Chiribiquete Emerald Expedition

On Day 2 of your bird photography expedition, begin with an early morning session in Puerto Santander, where the misty atmosphere is ideal for spotting vibrant species like the Amazonian motmot and scarlet macaw. Following breakfast, embark on a guided trek through the lush jungle, where your expert guide will reveal the rich biodiversity, including elusive wildlife such as the Amazonian Black thorated Trogon. After a delicious lunch featuring traditional Amazonian cuisine, navigate upstream along the stunning Caquetá River to the breathtaking Raudal waterfalls, known as "El Volcán." Here, you'll witness Indigenous fishermen skillfully using traditional harpoon techniques to catch fish, offering a fascinating glimpse into local culture. As the day winds down, enjoy an evening birdwatching excursion to experience the jungle's nocturnal transformation, capturing unique photographs before returning to your lodge to share stories and reflect on the incredible biodiversity encountered throughout the day.

Start our day with an early morning walk to the airport runway, where the cool air and quiet surroundings provide the perfect setting for spotting the elusive Chiribiquete emerald with the help of local guides. Afterward, venture to "El Salto del Diablo" and the stunning Araracuara Canyon, immersing ourselves in the rich biodiversity and capturing photos of various bird species along the way. Take a refreshing break at the small shop near the airport, enjoying refreshments in the shade before continuing your adventure as the day winds down; set out for sunset birding in Puerto Santander, where the vibrant colours of the setting sun create a picturesque backdrop for the lively avian activity, offering yet another chance to capture breathtaking moments in the enchanting Amazon rainforest.

Today, we embark on a remarkable journey to visit the "Maloca," a sacred native house within the Indigenous reservation, navigating the beautiful Caquetá River. As we travel, we'll engage in birding activities, taking advantage of the rich biodiversity in this protected area. Upon arrival, you'll witness a traditional ceremony where Mambe and Ambil, a unique blend of coca leaves and tobacco paste, are prepared. The community will also serve a delicious lunch on biodegradable plates and cutlery made from leaves, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. After the meal, we'll head to Araracuara Island, a serene spot in the middle of the Caquetá River, for more birding opportunities. We'll return to Puerto Santander, enriched by the day's experiences and the connections made with the Indigenous community.

As our unforgettable expedition comes to a close, we make our way back to the runway after a final morning of birding along the trails with our local guides. The sights and sounds of the Amazon will linger in our memories as we prepare for our charter flight back to Bogotá. Once airborne, we are treated to stunning aerial views of the Serranía del Chiribiquete, where the majestic landscape unfolds below us, showcasing its iconic flat-topped mountains. Above 8,500 feet, the weather is clear, allowing us to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site from the sky, a perfect farewell to our adventure in the heart of the Amazon.