Thanks to the abundant biological diversity found in Valle del Cauca, the department is one of the favorite destinations for bird watching enthusiasts. Not for nothing, this is an area that is known for being the refuge of an impressive number of species due to the wide range of ecosystems it harbors, ranging from tropical rainforest to cloud forest.
Cali is home to more than 560 identified species, representing almost 30% of the national total, located in the heart of Valle del Cauca, is one of the most important destinations for bird watching in Colombia. Its geographical location, variety of ecosystems and tropical climate make this region a privileged place to observe a wide diversity of species.
The forests, rivers, wetlands and mountains surrounding the city create an ideal habitat for both resident and migratory birds, making Cali a unique destination for birders and biologists.
There are 487 resident species Troglodytes aedon (Common cockatoo), 2 introduced species: Lonchura malacca (Black-headed capuchin), 6 extinct species and 7 endemic species: Picumnus granadensis (Spotted woodpecker).
22 nationally endangered species: Penelope perspicax (Caucasian guan). 26 globally threatened species: Spizaetus isidori (Crested Eagle), 52 near-endemic species: Forpus conspicillatus (Spectacled Parakeet) and 72 migratory species: Setophaga fusca 72 (Orange Warbler).
Its diverse geography, with mountains, valleys, forests and wetlands, creates an environment inhabited by a great variety of species. In the bird watching activity in Valle del Cauca, visitors can explore the nature of the department and discover the birds that make it so special.
Sighting routes vary from easy walks to more strenuous treks for those seeking to explore lesser-known areas. Local guides provide knowledge about the fauna and flora, sharing details about the behaviors and habitats of the birds encountered along the way.
Considered one of the best places for bird watching in Colombia, the Anchicayá River Canyon is a must-see destination. The site is located within the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park, in an area that is known for its abundant fauna and flora and the presence of endemic species. As if this were not enough, this canyon resides on the western slope of the Western Cordillera, one of the most biodiverse areas in the world.
Bird and wildlife watching tour on the Anchicayá River slope
You can explore all the trails that the canyon has to offer in a complete sighting tour. Besides offering the opportunity to observe the Chocó toucan or the quetzal, this is a tour made to connect with the local fauna in a green and lush natural environment, an immersive experience within the Farallones de Cali.
On the outskirts of Cali is a space that allows an inclusive experience with birds. Kilometer 18, anchored on the road that connects the capital of the Valley with the port of Buenaventura, is known for its cool and foggy climate. It has trails that adapt to different levels of ability and a splendid biodiversity where it is common to see species such as the blue-throated hummingbird and the Andean raveller. On the other hand, it is a tour that offers all kinds of sensory adventures. For the visually impaired, for example, there are auditory experiences that highlight the songs of the birds, allowing a unique connection with nature.
In the areas surrounding kilometer 18, 30 minutes from Cali, is a special area where humidity and fog create the perfect home for exceptional biodiversity, such as the multicolored tanager, and is an ideal destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. This is a place with trails ideal for short hikes, but full of sightings. The best time to visit is between June and August, when rainfall is lower.
La Leonera, a township that is part of the rural area of western Cali, offers the perfect mix of culture and birdwatching: here the local mythology comes alive through stories and legends about elves and magical beings. An emblematic place in the area is the Bichacue Yath Nature Reserve, a thematic garden whose name means “Bird Sanctuary” in the Nasa language, spoken by the people who live in the Andean zone of Colombia, especially in the department of Cauca. This space is adorned with sculptures of elves, fairies and gnomes, and offers guided routes ideal for the observation of about 70 species, including hummingbirds and tanagers, among other endemic birds. It is a mythical experience to educate about the importance of nature and oral tradition.
El Paraíso de los Colibríes is located at Finca Alejandría, in the middle of the cloud forest reserve, 35 minutes from Cali. The reserve is a very active area with 347 bird species counted and recorded.
This refuge, in the town of Dapa in the municipality of Yumbo, is an excellent option for those seeking an ecotourism experience in the Valley, combining comfort, outdoor activities and a genuine commitment to environmental conservation. This is a space that is part of the Cerro Dapa-Carisucio National Forest Reserve, which is recognized as an Important Bird Conservation Area (IBA). Its premontane rainforest reaches up to 1,850 meters above sea level and, in addition to offering camping areas and glamping services, more than 200 species of birds can be sighted here, including the Colombian guacharaca and the red-rumped toucan.
The Laguna de Sonso Nature Reserve, a wetland of approximately 2,045 hectares, and the El Vínculo Biological Station, a 1,200-hectare reserve, are two key points for finding waterfowl and dry forest birds in the municipality of Buga. With wetlands rich in life, these sites attract migratory and resident birds alike, each recording more than 180 species of birds, with herons, ducks, and raptors being the most important.
This park, shared between the departments of Risaralda, Chocó, and Valle, is difficult to access, which has made it a sanctuary of biodiversity that is home to a wide range of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to paramos. The area is home to more than 620 bird species, including 16 endemic to Colombia, seven of which are exclusive to the Cordillera Occidental. Different kinds of tanagers and the Caucasian guan can be seen in the park.
Located on the Pacific coast, in the municipality of Buenaventura, this park is not only famous for the humpback whales that arrive every year, but also for its rich bird life. With an extension of 47,094 hectares that include mangroves, tropical rainforests and marine areas, the park provides ideal habitats for both resident and migratory birds, among which the brown pelican, the magnificent frigate, the snowy egret and the green kingfisher stand out. Complement your stay in Bahia Malaga with a magnificent connecting tour to the Pacific.
This is a protected area approximately 18 km from the city of Buga, within the municipality of Yotoco. The reserve covers 559 hectares and is located between 1,200 and 1,600 meters above sea level. It is full of trails that allow the sighting of species such as the caucasian guan and various birds of the Andean rainforests. It is an area dedicated to research and conservation.
The Birdwatching Route “Entre Cantos y Colores” is part of the Mountain Tourism Corridor and is an ecotourism experience located in the village of Tenerife in the municipality of El Cerrito. This route is a community initiative led by the Asociación Palma de Cera, Páramos y Paisajes (ASOPALM) that seeks to promote the sustainable development of the region through nature tourism. The route connects several key points for bird watching in the department, offering a diverse experience in altitudes, ecosystems and avifauna such as the terlaque toucan and countless species of hummingbirds.
This trail is located in the village of El Bolo San Isidro, in the rural area of the municipality of Palmira, approximately 40 minutes from Cali. This place is an example of how agricultural production can be integrated with bird conservation, and in it the agricultural landscape becomes a refuge for many species, attracting observers looking for something more than the conventional experience. During the tour it is possible to see birds typical of the Tropical Dry Forest.
The Corredor Turístico de la Montaña starts at the Puente de las Águilas or Puente de los Patos de Torrente and ascends to the Laguna Negra in the Páramo de las Domínguez. This is a reserve with several high mountain rural lodging options where there are numerous wax palms and majestic birds such as eagles and toucans can be easily seen.
Discover more unforgettable experiences in Valle del Cauca by downloading the Visit Valle guide, including routes, tips and everything you need to plan your next ecotourism adventure!
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