River Birds
Salento is encircled by the rushing waters of several small but fast-flowing rivers. Flowing from the glaciers of Los Nevados Park, and fed by the cloud forests around the town the Quindío River is one of the best places to seek out aquatic bird species such as the Torrent Duck (Merganeta armata) or any of the three types of Kingfisher which can be found here.
Not only is it the home to a great number of bird species from hummingbirds to cormorants, El Agrado is one of the most beautiful places to walk just outside of town. As well as the river, the slightly lower altitude and warmer weather attract different bird species that can’t be found at other hotspots near Salento.
This tour is for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beautiful scenery along the river bank and discover the world of the birds that eat, drink, bathe, and live close to the water.
- Duration: 4 horas
- Walking Distance: 6 km
- Transport Distance: 6 km (return journey)
- Start Time: 5:45 am
- Average Number of Species: 20 - 35
- Difficulty: Easy
- Altitude: 1.700m
Target Species:
- Torrent Duck (Merganetta armada)
- Scrub Tanager (Stilpnia vitriolina)
- Tangara real (Stilpnia cyanicollis)
- Bay-headed Tanager (Tangara gyrola)
- Green Hermit (Phaethornis guy)
- Red-rumped Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus haematopygus)
| Group Size | Price per person | Total Price |
| 1 | $100 USD | $100 USD |
| 2 | $85 USD | $170 USD |
| 3 | $70 USD | $210 USD |
| 4 | $62 USD | $248 USD |
| 5 | $57 USD | $285 USD |
| 6 | $50 USD | $300 USD |
- Vortex Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42)
- Breakfast, fruit, snacks, and drinks
- Tour guide
- Transport
- Insurance
- Bird Species Checklist
- Sun protection
- Waterproof coat
- Suitable shoes for rain/mud
- Insect repellent
- Dark coloured clothes if possible
This tour starts and finishes in Salento, Quindío.
There is a direct bus from Medellin to Salento twice per day. Other buses arrive to either Pereira or Armenia and both cities have regular buses to and from Salento which take about one hour.
Flights arrive to Pereira from major cities around Colombia.
If you prefer to reserve private transport from either city, let us know when you make your reservation and we can organise it for you.
If you have any doubts or questions don’t hesitate to get in touch!
*If arriving by public transport we recommend arriving in Salento by at least the evening before the tour to ensure arrival before the early start time.
How fit or skilled do I need to be?
This tour is suitable for a range of abilities and skill-levels. If you are a beginner to birdwatching our guides will be on hand to help you make the most of it.
What’s the weather like?
The weather in Salento is known for being mild with an average temperature of around 20ºC, it can be changeable however, and we recommend preparing for both sun and rain.
How are the tours priced?
The prices of all of our experiences are calculated to ensure good value to our customers as well as a fair wage to staff. We value the knowledge and experience of our guides and local partners and ensure that we support our community.
The cost of a tour varies depending on group size especially when costs such as transport are included.
Due to the costs of receiving international payments our prices may be slightly higher in other currencies, they may also vary over time due to fluctuations in the exchange rate. If you prefer to pay in Colombian Pesos please let us know.
Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is suitable for children from age ten and up as it involves a walk.
What language will the tour be in?
This experience is currently available in both English and Spanish.
