Northern Colombia Birding Trail: Santa Marta Mountains, Guajira & Serrania del Perija
Overview
We invite you to discover the great diversity of endemic birds of northern Colombia; dry, humid and cloudy forests, protect agreat biological and cultural treasure.
- Day 1: VALLEDUPAR AND TRAVEL TO PERIJÁ
- Day 2: PERIJÁ MOUNTAINS
- Day 3: PERIJA MOUNTAINS
- Day 4: PERIJÁ TO RIOHACHA
- Day 5: LOS FLAMENCOS SANCTUARY
- Day 6: TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK TO SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS.
- Day 7: SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS
- Day 8: SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS
- Day 9: SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS
- Day 10: SANTA MARTA SALAMANCA WETLAND AND MANGROVE BARRANQUILLA
Itinerary
VALLEDUPAR AND TRAVEL TO PERIJÁ
Please book flights to arrive into Valledupar early in the day. There are a couple of morning flights from Bogota daily, after lunch moving on to the Perijá Mountains.
It will take us approximately an hour to reach the f...
PERIJÁ MOUNTAINS
On one of these days we will head up to the top of Sabana Rubia, the Páramo. Here we have a chance to find the Perijá Thistletail, and Perijá Metaltail.
On the other day we shall work the elevations slightly above and be...
PERIJA MOUNTAINS
On one of these days we will head up to the top of Sabana Rubia, the Páramo. Here we have a chance to find the Perijá Thistletail, and Perijá Metaltail.
Overnight Perija
PERIJÁ TO RIOHACHA
We Birding downslope, after an early start and head to Riohacha . Assuming an early arrival we will head for an evening of birding at Los Flamencos Reserve.
Overnight in Riohacha or Camarones Town.
LOS FLAMENCOS SANCTUARY
Birding en Los Flamencos , after will go near Tayrona Park, lunch and Birding on the road.
Overnight hotel near Tayrona
TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK TO SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS.
Tayrona National Park where we will spend the morning. Here we can find some moister forest birds. If we are in great luck, the Blue billed Curassow will make an appearance, although it is very rare. We will drive up the...
SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS
We have two days at the El Dorado reserve in Santa Marta Mountains. On at least one day we will head up to the highlands of Cuchilla San Lorenzo in order to see diferent endemic species. We will have ample time to enjoy ...
SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS
We have two days at the El Dorado reserve (San Lorenzo Ridge) in Santa Marta Mountains. On at least one day we will head up to the highlands of Cuchilla San Lorenzo in order to see species not present at the lodge. We wi...
SANTA MARTA MOUNTAINS
We will bird Along the way, concentrating on what we have not found yet. We have the full morning here, before heading down to Minca
Overnight: Santa Marta
SANTA MARTA SALAMANCA WETLAND AND MANGROVE BARRANQUILLA
Start at 5.30, visiting dry forest and mangrove in Salamanca área , we have the full morning here, our targets are Northern screamer, Saphire belied hummingbird.
Lunch and our tour ends in the city of Barranquilla or Car...
Trip Details
Country
- Colombia
Group Size
- 8 Travelers Max
Tour Highlights
- Discover one of the most beautiful and biodiverse places by Km2 in the world
- Two especies of manakins with their incredible acrobatic courtship dances
- Endemic and critically endangered species
Next Departures
- Nov 2nd, 2024
- Dec 7th, 2024
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
- Entrance Fees
- Local transportation
Not Included
- Domestic flights
- International flights
- Additional drinks and meals
- Medical insurance
- Expenses not specified in the program
- Tips
Minimum Deposit
- 500 %
Payment Options
- Credit Card (+2.5% fee)
- Wire Transfer (no fees)
Video
Gallery
Spotted Species
Here is a non exhaustive list of Animals Species You can spot during this tour
Santa Marta Mountain Tanager
Large, colorful tanager found only in the Santa Marta Mountains of Colombia. Note the black mask, yellow dot behind eye, and azure crown; plumage is otherwise blue and yellow. Usually...
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Black-collared Hawk
Attractive chunky hawk of marshes and wetlands. Usually seen perched quietly near water, waiting to swoop down and snatch fish or frogs. Adult is distinctive, with mostly orange plumage and...
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Crested Oropendola
Large blackbird with thick triangular bill. Dark blackish plumage, fading to paler reddish-brown at rear. At a distance, appears all black. Striking yellow tail and pale blue eye. Separated from...
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Crowned Woodnymph
The Crowned Woodnymph (Thalurania colombica) favors evergreen forest and edge in tropical lowlands, often near streams. Male is stunning but often looks all dark: note the fairly long, deeply forked...
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Osprey
The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is a large, mostly white raptor that cruises over lakes, rivers, and coastal waterways in search of fish. Impressively widespread: found on every continent except Antarctica....
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Rufescent Tiger-Heron
The Rufescent Tiger-Heron (Tigrisoma lineatum) is a species of heron in the family Ardeidae. It is found in wetlands from Central America through much of South America. Is a medium-sized...
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Russet-throated Puffbird
Chunky, stout billed, and often very conspicuous bird found mainly in dry and semi-humid forest north and west of the Andes. Note the ornate face pattern, buffy throat, and single...
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Scaled Dove
The Scaled Dove (Columbina squammata) is a dove of generally discreet habits, that walks in couples or small groups by the edges of forests, savannahs, orchards, parks and other types...
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White-bearded Manakin
Fairly common and widespread through much of South America. Males are distinctive with white throat, sharply defined black cap, black back and wings, and grayish belly. Legs bright orange-red. Females...
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Wood Stork
Huge, long-legged, black-and-white waterbird, about the size of Great Blue Heron. Bill is thicker and more curved than herons. Forages mainly for fish by moving open bill through water until...
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Vermilion Cardinal
A garish scarlet bird sporting a dramatic spiky crest and a hefty gray bill. Male overall brilliant red with black chin; female brown, gray-headed, with red crest and tail. Often...
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Scarlet Ibis
Unmistakable, beautiful orange-red ibis with black wingtips. Breeding adults have black bills, pink at other times. Immatures are dark above with white bellies and pink bills. Restricted to mangroves and...
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Blue-billed Curassow
Impressively large bird restricted to lowland rainforest in northern Colombia. It is critically endangered due to deforestation and hunting pressure. Male is black with a white belly and tail tip,...
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Red-rumped Woodpecker
The Red-rumped Woodpecker (Dryobates kirkii) is 16.5 cm long and weighs 28g., small, relatively drab woodpecker; olive-brown above and barred brown and white below. Both sexes have a yellow nape...
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Blue-headed Parrot
Blue-headed parrots (Pionus menstruus) are noisy birds and make light, high-pitched squeaking sweenk calls. They eat fruit and seeds, and sometimes grain. They roost communally in palm and other trees,...
DiscoverTerms & Conditions
The terms of sale may differ based on the nature of your trip and how close your departure date is. Please review our conditions here for more information.
Practical Information
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.
Tour Guide
Jaruen Rodriguez
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