Birdwatching doesn’t let you fly, but it gives you wings to keep dreaming.Colombia, the land of birds, is home to more than 1,900 species—an impressive number that attracts birdwatchers from all over the world. This natural paradise not only enchants those seeking exotic birds but also captivates those charmed by its landscapes, unique biodiversity, and, above all, the warmth of its people.
As a passionate birdwatcher, my adventure began in San Agustín - Huila, an important archaeological destination, and took me to the El Encanto Reserve, located in the municipality of Palestina. This endearing and lively place is home to the Molina family, who could easily have stepped out of a Disney movie, much like the Madrigal family from Encanto.
When I arrived at the reserve, I realized their countryside home and stunning gardens surpassed Disney’s fiction. The Molina family welcomed me with a smile, a cup of coffee, and the soothing sound of birds. After exploring the reserve’s trails, I tasted their famous and delicious plantain lasagna. Here, not only the birds feast on this prized tropical fruit. While enjoying dinner, I had the chance to talk with birdwatchers from different countries and regions of Colombia. Even though we spoke different languages and came from different worlds, our conversations always revolved around our love for birds and the biodiversity that connects us beyond borders.
Those who know the wonderful world of birdwatching understand that this activity begins very early. The next day, we woke up at 4:30 a.m., enjoyed a cup of coffee made from wild-grown trees at El Encanto, and then headed in a 4x4 vehicle to the La Gralaria Reserve, located near the borders of the Cueva de los Guácharos National Park.
This reserve spans over 60 hectares of forest and is home to 310 bird species, 7 of which are endemic: Anthocephala berlepshi, Atlapetes fuscoolivaceus, Red-bellied Grackle, Magdalena Tapaculo, Chestnut Woodquail, Tolima Dove, and Drymophila caudata.
After hiking the trails, breathing fresh air, and listening to the birdsong, we were lucky enough to spot a family of woodquails - a female, a male, and three chicks that, according to our guide, had likely been born the day before. For birdwatchers, there is no greater reward than seeing and photographing the birds they have traveled so far to find.
At the end of the tour, I took a moment alone to hydrate, regain energy, and marvel at the majestic view of the Central and Western Andes. Suddenly, a female hummingbird (*Heliodoxa leadbeateri*) landed on my hand. I looked at it and thought how this small, vibrant, and lively being would make the perfect tattoo as a birthday gift to myself for my 33rd year.
Dare to travel to southwestern Colombia and let yourself be amazed by Huila’s natural beauty and the countless bird species you can discover in its nature reserves!
Photos: Courtesy of Reserva El Encanto
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