Best 3 Sunflower Fields That You Can Actually Visit in Colombia

The Sunflower (Helianthus annuus, the common sunflower) is worldwide known for its beauty and Vincent van Gogh paintings. The blooming of this beautiful flowers everywhere attracts many people to the so-called sunflower tourism.

Although they are treated as weeds, they fulfill an important function: their ability to grow in all types of environments and their resistance to drought allows them to invade degraded sites, where they detain the soil. Also, because they produce a lot of nectar, they attract numerous pollinators, such as bees. 

Origin of Sunflowers

Indigenous domestication

Sunflowers were domesticated by Mesoamerican Indian tribes, and are traditionally associated with pre-Columbian Mexican cultures. They were cultivated more for their usefulness than for their beauty.

However, the sunflower was used as a symbol representing the sun deity, primarily by the Aztecs and Otomies in Mexico and the Incas in Peru.

In 1532, Francisco Pizarro entered Peru, where he found a gigantic sunflower that the indigenous people of the Inca empire worshipped as a sacred image of the sun god. Then, gold figures of this flower, as well as seeds, were taken to Europe at the beginning of the 16th century.

Crops and Sunflower Tourism

Nowadays, their cultivation for oil extraction has been widespread in Spain since about 1980, thanks to subsidies from the European Economic Community. The same happens in the United Stated.

However, this is not the only appeal of sunflowers; the beauty of their fields attracts millions of tourists around the world.

Today there are sunflower fields on every continent, but the sunflower fields in Spain and Italy are the most famous for their unparalleled beauty.

The most beautiful sunflower fields in Spain are those found in the regions of La Bureba in Burgos, Cardejón in Soria, Carmona in Seville and Antequera in Malaga.

On the other hand, the most famous sunflower field in Italy is in the Tuscany region.

Sunflower Movement

Every day, sunflowers move towards the sun, following it on its east-west route. At night they move in the opposite direction, as if waiting for the sun to rise the next morning.

But one day they stop doing so, since when they reach maturity they stop their dance, do not turn again and remain oriented indefinitely towards the east until they die.

This movement, called heliotropism, is regulated by the circadian rhythm of the plants, and favors their growth.

And the truth is, it is not the flower that turns, it is the uneven growth of its stems that causes the turning. And when they stop growing, they stop turning.

That they stop is not entirely sad, since when they reach maturity, the plant is ready to be pollinated. The flowers release additional heat, which makes them more attractive to pollinating insects.

Find out more in the Science Report Circadian regulation of sunflower heliotropism, floral orientation, and pollinator visits: Sun-tracking when young, east-facing when mature, warmer sunflowers attract more pollinators.

Sunflower Tourism in Colombia

Research on sunflower cultivation in Colombia has been carried out since the late 1950s. But it was not until 1985 that the first sunflower field was planted for commercial production. The first crops were planted in Valle del Cauca, Tolima and Cesar.

In general, sunflower grows well in Colombia, from sea level to 2600 meter above sea level, so much so that today there are crops in Bogota. However, it was not until 2020 that some fields began to be used for tourism.

Today, there are several destinations where you can visit sunflower fields in Colombia, bu today I am goiong to talk about the most suitable for visit: San Martin, in the department of Meta, in the eastern plains of Colombia, Montes de Maria in the department of Bolivar, in the Colombian Caribbean region, and Valledupar in the department of Cesar, also part of the Caribbean region.

Sunflower Tourism in San Martin, Meta

Sunflower Tourism in San Martin de Los Llanos, Meta, Colombia CC @campodegirasolessm

The municipality of San Martin de los Llanos is located one hour from Villavicencio, capital of Meta. The annual sowing of sunflowers in a private plot of land in San Martín de los Llanos is the place that delights the visitor’s eyes with a minefield of this plant.

For more than five years, between the months of October and November, the sunflower crop blooms, and every year tourists are treated to the experience of walking among a crop of large and impressive sunflowers.

The tour starts at 10:00 in the morning or at 3:00 in the afternoon, from the municipality of San Martin with the indications of the authorized guides.

To get there you have to cross a 3-kilometer dirt road from San Martin; since it is private land, it is not permitted to indicate the exact location of the place.

Sunflower Tourism in Montes de María (or Serranía de San Jacinto), Bolívar

Sunflowers in San Jacinto, Bolivar, Colombia. Pic. by @yulart__

Between the departments of Bolívar and Sucre, in the Colombian Caribbean, is located the sub-region of Montes de María, a vast territory of agricultural and livestock tradition whose geographical location consolidated it as a corridor that connects a large part of the country with the Caribbean region and some of its main ports.

The Montes de María (also known as Serranía de San Jacinto) length does not exceed 110 km and its altitudes are less than 1,200 meters above sea level.

Montes de María, a Post-conflict Destination

The Montes de María area suffered from conflict for years, being a zone of FARC-EP guerrilla activity and paramilitary groups including the AUC. A particularly difficult period was in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

For years, this territory was forgotten, but now it is reappearing to conquer Colombians and foreigners with its beauty. In addition to the handicrafts, bagpipes and natural landscapes, there is a sunflower field, which has become another tourist attraction.

Tourism, entrepreneurship and sustainability

In the Sibar farm there is fish farming, chicken breeding and now, beekeeping that began to be generated thanks to the planting of these sunflowers.

It is an eco-efficient farm, where nothing is thrown away. The chicken feces (chicken manure) are used as fertilizer for the sunflowers. The flour from the sunflowers is fed to fish and chickens.

Bee Keeping Crops: The company AgroFrance sold the sunflower seeds to the farm owners

Sibar Farm and its Sunflower Fields

The idea arose as a result of the pandemic. Originally, it was a soy-based poultry feed manufacturing company. Due to the covid-19 pandemic, they came up with the idea of using sunflower meal as raw material for concentrate plants for cattle, sheep, swine, fish and poultry feed.

The company AgroFrance sold the sunflower seeds to the farm owners, and gave them technical assistance for planting, which is how the three-hectare sunflower field was born.

This sunflower variety produces grains with high protein, vitamin and fiber content, which have different uses for human consumption. These characteristics make this field even more special for tourists.

The field is located on the Sibar farm, on the outskirts of the municipality of San Jacinto, and very close to the Troncal de Occidente highway in the Montes de María.

Entering to contemplate the 180 thousand sunflowers has no cost. The only recommendation of the owner Alfredo Villadiego is that the visit is made with all the biosecurity protocols and without making noise because they can scare the bees!

Sunflower Tourism in Valledupar, Cesar

Sunflower Fields in Valledupar, Cesar, Colombia CC Publimetro.co

The cultivation of sunflower in the department of Cesar arose thanks to the union of several farmers. As in Bolivar, AgroFrance International distributed the seed to the local agricultural farmers.

The crops are located on the road that leads to the village of El Jabo, five minutes from Valledupar, at Finca La Esmeralda, and there are other fields distributed in the village of Los Venados, and in the municipality of Urumita in La Guajira.

Sunflower as an Alternative Crop

Sunflower cultivation in Cesar has become a planting alternative due to the scarce markets for rice, corn, cotton, sorghum, and other products, and it is a plant that does not require abundant water. Farmers in the area hope to harvest the grain to take it to agribusiness as oil or flour.

Bee sanctuary, therapeutic and tourist attractiveness

The harmonious and constant buzzing of bees accompanies this yellow feast, making it a sanctuary for bees. Thousands of bees arrive in swarms from the mountains to give life to the crops and help the pollination of this plant.

Some countries such as Germany, Austria, Denmark, Spain, Belgium, France and Greece must implant bee hives, artificially, due to the scarcity of this insect in these countries.

One of the owners of the crops has witnessed how hundreds of people come to appreciate these flowers, and for the landscape impact of 200 thousand sunflower plants framed under the silhouette of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, which for some resembles Swiss landscapes.

The fields have even been visited by several people with health problems to enjoy the beauty of the crop. In this way, they are contributing to the community.

Important Precautions When Visiting a Sunflower Field

  • You should wear appropriate footwear for the tour and the mud.
  • Avoid wearing strong perfumes before visiting, as they attract bees.
  • In addition, it is recommended not to run inside the field and it is forbidden to cut the sunflowers.

Remember, these places are especially for those who wish to enjoy nature.

If you want to know more about nature and agro-tourism destinations in Colombia do not hesitate in contact us or visit our Plan your trip page.

References
About the authors

Sara Colmenares

The current director of Sula. Doctor in Biological Sciences. Her main interests are to explore and understand the organism-environment interactions, taking advantage of emerging knowledge for the management and conservation of species and ecosystem services. She is currently working as a consultant in functional ecology, ecosystem services, and conservation projects in Colombia related to ecotourism and birdwatching.

Best Amazon River Dolphin Spots in Colombia ( A.k.a. Pink River Dolphin)

Dolphins are undoubtedly wonderful creatures, worthy of our affection and wonder. That is why many of us want to meet them in person. Moreover, true river dolphins, commonly known as the Amazon River Dolphin, the Pink River Dolphin, Tonina, or Boto, are much more attractive, mysterious, and charismatic. They are among the rarest and most endangered of all vertebrates in the world.

In this post, we will present you where to see the Amazon River Dolphins (Inia geoffrensis) or as many people call them, the pink dolphins, in Colombia.

Pink dolphin – Inia geoffrensis, picture by Fundacion Omacha

Amazon River Dolphin Facts

  1. The Amazon River Dolphin is the largest freshwater cetacean in the world, it manages to reach lengths of up to 2.80 meters long and a maximum weight of 200 kilograms.
  2. Its color varies depending on age, young dolphins and females show grayish colors while adults, and principally the males, turn pink, which gives them their characteristic name.
  3. There are many theories to explain its color, but many agree it is a result of the wear and tear of their skin, and some scars.
  4. Scientists discovered that river dolphins come from a very ancient lineage that inhabited the seas.
  5. Its behavior is very different from sea dolphins. They use to have a solitary life, sometimes in small groups composed of a maximum of four members.
  6. Their food consists of crabs, river turtles, piranhas, and other river fish.
  7. The pink dolphin is part of the folklore of the inhabitants of the Amazon and there are many legends and myths around this animal.

Myths and Legends around the Pink Dolphin

These legends generally attribute supernatural powers to the dolphins. One of the most famous legends tells that the pink dolphin was a young and very handsome indigenous warrior who awoke the envy of one of the gods for his masculine attributes.

This god decided to transform the warrior into a dolphin, condemning him to live in the rivers and lakes of the Amazon. It is said that the attractive dolphin dances perfectly and no woman can flee before his charms.

Pink Dolphins are Endangered Species

According to the classification of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Amazon river dolphin is endangered, with only one category below the risk of extinction.

People kill them on behalf of their cultural traditions, or because they are competitors for fish. Other threats faced by the pink dolphin include accidental fishing, habitat loss, being killed for fish bait, and contamination.

With scientific research and responsible tourism, many people became aware of the importance of the conservation of these animals. In Colombia, NGOs as OMACHA and ECONARE are doing a great job to protect and conserve these animals.

Where You Can Find the Pink River Dolphin

These dolphins are widely distributed in South America and can be found in Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Colombia.

Scientists have not agreed on how many subspecies of pink dolphin exist, but certainly, they are not similar among the different regions. The IUCN recognizes three subspecies:

  • I. g. geoffrensis (Amazon river dolphin)
  • I. g. boliviensis (Bolivian river dolphin)
  • I. g. humboldtiana (Orinoco river dolphin)

While the Committee on Taxonomy of the Society for Marine Mammalogy only recognizes the first two of these.

Distribution map of all known species and subspecies of Inia. Black outline denotes the limit of the Amazon basin. Question marks denote uncertainty as to which species occurs in the Tocantins River downstream of the Tucuruí dam which potentially delimits the distributions of I. geoffrensis and I. araguaiaensis sp. nov. Bars on the Madeira River represent a series of rapids that delimit the distribution of I. geoffrensis and I. boliviensis. The single bar on the northern limit of the Amazon basin represents the Casiquiare canal which connects the Amazon and Orinoco basins, and is thought to delimit the I. g. humboldtiana subspecies from I. g. geoffrensis.
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0083623.g001

To see how little is known about the pink dolphin, a relatively recent scientific study proposes a new species living in southeastern Brazil, the Inia araguaiaensis. They even propose the Bolivian subspecies should be recognized as a separate species, I. boliviensis. Take a look at the map above.

Where to See Pink River Dolphins in Colombia

Many people who contact us wanting to plan their trip to see the pink dolphin believe that it is only possible to see it in Leticia, the capital of the department of Amazonas in Colombia.

However, the Amazon as a region encompasses many more departments, not only the Amazon but also Vaupes, Guainia, Guaviare, Caqueta, and Putumayo.

On the other hand, all these departments are connected by a dense network of rivers and canals that run not only through Colombia, but all neighboring countries. And this is how the pink river dolphin manages to expand throughout the region.

Map of distribution of Inia geoffrensis in Colombia. ©Trujillo, F., Crespo, E., Van Damme, P.A. & J.S. Usma (Editors). 2010. The Action Plan for South American River Dolphins 2010 – 2020. WWF, Fundación Omacha, WDS, WDCS, Solamac. Bogotá, D.C., Colombia. 249 pp.

Thus, the pink river dolphin is not only distributed throughout the Colombian Amazon region but also reaches the eastern plains and the Guyanese shield, in the departments of  Amazonas, Putumayo, Caqueta, Vaupes, Guaviare, Guainia, Vichada, Meta, Casanare, and Arauca. Take a look at the map above to find your way around.

Despite its wide distribution, you can only visit a few places to meet the pink dolphin in Colombia.

Amazon river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis), also known as the boto, bufeo or pink river dolphin, Puerto Nariño

Amazonas

You can visit Leticia and Puerto Nariño on short boat trips along the Amazon river. However, we recommend you go to Puerto Nariño.

Puerto Nariño

The city of Puerto Nariño is the destination to see the river pink dolphins in the department of Amazonas. Here you have to navigate the Correo and Tarapoto lakes to see the wonderful pink dolphins up close.

Zacambu and the Three Frontiers

You can also depart from Leticia on a river tour on the majestic Amazon River. It is a tour towards the Zacambu village and the three frontiers region.

During the navigation through the river, you will be able to appreciate the flooded jungle. Arriving at the border with Peru, you will find Islandia (Peru), known as the Venice of the Amazon. This is a town that floods periodically, and that is why its houses are elevated as well as its streets. Once in the lakes of Zacambu, it will be possible to see river dolphins.

Where to Stay

Waira Suites Hotel – Leticia

Vichada

The department of Vichada is a known destination for sportfishing. However, it is also possible to go there and see the pink river dolphin. There the Meta, Bita, and Orinoco rivers converge, and there are tours in a boat to watch the pink dolphin departing from Puerto Carreno, the main city of Vichada.

Where to Stay

Carreño Plaza Hotel – Puerto Carreno

Meta

The “Ruta del Amanecer llanero” is the best way to see the pink dolphins in Meta. Visit our entry #1 Llanos Experience near Bogotá: The Llanero Dawn Route in Meta, to know more about this route.

The city of Puerto Gaitán, located 194 km south of Villavicencio, is bathed by the waters of the Manacacías river. Boat tours to watch the dolphins are an almost every day offer.

Puerto Gaitan is the most recommended destination if you do not have enough time to travel to far destinations such as Leticia, or Puerto Carreno. It is also the nearest to Bogota, the capital city of Colombia.

Where to Stay

Lagos de Menegua Hotel and Bioreserve

Mururito Natural Reserve

Guaviare

In the Nare Lagoon, very close to the city of San Jose del Guaviare, pink dolphins live and you will have the opportunity to swim with them.

There, with the help of local guides, you will learn the story of how they got there. You can also observe different species of fauna and flora throughout the tour.

With this trip, you will be directly helping the families that are part of ECONARE. Econare is a local association of community-based tourism in charge of preserving the nature of the area and the safety of the dolphins that inhabit the lagoon. You will also help all those people who make it possible for you to live these experiences.

Where to Stay

Quinto Nivel Hotel

How is a Pink Dolphin Tour?

Dolphins can only be observed from a certain distance on wooden platforms or in boats. Sportfishing adjacent to their hunting areas is prohibited and along with this, feeding them is forbidden as it would cause human dependence.

Best Time to Visit the Pink Dolphin

All year round in Colombia, especially in Guaviare and Meta.

Recommendations for your visit

  • Take yellow fever and tetanus vaccines before arrival.
  • Do not forget the mosquito repellent, it is highly recommended.
  • Rubber boots, raincoat, long-sleeved shirts, sunscreen.
  • Leave no trace.

If you want to plan your trip to Colombia do not hesitate to contact us, visit our Plan your trip page!

References
  • OMACHA Foundation.
  • Hrbek T, da Silva VMF, Dutra N, Gravena W, Martin AR, Farias IP (2014) A New Species of River Dolphin from Brazil or: How Little Do We Know Our Biodiversity. PLoS ONE 9(1): e83623.
  • Trujillo, F., Crespo, E., Van Damme, P.A. & J.S. Usma (Editors). 2010. The Action Plan for South American River Dolphins 2010 – 2020. WWF, Fundación Omacha, WDS, WDCS, Solamac. Bogotá, D.C., Colombia. 249 pp.
  • Status and conservation of river dolphins Inia geoffrensis and Sotalia fluviatilis in Colombia. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/ [accessed Apr 15 2021].
About the author

Sara Colmenares

The current director of Sula. Doctor in Biological Sciences. Her main interests are to explore and understand the organism–environment interactions, taking advantage of emerging knowledge for the management and conservation of species and ecosystem services. She is currently working as a consultant in functional ecology, ecosystem services, and conservation projects in Colombia related to ecotourism and birdwatching.

The Best Photography Destinations around Colombia Natural Regions


Coral reefs, mangroves, tropical and Andean forests, golden deserts, immense savannas, wetlands, stunning moorlands and glaciers… This variety of ecosystems allows a great assortment of wildlife.

These appear like photogenic landscapes, right? You can find all this photography destinations and much more in Colombia, the second most biodiverse country on the planet. If nature photography is your passion, you cannot miss visiting Colombia for Photography Tours.

Colombia’s geography is so diverse that it is divided into 6 natural regions, each one with totally different landscapes, weather, fauna and flora. There is always something new to see and shoot in all regions. Here are the most common destinations to do nature photography tours in Colombia.

Photography tours in the Caribbean Region

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Tayrona Park

The Caribbean region, north of Colombia, is blessed by nature and is the home of most ecosystems of the tropical zone of the planet. This produces high diversity of fauna and flora, climates and cultures.

Photo expeditions commonly go to Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Tayrona Park, thanks to their scenic views and abundant wildlife. In addition, these lands are inhabited by indigenous communities that have a sacred relationship with nature.

Views of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta from Minca

There is a lot to be marveled at: the intense blue sea becomes a tropical forest and the land rises up to 5,700 meters above sea level and suddenly you see a snow-capped peak! This is a sight difficult to find anywhere else in the world.

It is possible to find the ruins of the most important archaeological and historical finding in Colombia: The Lost City, which makes a great scenery for photographs.

You can even get pictures of jaguars, tapirs, howler and titi monkeys, white eagles, royal flycatchers and more. Clear night skies full of stars are also perfect to be framed.

La Guajira

La Guajira is another marvelous place to be at. Its vast golden desert, along with its stunning white-sand beaches, rock formations and green highlands standing out from the dry plains are a paradise on earth. Two of its ecotourism highlights are Serrania de Macuira National Natural Park and Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary.

Birds of La Guajira – Royal Tern – Thalasseus maximus

Macuira boasts primates, ocelots, blackbirds, blue-gray tanagers and more wildlife in the only highland of the region. Los Flamencos is a place full of swamps where bright pink flamingos live and are commonly photographed. Riohacha, Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas are nice destinations to practice landscape photography.

Travel to other National Natural Parks and amaze yourself with the astonishing natural landscapes of the Caribbean region of Colombia.

Photography tours in the Amazon Region

Sunset at the Amazon River

The Amazon jungle has become a famous ecotourism and ethno-tourism destination and here you can practice landscape, portrait and wildlife photography.

Amazon

The Amazon department is to the south end of Colombia, below the equator and it is a meeting point between 3 countries (Colombia, Peru and Brazil). It belongs to the basin of the Amazon river, that with 6,800 km is the longest in the world.

Apart from being in the middle of the world, this is a fertile land covered by a thick jungle and mighty rivers, wildlife and ancient indigenous communities… A perfect landscape to frame.

Mealy Parrot (Amazona farinosa), Vaupés, Colombia

All tours start from Leticia, the capital, and travel by boat to nature reserves such as the Amacayacu National Natural Park or Monkey Island. Anyway, you will find amazing scenes to shoot all around, from pink dolphins swimming along with your boat, to playful monkeys and colorful macaws.

The fauna combined with immense mahogany and cedar trees, indigenous communities settled on the riverbanks and beautiful sunsets make the ideal postcard for you to take home.

Guainía

In Guainia department, about 3 hours by speedboat from Inirida, Cerros de Mavecure dazzle with their majesty. Part of the Guiana Shield (some of the oldest rocks on the planet), these 3 huge granite rock hills are known as tepuyes, which means ‘home of the gods’.

Mavecure Hills – Picture courtesy by Andrés Rodríguez, local indigenous guide.

Despite the rocky features, it is possible to see orchids, armadillos and king vultures on the hills, and Amazonian wildlife inhabits the surrounding jungle: tigers, tapirs, big snakes, macaws, among others. Do not miss the opportunity to shoot the extraordinary El Mono, El Pajaro and Mavecure hills.

Guaviare

Guaviare, the department located in the transition zone between the Orinoco and the Amazon regions, offers unparallel sites for admiring and photographing nature.

Some biodiversity reserves such as Serrania de Chiribiquete NNP and Nukak NNR are closed to the public, but you can visit the 12 meter rocky outcrop of Puerta de Orión, which boasts mazes, caves and rock formations, from where you can sight the vast savanna with natural bridges and tunnels. Every December, from 7 to 9 pm, you can see the Orion’s Belt from there, hence its name.

Cave paintings of the Nukak, Serranía de La Lindosa. ©Julian Ruiz P. CC

To the south of the capital San José del Guaviare, Serranía La Lindosa is admired by tourists and researchers, since it also features canyons, rocky outcrops adorned with pictographic art made by pre-Columbian groups, caves, tunnels, bridges and plateaus.

Photography tours in the Pacific Region

The Biogeographic Chocó

In the west side of Colombia, and bordered with Panama, this remote area is one of the major biodiversity hotspots in the world.

We are specifically talking about the Biogeographic Chocó, an area that represents 2% of the earth surface and yet it hosts 10% of the world’s biodiversity!

The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)

Chocó Department

Chocó is the only department in the country with access to both Pacific and Caribbean oceans. Here you will be awe-struck by the pristine natural landscapes suitable for nature and wildlife photography.

Get lost in the Darien jungle that merges with the sea, visit the Utría National Park and the capital Quibdó, on the banks of the Atrato river and enjoy a dream sunset. Your journey will be accompanied by African rhythms played in drums by the vigorous locals.

Other towns to travel to in search of green landscapes and white-sand beaches are Capurganá and Sapzurro.

However, the event most tourists are eager to photograph is the arrival of humpback whales, which travel from Antarctica to the Pacific coast of Colombia each year from July to October to mate and give birth to their calves. A completely worthy sight.

You can experience this in Nuquí and Bahía Solano. This region is also great for bird and turtle watching. Wherever you go, you will face crystalline rivers, nice springs and unspoiled forests and beaches that will get you the best pictures.

Photography tours in the Andean Region

Photography tours in the Coffee Region

Eje Cafetero (or Coffee Region) is to the central west of Colombia and belongs to the Andean region, on the Western and Central Andes Ranges. Given its name, it is easy to infer that this region is renowned by its production of high-quality coffee.

As one of the most visited destinations in Colombia, there are different activities for tourists in the three departments that conform the region: Caldas, Risaralda and Quindío. For amateurs to professional photographers, the rural scenery is wonderful.

Brown-banded Antpitta (Grallaria milleri) at Rio Blanco Reserve, Caldas, Colombia

Coffee Farms

Visit a coffee farm is a must. Here you will be shown the coffee production process from its cultivation to its harvest and how it is toasted. Local farmer families welcome you with open arms and let you contemplate the extensive green mountainous landscapes.

Los Nevados National Park

You can shoot the bright red coffee beans standing out in the plantations. However, it is not all about coffee, there are beautiful natural destinations such as Los Nevados National Natural Park.

Here you will discover páramo wildlife and get the perfect shot of imposing mountains whose peaks appear to be covered by clouds.

Photography tours in Huila

El Encanto Nature Reserve – Birding Photography

Colombian Massif

To the southwest of Colombia, in the Colombian Massif, is this department that offers a  great nature tourism experience. In the former territory of native communities such as Pijaos, Andaquíes, Yalcones, Paeces and Tamas, there are tons of photogenic landscapes.

Along with the Magdalena river -the longest in the country-, this land is blessed with many rivers and streams that are source of economic development for the inhabitants.

Nevado del Huila, the highest peak of the central mountain range, is also there. You can spot it’s -still- snow-capped peak at over 5,000 meters above sea level.

Tatacoa Desert

One of the main tourist attractions in Huila, also for photography, is the Tatacoa Desert. To the north of the capital Neiva, many tourists get to this tropical dry forest for hiking, camping and doing astronomical observation, therefore, astrophotography and night photography are also common.

The gateway of Tatacoa is the Paleontological museum Villavieja and on the way, you will find three sectors. The soil erosion makes Cuzco a place full of reddish natural sculptures with vestiges of ancient fossil deposits.

Tatacoa Desert

Hoyos, on the other hand, shows differently shaped mounds of gray tones and leads to a pool of mineralized water built by locals.

Finally, El Cardón sector offers nice landscapes of sub xerophytic vegetation, including cactus, and possibilities for wildlife and bird photography. Take advantage of the clear night sky to take your best shot.

San Agustín

Another attraction for photographers is going on a tour for the Eco-Archaeological Route in the southern part of Huila. Around this area, you will find many water streams, hills, canyons and foggy forests.

But the must-visit sites are the archaeological parks located in the townships of San Agustin and Isnos on volcanic cones. The San Agustin Archaeological Park is the most famous one and leaves you amazed by the monumental stone carvings, tombs, petroglyphs and monoliths left by the native cultures.

You will find waterfalls and natural reserves nearby. Practice your archaeological and landscape photography skills in Huila!

Photography tours in Bogota and Cundinamarca

Bogotá

Bogotá is the country’s capital, founded in 1538, is a cosmopolitan city that combines tradition and modernity. With high buildings hiding big colonial houses and lots of urban infrastructure, it is surprising that you are able to see nature all around the city.

It is situated on the Eastern Andes, in a region known as the Savannah of Bogotá, a high plateau at 2,630 MASL. Because of this, you can find Andean forests with crystal-clear streams minutes away from downtown, a total privilege for nature lovers.

Monserrate, Bogotá, Colombia
Eastern Hills of Bogotá

The Eastern Hills (Cerros Orientales) are a good place to shoot wildlife. Among the animals that can be observed here are bats, squirrels, rabbits, weasels, opossums, páramo mice, lizards, iguanas, frogs, hummingbirds, owls, the great thrush, the brown-bellied swallow and the eared dove.

The vegetation is mainly frailejones (Espeletia), the encenillo tree (Weinmannia tomentosa) and different native shrubs.

Wetlands of Bogotá

You can also visit several wetlands that house big amounts of bird species. This is what remains after the time when half of the city’s territory was covered with wetlands and lagoons. Wetlands such as La Florida, Santa María del Lago and Córdoba can be nice settings for a nature photo tour, specifically bird photo tours.

Many-striped Canastero – Asthenes flammulata
Other destinations near to Bogotá

Nearby Bogota, there are lakes, cloud forests and moorlands, including the Páramo of Sumapaz , the largest páramo in the world.

The flora here is similar to that of the Eastern Hills, but you can spot other animals such as the endangered spectacled bear, little red brocket deer, tapirs, coatis, the golden eagle, torrent and Páramo ducks.

There is the possibility to visit towns on the outskirts of Bogota that offer great landscapes to photograph: Zipaquirá with its Salt Cathedral, the Lake Guatavita, the cloud forest of Chicaque, among others.

Photography tours in Boyacá and Santander

North of the capital, Bogotá, departments of Boyacá and Santander boast colonial cities and marvelous sights.

Boyacá

In Boyaca, capture the aquamarine pools surrounded by desert-like areas and a pine forest in Pozos Azules, visit El Cocuy National Natural Park to photograph the scenic beauty of the glacier environment or travel to the Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary to take shots of the sacred Lake Iguaque, the cradle of humanity according to Muisca mythology, where you will find variety of fauna and flora.

Santander

In Santander, one of the largest canyons in the world, the Chicamocha Canyon constantly receives many visitors thrilled to witness the breathtaking landscape of this place.

The Chicamocha National Park is focused on ecotourism and offers extreme sports as well as ostrich and goat parks where you can take nice shots of these animals with an incredible background.

Photography tours in Antioquia

Guatapé, Antioquia

Medellín and surrounds

Antioquia, a department in central northwestern Colombia, is a renowned tourism destination. With huge mountains, valleys and access to the Caribbean Sea, the offer of photogenic landscapes is wide.

Starting from the “city of eternal spring”, you will find the perfect spot for bird watching in Arví Ecotourism Park. It is a public park to which you can easily get by Metro and start an amazing photo expedition.

Trogon personatus (Masked Trogon) at Parque Arví – Antioquia

From two watchtowers, and accompanied by local guides, you can spot 69 bird species such as Masked Trogon, Andean Motmot, and Swainson’s hawk.

Along several hiking paths, you will discover the fauna and flora that inhabit the territory, for example there is one called Orchids, Anthuriums and Bromeliads.

Rio Claro Canyon Reserve

Around Medellin, there are other places with natural beauty such as Rio Claro Canyon natural reserve, which protects tropical forests in the region.

This reserve is one of Colombia’s 58 endemism centers and keeps plant species such as Adelobotrys antioquensis and Caryodaphnopsis cogolloi and 100 mammal species, 350 birds, 45 amphibians, 50 fish and many kinds of bugs and invertebrates.

Guatapé

Thanks to this, you will be eager to take pictures all over the place. Guatapé is a little known with an incredible view from the Peñol Rock, the main attraction. To get to the top, you must climb over 700 steps, but the view is worth it. You can shoot the landscape made up of blue lake with small green islands.

Urabá

For bird and wildlife photography, Urabá is the right place. Being an unspoiled territory due to past armed conflict, it hosts huge biodiversity and you can spot endemic birds such as the Sooty-capped Puffbird or the Northern Screamer, as well as marine turtles, poisonous frogs and jaguars.

Photography tours in the Orinoquia Region

Giant otter or giant river otter (Pteronura brasiliensis)

Part of the ecoregion of tropical grassland plains, known as Los Llanos, belongs to Colombia. Los Llanos belong to the Colombian natural region of Orinoquia, located in the Orinoco river basin and characterized by vast savannas, marshlands, llaneros (Colombian cowboys), joropo music and great sunsets.

It is an important biodiversity reservoir worldwide where visitors can live the cowboy experience, so you should come well-equipped to capture the most incredible scenes of your visit.

If you want to do wildlife photography, you just get into a jeep and navigate the endless savannas in search of species such as anaconda, giant river otter, puma, crestless curassow, jabiru, jaguar, Orinoco crocodile, Orinoco goose, giant anteater, capybara and 200 bird species.

Golden-headed Manakin – Ceratopipra erythrocephala

Visiting los Llanos is an unforgettable experience where you can also observe how the llaneros keep the tradition of herding cattle for living and singing folklore songs to the rhythm of guitars, harps and maracas.

We recommend choosing operators that work with locals and reinvest in the region, so that tourism can help local development and nature conservation.

Casanare

In Casanare, there are several possibilities for sustainable nature photography tours. For example, the Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) Altagracia is suitable for a photographic safari, since you can tour the flooded savannas and take amazing photographs of sunrise and sunset landscapes.

On the trips to nearby places such as the Buenaventura estuary, the Lagunazo lagoon natural reserve, Yatea canyon and other Civil Society Natural Reserves, you will easily capture pictures of deer herds, otters, howler monkeys and giant anteaters.

Also, it hosts about 142 bird species, including 31% of the world population of Orinoco goose and 1% of the hemispherical population of Large-billed tern and Buff-breasted sandpiper. Check our Wildlife Aerosafari in Los Llanos here!

Aerosafari in the Colombian Plains

El Encanto de Guanapalo, on the other hand, is a reserve 110 km from Yopal with almost 9,000 hectares, that comprises 3 hatos (cattle ranches): Hato Mata de Palma, Hato Altamira and Hato Montana.

Whether you choose touring the area on horseback or by tractor or 4×4, this 5-hour experience lets you photograph mammals such as: capybaras, deer, spectacled caimans, wild horses, giant anteaters, southern tamanduas, scarlet ibis, iguanas, ducks, howler monkeys, owls, armadillos, red-footed tortoise, foxes, wild pigs, pumas, hundreds of bird species and, of course, cattle.

This is a great llanero experience that you can book with us here!

Other private reserves worth visiting on the Eastern plains are Hato La Aurora, located in the town Hato Corozal with an eco-lodge called Juan Solito along the riverside of the Ariporo river.

Meta

Lagos de Menegua shelters more than 800 animal species, including mammals, fish, reptiles and birds in 1,000 hectares of plains, lakes and hills.

Lagos de Menegua Hotel & Bioreserve

Another great scenery in Meta is Caño Cristales, “the most beautiful river in the world”. Here you can shoot postcards of this river in Sierra de la Macarena whose aquatic plants exposed to the sun make it seem a 5-color river.

There are far more destinations in Colombia suitable for photography tours, this was just an overview for you to know all the possibilities this country offers. In Sula, we focus on nature tourism, check our sample photography tours here!

References.

About the author

Ana María Parra

Modern Languages professional with emphasis on business translation. Interested in cultural adaptation of written and audiovisual content.  Passionate about knowing new cultures and languages, tourism and sustainable living.