Arrierito Antioqueno Bird Reserve

This excellent reserve was created by Fundacion ProAves to protect the recently described Chestnut-capped Piha (local name Arrierito Antioque?o). This area is subjected to high rates of deforestation, and the reserve protects several areas of forest home to both the Piha and several other range-restricted species. The reserve has excellent accommodation and a great network of birding trails. An interesting mix of lowland and subtropical forest species occur here ? look for surprises.

Otun-Quimbaya Sanctuary

The Otún Quimbaya Santuary protects excellent upper subtropical and montane forest through the Rio Otún valley above the city of Pereira, and holds a great sample of Andean birds, including both Cauca Valley and Central Cordilleran endemics and specialties.

Rio Blanco

Rio Blanco is a reserve operated by Fundacion Ecologica Gabriel Arango Restrepo (FUNDEGAR) and owned by Aguas de Manizales, the local water company. There are several good trails which provide access to forest across a wide altitudinal range, while hummingbird feeders at the cabins are very well-attended. A large variety of endemics and specialties representative of the Cordillera Central can be found in the forest. This site is one of the best in Colombia for antpittas.

Purace National Park

Located along the Huila/Cauca department divide, this Park is home to the watersheds of four of Colombia?s most important rivers; Magdalena, Cauca, Caquetá and Patía rivers. The park is composed of montane cloud forests and páramo across a chain of volcanic peaks. The area is still volcanically active with thermal springs and regular smoke emitted by the Puracé volcano. SECURITY ISSUES PERSIST IN THIS AREA -- ONLY VISIT THIS AREA WITH A KNOWLEDGEABLE LOCAL GUIDE!

Nevado de Ruiz

This site provides easy access to paramo within 1 hr of Manizales. The entrance road to the Nevado de Ruiz National Park passes through both elfin forest and paramo. It is not necessary to enter the park itself to see the key birds.