​Embark on an unforgettable birding adventure in the enchanting landscapes of the Santa Marta Mountains and the Atlantic Coast of Colombia. This journey promises to enchant both seasoned birdwatchers and novices alike, offering the opportunity to witness some of the most remarkable avian biodiversity in the world.

Barranquilla: The Gateway to Birding

Your birding trip begins in the vibrant coastal city of Barranquilla. Known for its lively culture and the famed Barranquilla Carnival, the city also serves as a starting point for birding enthusiasts eager to explore the northern treasures of Colombia. While acclimating to the region, take a stroll through the local parks and enjoy the sight of urban bird species that thrive in this bustling environment.

Salamanca National Park: A Birding Haven

Just a short drive from Barranquilla, Salamanca National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, marshes, and coastal lagoons, are home to a multitude of bird species. Here, you can observe the striking Roseate Spoonbill, the charming American Flamingo, and the elusive Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird. Target species will include Bicolored Conebill, Pied and Russet-throated Puffbirds, Stripe-backed Wren, Caribbean (Palelegged) Hornero, Turquoise- winged Parrotlet, Glossy, White, and Green Ibises, Yellow-chinned Spinetail, Largebilled Tern, Sapphire-bellied and Sapphire-throated Hummingbirds, and more. The scenic beauty of the park, coupled with the melodic calls of its avian inhabitants, creates a truly immersive experience.

Los Flamencos Sanctuary: A Symphony of Colors

Continuing along the Atlantic Coast, a visit to Los Flamencos Sanctuary is essential. This protected area, characterized by its salt flats and coastal lagoons, is renowned for its large populations of American Flamingos. Watching these elegant birds wade gracefully through the shallow waters is a sight to behold. The sanctuary is also home to numerous other waterbirds, making it a hotspot for birding photography. Some key species include the Vermilion Cardinal, Orinocan Saltator, Blue-crowned Parakeet, Buffy Hummingbird, Chestnut Piculet, Bareeyed Pigeon, White-whiskered Spinetail, Glaucous Tanager, and Tawny-crowned Pygmy-Tyrant.

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: A Mountainous Marvel

The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountain range, rising dramatically from the coastal plains, is a must-visit for any birding enthusiast. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve boasts some of the highest peaks in Colombia and is a biodiversity hotspot. The rich variety of habitats, ranging from tropical rainforests to high-altitude páramos, support an extraordinary array of bird species, many of which are endemic to the region. trees. Just of few of the key species include Santa Marta Blossomcrown, Santa Marta Tapaculo, Santa Marta Sabrewing, Crested Bobwhite, White-tipped Dove, Green Violetear, White-vented Plumeleteer, Collared Aracari, Golden-olive, and Black-backed Antshrike.

San Lorenzo Ridge: Birding at Its Best

One of the prime birding locations within the Sierra Nevada is the San Lorenzo Ridge. This area offers unparalleled opportunities to observe a multitude of bird species, including the Santa Marta Parakeet, Rusty-headed Spinetail, and the Santa Marta Warbler. The ridge's unique position provides stunning panoramic views and access to high-altitude birding trails, making it a highlight of the trip. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest coastal mountain range in the world, is home to an incredible 20 endemic species, which accounts for 27 percent of the endemics in the entire country. Search for as many of these species as you can find along the altitudinal gradient of the San Lorenzo Ridge. lodge. Some of the species that you may hope to find in the Santa Marta Mountains include the Santa Marta Parakeet, White-tailed Starfrontlet, Rusty-headed Spinetail, Brown-rumped Tapaculo, Yellow-crowned Redstart, Santa Marta Warbler, Black-backed Thornbill, Hermit Wood-Wren, White-tipped Quetzal, and many more!

Conclusion: A Journey to Remember

A birding trip to the Santa Marta Mountains and the Atlantic Coast of Colombia is more than just an opportunity to observe birds; it’s a chance to connect with nature, experience the diverse cultures of Colombia, and create lasting memories. Every stop, from the bustling city of Barranquilla to the tranquil heights of San Lorenzo Ridge, offers its own unique birding experiences, ensuring that this journey will be cherished for years to come.

​

Pack your binoculars, don your birding hat, and prepare for an extraordinary adventure into one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. Whether you are captivated by the vibrant plumage of a Scarlet Ibis or the melodic song of a White-lored Warbler, the Santa Marta Mountains and Atlantic Coast of Colombia await you with open wings and open hearts.