Chingaza & Guaviare, Exploring Colombia's Biodiversity
Colombia, a country with a wide diversity of climates and landscapes, offers a natural wealth of exuberant flora and fauna that invites you to explore unconventional destinations. With ecosystems ranging from the moorlands of the Andes with their water sources and the flooded jungles of the Amazon, this tour is ideal for those who wish to connect with nature, culture and conservation.
-
Day 1: El Palmar nature reserve monitoring project
Day 2: Explore the Chingaza National Park
Day 3: Lagune Chingaza - San Juanito
Day 4: El Tablón cave and Andean Cock-of-the-rock
Day 5: Cañon del Río Guatiquia
Day 6: Birdwatching Camaná and Guaviare forest
Day 7: Cerro Azul rock art and Chontaduro farm
Day 8: Playa Guio forest and Raudal del Guayabero
Day 9: Nuevo Tolima rock art and Tunnels trek
Day 10: WildLife and Birdwatching
El Palmar nature reserve, a refuge for the spectacled bear through a camera trap monitoring project.
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.
The Laguna Chingaza, Plantas del Camino trail is located into the Chingaza natural park, it is ideal to enjoy the Paramo ecosystem.
The Cañon de Guatiquia, njoying the mountains intertwined with the clouds and the infinity of the plains.
The Rancho Camana nature reserve incorporates restoration areas, gardens and agrosystems, as well as feeding and bathing areas for birds.
Playa Güio (Guaviare) in the middle of the jungle, a magical place full nature, wildlife with exotic species of the Amazon and vestiges of ancient civilizations.
San José del Guaviare is a Colombian municipality, capital of the department of Guaviare. It began to form in 1960, linked to the colonizing activities of the jungle region and...
Country
- Colombia
Thematics
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Wildlife
Tour Highlights
- Be amazed by the beauty of the birds in the country with the highest number of species. Toucans, tanagers, hummingbirds and more.
- Learn about the Spectacled Bear monitoring project. Communities working for conservation. Enjoy the Andean cloud forest.
- Discover the great variety of flora in ecosystems from 4200m to 300m. Orchids, Frailejones, cloud forests, plains and rainforests.
- A meeting of the great library of ancestral peoples engraved in the rock paintings. A wonderful journey through time.
- Navigate rivers and lagoons in the middle of the Amazon rainforest, while observing a great variety of wildlife.
Group Size
- 8 Travelers Max
Included
- Meals indicated in the program
- Accommodation in standard hotels
- Transportation in comfortable vehicles
- Tour leader and English speaking guide
- Local guides specialized in the region
- Local transportation
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)
El Palmar nature reserve monitoring project
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 vary according to the climate. The ones planned for today are the sendero de la Palma and the sendero Guacharos. Here you can try to spot the following species: Masked Trogon, Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, Andean Guan , Sparkling Violetear, among others.
Explore the Chingaza National Park
On our second day of exploration, we choose different trails: Chocolatal, Laguna Seca and the mining area. This area, once affected by mining, has been undergoing restoration for 30 years. Here, we'll be able to observe the passive restoration processes of the páramo ecosystem and the plants involved in this healing process. We'll also observe geological formations from different ice ages and the history of limestone. Over the course of the day, you can try to spot the following species as well as many others: White-tailed Deer, Black-chested Buzzard-eagle, Andean Teal, Andean Condor, and more.
Lagune Chingaza - San Juanito
In the morning, after our breakfast, we say goodbye to our hosts and enjoy, an excursion through the emblematic ecosystem of the páramo, taking in the special scenery of the route with lagoons and waterfalls, while we can observe high-mountain birds and the possibility of encountering mammal species such as deer and spectacled bears. Walk the trails of the RAMSAR zone, this hike will focus on observing the flora and fauna, and with a bit of luck we'll come across the Spectacled Bear. Around midday, we'll stop for a traditional picnic lunch, and around 3:00 pm, we'll continue the 4x4 trek to reach the village of San Juanito, surrounded by forests and impressive waterfalls.
El Tablón cave and Andean Cock-of-the-rock
At 7 a.m., we'll have our traditional breakfast and start the day with a cultural and architectural tour of the village of San Juanito. At 9 a.m., we'll begin our journey to the village of El Tablón, where we'll have our first encounter with the Guatiquía Canyon. After an hour's walk, we'll come to the natural wells of the San Isidro stream, then to the natural cave of El Tablón, where we'll enter the cavern. At midday, we'll enjoy a traditional "San Juanero" lunch. At 2 p.m., we'll resume our tour at the Lajitas waterfalls viewpoint. We'll then go to the LEK of the rock cock (Rupicola peruvianus) to observe these magnificent birds. At 6 p.m., return to San Juanito.
Cañon del Río Guatiquia
After breakfast, we'll begin our 4x4 journey through the Guatiquia canyon, as we marvel at the landscape of forests and waterfalls, with the opportunity to observe the birds that inhabit this transition zone between the Andes and the eastern plains. We pass through El Calvario for a short visit to this mountain village. From here, we continue our journey towards the Amazon plain. Arrival at the Rancho Camaná reserve (Restrepo, Meta), estimated time 4.00 pm to enjoy the birds in the garden, and at night to look for nocturnal monkeys.
Birdwatching Camaná and Guaviare forest
The Rancho Camana nature reserve incorporates restoration areas, gardens and agrosystems, as well as feeding and bathing areas for birds. We'll start our activities at 6:00 a.m., exploring the internal paths and gardens. Species of interest: Red-backed Shrike, Golden Barb, Cuckoo, Chestnut-eared Aracari, among more. Then we head off to begin the adventure in the Amazon, where you will get to know natural spaces where you can appreciate the natural and ancestral richness of this Colombian region. To begin with, we will camp in the jungle, in rustic but comfortable lodges, surrounded by nature and a great variety of exotic fauna. In the afternoon, we will take a boat ride on a water trail through flooded forests to the Laguna Negra, home to the enigmatic Aruco, Hoatzin, Turtles and Primates.
Cerro Azul rock art and Chontaduro farm
Let's get ready for a journey back in time! To begin this adventure, we'll head to the village of Cerro Azul, accompanied by a local guide, to begin a hike up to the sacred tepuy which houses a thousand-year-old gallery of rock art on its rock walls, something magical that's part of history with over 12,000 years of age according to experts. As an option, we'll enter a tunnel-like cavern where a torch is required, or it's possible to skip the cavern and take an alternative route to the natural viewpoint over the Amazon rainforest canopy. On the way back, we'll visit El Chontaduro, a farm whose main activity was once coca leaf cultivation. During a conference, we'll learn about the processes used by local communities to make the transition from illicit activity to community-based tourism.
Playa Guio forest and Raudal del Guayabero
With the first rays of the sun, we enter a trail of flooded primary forest, with the chance to observe a wide variety of birds and primates (monkeys). When we reach the banks of the Guaviare River, we board a boat to cruise along the river for about 1 hour to the Raudal del Guayabero. Then we'll hike up to the Tepuy (rock formation) in search of the impressive rock paintings, something magical that is part of the millennial past with evidence dating back over 12,500 years. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Amazon jungle through which the river flows.
Nuevo Tolima rock art and Tunnels trek
One of the most emblematic cave paintings of the Serranía de La Lindosa, about 8 meters high and at least 20 meters wide. We will ascend the mountainside until we reach the natural viewpoint from where we can enjoy the magnificent view and the cave paintings. Then we go to another place for a moderate walk along trails that lead to a series of passages formed in the rocks where ancient indigenous communities probably lived. In the afternoon, we will walk along a rocky path through tropical vegetation leading to crystal clear waters where we can bathe in natural pools.
WildLife and Birdwatching
With the first rays of sunshine, we'll head into the jungle surrounding the huts to look for primates and other birds, a short but exciting hike. We'll have a local breakfast before heading to San José del Guaviare airport.
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.
Casa de los Abuelos
A cozy rural lodge in the municipality of San Juanito, Meta.
Rancho Camana
Rancho Camana Natural Reserve integrates restoration areas, gardens and agrosystems; it also has feeding and bathing areas for birds. You can enjoy the internal trails and rest in its gardens.
Playa Guio (Naturlog Ecolodge)
This lodge is the best choice you can have if you are interested or passionate about nature, if you are excited to be at the gates of the jungle and support responsible tourism with local people. In this place there is a wonderful nature, it is surrounded by large trees and the night will be accompanied by the sound of crickets, water animals and in the morning some guans and monkeys waving the treetops as a flag will make you feel that you are at the beginning of a great adventure in the jungle.
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