Where to go birdwatching in Santander
Santander ranges from less than 100 meters above sea level in the Magdalena valley to páramos above 3,000 meters in the Eastern Andes. The birds change with every shift in elevation and climate.
Topocoro region, home of the first edition
Around the Topocoro reservoir, seven community birding hosts welcome visitors in three areas: La Playa, on the Sogamoso River; Panorama, next to the reservoir; and the Serranía de La Paz, with well-preserved forests.
- La Playa del Río Sogamoso On the Sogamoso River · 151 species recorded
- Finca Cinco Estrellas Panorama, Lebrija · 185 species recorded
- Entre Flores & Aves Altamira, Betulia · 212 species recorded
- Joya Escondida Birding Serranía de La Paz · 198 species recorded
- Cotinga Azul Reserva Serranía de La Paz · 176 species recorded
- Reserva Natural Belmonte Serranía de La Paz · 175 species recorded
- Carpintero Bonito Birding Serranía de La Paz · 104 species recorded
Chicamocha canyon
Its dry slopes are home to the Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird and Niceforo’s Wren, two Colombian endemics that depend on this kind of habitat.
Serranía de los Yariguíes
This National Natural Park protects a large area of mountain forest in the Eastern Andes.
Reinita Cielo Azul reserve
A ProAves Foundation reserve in San Vicente de Chucurí. It protects mid-elevation mountain forests where the Cerulean Warbler, a North American migrant, spends the winter.
Guanentá Alto Río Fonce Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
A protected area with oak forests, home to the Gorgeted Wood-Quail.
Before you go
- Go with local guides: they know the trails and where each species is.
- Ask about access and opening hours of each reserve before you set out; some require advance booking.
- Bring the basics: binoculars, water, sunscreen and insect repellent.