JardĂn endemic & specialty birds
Yellow-eared Parrots at dawn, highland specialties, and the spectacular Cock-of-the-Rock lek
Duration:
Full Day (~12 hours)
Availability:
 📅 Year-round
Location:
đź“Ť JardĂn, Antioquia
Difficulty:
Moderate
Experience the remarkable avifauna of Colombia's coffee region
This carefully designed full-day experience takes you from the high-altitude forests of Alto de Ventanas—home to the endemic and endangered Yellow-eared Parrot—through diverse mountain habitats rich with tanagers, hummingbirds, and antpittas, culminating at the extraordinary lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock.
Starting before dawn at 5:00 AM, we journey to Alto de Ventanas (2,800 masl), where one of Colombia’s most iconic conservation success stories unfolds each morning: flocks of Yellow-eared Parrots returning to their feeding grounds. As the day progresses, we explore habitats at different elevations, maximizing opportunities to observe highland specialties rarely seen elsewhere.
This isn’t a rushed checklist tour—it’s a full day designed around the rhythms of mountain birds, with time to observe behaviors, appreciate ecological relationships, and witness one of the most spectacular avian displays in the Neotropics: the Cock-of-the-Rock lek.
Prepare for your birding adventure
What's included
- Private 4×4 transportation from/to JardĂn
- Expert bilingual guiding (English/Spanish)
- Breakfast in the field
- Lunch at local restaurant
- All entrance fees to reserves and the Cock-of-the-Rock lek
- Insurance
- eBird list of all species observed, shared after the tour
What to bring
Essential:
- Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes (trails can be muddy)
- Layered clothing (early morning is cold at 2,800m; warms up during day)
- Rain jacket (weather can change quickly in mountains)
- Water bottle (refillable)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Binoculars (I can provide if needed)
Optional but recommended:
- Camera with telephoto lens (lek offers good photo opportunities)
- Field guide to Colombian birds
- Small backpack for personal items
- Insect repellent
Why this tour
Conservation success story
The Yellow-eared Parrot was critically endangered in the 1990s, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining. Thanks to conservation efforts in JardĂn—including protection of their roosting and nesting place, the wax palm—populations have recovered remarkably. Observing them is witnessing one of Colombia's greatest conservation achievements.
Diverse elevations, diverse birds
By starting at 2,800m and working through different elevations, we encounter bird communities that change with altitude—each adapted to their specific ecological niche. You'll see these relationships firsthand.
The lek experience
Cock-of-the-Rock leks are one of nature's great spectacles. Males gather at traditional display grounds where they've performed for generations, competing through elaborate displays. It's behavior that reveals evolutionary pressures, sexual selection, and the remarkable complexity of bird life.
Booking
Pricing
Minimum: 1 person (tour operates with a single participant if desired)
Maximum: 8 people
What affects final price:
- Group size (smaller groups = higher per-person cost)
- Specific requirements or customizations
[Contact me] for exact pricing based on your group size and dates.
How to book
- Contact me via email or WhatsApp with:
- Your preferred date(s)
- Number of participants
- Your birding experience level
- Any specific species you’re hoping to see
- I’ll confirm availability and send booking details
- Reserve your spot with deposit (details provided)
- Receive pre-tour information including exact pickup time, detailed packing list, and species briefing
Cancellation Policy
More than 7 days before tour: Full refund
3-7 days before: 50% refund
Less than 3 days: No refund (exceptions for emergencies)
Weather cancellations: We’ll reschedule or provide full refund
Frequently asked questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. While the species are exciting for experienced birders, I’m equally happy guiding first-timers. I’ll help with binocular use, identification, and understanding what we’re observing.
Are Yellow-eared Parrot sightings guaranteed?
Nothing in birding is truly guaranteed, but sightings are extremely reliable at Alto de Ventanas. I’ve been guiding there for years and know their patterns. Weather and seasonal movements can affect numbers, but we almost always see them.
What if it rains?
Light rain doesn’t stop the tour—birds are active and we’re prepared. Heavy rain can reduce visibility and bird activity, so we’ll adapt the itinerary or discuss rescheduling if conditions are truly problematic.
Can I photograph at the lek?
Yes! The lek offers excellent photo opportunities.
Do you provide binoculars?
I have binoculars available if you don’t have your own. Just let me know in advance.
Is altitude a concern?
We reach 2,800 masl, which most people tolerate well. If you’re sensitive to altitude or have concerns, mention it when booking.
Can this tour be customized?
Yes. If you have specific targets or want to focus on certain bird families (e.g., more time for photography, emphasis on antpittas), let me know and I’ll adapt the itinerary.
Stories from the field
Ready to experience JardĂn’s birds?
From the endemic Yellow-eared Parrot at dawn to the spectacular Cock-of-the-Rock lek, this full day reveals why the mountains around JardĂn are a birding treasure.