Across the Three Andes - Edited

Welcome to Bogotá, Colombia's vibrant capital and the starting point of our journey across the Andes. Perched high on the Eastern Cordillera at over 2,600 meters (8,500 ft) above sea level, Bogotá offers the perfect introduction to the landscapes, cultures and natural richness that define Colombia. Our first stop takes us into the fascinating world of hummingbirds. At a local hummingbird observatory, we will observe several species while learning about their remarkable adaptations and the evolutionary processes that made the Andes one of the most important centers of biodiversity on Earth. In the afternoon, we explore the renowned Gold Museum, home to one of the world's most important collections of pre-Hispanic artifacts. Through its exhibits, we begin uncovering the relationship between Colombia's landscapes, natural resources and the Indigenous cultures that inhabited these mountains long before modern borders existed. As the day unfolds, we'll also discover Colombia through its flavors. A curated tasting of tropical fruits and local cuisine offers a first glimpse into the country's extraordinary biological and cultural diversity. This day is more than an introduction. It is the opening chapter of a larger story — one that connects mountains, ecosystems, wildlife and human history across the three Andes of Colombia. Highlights: • Hummingbird observatory experience • Introduction to Andean biodiversity • Visit to the Gold Museum • Tropical fruit tasting and Colombian gastronomy • Indigenous cultures and the origins of El Dorado • Overview of the journey ahead

Overnight: Bogotá

Journey into the mountains of the Eastern Andes, where cloud forests, mountain landscapes and hidden wildlife await. Accompanied by local guides and conservationists who have dedicated their lives to protecting these forests, we explore one of Colombia's most important Andean ecosystems. As we walk through these mountains, we'll search for the remarkable birds that inhabit the Eastern Cordillera while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and ridges. These forests are also home to one of South America's most iconic mammals: the Spectacled Bear, the continent's only bear species. While sightings are never guaranteed, the possibility of encountering signs of its presence adds an exciting sense of exploration to the day. The landscape itself tells a fascinating story. Standing among these mountains, it's hard to imagine that the rocks beneath this territory were once part of an ancient tropical sea. Through the region's landforms and geological features, we'll begin uncovering how rising mountains shaped the ecosystems, wildlife and landscapes that make Colombia one of the most diverse countries on Earth. Highlights • Explore Andean cloud forests • Guided by local conservationists and wildlife guardians • Search for the Spectacled Bear • Birding in the Eastern Andes • Discover landscapes shaped by ancient seas • Introduction to the geological story of the Andes

Overnight: Guatavita

In the morning, we visit the legendary Guatavita Lagoon, a sacred site of the Muisca people and the birthplace of one of the world's most enduring stories: El Dorado. Surrounded by Andean forests and rolling mountain landscapes, we'll explore the trails leading to the crater lake while learning how this remarkable place shaped the beliefs, traditions and identity of the region's Indigenous communities. More than a legend, Guatavita reveals the deep connections between people and landscape. Here, geography, spirituality and conservation come together in a setting that continues to inspire visitors from around the world. After lunch, we leave the highlands behind and descend toward the Magdalena Valley, watching the landscapes gradually transform as we travel westward. By evening, we arrive in the beautifully preserved colonial town of Guaduas, where cobblestone streets, historic architecture and stories from Colombia's past set the stage for the next chapter of our journey across the Andes. Highlights • Visit the legendary Guatavita Lagoon • Discover the story of El Dorado • Learn about Muisca culture and traditions • Explore Andean landscapes and conservation initiatives • Scenic descent into the Magdalena Valley • Explore the colonial town of Guaduas

Overnight: Guaduas

Nestled between the Eastern Andes and the Magdalena Valley, Guaduas has long served as a crossroads of nature, culture and history. We begin the day exploring the forests and landscapes surrounding this historic region, where mountain slopes gradually give way to the warm valleys below. From scenic viewpoints overlooking the Magdalena Valley, we'll gain a deeper appreciation for the geography that connected territories, cultures and trade routes throughout Colombian history. Along the way, we'll learn how these lands played an important role during the colonial period and the struggle for independence, shaping the nation that would eventually emerge from these mountains. In the afternoon, we immerse ourselves in local traditions through a visit to a traditional panela farm and, depending on availability, a workshop dedicated to the art of pottery. These experiences offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship, livelihoods and cultural heritage that continue to define the region today, revealing the enduring relationship between people, landscapes and tradition. Highlights • Explore the landscapes surrounding Guaduas • Panoramic views of the Magdalena Valley • Learn about Colombia's colonial and independence history • Discover the historic Camino Real region • Traditional panela experience • Local pottery and artisan traditions

Overnight: Guaduas

In the morning, we explore the wetlands of Guarinocito Lagoon, one of the many ecosystems sustained by the Magdalena River. As we navigate its calm waters, we'll search for wildlife such as caimans, freshwater turtles and a remarkable variety of birds that depend on these floodplain habitats. Surrounded by the sounds of nature and expansive views of the valley, we'll gain a deeper appreciation for the ecological importance of Colombia's largest river system. After lunch, we continue to the historic town of Honda, long considered one of the most important river ports in the country. Walking its colorful streets, colonial architecture and iconic bridges, we'll discover how the Magdalena connected distant regions and helped shape Colombia's economy, culture and identity. A visit to the Magdalena River Museum provides further insight into the history of navigation, commerce and life along this legendary waterway. By day's end, we'll have experienced both the natural and human stories of the river that helped unite a nation. Highlights • Wildlife exploration at Guarinocito Lagoon • Search for caimans, turtles and wetland birds • Explore the colonial town of Honda • Visit the Magdalena River Museum • Learn about the river's role in Colombian history • Connections between nature, culture and waterways

Overnight: Honda - Tolima

In the morning, we travel to Victoria, a small town nestled within the Magdalena Valley, where we'll explore a private nature reserve protected through local conservation efforts. Accompanied by guides who know these forests intimately, we'll discover a landscape rich in wildlife and learn how communities are working to preserve some of the valley's remaining natural habitats. As we walk through the reserve, we'll encounter the remarkable biodiversity that thrives in this region, from colorful birds and butterflies to the diverse plant life that supports them. We'll also visit crystal-clear rivers flowing from the surrounding mountains, offering the opportunity to swim, relax and experience firsthand the refreshing waters that sustain both wildlife and local communities. Beyond the wildlife, this experience provides a closer look at the people and projects helping safeguard these ecosystems for future generations. Throughout the day, the scenery gradually begins to change as we approach Colombia's Coffee Region, where rolling hills and distant mountains signal the beginning of the next chapter of our journey. Highlights • Explore a private reserve in the Magdalena Valley • Guided experience with local conservationists • Discover wildlife and tropical forest ecosystems • Swim in crystal-clear mountain-fed rivers • Learn about community-led conservation initiatives • Scenic transition toward Colombia's Coffee Region

Overnight: Honda

Leaving the Magdalena Valley behind, we begin our ascent into the Central Andes, crossing one of Colombia's most dramatic mountain landscapes. As the road climbs through winding valleys and fertile hillsides, the scenery gradually transforms from tropical lowlands into the cooler elevations of Colombia's Coffee Region. Along the way, we'll discover how volcanoes, mountains and climate have shaped the landscapes that define this part of the country. Coffee farms, cloud-covered ridges and small rural communities reveal the close relationship between people and the mountains they call home, while offering a glimpse into the traditions that have shaped life in the Andes for generations. Arriving in Manizales, a vibrant mountain city nestled within Colombia's UNESCO-listed Coffee Cultural Landscape, we'll settle into our eco-lodge and enjoy a slower pace. Surrounded by green mountains and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, this is the perfect place to experience the warmth, hospitality and culture that have made the Coffee Region one of Colombia's most beloved destinations. Highlights • Cross from the Magdalena Valley into the Central Andes • Scenic drive through mountain landscapes • Introduction to Colombia's Coffee Region • Learn about volcanoes and mountain formation • Explore the UNESCO Coffee Cultural Landscape • Relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Manizales

Overnight: Manizales

Río Blanco is considered one of Colombia's finest cloud forest reserves and a true paradise for nature lovers. Spending the morning on its forest trails, we'll explore one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the Central Andes, surrounded by towering trees, crystal-clear streams and mist-covered mountains. The reserve is particularly famous for its birdlife, offering opportunities to observe colorful tanagers, toucans, hummingbirds and the remarkable Antpittas that have made Río Blanco renowned among birdwatchers worldwide. As we hike through the forest, we'll also discover the ecological importance of these mountain ecosystems and the role they play in supplying water to surrounding communities. A traditional homemade lunch prepared by a local family provides a chance to experience the region's hospitality and flavors. In the afternoon, we'll explore the city of Manizales, learning about its history, culture and relationship with the surrounding mountains. Those interested may also enjoy panoramic views from the city's aerial cable system before returning to our eco-lodge. Highlights • Birdwatching in Río Blanco Nature Reserve • Forest walks through Andean cloud forests • Opportunities to observe Antpittas, hummingbirds and tanagers • Traditional homemade lunch • Cultural exploration of Manizales • Panoramic views of the Central Andes

Overnight: Manizales

The day begins at Hacienda El Bosque, a family-run reserve nestled high in the Central Andes. Surrounded by cloud forests and mountain landscapes, we'll enjoy exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph some of the region's most iconic birds, including hummingbirds, mountain-tanagers and other high-Andean specialties that regularly visit the reserve's feeders. Continuing our ascent into Los Nevados National Natural Park, the landscape gradually transforms as forests give way to the open expanses of the páramo. Exploring this unique ecosystem, we'll search for species such as the endemic Buffy Helmetcrest, Andean Condor and many more, while discovering how plants and wildlife have adapted to life at high elevations. Throughout the day, we'll uncover the geological story of the Central Andes, learning how volcanoes, glaciers and powerful geological forces shaped these mountains over millions of years. Before returning to Manizales, those who wish can enjoy a relaxing soak in natural hot springs fed by the volcanic heart of the Andes. Highlights • Visit Hacienda El Bosque • Exceptional hummingbird and mountain bird photography • Explore Los Nevados National Natural Park • Discover the páramo ecosystem • Learn about volcanoes and ancient glaciers • Relax in natural volcanic hot springs

Overnight: Termales del Ruiz

Descending from the high Andes, we travel into the lush forests of the Otún River watershed, one of the most important conservation landscapes in Colombia's Coffee Region. Protected forests, crystal-clear rivers and towering Andean trees provide habitat for an extraordinary variety of wildlife while supplying water to thousands of people living in the surrounding valleys. Exploring the trails of Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, we'll search for some of the region's most iconic species, including the endemic Cauca Guan, Red-ruffed Fruitcrow, Collared Trogon and, with some luck, the elusive Mountain Tapir. Along the way, we'll discover how protected areas like this help safeguard biodiversity while supporting local communities and ecosystem services. The sounds of rushing rivers, dense forests and abundant wildlife create an immersive experience in one of the Andes' most important natural refuges. This day reveals how healthy ecosystems, clean water and conservation efforts remain deeply connected throughout Colombia's mountain landscapes. Highlights • Explore Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary • Search for Mountain Tapir and endemic wildlife • Discover Andean forests and river ecosystems • Learn about conservation in Colombia's Coffee Region • Scenic forest walks and wildlife observation • Follow the waters descending from the Andes

Overnight: Pereira

The rolling hills of Colombia's Coffee Region tell a story shaped by mountains, climate and generations of people who learned to cultivate one of the world's most celebrated crops. Today, we'll step into that story through an immersive experience at a traditional coffee farm nestled within the Andean landscape. Walking through the plantations, we'll follow the journey of coffee from seed to cup while learning how altitude, volcanic soils and local knowledge influence the character of every harvest. Beyond the production process, we'll discover how coffee helped shape the economy, culture and identity of this region, earning recognition as a UNESCO Coffee Cultural Landscape. Throughout the day, we'll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gain a deeper appreciation for the people whose work has transformed these hillsides into one of Colombia's most iconic landscapes. A guided tasting offers the perfect opportunity to experience the flavors that have made Colombian coffee famous around the world. Highlights • Immersive coffee farm experience • Learn the journey from seed to cup • Coffee tasting and sensory experience • Discover the UNESCO Coffee Cultural Landscape • Learn about the relationship between coffee, mountains and culture • Meet local producers and farming families

Overnight: Pereira

Leaving the Coffee Region behind, we journey westward toward the rugged mountains of the Western Andes. As we cross valleys, rivers and mountain passes, the landscapes gradually transform, revealing a new side of Colombia shaped by isolation, rainfall and the influence of the nearby Pacific. Arriving at Montezuma, we'll settle into one of Colombia's most celebrated nature destinations, located on the edge of the Chocó Biogeographic Region. Exploring the trails and surroundings of the lodge, we'll search for colorful tanagers, toucans and hummingbirds while discovering the extraordinary diversity of orchids, ferns and other plants that flourish in these humid mountain forests. Throughout the day, we'll learn how the Western Andes differ from the mountain ranges we've explored so far. The combination of geography, climate and time has created unique ecosystems that support an exceptional concentration of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. As the day comes to an end, we'll reflect on the geological story of Colombia's three Andean ranges and the remarkable diversity they have helped create. Highlights • Scenic journey into the Western Andes • Explore the forests surrounding Montezuma • Observe hummingbirds and Andean birdlife • Discover orchids and cloud forest flora • Introduction to the Chocó Biogeographic Region • Learn about the differences between Colombia's three Andean ranges

Overnight: Montezuma Lodge

Ascending to the upper elevations of Montezuma, we'll explore one of the most biodiverse mountain ecosystems in Colombia. These misty forests, perched high along the Western Andes, form part of a region where isolation, elevation and abundant rainfall have given rise to an extraordinary number of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Spending the day along forest roads and trails, we'll search for some of the region's most sought-after birds, including the spectacular Gold-ringed Tanager, Black-and-gold Tanager, Munchique Wood-Wren and Chocó Tapaculo. Hummingbirds, orchids and lush cloud forest vegetation accompany us throughout the day, creating a landscape that feels both wild and timeless. Beyond the wildlife, this experience offers an opportunity to appreciate the remarkable processes that generate biodiversity. Here, the influence of the Andes and the Chocó converge to create one of the richest natural regions on the planet—a fitting finale to our journey through Colombia's mountains. Highlights • Explore the upper elevations of Montezuma • Search for endemic Chocó and Western Andes species • Opportunities to observe Gold-ringed and Black-and-gold Tanagers • Discover orchids, hummingbirds and cloud forest flora • Learn how geography drives biodiversity • Experience one of Colombia's richest ecosystems

Overnight: Montezuma lodge

Our final morning in the Western Andes is an opportunity to slow down and fully absorb the landscapes that have accompanied us throughout this journey. Rather than focusing on what remains to be seen, we dedicate this time to reflecting on what has already been experienced. Surrounded by the forests and mountains of Montezuma, we'll create a personal field journal inspired by the expedition. Through notes, sketches, photographs, pressed leaves and reflections, each traveler will have the opportunity to document the moments, species, landscapes and stories that left the deepest impression. This becomes a tangible reminder of the journey and a space to reconnect with the curiosity that brought us here. Together, we'll also celebrate the many people who made this experience possible—from local guides, conservationists and community leaders to drivers, cooks, lodge staff and hosts who welcomed us along the way. Their knowledge, hospitality and dedication are an essential part of Colombia's story. Following lunch, we begin our return to Pereira carrying more than memories. We leave with a deeper understanding of the connections between landscapes, wildlife, culture and people—and of what the mountains can teach those willing to listen. Highlights • Reflection and journaling session • Create a personal expedition field notebook • Celebrate the people behind the journey • Final moments in the Western Andes • Scenic return to Pereira • Expedition farewell

Overnight: End of the Tour