Birdwatching at Rio Blanco

From $863094 COP per person

This day trip is available within the coffee zone

About

Río Blanco is broadly accepted as being one of the best birdwatching sites in the world.

The semi-private Río Blanco has traditionally been notoriously difficult to access. Now we are able to offer this destination to all as a day trip for those staying in family-owned fincas in the coffee zone, hotels in Salento or at Hacienda Venecia.

Ecosystems, flora and fauna

Río Blanco is a stunning 3600 hectare nature reserve situated between 1300 and 2300 metres above sea level. The reserve is interwoven with trails and crystal clear streams.

For many Río Blanco will be all about the birds. Expect to see Buff-tailed Coronet, Speckled Hummingbird, Bronzy and Collared Inca, Mountain Velvet-breast, White-bellied Woodstar and Long-tailed Sylph. In total there are 362 species including 13 endemics in the reserve.

For those interested in glimpsing the shy and difficult to spot Andean bear, there is one that lives at the reserve under the management’s protection.

Activities

It’s an early start for anyone planning on birdwatching at Río Blanco. From Manizales expect your day to commence at 5.30am. From Armenia and Pereira expect to leave even earlier.

Your day includes transport and approximately 4 hours of birdwatching. Walks will be tailored to your own personal preferences, to hike a trail up to the reserve’s peak requires a degree of fitness. Don’t let that put you off, you can be driven up and head straight for the birds.

Transport

The Colombian Way will organise your private transport to pick you up from your hotel and take you to the reserve, afterwards we will return you to your hotel.

Groups and private tours

Río Blanco is normally a private tour ideally suited for 2 to 8 people, larger groups available on request.

We say

Arguably the best birdwatching anywhere in Colombia
Early in the morning due to the reserve’s altitude it can be cool. Wear layers for warmth and bring a waterproof jacket. If you aim to do some walking, make sure you are wearing a pair of walking shoes with good tread