Gold-ringed THE GOLDEN BIRDING TRAIL birding tour in search of Ande s, Magdalena Valley & Choco endemics

The mighty Andes splits into three distinct ranges within Colombia’s borders, forming the Eastern, Central and Western Cordilleras. The resulting mosaic of localised climatic conditions and subsequent myriad ecological niches, supports a staggering regional biodiversity. On this classic Colombia birding tour we shall explore all three Cordilleras, focusing on the rich avian diversity found in each. Throughout the marshlands, cloud forests and high altitude paramo of the Eastern Andes we search for such gems as Bogota Rail, Silvery-throated Spinetail and Black Inca. In the wide inter- Andean Magdalena Valley, we stay in a lodge nestled in tropical lowland forest, and search for avian treasures including White-mantled Barbet, Beautiful and Sooty Ant-tanager. A visit to an Oilbird cave is another highlight here, as is the offer of a cooling post-birding dip in the crystal clear Rio Claro river. A short stay outside Medellin should add on several more Colombian endemics, while in the quaint colonial town of Jardin we visit an Andean Cock-of-the-rock lek, and the surrounding montane forests which support a population of rare Yellow-eared Parrots. In the pristine Central Andean cloud forest reserve of Rio Blanco we should enjoy incredible views of up to 5 of antpitta, plus a feast of other avian gems which might include White-capped Tanager, Stygian Owl and the rare Masked Saltator. The high altitude reserve of Los Nevados is one of the best locations for , as well as Rufous-fronted Parakeet, Rainbow-bearded Thornbill and Sword-billed . Here, a night in a hotel with natural thermal hot-springs provides the perfect antidote to the cooler conditions. Crossing the narrow Cauca Valley, we move up into the Western Cordillera, and the moss-laden humid forests of the famed ‘Choco’ bioregion, where an incredible selection of Colombian endemic and Choco ‘specials’ awaits. Here we target such stellar species as Chestnut- bellied Flowerpiercer, Munchique Wood-wren, Gold-ringed, Black-and-gold, Purplish-mantled and Glistening Green , Toucan Barbet, Black , Club-winged Manakin and Velvet-purple Coronet! We finish in the excellent Otun Quimbaya reserve, where key targets include Multicolored Tanager, Red-ruffed Fruitcrow and Cauca . Parque National Natural Tatama (Montezuma)

Buffy Helmetcrest

Andean Cock-of-the-rock Tour highlights: itinerary at a glance Explore the Eastern Andes for range- DAY: restricted Colombian endemics 1. Arrive Bogota. 3 nights Bogota Bird in high altitude paramo of 2. Cloud forest birding at Chicaque and Chingaza and Los Nevados national parks Laguna Pedro Palo Explore the Magdalena Valley for localised 3. Birding for high altitude specialists at endemics and visit an Oilbird cave Parque National Natural Chingaza Visit one of the most active Andean Cock- 4. La Florida wetlands, Laguna Tabacal + of-the-rock leks in all South America and San Francisco (hummingbird garden) – search for Yellow-eared Parrots from the onto the Magdalena Valley. 2 nights quaint colonial town of Jardin Canon del Rio Claro See as many as 5 species of furtive antpitta 5. Full day birding Canon del Rio Claro in a single morning at the pristine cloud 6. Rio Claro – Medellin. 1 night nr Medellin forest reserve of Rio Blanco 7. La Romero + Bolombolo – Jardin. Andean Spend 3 nights in the mega-diverse 'Choco' Cock-of-the-rock lek. 2 nights Jardin bioregion, where a suite of Colombian 8. Birding Yellow-eared Parrot reserve. endemic and Choco specialties await! 9. Jardin – Manizales. 2 nights Manizales A tour tally of over 500 species is expected, 10. Rio Blanco reserve. including over 50 varieties of hummers and 11. High altitude paramo at Parque Natural a feast of dazzling tanagers Los Nevados. Overnight Termales del Ruiz Enjoy world-class Colombian coffee, 12. Termales – Montezuma (Choco delicious food and amazing hospitality bioregion). 3 nights Montezuma throughout the tour. 13. Birding high/mid levels of Montezuma Special note 14. Birding mid/low levels of Montezuma 15. Montezuma – Pereira. 1 night Otun This tour is limited to 8 participants, but, if we Quimbaya reserve have 5-8 guests, we will supply a second expert 16. Otun Quimbaya - Pereira and fly to bilingual (Spanish/English) birding guide. Bogota - tour ends on return to Bogota Here's to seeing more special ! DETAILED ITINERARY D ay 1 – Arrival in Bogota

You will be greeted at Bogota airport by a friendly member of the Wild About Colombia team, and then transfer to a comfortable hotel in the city. Bogota is a fantastic base from which to explore the many excellent natural habitats of Colombia’s Eastern Andes, which hold a raft of exciting birds, including several country endemic species. This evening we will enjoy a welcome dinner, where you will meet your Wild About Colombia tour leader and have the chance to discuss the exciting days ahead!

Please note, we shall depart our hotel very early tomorrow morning, so we suggest you Indigo-capped Hummingbird arrive in reasonable time today. Should you wish to arrive a day or two early, whether to prepare for the tour, enjoy additional bird Day 2 – Laguna Pedro Palo and watching or to explore the cultural sights of Chicaque National Park Bogota we would be delighted to assist with Our Colombian birding adventure begins your pre-tour arrangements. Please just let at Laguna Pedro Palo, which lies on the us know when you contact us. western slope of Colombia’s Eastern Andes. Here we enjoy gentle birding in beautiful sub-Andean cloud forests, searching for our first special birds of the tour, such as the striking and endemic Turquoise Dacnis. Mixed flocks might include such dazzling tanagers as Beryl-spangled, Flame- faced, Saffron-crowned, Golden and Blue- necked. We will also be on the lookout for two spectacular - Black Inca and Indigo-capped Hummingbird - both of which can only be found in Colombia’s Eastern Andes. Another star hummer of the region is the dazzling Blue-throated Starfrontlet, not to mention the likes of Violet-crowned Woodnymph, Andean Emerald, Steely-vented Hummingbird and Booted Racket-tail! Andean (Colombian) Oak (found only in Colombia and Panama) is common in this area, and often acts as a magnet for mixed flocks which could contain Pearled Treerunner, White-throated Tyrannulet, Ash-browed Spinetail, Lineated and Montane Foliage-gleaners, Plushcap, Black-capped, Black-headed and Plushcap Superciliaried Hemispinguses, as well as various including Acorn, Red- crowned and Smoky-brown. Other birds we hope to encounter today include Crimson- rumped Toucanet, Fawn-breasted Tanager, Red-headed Barbet, Bar-crested Antshrike, Scrub Tanager, Spectacled Parrotlet, Speckle- breasted Wren, Moustached Puffbird and the Colombian endemic Silvery-throated Spinetail. Having enjoyed a bird-packed morning, we shall enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before moving onto Parque Natural Chicaque – a private cloud forest reserve just a short drive away. Here we will have another chance (if necessary) at the wonderful Black Inca, as well as the breath- taking (but often tricky) Golden-bellied Starfrontlet. Near the reserve’s HQ are a number active hummingbird feeders which provide excellent photographic opportunities for jaw-dropping species such as Green and Sparkling Violetears, Tourmaline Sunangel, Glowing Puffleg, Buff-tailed Coronet and Bar-crested Antshrike Collared Inca. Late this afternoon, having explored the area for its avian treasures, we Day 3 – Chingaza National Park will return to our comfortable hotel in Bogota Having acclimatised to the higher altitudes for a delicious dinner and a restful night’s over the past days we make a very early pre- sleep. dawn start this morning and head east to the spectacular Chingaza National Park. Chingaza is a particularly important reserve as it protects a large area of threatened paramo – a high altitude neotropical savannah sandwiched between the timberline and the permanent snowline. The endemic Silvery- throated Spinetail and near-endemic Rufous- browed Conebill both should make an appearance, while the beautiful Golden- fronted Whitestart, here in its white-faced

Golden-fronted Whitestart form, often betrays its location with repeated contact calls. Masked and Glossy Flowerpierces are common, and often loosely associate with the likes of Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, Black-capped Hemispingus and Pale-naped and Slaty Brush-finches. The distinctive three-note call of Tawny Antpitta often cuts through the crisp morning air, and we should enjoy good views of this surprisingly confiding species. Undulated and Rufous Antpittas (the latter a likely future split) on the other hand can prove more difficult, but with persistence, we will hopefully be able to lure them out of dense stands of their favoured Sword-billed Hummingbird bamboo. We will be on the lookout for the rare endemic Green-, the localised Bronze-tailed Thornbill and also try a little-known patch of cloud forest for the often elusive Brown-breasted Parakeet. The reserve is also home to a number of special mammals including Puma and Spectacled Bear, although considerable luck is required to see either of these creatures. We round off the day with time spent in a fabulous private garden with hummingbird feeders - while topping up our own energy levels with fresh Colombian coffee and a slice of cake. Here jaw-droppers include Sword-billed Hummingbird, Black-tailed and Green- tailed Trainbearers, Blue-throated Starfrontlet and Glowing Puffleg. Having enjoyed what is sure to have been a fantastic day’s birding, we shall make our way back to Bogota to our now familiar hotel.

Day 4 – Bogota to Canon del Rio Claro As we leave Bogota this morning, we shall make a stop at a productive marshland site on the western border of the city – Parque La Florida. Among the reed beds here we shall be on the lookout for Bogota Rail, as well as making a special effort for both the nominate race of the endemic Apolinar’s Wren and the tricky Subtropical Doradito. Noisy parties of Yellow- hooded Blackbirds will be far more easily located, and both Silvery-throated Spinetail and Rufous- crowned Conebill should make appearances. A supporting cast of waterbirds includes Andean and Masked Duck, Blue-winged Teal and Spot- flanked Gallinules. Continuing our journey westwards, we visit a beautiful crater lake where we shall be on the lookout for Black-headed Brush-finch, Grey-throated Warbler, Stripe- breasted Spinetail, Rosy- Tanager and the local race of Rusty-breasted Antpitta. We will also be hoping for a couple of species of manakin – White-bearded and Striped, as well as White- Chingaza National Park bellied, Jet and Dusky Antbirds. Continuing our journey to the nearby town of San Francisco we visit Jardin Encantado – a small garden that’s packed with over 30 hummingbird feeders. The sought-after endemic Indigo-capped Hummingbird is one of the star birds here, along with other beauties including Black-throated Mango, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, White-vented Plumeleteer and Gorgeted Woodstar. Dropping down into the wide Magdalena Valley, a new and exciting suite of special birds awaits us! We should arrive at our next destination, the scenic Canon del Rio Claro, late in the afternoon, and time permitting, we might squeeze in a short stint of gentle birding around our accommodations. Beautiful Woodpecker Day 5 – Canyon del Rio Claro The Rio Claro Reserve is surely one of Colombia’s most beautiful natural settings. Here the Rio Claro river has cut through limestone bedrock to create a stunning canyon, surrounded by a precious tract of humid tropical forest. So long as there has not been recent rains, we can expect the river to be crystal-clear, and a dip in these cool waters offers the perfect antidote to a session of birding in these hot and humid conditions! However, there is plenty of exciting avifauna to focus our attentions this morning, including several species restricted to the Magdalena Valley, such as White-mantled Barbet, Beautiful Woodpecker and Antioquia Bristle-tyrant. Other Golden-headed Manakin special birds of the reserve include Sooty Ant- tanager, Yellow-browed Shrike-vireo and Chestnut-backed, Magdalena (split from Dull- mantled) and Bicoloured Antbirds. In addition to these avian delights, we will be hoping to come across a family group of the endemic and descriptively named Silvery-brown Bare-face Tamarin, while a chance encounter with a Neotropical Otter or Jaguarundi is not out of the question. This afternoon we shall make our way to a nearby cave system, which hosts a population of Oilbirds. We will enjoy time in these cool caves, enjoying close-up views of these bizarre birds. Should we have light remaining this afternoon we can enjoy further birding on the quiet trails, where we may encounter Citron-throated Toucan, Bat Falcon, Double-toothed Kite, Cinnamon Woodpecker, Barred Puffbird and several species of manakin. Canyon del Rio Claro

Day 6 – Rio Claro to Medellin We will spend the entire morning enjoying further birding in this beautiful location, trying for any species that might have eluded us yesterday or perhaps visiting a nearby site. For those that want to, a dip in the crystal- clear waters might prove tempting also! Later we shall make our way to Medellin, enjoying one or two birding stops en route, before settling into a comfortable hotel outside of the city.

Day 7 – Medellin to Jardin This morning we shall bird the cloud forest reserve of La Romera, which lies just outside the city of Medellin and protects a number of highly sought-after species. Of particular note is the rare and near-endemic Yellow-headed Manakin and noisy roaming family groups of Greyish Piculet endemic Red-bellied Grackle. Other star species of the reserve we will be hoping to see include Stile’s Tapaculo and Colombian – again, both country endemics. Later we shall move on to the town of Bolombolo, where some remnant patches of forest offer the chance to add three further endemics to our tally – Greyish Piculet, Apical Flycatcher and Antioquia Wren. From here we will continue to the picturesque colonial town of Jardin. There will be some time to wander the beautiful central town square, before we head a stone’s throw outside town to one of the most active Adean Cock-of-the-rock leks in the whole of South America! It’s almost unbelievable that such a site could be so close to town, but this doesn’t seem to put off the males who often come as close as one or metres away! It is not uncommon to see over 20 raucous males displaying and allowing for fantastic photo opportunities. In secondary growth forest surrounding the lek we might see Yellow-backed Oriole, Chestnut- capped Brush-finch, Red-headed Barbet and Chestnut-headed Oropendula. Following what should be one of the highlights of the tour, we will head back to the town square to enjoy a celebratory refreshing drink. Our friendly guesthouse is just a 2-minute walk away. Andean Cock-of-the-rock Yellow-eared Parrots

Andean Emerald. This is also a good spot for Day 8 – Yellow-eared Parrot Reserve a Yellow-eared Parrot flyover, and if This morning will be dedicated to searching for conditions are clear we might enjoy views of the striking endangered Yellow-eared Parrot – a raptors, such as the mighty Black-and- species whose range once covered parts of chestnut Eagle, as they soar over the forests. northern and much of Colombia’s three Andean ranges. Today, sadly, due to extensive This afternoon we will continue birding this habitat loss this special bird is only known from a productive area, hoping to find mixed flocks few isolated populations within Colombia’s which might include Hooded and Lacrimose borders. However, thanks to a number of key Mountain-tanagers, Purplish-mantled and conservation efforts, the breeding population has Saffron-crowned Tanagers. Black-capped stablised and is slowly recovering. The key to this Hemispingus, Black-collared Jay, conservation success has been the preservation Flammulated Treehunter and Black-billed and protection of Colombia’s national tree – the Peppershrike. wax palm, which is favoured by the parrots for roosting and nesting. We will hope to enjoy views Day 9 – Jardin to Manizales of these special birds this morning in the Yellow- We start the day with a visit to a wonderful eared Parrot Reserve (also known as Las private garden with feeders, where Ventanas), before they leave their night time a super selection of tanagers can be enjoyed roosts, and disperse to inaccessible forested at close range - photographic opportunities valleys in noisy feeding parties. Continuing our are excellent. Around mid-morning we shall birding with the use of local 4x4 vehicles, we will leave Jardin and make our way to the search for other special species including the mountain settlement of Manizales, making near-endemic Tanager Finch, spectacular Black- one or two birding stops en route. We may billed Mountain Toucan, striking Barred have some time this afternoon for some light Fruiteater, noisy bands of Black-collared Jays and birding, before retiring for a relaxed night in a fine selection of mountain-tanagers including our comfortable hotel. Lacrimose and Hooded. These humid montane forests also support a small population of rare Chestnut-crested Cotinga – a species that can prove difficult to sight across much of its range that stretches from Colombia’s northern Andean limit all the way down to central . We will enjoy a picnic lunch at a small private garden with hummingbird feeders that attract a variety of montane hummers including the incomparable Sword-billed Hummingbird as well as other stunners like Tourmaline Sunangl and Andean Emerald

Day 10 – Rio Blanco Reserve Buff-breasted Mountain-tanager The famous Rio Blanco reserve is owned and managed by the Manizales Water Company and protects swathes of pristine cloud forest. It has gained a reputation as one of the finest birding sites in the whole of Colombia, no doubt thanks to iconic species including Masked Saltator, White-capped Tanager, Mountain Cacique, Powerful Woodpecker, Stygian Owl, Golden- plumed Parakeet, Rusty-faced Parrot, Chestnut Wood-quail, Ocellated Tapaculo, Buff-breasted Mountain-tanager and Black-billed Mountain- toucan, which are all possible. However, it is the opportunity of viewing a select suite of skulking antpittas, which has perhaps taken Rio Blanco to ‘the next level’. Thanks to a series of earthworm feeding stations, a single morning’s birding can result in no less than 5 species of this skulking family, including the endemic Brown-banded, the near-endemic Bicoloured, the striking Chestnut- crowned, and the diminutive Slate- crowned. Lunch is taken at the reserve’s small guesthouse, where several hummingbird feeders provide endless photography opportunities. Jaw- droppers such as Long-tailed Sylph, Tourmaline Sunangel, Andean Emerald and Sparkling Violetear are all regulars. We will bird this peaceful location this afternoon, and stay at the reserve until after nightfall, allowing us to try for nocturnal species including various nightjars and owls. Having spent a full day here, we make our way back to our comfortable hotel in Manizales - just 30 minutes drive away. Long-tailed Sylph

Bicoloured Antpitta Brown-banded Antpitta Chestnut-crowned Antpitta Buffy Helmetcrest Day 11 – Manizales to Nevado Del Ruiz An early start this morning will see us making our way up into the high mountains of the scenic Nevado del Ruiz National Park. .Entering an area of patchy elfin forest, we begin our day's birding. Our stop here not only allows us to gradually acclimatise to the altitude, but it also offers a chance of tracking down the rare and local Rufous-fronted Parakeet - an unpredictable Colombian country endemic. As we search the patchwork of high Andean pastures and forests, we should come across Plumbeous Sierra Finch, Plain-coloured Seedeater, Stout-billed Cinclodes and Andean Siskin. We will also be on the lookout for the difficult Black-thighed Puffleg, in addition to other hummingbirds such as Great Sapphirewing, Viridian Metaltail and Golden- breasted Puffleg. Tanagers, too, are well represented, and we will be hoping for views of the super Golden-capped Tanager as well as the difficult Black-backed Bush-tanager. Making our way higher still we will soon find ourselves Andean Tit-spinetail passing through beautiful paramo habitat. Top of our target list will surely be the wonderful Buffy Helmetcrest - a true paramo specialist. Buffy Helmetcrest belongs to the Oxypogon – of which there are now 4 species in total, thanks to a recent 4 way split. Three of these species are possible in Colombia (Buffy, Green-bearded and Blue-bearded – although the latter holds a near mythical status and requires several days of tough hiking up into the high Sierra de Santa Marta range to even stand a chance of laying eyes on it!) and all of these are endemic to the country. On this particular tour, we are practically guaranteed to see Buffy Helmetcrest (particularly as we are spending a night in Termales del Ruiz, so we can have a second crack should we need to tomorrow), and stand a reasonable chance of Green-bearded as well (in Chingaza National Park on day 3). As we gently bird in this incredibly beautiful location, we will be on the lookout for other goodies, which might include Many-striped Canastero, Andean Tit-spinetail, Sedge Wren, Brown- backed Chat-tyrant and Tawny Antpitta. The smart Rufous Antpitta is also present - if we didn’t manage to tempt one into view earlier in the tour we can have another go today. Park National Natural Los Nevados As we slowly descend, we will make various stops at points of interest, perhaps tempting a Paramo Tapaculo or Crowned Chat-tyrant into view, all the while keeping an eye to the sky for a fly over of Black-chested Buzzard-eagle or perhaps even Andean Condor! We will enjoy lunch at the same hotel where we will spend the night – the superbly located Hotel Termales del Ruiz. Not only does this property have a series of natural thermal hot springs (which are incredible for soothing tired muscles!) but it also features a set of hummingbird feeders, which attract, among others, Shining Sunbeam, Great Sapphirewing, Buff-winged Starfrontlet, Rainbow-bearded Thornbill and Sword-billed Hummingbird! The photographic opportunities are incredible!

For those that wish, there will be the option of Crowned Chat-tyrant further birding this afternoon, visiting some cloud forest a little below the hotel. However, Day 12 – Termales to Montezuma you might like to spend time relaxing around Rainbow-bearded Thornbill Our descent to Manizales, down the hardly the feeders or in the hot springs – the choice used and mostly unpaved old road, will be will be yours! punctuated with various birding stops in excellent cloud forest habitat. Here we will look Rainbow-bearded Thornbill for Golden-headed Quetzal, Plushcap, Andean Motmot and both Scarlet-bellied and Black- chested Mountain Tanagers. After an exciting morning's birding, we continue our journey, crossing the narrow Cauca Valley, and climb into the Western Andes. At the small town of Pueblo Rico we transfer to 4x4 vehicles, and after a further 1 hour will be surrounded by hummingbirds at Montezuma lodge. Time and light permitting, we may gently bird around the lodge, or simply sit back and take in the activity around the hummingbird feeders, which attract beauties such as Empress Brilliant, Violet-tailed Sylph, White-tailed Hillstar and Purple-throated Woodstar. A delicious home cooked meal prepared by our friendly and attentive hosts will round off the day. While the accommodations at Montezuma are the most basic on this tour, the rooms are clean and offer private showers and toilet facilities, and the exciting suite of birds that are on offer, combined with our extremely welcoming hosts, more than make up for the simple facilities. Day 13 – Upper elevations of Tatama National Park Tatama National Park is one of Colombia’s most exciting bird watching destinations, and we have two full days here to explore its upper, mid and lower elevation slopes, which range from 2,600 to 1,300 metres in elevation. This area holds a mouth-watering selection of Choco specials, many of which we hope to see over the coming days! A very early start will see us heading up the bumpy mountain road in Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer 4x4 vehicles, allowing us to reach the high ridge of Cerro Montezuma at sunrise for, hopefully, spectacular views across forest- draped valleys. The scenic beauty is matched only by the stellar bird species (and plants – Tatama is a veritable treasure-trove for orchids in particular) of the region! Key targets for this morning include the smart Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer and the critically endangered and recently described Munchique Wood-wren – both endemic to Colombia. Mixed flocks might include , Blue-and- black Tanager, Purplish-mantled Tanager and Munchique Wood-wren Dusky Bush-tanager. Descending further we come into the range of the striking Gold- ringed Tanager, and further down the equally beautiful Black-and-gold Tanager – both of which belong to the much-sought Bangsia genus. Indeed, this area is one of the few localities in Colombia where these two incredible Colombian endemic tanagers are both possible. At a convenient point we shall stop for a delicious picnic breakfast served straight from the back of our 4x4 vehicles. As we pause to enjoy the surroundings, we might Gold-ringed Tanager. Image: Tim Smith well tune in to some of the smaller denizens of the forest edge - hummingbirds will no doubt be a feature of our morning, with such jaw- droppers as Velvet-purple Coronet, Empress Brilliant, Violet-tailed Sylph and Purple-bibbed White-tip hopefully all showing up. Descending to the mid-altitude slopes, we shall be on the alert for roaming mixed species flocks, which might include such goodies as Black-chinned Mountain-tanager, Flame-faced Tanager, Glistening-green Tanager, , Choco Warbler, Uniform Treehunter and Pacific Tuftedcheek. In the Purplish-mantled Tanager tangled understorey we will listen for tapaculos, including Spillman’s, Alto Pisones, Choco and Nariono varieties. Antpittas are also represented with both Hooded and Yellow-breasted both possible. We will aim to spend much of the afternoon out in the field, enjoying a delicious lunch along the way, to allow us to truly maximise our time in the upper levels of the reserve. Having enjoyed an action-packed day we shall no doubt return to the lodge brimming with tales of new and exciting species for the tour!

Toucan Barbet Day 14 – Mid/lower elevations of Tatama National Park Our day will focus on the mid to lower slopes of this astoundingly productive, yet wet region, and we will make the most of the (hopefully) dry morning. Targets today include the highly desirable Toucan Barbet, which often announces its presence with a series of loud honking calls. In contrast, the shy Black Solitaire is an unpredictable Choco ‘special’ that is tough across all of its range, although Tatama represents as good as chance as any for sightings of this star species! Tanagers will surely dazzle us again today and might include Silver-throated, Rufous-throated, Glistening Green and Flame-faced. Woodpeckers, too, are well represented with Yellow-vented, Crimson-mantled and Powerful all possible. If the skies are clear, we could be graced with a flyby from raptors such as the beautifully marked Ornate Hawk-eagle or perhaps an impressive Black-and-chestnut Black Solitaires Eagle. Further targets include Orange-breasted Fruiteater, Beautiful Jay, Crested Ant-tanager, Choco Vireo and Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia. As we gently bird throughout the morning, we shall be on high alert for one of the most ‘striking’ sounds in the bird world – the distinctive wing-snap of a Club-winged Manakin. These remarkable (males) birds have evolved solid wing feathers that act like tuning folks when brought together behind their body in rapid-fire bursts, whether ‘singing’ or actively displaying to a female. Fingers crossed we run into this gem of a bird! There will be time either side of the lunch break for more excellent opportunities around the hummer feeders, and there should be activity at the fruit feeders as well, which attract various Velvet-purple Coronet species of tanager such as Silver-throated and Flame-rumped. The afternoon will be spent birding the lower sections of the forested track close to the lodge, with more exciting possibilities on offer including Broad-billed Motmot, White- whiskered Puffbird, Red-faced Spinetail, Uniform Treehunter, Yellow-breasted Antwren, Zeledon’s Antbird and Chestnut- crowned Gnateater.

Day 15 – Montezuma to Otun Quimbaya Sadly, we will have to move on from this Black-chinned Mountain-tanager wonderful location today, but not before enjoying a final morning’s birding, trying for any species that we haven’t yet seen, or perhaps latching onto another exciting mixed species flock. We will also try for Blackish Rail which can be seen close to a set of fish ponds close to the lodge. Retracing our route back to the small town of Pueblo Rico, we continue for a few hours’ to Otun Quimbaya. As we approach the reserve we will make a stop at a bridge that spans the Otun River, and scan the rushing mountain flows for three sought-after birds - Torrent Duck, White-capped Dipper and Torrent White-capped Dipper Tyrannulet. Our lodgings are just a 10 minute drive from here, and we should have an hour or two of light left in the day to start acquainting ourselves to our new surroundings. One of our major targets there is the endangered Cauca Guan, which was presumed extinct until its rediscovery in 1994, but thankfully, Otun Quimbaya remains a stronghold for this endemic species, and we will be hoping for outstanding views of groups of up to ten individuals. Another star bird here is the striking Red-ruffed Fruitcrow - a member of the cotinga family and one of the largest in Red-ruffed Fruitcrow South America. Here in Otun views are often outstanding! With a little luck we should be able to see both of these key targets without having to go far, freeing up time tomorrow for our final birding of the tour.

Day 16 – Final birding then transfer to Pereira airport & FLY to Bogota Fresh Colombian coffee will aid our early start for our final mornings’ birding of the tour. Targets include the endemic Chestnut Wood- quail, which is often very vocal early in the day while remaining Cauca Guan Multicolored Tanager - Image: Proaves tricky to lay eyes on. At one particular location, we have an excellent chance for the stunning Multicoloured Tanager as well as Crested Ant- tanager. Much of the birding here is done along a wide access road, perfect for gentle birding, and for locating roaming mixed species flocks which can comprise various species of tanager, including Metallic-green, Golden-naped and Saffron-crowned, as well as a selection of flycatchers and allies, foliage-gleaners and woodcreepers – all providing intense bursts of excitement! The early morning also offers chances for mammal sightings, including Red Howler Monkey, Hoffmann's Two-toed Sloth and even the elusive Mountain Tapir. Other possible birds include Andean Motmot, Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Andean Solitaire, Black-winged Saltator, White-capped Tanager, Golden Plumed Parakeet, Bronze-winged Parrot and Golden-headed Quetzal. Following what will no doubt be a highly productive morning we shall return to the lodge, before saying our goodbyes and transferring to the airport in Pereira – which is only an hour away. From here we fly to Bogota, where the tour Blue-necked Tanager ends.

Onward travel In the same way that we can make pre-tour birding/cultural arrangements, we would be delighted to assist with your post-tour travel plans. We work with the finest local bird watching and naturalist guides in Colombia – they are bilingual, highly experienced and, importantly, good fun to bird with! There are various options available to you should you want to continue your bird watching adventure. We would suggest adding on a visit to Colombia’s Caribbean coast, and the endemic-rich Santa Marta range. If you do add this to the main tour, you will likely end up with a trip list exceeding 700 species! If you would like time to relax on the beach, while still being close to some excellent birding sites (and the fantastic endemic Cotton-top Tamarin), we would suggest a few nights at a delightful beach lodge on the edge of Tayrona National Park – also on Colombia’s northern Caribbean Coast (this can also be done after a visit to Santa Marta, for the full Colombian Caribbean experience). Equally, we can arrange time in Amazonas, or further exploration of the endemic-rich Eastern Andes. A few nights in the historic city of Cartagena is also possible and we work with a fine selection of cultural guides there who will introduce you to this fascinating city. Should you want to spend time relaxing after the tour, without the need for too much additional travel, you might like to consider a few nights in a traditional hacienda with extensive gardens and a small pool, located close to Pereira in Colombia’s famous zona cafatera (coffee zone). We would be happy to discuss these and any other possibilities, to make sure you enjoy your time in Colombia to the fullest. Violet-tailed Sylph included in the tour price: A professional bilingual expert bird watching guide. If the tour runs with 6 or more guests (note that we limit the group to 8 guests) we will add a second guide and also include a detailed tour report. Our priority is your enjoyment of the tour, and we want you to have the best possible bird sightings! Local reserve guides Domestic airfare from Bogota to Pereira (see note below) All land-based transport from day 1 arrival transfer in Bogota, to Pereira departure transfer on day 16 Birding the upper slopes of Tatama National Park All accommodation (double occupancy). (from Montezuma lodge). Image: Iona Smith Single room available for a supplement. All meals from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 16 Daily drinking water and snacks All local reserve and park entrance fees Some alcoholic beverages will be offered throughout the tour, at the discretion of the lead guide.

not included in the tour price: International airfares to/from Colombia Domestic airfares in Colombia (other than those stated in inclusions) Insurance Tips (special gratuities) Alcoholic beverages Laundry Any other items of a personal nature Wild About Colombia clients enjoying breakfast in the field

General tour information Enjoying breakfast in the field On this classic Colombian birding tour, pre-dawn starts and long days in the field are to be expected. Much of our time is spent in pleasant elevated sub-tropical conditions. Canon del Rio Claro, however, is hot and humid. In contrast, our visits to the paramo ecosystems of Chingaza and Nevado del Ruiz, are at high altitudes where temperatures are much cooler and warm clothing is required. Packed breakfasts and picnic lunches will often be taken in the field to maximise our birding time. We will always aim to offer coffee/hot chocolate and a pre-breakfast snack wherever possible. Walking will be conducted downhill as much as possible, although some gentle uphill will sometimes be necessary. While our walks will not be overly strenuous, participants will be expected to spend long periods on their feet, gently birding the many habitats that we will be covering. However, for much of the tour (a few locations don't allow for vehicle access), our support vehicle(s) will never be far away, so there is the option of a sit-down break if required. Much of the birding will be conducted on little used tracks and roads - uneven surfaces are to be expected.

Further detailed information will be sent to you once you have booked, including a check list and practical information for your visit to Colombia, such as a clothing and equipment packing list, passport/visa information, currency and tipping suggestions, vaccinations, reading lists and suggested field guides, etc. In the meantime, should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch! Accommodation Accommodation is of a good standard throughout the tour, although we will stay in some simple birding lodges. In Bogota, Medellin and Manizales we will stay in conveniently located modern hotels. In Rio Claro, our base is a comfortable lodge next to the beautiful Rio Claro river – the rooms here have ceiling fans. In Jardin, we shall stay in a small clean and comfortable family-run guesthouse just off the town’s beautiful colonial square. One night will be spent high up in the mountains in the superbly located Hotel Termales del Ruiz, which features natural thermal hot springs. Montezuma Lodge is the most basic lodge on this tour, but the rooms are clean and offer private showers and toilet facilities, and the exciting suite of birds that are on offer, combined with our extremely welcoming hosts, more than make up for the simple accommodations. Our final night is in a clean and comfortable lodge surrounded by the Otun Quimbaya reserve. Should you have any questions about the lodges or hotels we use, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We will be very Hotel Termales del Ruiz and its' natural happy to discuss them in more detail. thermal hot-spring pool!

Tour guide(s) & group size We limit our birding groups to 8 guests. With 5-8 guests there will be x2 expert birding bilingual guides (Rob Smith + additional guide). With less than 5 guests there will be one expert bilingual guide.

How to book your place on this tour

Current dates for all Wild About Colombia tours can be found on our website: www.wildaboutcolombia.com

Once you know which tour you want to join, or if you have any questions on any of our tours, please contact us by telephone or email:

[email protected] or call: +57 316 815 8341 (Rob Smith)

We require a 20% (per person) deposit to confirm your place on the tour.

We look forward to hearing from you, and hope you will join us for a birding tour of a lifetime! Until then, happy birding, wherever you might be,

The Wild About Colombia team.

www.wildaboutcolombia.com