 Fax: (+57) (1) 215 8835 E-mail: [email protected] , [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Directory . 173

http://www.neptuno.org Address: Carrera o. 123-15, Bogotá D.C. 7Bis A No. 123-15, Bogotá D.C.

ROCKJUMPER Comapny in tours South in Africa offering birding tours in different h Africa offeringbased birding different locations around the world, and recently ld, and recently offering Colombia. Tours are offering Colombia. Tours are managed by professional guides. guides. Telephone: 0225; (+27) 33 394(+27) 025133 394 0225; (+27) 33 394 0251 Email: [email protected]; [email protected] om; [email protected] Skype: rockjumperbt http://www.rockjumperbirding.com/ irding.com/

Colibrí del Sol (Fundación ProAves)

BIRDING GUIDES

Tanimboca reserve

Paujil reserve (Fundación ProAves)

BIRDING GUIDES

SUNRISE BIRDING LLC Company based in the Theyand offer personalized, private and SA. They offer personalized, andUSA. private group g and small wildlife tours.bird watching and wildlife tours. 3 6724Telephone: (+1) 203 453 6724 E-mail: [email protected] ng.com http://www.sunrisebirding.com/ g.com/

Juan Fernando Alzate Juan Fernando Alzate basedininthe Santa Marta. He specialize Guide based in Santa Marta. HeGuide specializes Caribbean region in in areas such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa areas such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Serranía de Macuira, Ma PNN SFF Los Flamencos,level Isla Salaman PNN Tayrona, SFF Los Flamencos, IslaTayrona, Salamanca. Intermediate of English. English. Cell phone: (+57) 313 534 3754Cell phone: (+57) (313) 534 3754 E-mail: [email protected]: [email protected]

Trogon Trips of the most experienced companies offering birding tours in encedOne companies offering birding tours in Colombia for about 12 years. Toursinavailable with expert guides in years. Tours available with expert guides English, Spanish, German, the Dutch and French throughout the country. Dutch and French throughout country. E-mail: [email protected] l.com com http://www.TrogonTrips.com

Johnnier Andrés Arango Johnnier Andrés Arango Over 4 birding years oftours experience guiding Over 4 years of experience guiding especially in thebirding western mountain range, Spanish around PNN western Andes around PNN Tatamá. Attention in English, and Tatam Spanish and basic French intermediate. basic French. [email protected]; bioserrania@ E-mail: [email protected];E-mail: [email protected] http://www.colombiawild.com/aboutus http://www.colombiawild.com/aboutus

ours Victor Emanuel Nature Tours based in Texas, USA. It is one of the companies ased inInternational Texas, USA. Itcompany is one of the companies more in the n thewith world thatexperience offers nature andworld bird that offers nature and bird Theybirding recently reinitiate offering birding tours in centlywatching reinitiate tours. offering tours in Colombia. E-mail: [email protected] m http://www.ventbird.com m

Diana Balcazar Diana Balcazar Birding guide based in Bogotá, has extensiv Birding guide based in Bogotá, has extensive experience in birds of Bogotá and the central region of Colombia, Bogotá and the central region of Colombia, but she is expanding her activities other regions as and the rest o knowledge to other regions such as theto rest of the Andes,such Pacific eastern plains. Spanish-English bilingual guid eastern plains. Spanish and English. E-mail: [email protected], azulejo500 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

174 . Birdwatching Colombia

José Fernando Castaño Hernández José Fernando Castaño Hernández than 3as and a halfguide yearsinofthe experience More than 3 and a half years of More experience a local town as of Jardín (Antioquia), and as regional guide in of Jardín (Antioquia), and as regional guide in the western, Central and Andes (Bogotá, and Santande Eastern Andes (Bogotá, BoyacáEastern and Santander). FluentBoyacá in English. Cell phone: (+57) 310 396 5252Cell phone: (+57) (310) 396 5252 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Directory . 175

Emilio Constantino Experienced nature guide onother birds, butterflies, orchids and other on birds, butterflies, orchids and groupsphotographers as well as guiding nature photographers and people ng nature and people interested indigenous cultures. Bilingual English and Spanish plus cultural aspects.in Bilingual English and basic Portuguese. Experience throughout the country, with emphasis ese. Experience throughout the country, the southwest, Orinoco, Andean region, Caribbean coast. hwest,on Orinoco, Andean region, Caribbean Cell phone: (+57) (313) 650 8980 8980 E-mail: [email protected]

José Oswaldo Cortes Experienced bird guide, covering the whole country but particularly Bogotá and Boyacá. He also has experience in frogs. Bilingual veringaround the whole country but particularly English Spanish. . He also has experience in frogs. Bilingual E-mail: [email protected] l.com Pablo Florez Valencia National guide with more than 16 years watching birds in Colombia, and at watching least three years as a guide in almost all the regions of han 16 years birds in Colombia, Colombia, expert all in tour English – Spanish. as guiding in almost the logistics. regions Bilingual of phone: (+57) –310 497 71 07 gistics.Cell Bilingual English Spanish. 1 07 E-mail: [email protected] com Cristóbal Navarro Birding guide based in Santa Marta with experience in the Caribbean region Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Serranía de Macuira a Marta with including experience in the Caribbean PNN Tayrona, SFF Los Flamencos, Isla Salamanca. Only Spanish. vada de Santa Marta, Serranía de Macuira phone: (+57) (316) 846 1977 encos, Cell Isla Salamanca. Only Spanish. 1977 E-mail: [email protected] otmail.com Sergio Ocampo Birding and nature guide, with a wide experience as researcher of the flora experience and fauna as of researcher the country since 1997. English speaking guide ith a wide of the who knows the greatspeaking majorityguide of bird watching sites in Colombia. untry since 1997. English (+57)sites (6) 887 9770 Ext. 72187 ity of Landline: bird watching in Colombia. CellExt. phone: 87 9770 72187(+57) 310 422 1883 1883 E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected] Http://www.fundegar.com es.com.co; [email protected] 176 . Birdwatching Colombia

Francisco Troncoso Birding guide with experience in the birds of t Francisco Troncoso Marta.including Bilingual Englis Birding guide with experienceSierra in theNevada birds of de theSanta Caribbean, phone: (+57)–(316) 815 9378 Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Cell Bilingual English Spanish. Cell phone: (+57) 316 815 9378E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Gabriel de Jesús Utria Ortega Gabriel de Jesús Utria OrtegaExperience in birds in the Colombian Caribb Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Experience in birds in the Colombian Caribbean region, especially at Cell phone: (+57) (301) 768 8870 Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Cell phone: (+57) 301 768 8870E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Yurgen Vega Local birding guide based in Santa Marta. S Yurgen Vega de Santa Marta. Only Local birding guide based in Sierra SantaNevada Marta. Specialist in birds of spanish. the (+57)(310) 729 1012 Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Cell Onlyphone: spanish. Cell phone: (+57) 310 729 1012E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]

Phone numbers indicatives

Colombia Bogotá D.C. / Cundinamarca Cali, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, Nariño Medellín, Antioquia, Chocó Cartagena, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Riohacha Caldas, Quindío, Risaralda Boyacá, Huila, Tolima, San Andrés y Providencia, Amazonas, Orinoquia Santander

57 1 2 4 5 6 8 7

Directory . 177

Bibliography

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a, L. A.,Cortés-Diago, Mazariegos-Hurtado, L. L. & Weller, A. A., Ortega, A., Mazariegos-Hurtado, L. & Weller, A. f Eriocnemis Southwest (Trochilidae) from Southwest (2007) A(Trochilidae) new speciesfrom of Eriocnemis eotropical 18: 161-170. Colombia. Ornitologia Neotropical 18: 161-170.

P.G., Donegan, & Ochoa, P.G., J.M. Donegan, 2001. A T.M. & Ochoa, J.M. 2001. A Cuervo, A.T.M. M., Salaman, (Cotingidae: Lipaugus) from(Cotingidae: Northern Lipaugus) from Northern new species of Piha 68. Colombia. Ibis 143:353-368.

C. D.,Cuervo, Krabbe,A. N. Renjifo, C. L. D., M. Krabbe, 2005. N. & Renjifo, L. M. 2005. M.,& Cadena, species of tapaculo (Rhinocryptidae) Scytalopus stilesi, a new species from of tapaculo (Rhinocryptidae) from Colombia. The Auk 122: 445–463. the Cordillera Central of Colombia. The Auk 122: 445–463.

F., Cadena, C. D., J. L. &G.G.F.,A.Cadena, Londoño. Cuervo, A. Toro, M., Stiles, C. D., Toro, J. L. & G. A. Londoño. thy birds records fromnoteworthy the northeast sector 2003. New and birds records from the northeast sector Colombia. BOC 123(1): 7-24. of theBull. Western Andes of Colombia. Bull. BOC 123(1): 7-24.

ndez,Devenish, D. F., Clay,C.,R. Díaz P., Davidson, I. &D.Yépez Fernández, F., Clay, R. P., Davidson, I. & Yépez ortantZabala, Bird Areas Americas - Priority sites I. Eds. (2009) Important Bird for Areas Americas - Priority sites for on. Quito, Ecuador: BirdLife International biodiversity conservation. Quito, Ecuador: BirdLife International eries No. 16). Conservation Series No. 16). (BirdLife

& Rojas-Nossa, 2004. GuíaE.Ilustrada de los S. 2004. Guía Ilustrada de los Gutiérrez,S.A., Carrillo, & Rojas-Nossa, Natural Río Ñambí. la Acción Colibríes de la Fondo Reservapara Natural Río Ñambí. Fondo para la Acción ción Ecológica Los Colibríes y ECOTONO, Ambiental-FPAA, Fundación Ecológica Los Colibríes y ECOTONO, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.

Conservancy, Cali, Colombia. Conservancy, Cali, Colombia.

Krabbe, N., Salaman, P., Cortés, A., Quevedo, A., Ortega, L. A. Krabbe, N., Salaman, P., Cortés, A., &Queve Cadena, C. D. 2005. A new species of Scytalopus from the Cadena, C. D. 2005. tapaculo A new species of Scyta upper Magdalena Valley, Colombia. Brit. Orn.Valley, Cl. 125: 93–108. Bull. Bri upperBull. Magdalena Colombia.

Laverde, O. and F. G. Stiles. 2007. Apuntes sobre el Stiles. hormiguero pico Laverde, O. and F. G. 2007. Apuntes so de hacha (Thamnophilidae: Clytoctantes alixii) y su relación con un de hacha (Thamnophilidae: Clytoctantes al bambú en un bosque secundario de un Colombia; bambú en bosque Ornitología secundario de Colombiana 5: 83-90. Colombiana 5: 83-90.

Mazariegos L. A. 2000. Joyas aladas de Colombia. Imprelibros, Cali,de Col Mazariegos L. A. 2000. Joyas aladas Colombia. Colombia.

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Renjifo, L. M., A. M. Franco-Maya, H. L.Álvarez-López, M. Álvarez, Renjifo, M., A. M. Franco-Maya, H. Álva R. Borja, J. E. Botero, S. Córdoba, S. J.DeE. La Zerda,S.G.Córdoba, Didier, F.S. De R. Borja, Botero, Estela, G. H. Kattan, E. Londoño, C. G. Márquez, M. E. I. Montenegro, Estela, H. Kattan, Londoño, C. Márq C. Murcia, J. V. Rodríguez, C.C. Murcia, SamperJ.&V.Weber, W. H. C.2000. Rodríguez, Samper Estrategia nacional para la conservación de para las aves de Estrategia nacional la conserva Colombia. Bogotá, Colombia: Instituto de Investigación de Colombia. Bogotá, Colombia: Instituto Recursos Biológicos Alexander Biológicos von Humboldt. Recursos Alexander http://www.humboldt.org.co/humboldt/mostrarpagina.php? http://www.humboldt.org.co/humbold codpage=30000101 codpage=30000101

Renjifo, L. M., Franco, A. M., Renjifo, Amaya-Espinel, J. D., Kattán, G. H. & L. M., Franco, A. M., Amaya-Espin López-Lanús, B., Eds. (2002) Libro rojo de aves de (2002) Colombia. López-Lanús, B., Eds. LibroSerie rojo de a Libros Rojos de Especies Amenazadas Bogotá, Libros Rojos de de Colombia. Especies Amenazadas Colombia: Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Colombia: Instituto de Investigación d Alexander von Humboldt, Ministerio del von Medio Ambiente. Alexander Humboldt, Ministerio del Me

1986.Hilty, A guide the birds Colombia. S.L. &toBrown, W.L. of1986. A guide to the birds of Colombia. ss. Princeton, N.J.,University USA. Princeton Press. Princeton, N.J., USA.

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L. 2001. las avesW.L. de 2001. Colombia Hilty,Guía S.L. de & Brown, Guía de las aves de Colombia por(traducción H. Álvarez-López). American al español por H. Bird Álvarez-López). American Bird

Robbins, M.B. & Stiles, F.G. 1999. A new Pigmy-owl Robbins, M.B. species & Stiles,ofF.G. 1999. A new

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Symbols

(Strigidae) from the Pacific slope of the northern Andes. The Auk 116:305-315.

snacks meals lodging local guide camping sanitary services telephone internet Wheelchair-accessible boat viewing area trails 4x4 plane access by boat access by car

Salaman, P., Donegan, T. & Caro, D. 2009. Listado de aves de Colombia 2009. Conservación Colombiana 8:1-89. Salaman, P., Coopmans, P., Donegan, T. M., Mulligan, M., Cortés, A., Hilty, S. L. & Ortega, L. A. (2003) A new species of wood-wren (Troglodytidae: Henicorhina) from the western Andes of Colombia. Ornitología Colombiana 1: 4–21 SAO 2003 Aves del valle de Aburrá. Sociedad Antioqueña de Ornitología-SAO. Medellín, Colombia. Stattersfield, A.J., Crosby, M.J., Long, J.A., & Wege, D. 1998. Endemic Birds Areas of the World. Priorities for biodiversity conservation. BirdLife International. Cambridge, U.K. Stiles, F. G. 1998. Las aves endémicas de Colombia. Pp. 378-385, 428-432 en M. E. Chaves y N. Arango, editores. Informe nacional sobre el estado de la biodiversidad. Colombia 1997. Tomo I. Diversidad Biológica. Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt, PNUMA, Ministerio del Medio Ambiente, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia. Birds silhouettes from Ridgely, R. S. y P. J. Greenfield. 2001. The birds of Ecuador. Cornell University Press, Ithaca, New York, USA.

Eriocnemis vestita (Natalia Ocampo) Galbula ruficauda

180 . Birdwatching Colombia

Tigrisoma lineatum (Natalia Ocampo)

Coeligena phalerata (White-tailed Starfrontlet)

Atlapetes melancephalus (Santa Marta Brush Finch)

Welcome to Colombia. With the highest diversity of birds of any country, it is a world class destination where geography, culture and nature melt together to form a charming tropical nation. The incredible diversity of this country with its varied geography and amazing variety of birds, along with many unique species, it has fascinated the birdwatchers of the world. This is the first endeavour to organise the information of birdwatching sites in Colombia. If you haven’t already been, we invite you to come and see what you’ve been missing. Come to Colombia and discover a new world full of unique experiences and birds that are waiting to be found! The birdwatching sites are presented in this guide by geographic region: Andes, Caribbean, Pacific, Middle Magdalena valley, Orinoco and Amazonia.