Chicaque Cloud Forest Birding & Birdwatching - Half day

Good sightings, but wasn't worth the hassle for us.

This was a tough one to rate, and it's entirely dependent on who you are as a birder. We're recreational, we like to add to our list, but we're not obsessive about it. With that out of the way, let's go through the pros and cons: Pros: We saw over 30 species of bird including a lot of hummingbirds, which are some of our favorites. We saw a Racket-Tail for a moment, which was really cool! We also saw an Emerald Toucanet, definitely a highlight. Our guide took us to see the rare Bogota Rail. If that's a bird you'd always wanted to get, you probably will get it on this tour (wasn't that important to us, but it is to some people). You also get a really nice walk in the woods, and if the weather cooperates, you get a great view of the Andes. Cons: They should definitely tell you this before you book, but everyone should know that if you're staying in Bogota, then a minimum 4 hours of your 8 hour tour will be sitting in traffic. The reserve isn't that far away, Bogota traffic is just that bad, and we weren't even staying in the City Center (even worse traffic). If we'd known this ahead of time, we would not have booked this activity. Finally, this is our 5th birding trip and this has had our least knowledgeable guide (by a lot). He struggled to identify most birds, and spent a lot of time flipping through a birding book and trying to call birds with the Merlin App, which pretty much anyone can do. He also brought - I think it was his girlfriend - along to take media photos. She was nice enough, but took photos of us without our permission and now we don't know if we're going to end up in their promotional materials or not. We definitely didn't give permission. So in all, it was nice to see the birds we did, but as recreational birdwatchers with limited time in Bogota, this ended up being an activity we regretted doing. For some, you'll get exactly what you're looking for, but in our opinion you just need a clearer picture for what to expect up front.

Response from the operator: We welcome all feedback and respect every client's opinion. On the day of your tour, we recorded more than 30 bird species, including several highlights such as the Bogotá Rail, Emerald Toucanet, White-booted Racket-tail, Collared Inca, and the Beryl-spangled Tanager. Regarding travel time, traffic is an unavoidable part of leaving Bogotá for nature destinations. The itinerary you purchased clearly states 3-4 hours of birdwatching time with a total tour time of 7-8 hours, which includes approximately two hours of travel each way. On your tour day, traffic was typical for the route and we arrived within the expected schedule without any unusual delays. As for your guide's expertise, he has been guiding professionally since 2012, holds a degree in Biology and a Master's in Environmental Sciences, and has led birding tours in Chicaque for more than 10 years. Your guide correctly identified every species encountered, both by sight and by bird call, and also located several endemic and endangered species that many birdwatchers would consider exceptional finds on a single day trip. Interestingly, you focused more on questioning his identification of common species such as doves, sparrows and thrushes which are unmistakably identifiable and less on the special birds we found that day. Throughout the tour, each species was identified based on the best available field evidence, including visual observations, vocalizations, or a combination of both. When appropriate, we verified identifications using field guides and reference apps. In our many years of experience, we have encountered guides who confidently misidentify species to appear more knowledgeable and impress clients. To inexperienced birders, this can easily be mistaken for genuine expertise and confidence. But our approach prioritizes accurate identification over speculation, particularly in cloud forest conditions with limited visibility and lighting. You mentioned that bird identification apps can help locate birds by anyone. However, successful birding also depends on extensive field knowledge, knowing where and when particular species are found. Our local experience enables us to consistently locate sought-after species such as the Bogotá Rail and the Emerald Toucanet during a single morning excursion which is not easy task. A birding app can not help you, if you don't know what you are looking for in an specific time and place. Regarding photography, all of our tours include complimentary photos. At the start of the tour, we introduced the photographer and explained that she would be documenting the experience. She photographed the birds, the forest, and the activity throughout the morning, and no concerns were raised during the tour. When guests prefer not to be photographed, we are always happy to accommodate their request but there is little we can do two weeks after the fact. Nevertheless, as noted on your review, we will delete your tour photos and media from that day. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. While we respect your opinion, we also appreciate that the other birder in your group had a positive experience and showed his appreciation by leaving our guide a generous tip. We are thankful that we got to shared a great day of birds with him and we wish you the best in your future birdwatching adventures.

via Tripadvisor

Great day trip for nature lovers

This is a great day trip if you like hiking and birding. We saw nearly 40 species in a few hours. Guides were super helpful and knowledgeable. Would book again!

via Viator

Phenomonal Chicaque Cloud Forest Birdwatching Tour

Diego and Andres brought us down to the cloud forest after a short drive through Bogota. Spectacular views of the valley 2000m below and the next branch of the Andes on the other side should probably be used for the official tourism website of the nation. A plethora of hummingbirds, many brightly colored songbirds and even a toucan came into view as we took a winding trail down the side of a mountain. Small changes in altitude gave way to significant changes in the appearance of the densely packed vegetation. Though the variety was dizzying, Andres and Diego were incredibly knowledgeable about everything that lived in the park and were enthusiastic in their attempts to help me see everything. Highly recommended, we would absolutely do it again.

Response from the operator: Chicaque has always been a magical place and we’re so happy you got to experience the cloud forest in all its glory. The way the vegetation changes with altitude really is mesmerizing, and we’re glad you appreciated that unique part of the Andes. We hope you'll return for another adventure. There’s always more to see in this amazing place!

via Tripadvisor

Wonderful birding experience.

Absolutely beautiful place with lot's of great birds. Our guides were knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. We saw and photoshopped many beautiful birds and even our guides got a lifer species. Wonderful experience, would love to return for even more birds.

via Tripadvisor

Chicaque is worth it!

A phenomenal experience going birding with Camilo in Chicaque, spotted some 30 species of birds, and the views there are going to remain core memories for life. The hikes down, around and up the cloud forest were tough but incredibly rewarding. Grateful and privileged to have travelled with Camilo and his extensive knowledge of the region. Quick tip- stay the night at El Refugio in the park.

via Tripadvisor