DURATION :
LOCATION :
11 days and 10 nights
The Avian treasure chest
Tour Information
Colombia stands proudly as the global leader in bird species diversity, boasting nearly 2000 unique avian inhabitants. In recent years, this vibrant nation has emerged as a prominent player in the world of bird enthusiasts, and for compelling reasons.
Eco-tourism in Colombia has flourished, opening doors to awe-inspiring bird photography opportunities. The country’s lush landscapes have become a canvas for capturing the captivating array of birdlife that calls Colombia home. With a bird list nearing the 2000-mark, Colombia’s allure is irresistible, making it the latest hotspot for avid bird photographers.
As eco-tourism gains momentum, Colombia’s offerings have expanded. Special feeding stations have been established, not only enchanting photographers with the beauty of hummingbirds but also showcasing Tanagers, Antpittas, and more in their natural splendor.
Colombia has transcended its past political challenges and embraced its diverse habitats with renewed vigor. Our meticulously crafted itineraries, guided by local experts, navigate through this rich landscape. We venture into the heart of Colombia’s unique ecosystems to seek out range-restricted and threatened species, all while basking in the presence of its stunning tropical birdlife.
The resurgence of Colombian ornithology has led to the establishment of private nature reserves alongside public ones, facilitating the discovery of these special birds. As we embark on this birding odyssey, rest assured that your safety is paramount. Our comprehensive itinerary directs us to secure locations, ensuring your photography is a rewarding and enriching experience.
In collaboration with our local expert guides and our team of technical professionals, we empower you to refine your photography techniques. As you capture the diverse avian wonders of Colombia, you’ll not only seize remarkable shots but also cultivate lifelong memories of this remarkable journey into the heart of nature’s splendor.
BASIC INFORMATION
Medical
Please consult with your doctor regarding general travel vaccinations and check the CDC website for more information.
Insurance
We strongly recommend you purchase trip insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage while overseas.
Internet Access
Most lodges have free WIFI in the reception/dining area.
Airport
You should arrive to Cali’s Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) and depart from José María Córdova International Airport, Rionegro (MDE). Our representative will be waiting to provide your private transfer to our hotel accommodations in the respective locations.
Certified
All of our services are conducted by fully licensed travel, lodge, and transport operators. This is part of our commitment to providing a professional travel experience.
Electricity
Electrical outlets are US-style. Those coming from Europe or Asia may need travel adapters. We will send more info after signup.
TOUR DATES
Session 1: Dec 4 – Dec 14, 2024 (7 spaces available)
Cost (In USD)
$4,950 in shared accommodations and $5,600 for single accommodation.
Tour Motive
Our expedition through the enchanting landscapes of Colombia, is designed to unveil the unique and endemic avian species that call Colombia home, including the elusive Multi-colored Tanager and the captivating Andean cock-of-the-rock. This journey is not just a tour, but a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Our carefully planned itinerary takes you on a captivating quest, traversing diverse landscapes, from idyllic dairy farms to strategically positioned feeders and hides. Each step of our journey is crafted to provide you with the best chance to capture these exceptional species through your lens.
Photo Opportunities
- Chance to photograph the vibrant Multicolored Tanagers, the iridescent beauty of the Long-tailed Sylph, striking Red-headed and many other exquisite species.
- Our expert-guided Colombia Bird Photo Tour is designed to elevate your photography skills while providing you with a stress-free and immersive experience.
- From comfortable lodging to culinary delights, our tours allow you to focus on honing your craft and capturing these remarkable species in their natural habitats.
- This is a unique opportunity to combine your passion for photography with the exploration of Colombia’s rich avian biodiversity.
INCLUSION/EXCLUSION
- Lodging as specified.
- Meals as specified
- Stainless steel flask for water.
- Private transfers to and from hotels on first and last days.
- Professional driver/photo/nature guide and private transportation in spacious tour bus.
- Guide and Photography Skipper services
- Entrance fees for all described activities.
- Taxes on all services listed above.
- Non-mealtime snacks or meals not included.
- Non-mealtime soft drinks and bottled water.
- Visa fees
- International/personal airfare
- Insurance
- Phone calls
- Laundry
- Tips
- Cost of hospitalization and evacuation, if necessary
- Domestic flight from Campo Grande to Cuiaba and domestic flight from Cuiaba to Sao Paulo
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914 if you’d like to talk first.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Cali
Your adventure commences as you touch down at Cali’s Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO). Our dedicated team will warmly welcome you and facilitate your transfer to our well-appointed lodge conveniently situated near KM 18.
Day 2: Exploring La Florida
Today, we embrace the morning with an exploration of the renowned El 18, perched at an altitude of 1800 meters (5,900 feet). This captivating spot lies 18 kilometers (11 miles) northwest of Cali, along the route connecting Cali and the port city of Buenaventura.
Prepare for an array of exceptional photo opportunities, where the Chestnut Wood Quail, exquisite Multicolored Tanager (Endemic), Flame-rumped, Golden, Saffron-crowned, and Golden-naped Tanagers, as well as the Blue-winged Mountain Tanager, grace the feeders with their presence. Notably, encounters with the Green Jay, Colombian Chachalaca, Acorn Woodpecker, and the elusive Crimson-rumped Toucanet might also grace this day.
Day 3: Discovering San Felipe
Our journey continues to the alluring San Felipe, a haven at KM 18. Here, we engage with Saffron-crowned and Golden-naped Tanagers, the captivating Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager, the Andean Motmot, and the Red-headed Barbet. Additionally, the newly introduced Scaled Antpitta and Little Tinamou offer the promise of unique photographic moments.
Day 4: Dona Dora
On this day we start early and drive to the highly biodiverse choco-region to visit one of the feeders set by a local named Dona Dora
Our main targets on this day will be Choco endemics like Toucan Barbet, Glistening green tanager, Velvet purple coronet, black chinned mountain tanager among several others
Day 5: Manizales
Hotel in Manizales
On this day we will drive to the city of Manizales where we spend the next 4 nights. Manizales is one of the highlights of the trip as we will encounter some of the best areas for bird photography in this region!
Day 6: Exploring Hacienda El Bosque
Dedicate this day to the idyllic surroundings of a picturesque dairy farm nestled in the Central Andes. Decades of dedicated conservation efforts by the owners have nurtured extensive forests and paramo ecosystems, resulting in a thriving bird habitat. The possibilities are boundless, with targets including the elusive Crescent-Faced Antpitta, Equatorial Antpitta, Gray-Breasted Mountain Toucan, Hooded Mountain Tanager, Collared Inca, Tourmaline Sunangel, Buff-Winged Starfrontlet, the Mountain Velvetbreast, the Masked Flower piercer, Sparkling Violetear, the iconic Sword-Billed Hummingbird, and more.
A knowledgeable local guide will accompany us throughout the day, enriching our experience. Breakfast and lunch will be enjoyed amidst this splendid setting, followed by an evening journey to our enchanting lodge for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Day 7: El Color de mis Reves
Prepare for an enthralling visit to El Color de mis Reves. Nestled in the mountainous terrain, this haven teems with remarkable species attracted to the feeders. Commencing early, our day begins before 6 am as we savor a cup of coffee en route. Our journey takes us via our vehicle until a designated location, where we transfer to a Totoya Land Cruiser, with our driver serving as our guide. The adventure truly unfolds on the roughly 40-minute drive along a bumpy rustic, scenic route. Upon arrival, a picturesque breakfast sets the stage for an awe-inspiring show of avian wonders.
A medley of species, including the Black-Billed Mountain Toucan, the Andean Guan, the Hooded Mountain Tanager, the Lachrymose Mountain Tanager, the Slaty Brushfinch, the Gray-Browed Brushfinch, the Bicolored Antpitta, the Collared Inca, the Shining Sunbeam, the Long-Tailed Sylph, and the Buff-Tailed Coronet, among others, grace this exceptional locale. Unpredictable surprises also await, adding to the excitement. A full day of exploration and photography ensues, with departure around 4 pm.
Day 8: A Day at Rio Blanco
Delve into a full day of immersive photography at Rio Blanco. This captivating destination presents an array of hides, offering privileged opportunities to capture the essence of the surroundings. Among the sought-after subjects are three distinct Antpitta species, the Green and Black Fruiteater, along with a kaleidoscope of hummingbirds and tanagers that adorn this lush landscape.
Day 9: Journey to Jardin
As the morning unfolds, embark on a journey to Jardin. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, spans approximately 5 hours. Nevertheless, we ensure timely arrival to experience the awe-inspiring Andean-Cock-of-the-Rock lek. Just minutes from downtown Jardin, this captivating phenomenon awaits, accessible by a short walk.
The lek’s unique proximity to a private home’s backyard ensures close encounters and exceptional photo opportunities. Here, the charismatic Cock of the Rock takes centre stage, complemented by appearances from the Andean Motmot and various tanagers drawn to banana feeders.
Day 10: Captivating the Cock-of-the-Rock Lek
Seize one last opportunity to photograph the mesmerizing Cock of the Rock in the morning’s golden light before our journey leads us back to Rio Negro (MDE) for our final evening.
Day 11: Fights from Rionegro (MDE)
Following a satisfying breakfast, our team facilitates your seamless transfer to the José María Córdova International Airport, Rionegro (MDE), marking the culmination of this enriching adventure.
Tour Specifics
1. Easy/Moderate walking/Most activity is at the feeders
2. Intermediate Photographers
3. Land and Water Photography
Tour Pace
Easy to moderate
Much of the Atlantic tour will be spent near feeders which are accessed by only a short walk. There will also be optional short walks on to get to the hide and access the farms with feeders and manakin leks.
North Pantanal photography sessions will mostly be done in safari vans and boats. Some sessions may involve walking around gardens and feeders.
Suggested Equipments
It is recommended that each participant bring the following equipment:
- A digital SLR and your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
- A macro lens
- A sturdy tripod or monopod
- You may also bring your flash with a flash bracket
- Pack a ton of memory cards
- Release cable
Tour Leader
Supreet Sahoo
An avid birdwatcher and photographer from Austin, U.S. Supreet’s work has been featured in reputed publications like the BBC Earth, National Geographic Spain and Sanctuary Asia.
Reviews and Score Breakdown
7.0
Post A comment
Registration
- To register for the tour, fill out and submit the form below. A ‘NON-REFUNDABLE’ deposit of USD 1000 per person of the tour cost is required to confirm your spot.
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour.
- All figures per person. Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in TOUR CANCELLATION.
Payment can be completed by credit card/PayPal or bank transfer. If you would like to mail a check, that option is available as well Please read all the Terms & Conditions for cancellation/refund policies and other important information.
|
- A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount.
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour.
- All figures per person.
- Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914 if you’d like to talk first.
Book Your Tour With Us In 6 Easy Steps
1.Confirm your spot for the tour by paying the advance using the registration form.
2.Receive an acknowledgement email from us confirming your booking along with a welcome package and forms.
3. Book your international travel
4. Send us your travel details along with the signed package.
5. We will send you a final invoice along with some more important pre-travel details.
6. Make your full payment and pack your bags for the best Tropical experience.
Important Note
2.Tropical Photo Tours holds the rights to modify a reservation at any time during a workshop. As a company, we always try to comply with what we have promised but due to several unforeseeable circumstances such as weather, natural calamity, political, environmental, cultural we may have to make changes to our reservations.
3.All amounts are in USD unless specifically mentioned otherwise
Frequently asked questions
• The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
• All figures in USD per person
• Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
• A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
Alternatively, we can also find a perfect roommate for you based on your gender, age, and interests. If a roommate is not available, the single supplement will be charged.
Please note that we calculate the cost of the single supplement by taking the actual cost of a single room and subtracting one-half the cost of a double room (plus any applicable taxes).
• Your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
• A wide-angle lens if you are interested in capturing landscapes
• You can also bring your flash with a flash bracket
• Pack a ton of memory cards
• A macro lens is highly recommended
• A sturdy tripod or monopod is required
• Release cables
Other essentials: Good hiking boots, Laptop, memory card readers, bug spray, sunscreen, silica gel sachets to keep your camera dry. Since, it is likely that there might be rain and mosquitoes especially in dense rainforests, so you must pack your rain jacket and a bug jacket.
You can carry medicines that are for common illnesses like colds, cough, fever, diarrhea, altitude sickness, headaches, heartburn or severe acidity and sore throats to name a few. Those who take regular medication for hypertension, blood sugar, allergy, and asthma should carry an adequate supply of medicines.
We tend to travel to remote places, it is best you have your medicines handy. Though most of our trips require moderate stamina, it is best if you are high on energy and stay fit to get the most out of the experience.
Please note that this is a general information, it is recommended that you check with your physician and doctor to determine what medicines you need to carry.
Our team will get back to you with assistance.
Tour Information
Colombia is known to be the country with the highest number of bird species in the world and for many reasons has grabbed the headlines in the bird world in recent years. Increasing and improving eco-tourism has ensured some amazing spots for bird photography and we take advantage of this growing industry.
Colombia’s bird list is nearing a staggering 2000 species, and in recent years eco-tourism has really started to flourish – it is primed to become the newest bird photography craze. More and more sites are offering feeding stations conducive to photography, not just for the spectacular hummingbirds, but also for tanagers, antpittas, and more.
Colombia has been steadily mending from its past political troubles, and in recent years the country has returned to this diverse and abundant habitat, and our carefully crafted itineries with the expert of local guides seek many of its range-restricted and threatened species while enjoying all those wonderful tropical birds of more widespread distribution. At the same time, there has been a steady growth in Colombian ornithology and the establishment of many private nature reserves to complement the public ones, all making locating many of the special birds more practical.
Our all-inclusive itinerary ensures the photography is done at safer locations and provides a lifetime experience of birding in Colombia. We work closely with the local expert guides and our team with technical ability ensure you enhance your photography techniques as you capture these diverse species.
BASIC INFORMATION
Medical
Please consult with your doctor regarding general travel vaccinations and check the CDC website for more information.
Insurance
We strongly recommend you purchase trip insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage while overseas.
Internet Access
Most lodges have free WIFI in the reception/dining area.
Airport
You should arrive to and depart from Colombia's Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport. Our representative will be waiting to provide your private transfer to a hotel near city centre in Cali.
Certified
All of our services are conducted by fully licensed travel, lodge, and transport operators. This is part of our commitment to providing a professional travel experience.
Electricity
Electrical outlets are US-style. Those coming from Europe or Asia may need travel adapters. We will send more info after signup.
TOUR DATES
Session 1: Nov 15 – Nov 25, 2023 (full)
Session 2: April 25 – May 5, 2024 (4 seats available)
Session 3: Dec 4 – Dec 14, 2024 (8 seats available)
Tour Motive
Photo Opportunities
- Opportunity to photograph the Multi-colored tanagers, Long-tailed sylph, Red headed tanager and more such stunning species.
- Guided Colombia Bird photo tour with expert local guidance to make the best images of the target species and more.
- Our all-inclusive tours help you enjoy a stress-free, safe, photography focussed days coupled with local lodging and culinary experience.
Cost (In USD)
$4,950 in shared accommodations and $5,600 for single accommodation.
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914/512-806-6469 if you’d like to talk first.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Cali
Your adventure commences as you touch down at Cali’s Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO). Our dedicated team will warmly welcome you and facilitate your transfer to our well-appointed lodge conveniently situated near KM 18.
Day 2: Exploring La Florida
Today, we embrace the morning with an exploration of the renowned El 18, perched at an altitude of 1800 meters (5,900 feet). This captivating spot lies 18 kilometers (11 miles) northwest of Cali, along the route connecting Cali and the port city of Buenaventura.
Prepare for an array of exceptional photo opportunities, where the Chestnut Wood Quail, exquisite Multicolored Tanager (Endemic), Flame-rumped, Golden, Saffron-crowned, and Golden-naped Tanagers, as well as the Blue-winged Mountain Tanager, grace the feeders with their presence. Notably, encounters with the Green Jay, Colombian Chachalaca, Acorn Woodpecker, and the elusive Crimson-rumped Toucanet might also grace this day.
Day 3: Discovering San Felipe
Our journey continues to the alluring San Felipe, a haven at KM 18. Here, we engage with Saffron-crowned and Golden-naped Tanagers, the captivating Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager, the Andean Motmot, and the Red-headed Barbet. Additionally, the newly introduced Scaled Antpitta and Little Tinamou offer the promise of unique photographic moments.
Day 4: Dona Dora
On this day we start early and drive to the highly biodiverse choco-region to visit one of the feeders set by a local named Dona Dora
Our main targets on this day will be Choco endemics like Toucan Barbet, Glistening green tanager, Velvet purple coronet, black chinned mountain tanager among several others
Day 5: Manizales
Hotel in Manizales
On this day we will drive to the city of Manizales where we spend the next 4 nights. Manizales is one of the highlights of the trip as we will encounter some of the best areas for bird photography in this region!
Day 6: Exploring Hacienda El Bosque
Dedicate this day to the idyllic surroundings of a picturesque dairy farm nestled in the Central Andes. Decades of dedicated conservation efforts by the owners have nurtured extensive forests and paramo ecosystems, resulting in a thriving bird habitat. The possibilities are boundless, with targets including the elusive Crescent-Faced Antpitta, Equatorial Antpitta, Gray-Breasted Mountain Toucan, Hooded Mountain Tanager, Collared Inca, Tourmaline Sunangel, Buff-Winged Starfrontlet, the Mountain Velvetbreast, the Masked Flower piercer, Sparkling Violetear, the iconic Sword-Billed Hummingbird, and more.
A knowledgeable local guide will accompany us throughout the day, enriching our experience. Breakfast and lunch will be enjoyed amidst this splendid setting, followed by an evening journey to our enchanting lodge for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Day 7: El Color de mis Reves
Prepare for an enthralling visit to El Color de mis Reves. Nestled in the mountainous terrain, this haven teems with remarkable species attracted to the feeders. Commencing early, our day begins before 6 am as we savor a cup of coffee en route. Our journey takes us via our vehicle until a designated location, where we transfer to a Totoya Land Cruiser, with our driver serving as our guide. The adventure truly unfolds on the roughly 40-minute drive along a bumpy rustic, scenic route. Upon arrival, a picturesque breakfast sets the stage for an awe-inspiring show of avian wonders.
A medley of species, including the Black-Billed Mountain Toucan, the Andean Guan, the Hooded Mountain Tanager, the Lachrymose Mountain Tanager, the Slaty Brushfinch, the Gray-Browed Brushfinch, the Bicolored Antpitta, the Collared Inca, the Shining Sunbeam, the Long-Tailed Sylph, and the Buff-Tailed Coronet, among others, grace this exceptional locale. Unpredictable surprises also await, adding to the excitement. A full day of exploration and photography ensues, with departure around 4 pm.
Day 8: A Day at Rio Blanco
Delve into a full day of immersive photography at Rio Blanco. This captivating destination presents an array of hides, offering privileged opportunities to capture the essence of the surroundings. Among the sought-after subjects are three distinct Antpitta species, the Green and Black Fruiteater, along with a kaleidoscope of hummingbirds and tanagers that adorn this lush landscape.
Day 9: Journey to Jardin
As the morning unfolds, embark on a journey to Jardin. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, spans approximately 5 hours. Nevertheless, we ensure timely arrival to experience the awe-inspiring Andean-Cock-of-the-Rock lek. Just minutes from downtown Jardin, this captivating phenomenon awaits, accessible by a short walk.
The lek’s unique proximity to a private home’s backyard ensures close encounters and exceptional photo opportunities. Here, the charismatic Cock of the Rock takes centre stage, complemented by appearances from the Andean Motmot and various tanagers drawn to banana feeders.
Day 10: Captivating the Cock-of-the-Rock Lek
Seize one last opportunity to photograph the mesmerizing Cock of the Rock in the morning’s golden light before our journey leads us back to Rio Negro (MDE) for our final evening.
Day 11: Fights from Rionegro (MDE)
Following a satisfying breakfast, our team facilitates your seamless transfer to the José María Córdova International Airport, Rionegro (MDE), marking the culmination of this enriching adventure.
Tour Specifics
1. Easy/Moderate walking/Most activity is at the feeders
2. Intermediate Photographers
3. Land and Water Photography
Tour Pace
Easy to moderate
Much of the Atlantic tour will be spent near feeders which are accessed by only a short walk. There will also be optional short walks on to get to the hide and access the farms with feeders and manakin leks.
North Pantanal photography sessions will mostly be done in safari vans and boats. Some sessions may involve walking around gardens and feeders.
Suggested Equipments
It is recommended that each participant bring the following equipment:
- A digital SLR and your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
- A macro lens
- A sturdy tripod or monopod
- You may also bring your flash with a flash bracket
- Pack a ton of memory cards
- Release cable
Tour Leader
Supreet Sahoo
An avid birdwatcher and photographer from Austin, U.S. Supreet’s work has been featured in reputed publications like the BBC Earth, National Geographic Spain and Sanctuary Asia.
Reviews and Score Breakdown
7.0
Post A comment
Registration
- To register for the tour, fill out and submit the form below. A ‘NON-REFUNDABLE’ deposit of USD 1000 per person of the tour cost is required to confirm your spot.
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour.
- All figures per person. Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in TOUR CANCELLATION.
Payment can be completed by credit card/PayPal or bank transfer. If you would like to mail a check, that option is available as well Please read all the Terms & Conditions for cancellation/refund policies and other important information.
|
- A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount.
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour.
- All figures per person.
- Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914 if you’d like to talk first.
Book Your Tour With Us In 6 Easy Steps
1.Confirm your spot for the tour by paying the advance using the registration form.
2.Receive an acknowledgement email from us confirming your booking along with a welcome package and forms.
3. Book your international travel
4. Send us your travel details along with the signed package.
5. We will send you a final invoice along with some more important pre-travel details.
6. Make your full payment and pack your bags for the best Tropical experience.
Important Note
2.Tropical Photo Tours holds the rights to modify a reservation at any time during a workshop. As a company, we always try to comply with what we have promised but due to several unforeseeable circumstances such as weather, natural calamity, political, environmental, cultural we may have to make changes to our reservations.
3.All amounts are in USD unless specifically mentioned otherwise
Frequently asked questions
• The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
• All figures in USD per person
• Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
• A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
Alternatively, we can also find a perfect roommate for you based on your gender, age, and interests. If a roommate is not available, the single supplement will be charged.
Please note that we calculate the cost of the single supplement by taking the actual cost of a single room and subtracting one-half the cost of a double room (plus any applicable taxes).
• Your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
• A wide-angle lens if you are interested in capturing landscapes
• You can also bring your flash with a flash bracket
• Pack a ton of memory cards
• A macro lens is highly recommended
• A sturdy tripod or monopod is required
• Release cables
Other essentials: Good hiking boots, Laptop, memory card readers, bug spray, sunscreen, silica gel sachets to keep your camera dry. Since, it is likely that there might be rain and mosquitoes especially in dense rainforests, so you must pack your rain jacket and a bug jacket.
You can carry medicines that are for common illnesses like colds, cough, fever, diarrhea, altitude sickness, headaches, heartburn or severe acidity and sore throats to name a few. Those who take regular medication for hypertension, blood sugar, allergy, and asthma should carry an adequate supply of medicines.
We tend to travel to remote places, it is best you have your medicines handy. Though most of our trips require moderate stamina, it is best if you are high on energy and stay fit to get the most out of the experience.
Please note that this is a general information, it is recommended that you check with your physician and doctor to determine what medicines you need to carry.
Our team will get back to you with assistance.
COLOMBIA
DURATION : 11 days and 10 nights
PHYSICAL LEVEL : Easy
Tour Dates
Session 1: Dec 4 – Dec 14, 2024 (7 spaces available)
Session 2: April 25 – May 5, 2025 (5 spaces available)
Session 3: Sept 22 – Oct 2, 2025
COST (In USD)
$4550 per person in sharing accommodations and $5200 for a single supplement.
INCLUSION
- Lodging from day 1 to 10
- Meals from breakfast on day 2 to breakfast on the last day
- Private transportation
- Professional guide and photography mentor
- Local guides at multiple locations
- Entrance Fees
- Water
EXCLUSION
- International Airfare
- Dinner on arrival day
- Alcoholic drinks
- Travel insurance
- Tips to guides and drivers
- Items of personal nature
Colombia, the global leader in bird species diversity, hosts nearly 2000 unique avian inhabitants. Its lush landscapes and eco-tourism flourish, offering captivating bird photography opportunities. Embark on a journey guided by local experts to discover Colombia’s rich birdlife and create lifelong memories
DETAILED ITINERARY
Your adventure starts as you touch down at Cali’s Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO). Our team will warmly welcome you and facilitate your transfer to our hotel in Cali.
Prepare for an array of exceptional photo opportunities, where the Chestnut Wood Quail, the sought after Multicolored Tanager (Endemic), Flame-rumped, Golden, Saffron-crowned, and Golden-naped Tanagers, as well as the Blue-winged Mountain Tanager can be photograph on this day. Green Jay, Colombian Chachalaca (Endemic), Acorn Woodpecker, and the elusive Crimson-rumped Toucanet are also possibilities today.
On this day we start early and drive to the highly biodiverse choco-region to visit one of the local feeders. Our main targets on this day will be Choco endemics like Toucan Barbet, Glistening green tanager, Velvet purple coronet, Back-chinned Mountain Tanager , Rufous-throated Tanager, among several others species.
On this day we will change our location, in the afternoon we will be photographing the endangered Yellow-eared Parrot, found only in the Andes of Colombia.
A second opportunity to photograph the beautiful Yellow-eared Parrot and more endemics, including the Tolima Dove. We will complement this day with a session of hummingbirds in multiflash. Some of the key species on this day will be: Tolima Blossomcrown (endemic), Indigo Capped Hummingbird (Endemic), Andean Emerald, White-vented Plumeleteer & Amazilia Hummingbird among many other species!
We will visit a picturesque dairy farm in the Central Andes, where with decades of dedicated conservation efforts by the owners the possibilities are boundless. Crescent-Faced Antpitta, Equatorial Antpitta, Gray-Breasted Mountain Toucan, Hooded Mountain Tanager, Collared Inca, Tourmaline Sunangel, Buff-Winged Starfrontlet, the Mountain Velvetbreast, the Masked Flower piercer, Sparkling Violetear, the iconic Sword-Billed Hummingbird, and more are all possibilities on this day.
Among the sought-after subjects are three distinct Antpitta species, the Green-and-Black Fruiteater, along with a performance of hummingbirds and tanagers that adorn this lush landscape.
We will arrive in time to experience the awe-inspiring Andean-Cock-of-the-Rock lek. Just minutes from the colorful town of Jardin. Here, the charismatic Cock-of-the-Rock takes centre stage, complemented by appearances from the Andean Motmot and various tanagers drawn to banana feeders.
Following breakfast, our driver will take you to the José María Córdova International Airport, Rionegro (MDE), for your international flight home.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
- A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount to reserve your spot
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
- All figures in USD per person
- Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
- A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
- For Travel Insurance Quotes visit: www.insuremytrip.com
- Please note: The date of written (email) communication of intent to cancel is the date considered for calculation of the cancellation fees.
CANCELLED WORKSHOPS: If we are forced to cancel a workshop for any reason, your entire payment will be transferred to another comparable workshop within one calendar year
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Cancellation & Refund Policy
- A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount to reserve your spot
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
- All figures in USD per person
- Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
- A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
- For Travel Insurance Quotes visit: www.insuremytrip.com
- Please note: The date of written (email) communication of intent to cancel is the date considered for calculation of the cancellation fees.
CANCELLED WORKSHOPS: If we are forced to cancel a workshop for any reason, your entire payment will be transferred to another comparable workshop within one calendar year
