Chingaza & Casanare, wildlife of the Andes and Orinoquia
Be amazed by Colombia’s biodiversity on this journey through the high mountains of the Chingaza Natural Park in the Andes and down to the Orinoquia region (eastern Lllanos). We will visit spots of incalculable natural wealth, some of them protected in conservation areas such as “national natural parks” and “private reserves of the civil society”. We will visit some local initiatives that develop conservation projects for the protection of fauna and flora. The páramo ecosystem in the highlands, the lush cloud forests and the Andean-Amazonian plains will reveal a great variety of birds, mammals and plants. Let yourself be amazed in each place of these impressive landscapes.
-
Day 1: Bogota
Day 2: PNN Chingaza - El Palmar Reserve
Day 3: PNN Chingaza - Mining Zone
Day 4: PNN Chingaza - Ecopalacio Reserve
Day 5: Laguna de Chingaza
Day 6: Bogota - Yopal - Hato La Aurora
Day 7: Hato La Aurora
Day 8: Hato La Aurora
Day 9: Encanto de Guanapalo
Day 10: Encanto de Guanapalo (Safari 1)
Day 11: Encanto de Guanapalo (Safari 2)
Day 12: Guanapalo - Yopal - Bogota
The Laguna Chingaza, Plantas del Camino trail is located into the Chingaza natural park, it is ideal to enjoy the Paramo ecosystem.
The Laguna Seca trail is located into the Chingaza natural park, it is ideal for families or with a group of friends dedicated to hiking or trekking in Colombia.
El Palmar nature reserve, a refuge for the spectacled bear through a camera trap monitoring project.
The Encanto de Guanapalo Nature Reserve is located in the heart of the Colombian savannah, comprising 3 "Hatos" (large cattle farms, spread over several thousand hectares): Mata de Palma, Altamira...
Country
- Colombia
Thematics
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Trekking
- Wildlife
Group Size
- 6 Travelers Max
Included
- Meals indicated in the program
- Accommodation in first class hotels
- Transportation in comfortable vehicles
- Tour leader and English speaking guide
- Local guides specialized in the region
Not Included
- Domestic flights
- International flights
- Additional drinks and meals
- Medical insurance
- Expenses not specified in the program
- Tips
Minimum Deposit
- 30 %
Payment Options
- Credit Card (+2.5% fee)
- Paypal (+2.9% fee)
- Wire Transfer (no fees)
Bogota
Reception at the airport in Bogota, the Andean capital, and transfer to your hotel. Journey time approx. 30 minutes.
PNN Chingaza - El Palmar Reserve
After breakfast, we'll head for the Chingaza National Nature Park, and more specifically the El Palmar Reserve. Located two and a half hours from Bogotá, this private reserve welcomes you in a simple, rural, family atmosphere. Your hosts are fierce protectors of the local biodiversity, and in particular of the Spectacled Bear. The program includes exploration of various trails, which may vary according to the climate. The ones planned for today are the trails "La Palma" and "Guacharos". Here you can try to spot the following species: Masked Trogon, Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, White-capped Tanager, Andean Guan, Band-tailed Pigeon, Sparkling Violetear. Tourmaline Sunangel... and more.
PNN Chingaza - Mining Zone
On our second day of exploration, we chose the Chocolatal and Mining Zone trails. This area, once affected by mining, has been undergoing restoration for the past 30 years. Here we will be able to observe the passive restoration processes of the páramo ecosystem and the plants involved in this healing process. We will also observe the geological formations of different glacial epochs and the history of the limestone. During the day, you can try to spot the following species, as well as many others: Andean Teal, Plumbeous Sierra Finch, White-collared Swift, Southern Lapwing, Andean Condor, Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, Masked Flowerpiercer, Pale-naped Brushfinch
PNN Chingaza - Ecopalacio Reserve
Today's program includes a change of accommodation and visits to new areas: Laguna Seca and the Rincon del Oso trail. We'll be able to appreciate the passage of magnificent White-tailed Deer and the appearance of different species of orchids and plants. Some of these are part of the diet of the Spectacled Bear. As well as numerous traces of the bear's mangers. During the day, we'll have the chance to observe some of the following species as well as many others: Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Cattle Egret, Andean Pygmy-Owl, Red-crested Cotinga, Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager. Arrival at Ecopalacios hut.
Laguna de Chingaza
Early-morning birdwatching on the refuge's riverside, with trogons and hummingbirds. Then off to the Monteredondo sector and the Laguna de Chingaza. During the day, we'll try to catch a glimpse of the spectacled bear, as well as some of the following species: Spectacled Bear, Green-bearded Helmetcrest, Tawny Antpitta, Paramo Pipit, Red-crested Cotinga, Hooded Mountain Tanager, Noble Snipe, Slate-throated Redstart, Sword-billed Hummingbird. Dinner and overnight at the Ecopalacios hut. NOTE: the program may vary according to climate and trail availability.
Bogota - Yopal - Hato La Aurora
Transport from Chingaza Park to Bogota airport, approx. 2h30. Domestic flight to Yopal (The maximum weight allowed is 15kg per piece of luggage, any excess will incur an additional cost to be paid directly at the airport). Depart Yopal by 4x4 for the Hato La Aurora reserve, crossing the department of Casanare, in the heart of the Llanos. Arriving at the Juan Solito ecolodge welcomes you to its charming facilities, built with local materials in keeping with the architecture of the region. Through the various activities on offer, you can discover the surrounding incredible wildlife: primates, variety of birds, pumas and others mammals that populates these magnificent landscapes.
Hato La Aurora
After breakfast, Jeep safari in the reserve to get to know the Hato la Aurora, an hour and a half from the hotel. We observe wildlife such as the mighty jaguar, capybaras, white-tailed deer, alligators, cattle, wild horses, a large number of birds such as herons, plovers, owls, ibises and a variety of other countless species that inhabit these lands. For lunch, we enjoy meat with a variety of side dishes and many other delicacies. Return to the lodge in the late afternoon. If the sun has already set, meet the nocturnal fauna and, sky permitting, enjoy some stargazing. Dinner at the hotel and, if we still have some strength left, we can enjoy an explanation and demonstration of the llanera harp, poems, traditional folk songs.
Hato La Aurora
For this day, we can choose one of the following two options:
1. Horseback riding in the reserve, where we discover the many species of birds and howler monkeys that live in these forests.
2. A boat tour of the reserve to admire the beauty of the surrounding landscape. We can fish on the river and enjoy the sunset at the end of the day.
Transport: according to the selected routes
Encanto de Guanapalo
Departure for El Encanto de Guanapalo reserve. ADVISE: The order of activities may vary and will be confirmed on site. This plan can be carried out all year round, although there is less risk of rain between November and April. Private transport takes you from Hato La Aurora to the Guanapalo reserve. Transport takes around 5h. The Eastern Llanos are located in the heart of the Colombian savannah. Known for its magnificent sunrises and sunsets, the region is also characterized by the presence of a unique and varied fauna (Giant Eateater, Capybara, Anaconda, Caimans, Pumas, and many species of Birds), and by a strong cowboy culture,
Encanto de Guanapalo (Safari 1)
A day dedicated to the search for local wildlife. We rise at dawn to enjoy the sunrise and the birdsong that accompanies it. We can observe the animals around the house in these early hours. After breakfast, we set off for a canoe trip on the river that runs through the Nature Reserve. We can admire the animals along the water's edge, such as Capybaras, Crocodiles and a wide variety of Birds. If we're lucky, we may even spot an Anaconda. In the afternoon, we head further into the Reserve on a tractor safari. If you're lucky, you'll spot Anteaters, Foxes and Pumas. Arriving at the magnificent Garcero de Altamira, a key breeding ground for herons and egrets circling the water mirrors at sunset.
Encanto de Guanapalo (Safari 2)
Another day of exploring and observing the local wildlife. We're off in search of new species, and hoping to catch a glimpse of the mythical Anaconda. The schedule for each day is decided at the last minute and may vary.
Accommodation: according to itinerary - Safari: 4h
Guanapalo - Yopal - Bogota
We rise at dawn to admire the sunrise, and take a short walk through the savannah and woods to observe the local wildlife and the magnificent llaneros landscape. Breakfast and free time to rest and enjoy our last moments in the Reserve. Transfer from the Reserve to Yopal, and lunch in Yopal. Before our departure for the airport, some free time to browse the craft stores and discover the town of Yopal.
NOTE: The program is subject to change depending on weather conditions and water levels at the time of travel.
El Palmar Natural Reserve
El Palmar reserve. Located two and a half hours from Bogotá, this private reserve welcomes you in a simple, rural, family atmosphere. Your hosts are fierce protectors of the local biodiversity, and in particular of the Spectacled Bear.
Refugio Ecopalacio
Refugio Ecopalacio is located 52 km from the city of Bogota in the protective forest reserve of the Blanco and Negro rivers in the buffer zone of the Chingaza National Park. It provides ecotourism guiding services with a focus on environmental education, bird watching, restoration activities, and hiking. The lodging service is in three (3) rooms with double beds, electricity with solar panels and shared bathrooms with hot water. Surrounded by gardens and Andean forests that are the ideal space for nature lovers.
Juan Solito Ecolodge
Located 180km away from Yopal, in the Llanos area, the ecolodge Juan Solito welcomes you in its small structure built with local materials, in complete harmony with the local architecture and with the Aurora natural Reserve. The hotel offers 7 rooms with its own private bathroom, and only welcomes a small amount of travelers, 21 at a time. Camping or hammocks are also available. The ecolodge is an ecological building so there will be no air conditioning system and the electricity is limited to 4 hours at night. Several activities are available in the hotel to let you enjoy the surrounding ecosystem. Lunch and dinner are included.
El Encanto de Guanapalo
El Encanto de Guanapalo is a natural reserve of 9,000 hectares in Colombia, 110 km from Yopal, formed by the family inheritance of grandfather Gerardo Zambrano in 3 "Hatos" typical of the region, which since 1908 work to preserve the natural wealth, tradition and culture of the Casanare region (Colombia). Category: Excursion. Includes: Room with breakfast, lunch, dinner, excursion, local guide,
Colombia is a country located in South America, known for its rich cultural history, diverse landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. It offers a wide range of experiences from its Caribbean beaches to its Andean mountains.
Reasons to Go
1. Stunning natural landscapes
2. Rich cultural heritage
3. Delicious cuisine
4. Vibrant cities like Bogota and Medellin
5. Affordable travel destination.
Country Facts
- Official Name: Republic of Colombia
- Location: South America- Time Zone: GMT-5
- Capital: Bogotá
- Population: ~51 million
- Official Language: Spanish
- Government: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
- Economy: Emerging market economy
Regions at a Glance
Bogotá: The capital city, known for its museums, and vibrant culture.
Medellín: Known as the "City of Eternal Spring" for its pleasant climate.Cartagena: A historical city with beautiful colonial architecture and nearby beaches.
Tourist Attractions
- Cartagena's Walled City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Tayrona National Park- The Coffee Cultural Landscape
- The Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)
- Medellin's Metrocable
Money Matters
- Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
- Credit cards are widely accepted in cities but less so in rural areas
- ATMs are plentiful
Packing List
- Light, breathable clothing for the coast
- Warmer layers for mountain regions
- Rain jacket, hiking boots
Healthcare Requirements
- Tap water is generally safe in cities but should be purified in rural areas.
- Street food is generally safe but use your judgment.
Culture
Colombia has a rich cultural landscape influenced by Indigenous, Spanish, and African heritages. From the rhythms of Cumbia and Vallenato to the nation's love for soccer, Colombia is a tapestry of traditions.
Accommodation
- Hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs are widely available.
- Budget options from $20/night, mid-range $40-$80, luxury $100+
- Generally safe for solo female travelers, but always take standard precautions.
Visa Requirements
- Illegal drugs are severely punished
- Respect local traditions and customs
- Public displays of affection are generally accepted but may be frowned upon in rural areas.
Emergency Contact Numbers
Police: 112
Medical emergency: 112
Embassy: Check for your country's embassy contact
Electricity, Plugs, and Voltage
- Plug type: Types A and B
- Voltage: 110V
- Frequency: 60Hz
Climate
Tropical near the coast and in the lowlands, cooler in the mountains. Light clothing for the coast, warmer layers for the mountains.
Public Transportation
- Public buses and TransMilenio in Bogotá
- Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available
- Domestic flights for long distances
Language Spoken
Spanish is the official language. Basic English is understood in tourist areas.
- Useful phrases: "Hola" (Hello), "Gracias" (Thank)
Sustainability Tips
- Use refillable water bottles
- Respect local customs and natural habitats
- Opt for eco-friendly accommodation and tours
Useful Apps & Websites
- Google Translate for language translation
- Uber or local taxi apps for transportation
- TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations
Colombia offers a rich travel experience that caters to all types of travelers. From its diverse landscapes to its vibrant culture, Colombia is a destination that should not be missed. Check out other resources on our website for more information.
BOOK YOUR TRIP IN 4 SIMPLE STEPS
Talk to an expert
Tell us what kind of trip you want, your local specialist will answer to all your questions.
Refine your trip
Want to add a service or customize an activity ? Let’s make this trip unique !
Securely book your trip
Pay a deposit to secure your seat. You can pay by card, Paypal or wire transfer
Trip Confirmation
We will take care of all the bookings and provide you with all the information and documents