Birding Medellín: Top Spots for an Unforgettable Birdwatching Experience

Red Bellie Grackle - Picture of Blake C. one of our clients.

Medellín, Colombia, is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering an incredible diversity of species right within the city. With its lush green spaces and proximity to diverse ecosystems, birding in Medellín is a rewarding experience for beginners and seasoned birders alike.

Urban Birding in Medellín

Jardin Botánico - Medellin

Even without leaving the city, you can encounter a variety of fascinating birds. Some of the most commonly spotted species in urban Medellín include:

• Blue-gray Tanager (Thraupis episcopus)
• Palm Tanager (Thraupis palmarum)
• Yellow-faced Grassquit (Tiaris olivaceus)
• Colombian Chachalaca (Ortalis columbiana)
• Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans)
• Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus)
• Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus)

Colombian Chachalaca - Juan Duque 

Best Urban Spots for Birdwatching

• Jardín Botánico de Medellín: Situated in the heart of the city, Jardín Botánico is a green sanctuary where urban and semi-urban bird species thrive. The park’s diverse plant life attracts hummingbirds, tanagers, flycatchers, and other species, making it a great spot for birdwatching without having to leave the city. Its tranquil setting, beautiful gardens, and easy accessibility make it an ideal location for those wanting a relaxing birding experience while enjoying the natural beauty of Medellín.
• Parque de la Presidenta: A small but significant green space in the bustling neighborhood of El Poblado, Parque de la Presidenta offers a quiet retreat for bird lovers. Despite being in an urban setting, this park is home to several bird species, including tanagers, flycatchers, and even some migratory birds that stop by during certain seasons. The presence of water sources and native trees makes it an attractive spot for birds, providing birdwatchers with a chance to observe wildlife without leaving the city center.

Top Birding Locations Near Medellín

1. La Romera Nature Reserve (Sabaneta)

A hidden gem for birdwatchers, La Romera is a protected natural reserve offering a variety of altitudinal zones, which allows for the observation of both urban and high-mountain bird species. The diversity of habitats, including dense forest, open areas, and water sources, makes it an exceptional place for birding. Additionally, La Romera is known for its tranquility, as it receives fewer visitors than other birding spots, providing a serene and uninterrupted birdwatching experience. Here, you can easily observe over 30 species in less than two hours, making it a prime destination for both beginners and experienced birders.

Golden Tanager - Blake C. 

A must-visit for serious birders, offering sightings of:

• Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster)
• Golden Tanager (Tangara arthus)
• Chestnut Wood-Quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus)
• Golden-crowned Warbler (Basileuterus culicivorus)
• Red-headed Barbet (Eubucco bourcierii)
• Black-capped Tanager (Tangara vassorii)
• Steely-vented Hummingbird (Amazilia saucerrottei)
• White-collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris)

Collared Trogon - Birds of the World

Red Headed Barbet - Wikipedia

2. San Sebastián de la Castellana (Envigado - El Retiro)

San Sebastián de la Castellana (Envigado - El Retiro): Nestled in the high-altitude forests between Envigado and El Retiro, San Sebastián de la Castellana is a breathtaking birdwatching destination known for its rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes. This area, characterized by misty cloud forests, lush vegetation, and cool temperatures, attracts a wide range of bird species, including high-mountain endemics and rare sightings. The challenging yet rewarding hiking trails allow visitors to explore different elevations, increasing their chances of spotting a diverse mix of birds. Given its remote location, this site offers a peaceful and immersive experience, making it ideal for experienced birders, nature photographers, and biologists looking for less-disturbed ecosystems. Whether you’re searching for elusive antpittas, colorful tanagers, or majestic raptors, San Sebastián de la Castellana is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and adventurous birdwatching experience.

Green Jay - SAO

This area is home to high-mountain species such as:

• Andean Motmot (Momotus aequatorialis)
• Chestnut-capped Antpitta (Grallaria ruficapilla)
• Mountain Elaenia (Elaenia frantzii)

• Collared trogon (Trogon collaris)

3. Parque Arví

Parque Arví: One of the most well-known natural reserves near Medellín, Parque Arví is a vast high-altitude park with cloud forests, pristine landscapes, and well-maintained trails, making it a haven for birdwatching. The park's elevation and diverse vegetation attract both endemic and migratory birds, providing opportunities to spot a wide array of species. Its accessibility via Medellín’s metro and cable car system makes it a convenient option for visitors. With its breathtaking scenery and abundance of birds, Parque Arví is an excellent location for birders looking to combine hiking and wildlife observation in a unique setting.

A hotspot for birding, featuring species like:

• Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera)
• Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana)
• Speckled Tanager (Ixothraupis guttata)
• Bronzy Inca (Coeligena coeligena)

4. El Romeral (La Estrella)

El Romeral (La Estrella): Located south of Medellín, El Romeral is an off-the-beaten-path destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. Its dense Andean forests and diverse vegetation create a perfect habitat for a wide variety of bird species, including some elusive and rare ones. This area is ideal for those who seek a more immersive nature experience, away from the crowds, where they can truly connect with the sounds and sights of the forest. The challenging yet rewarding terrain makes it a great spot for bird photographers and avid nature explorers looking for an authentic birding adventure.

A lesser-known but fantastic birding destination, featuring:

• Tyrian Metaltail (Metallura tyrianthina)
• Flame-faced Tanager (Anisognathus somptuosus)
• Blackish Tapaculo (Scytalopus latrans)
• White-tipped Dove (Leptotila verreauxi)

Which to choose? 

With so many great birdwatching spots near Medellín, it can be hard to decide where to go. For us at Medellín Real Adventure, the best choice is La Romera. This location offers a unique advantage due to its varying altitudes, allowing visitors to see both urban and high-mountain bird species. Moreover, it is the most peaceful spot, with fewer crowds, where you can easily observe over 30 species in under two hours.

That’s why we offer a private birdwatching tour in La Romera, perfect for beginners, experts, photographers, biologists, and nature enthusiasts.

Click here to view and book your tour.

Final Thoughts

Birding in Medellín offers an unforgettable experience, whether you're exploring the city's parks or venturing into the cloud forests. With diverse ecosystems and an abundance of bird species, this city is a dream for birdwatchers. Grab your binoculars and explore Medellín’s avian wonders today!

 

 

 

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