Photography adventure on the 3 branches of the Colombian Andes
- Alejandro Pinto
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
This trip is a gateway to experiencing the unparalleled biodiversity nestled within this majestic mountain range, passing by unique ecosystems of the Western, Central, and Eastern Andes, each branch revealing its own vibrant birdlife. with our cameras, we captured the stunning beauty of endemic species, the thrill of rare sightings, and the awe-inspiring landscapes that serve as their backdrop. This blog includes some of the beauties that our participants photographed while traveling with us!
A fully focused photography trip that covers the 3 branches of the Andes with Carl B. and Brad S.
The first portion of the trip took places on the eastern branch of the Andes, the Bogota plateau area and surroundings. located in the Cundinamarca province is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting an impressive 990 bird species! offering incredible opportunities to spot several endemics and range restricted.
What's even more captivating is that the areas surrounding Bogotá provide a breathtaking glimpse into nature’s abundance, with at least 450 bird species and a stunning 40 varieties of hummingbirds waiting to be discovered! Whether you're an avid birdwatcher or simply looking to connect with nature, there is something for everyone.
Our spots around the Bogotá plateau includes: Sumapaz national park and Chiguazá reserve, Chingaza national park buffer area and Cloud forest in the western slope of the Andes.
Our next stop on the trip, the western Andes above Cali. The Western Andes offer a breathtaking landscape that is not only rich in biodiversity but also a haven for birdwatchers and photographers alike.
Just a short drive from Cali, particularly around the Kilometer 18 area, this region is home to an astounding variety of bird species, many of which are endemic to the region. From vibrant toucans and graceful hummingbirds to the elusiveand skulking birds like Quail Doves and Wood Quail.
We visited the best spots to observe and photograph birds: San Felipe private reserve, La Florida private reserve and the renowned Doña Dora spot, supporting conservation efforts that protect their habitats and of course getting beautiful moments and shots!
Exploring the Lowlands: A Birdwatcher’s Delight in the Cauca River Valley
After leaving the stunning mountains behind, we ventured into the captivating lowlands near the Cauca River Valley. This change of scenery brought a fresh set of birds.
Our morning began with "Manchas," a delightful Crested Bobwhite that appears daily for corn, alongside Wattle Jacanas, Bare-faced Ibises, and Black-crowned Night Herons near the ponds on the property.
Next we headed to the breathtaking Central Andes region. This area boasts an incredible diversity of bird species, stunning landscapes, and unique ecosystems. we had the incredible opportunity to explore four remarkable locations: Owls watch retreat, Los Nevados national park, Hacienda El Bosque, and Tinamu Birding. Each destination offered a unique experience.
Owls watch retreat is embebed in the CHEC-Rio Blanco forest, renowned for its rich birds diversity, with camera in hand, eagerly set off on the trails, and we captures images of: Black-billed Mountain Toucan, Chestnut-crowned Antpitta, Golden-fronted Whitestart, Brown-banded Antpitta and many others.
Next, we headed to the stunning Los Nevados National Natural Park. The dramatic landscapes of snow-capped peaks contrasted beautifully with the rich greens of the valleys below. here we were fortunate enough to photograph the striking Buffy Helmetcrest, Black-chested Buzzard Eagle and several Mountain Tanagers and Hummingbirds. The high-altitude environment posed its challenges, but the breathtaking scenery and the thrill of spotting rare birds made it all worthwhile.
Our journey continued to Hacienda El Bosque, a charming eco-lodge surrounded by cloud forests. This location is a haven for photographers due to its diverse bird species. we spent a full morning capturing images of the colorful Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan and the rockstar Crescent-faced Antpitta.
Finally, we visited Tinamu Birding, an exceptional birdwatching destination. This site offered the unique chance to observe birds in their natural habitat from purpose-built hides or simply walking in the forest trails.
Last stop, the charming town of Jardin Antioquia: A Birdwatcher's Paradise
Nestled in the lush hills of Antioquia, Jardin is a hidden gem for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike. Its rich biodiversity create the perfect setting for an unforgettable birds photography experience.
During our visit, we were fortunate enough to observe the magnificent Andean Cock of the Rock, known for its vibrant plumage and distinctive courtship displays.
The area also offered encounters with several elusive Antpittas, their enchanting calls echoing through the cloud forests.
To top it all off, we had an unexpected encounter with a Tiger Cat, adding a touch of wildlife excitement to our birdwatching experience.
To end our trip we adventure on a hanging bridge walk to get closer to the enigmatic Oilbird!
Jardin truly showcased the breathtaking beauty of Colombia's avifauna, making it a must-visit destination for any bird lover.
You can check the birds list in the link, only birds with photos!
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