Behind the scenes 🎬 During our last Emblematic Birds Photo Tour with www.retornophototours.com, we took Murali and his family to explore more than 12 fabulous reserves and secret spots across Colombia. It was a 10-day adventure full of colour, patience, and wonder. Murali and Family — @murali_nature_photography, Neel @neelmuralikc, and Chandrika @chandrikamulakala — brought their deep love for wildlife and their incredible experience as photographers. Together, we chased light and feathers, from misty mountains to lush forests, capturing some of the most iconic birds of Colombia. Each click of the camera was more than a photo — it was a moment of connection with nature, and a memory we’ll carry forever. 1. Hooded Mountain Tanager 2. Orchids ( Colombia is the most biodiverse country in the world in this category, as well as birds) 3. Panama flycatcher 4. Night Monkey (Aotus lemurinus brunneus) Endemic to Colombia, it is the number 5 in this category, with more than 40 primates. 5. Black-collared Jay 6. Family of Wildlife and Bird Photographers. Video 1. Muralis feeds with the flower of its hand the enigmatic and common Buff-tailed Coronet Video 2. A female Collared Inca with her belly after nesting. The latest Photos of me showing Leica Equipment. @leica_camera @leicacameramx @leica_camera_latam @leicanature @leica_camera_deutschland #birds #birdsonearth #birdsphotography #birdsphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographyindia #birdphotographersofindia #photographer #phototour #colombia

Playing with Hummingbirds in our Emblematic Photo Tour. #hummingbirds #colombia🇨🇴 #colombia #colômbia #birdsphotography @murali_nature_photography

At Retorno Photo Tours, we’re proud to be at the vanguard of bird photography in Colombia—leading the way with authentic experiences, expert local guides, and access to the most biodiverse hotspots in the country. Here, every shot tells a story of conservation, culture, and connection to nature. 📸🇨🇴🦜 Bird: Barred Antshrike (male). Tour: Emblematic Birds Colombia #BirdPhotography #ColombiaBirding #RetornoPhotoTours #birdwatchingphotography #birds #barredantshrike #birdsphotography #leicasl3 @leica_camera @leicacameramx @leicanature @leica_natura #Colombia

💚 Multicolored Tanager — Colombia’s Hidden Gem You don’t find the Multicolored Tanager… it lets you find it. Quiet, shy, and always among the shadows of the Andean canopy, it moves with grace through the high branches, almost never alone. It joins mixed flocks, slipping between branches with quick, delicate hops—always watching, always cautious. It rarely sings, but when it does, it’s a soft call—just enough to let its mate know it’s near. It feeds mostly on fruit, sometimes insects, always staying close to dense foliage. Seeing one feels like being let in on a secret. A moment of connection with something truly rare, found only in Colombia. 📍 Endemic to the Central Andes 📷 #RetornoPhotoTours #MulticoloredTanager #BirdsOfColombia #birdphotographyworld #birdwatchingphotography #birdsonearth #birdsphotography #colombia #birdphotographer #phototours

✨ Hummingbirds of Colombia ✨ There’s something genuinely magical about photographing hummingbirds—these tiny jewels of the forest, moving at lightning speed, glowing in the sunlight. 📸 In our latest hummingbird workshop, we’ll take you deep into the Colombian Andes to meet some of our favourites: 🌿 White-bellied Hummingbird – a glimmer of elegance in cloud forest clearings. 🔥 Longuemare’s Sunangel – a dazzling burst of violet and green. 💎 Blue-throated Starfrontlet – bold, rare, and brilliant under morning light. 💙 Great Sapphirewing – one of the largest and most majestic hummingbirds in the world. This is more than a tour—it’s a whole experience for bird photographers who want to capture the true essence of Colombia’s winged treasures. 🌸🐦 📍 Join our Hummingbird Workshop and take your photography to the next level, with expert guidance and unique access to the best reserves. DM us or visit www.retornophototours.com for more info. Spots are limited! #HummingbirdsOfColombia #BirdPhotography #RetornoPhotoTours #ColombiaBirding #WildlifeWorkshop #NaturePhotography #Colombia #HummingbirdWorkshop #birdsoftheandes

At Retorno Photo Tours, we offer a truly authentic Colombian bird photography experience—from capturing rare and vibrant species in their natural habitats to enjoying the finest coffee grown in the heart of the Andes. Our tours are crafted in alliance with the best nature reserves in the country, ensuring privileged access, expert local guidance, and unforgettable moments in the most biodiverse regions of Colombia. 🌿📸☕ #BirdPhotographyColombia #RetornoPhotoTours #ColombianCoffee #WildlifeExperience #retornophototours #colombia #housecoffee

Here are a few favourites from one of our recent photo adventures in Colombia: 🖤 Black-faced Antbird – quiet, mysterious, always lurking in the shadows. You’ve got to be patient to catch this one… but when you do, it’s magic. 🤍 White-eared Jacamar – sleek and shiny like it’s made of metal, often perched perfectly still, just waiting for the right shot. ❤️ Summer Tanager – this bright red beauty shows up like a surprise guest from the north. You can’t miss it — and honestly, you don’t want to. 💚 Green Honeycreeper – glowing green, always on the move, and impossible not to admire. Pure colour in motion. 💛 Great Kiskadee – loud, curious, and kind of a show-off. But that’s why we love it. Every bird has its vibe, and every trip brings a new story to tell. #RetornoPhotoTours #BirdingColombia #WildlifePhotography #BirdsOfColombia #leicacamera #BirdwatchingAdventure #ColombiaBirding #BirdNerdsUnite #PhotoTourLife #SouthAmericaBirding @leica_camera @leicanature @leica_natura @leicacameramx @leicanature

The Black-fronted Nunbird—a striking species known for traveling in pairs or small groups, often filling the forest with its loud, parrotlike calls. This photo was captured during one of my favorite tours through southern Colombia, right at the gateway to Chiribiquete National Park—Colombia’s largest protected natural area. This region is not only a sanctuary of biodiversity and endemism, but also home to three uncontacted Indigenous communities. A land where much of the flora and fauna remain mysterious and undiscovered—raw, untouched, and deeply sacred. 📍Retorno Photo Tours | Explore the unknown. #RetornoPhotoTours #BirdPhotographyColombia #BlackFrontedNunbird #Chiribiquete #WildColombia #BirdsOfColombia #NatureTourism #Endemism #UntouchedWilderness @leica_camera @leicacameramx @leicanature @leica_natura @leicacamerausa

Our last photo tour in Guaviare with Retorno Photo Tours, Wildlife experience was truly unforgettable. We captured stunning shots of elusive species like the Scarlet-crowned Barbet, graceful Pink river Dolphins, and the vibrant Red-mantled Saddle-back Tamarind. The excitement and beauty of the Amazon’s wildlife left us all inspired and in awe of nature’s diversity. @leica_camera @leicacameramx @leicanature #leica #leicasl3 #leicaphoto #birdsphotography #wildlifephotographer #wildlifephoto #colômbia @colombia.travel

Latest Tours 2025 Colombia, the country with the most birds in the world, invites all photographers do one of my favorite activities: bird and wildlife photography. Don’t leave Colombia for tomorrow; do what you love most now, there’s a lot of uncertainty tomorrow. #birdphoto #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #colombia

In the remote forests of Guaviare, Colombia—where the Amazon, Andes, and Orinoco regions begin to intertwine—life thrives in vibrant silence. Once marked by conflict, this region is now a sanctuary of regeneration, where nature slowly reclaims its rhythm. Here, the Guianan Cock-of-the-Rock lights up the shadows with its blazing orange plumage, performing courtship rituals that have survived centuries of solitude. Nearby, the Scarlet-crowned Barbet peeks from fruiting trees, while the White-eared Jacamar flashes through sunlit clearings with a glint of metallic feathers. Guaviare is not just rich in biodiversity; it’s a living testimony to resilience. Over 600 bird species call this land home, sharing space with ancient rock art and rivers that whisper old stories. Through the lens, each bird tells more than its own tale—it captures a land quietly healing and a people choosing to protect it. #GuaviareMagic #BirdsofColombia #NatureHeals #RetornoPhotoTours #BirdPhotography #ConservationThroughTourism #WildColombia @leica_camera @leicacameramx @leicanature @leicacamerausa #leicasl3 #leicaphotography #birdphotographersofinstagram

The Guianan Cock-of-the-Rock Expedition: A Journey Through Time in Guaviare, Colombia For several unforgettable days, @hassmanphotos and @andreaind1 delved into the emerald heart of the Colombian Amazon. We were in Guaviare, a land where ancestral spirits linger in the jungle mist, where time slows down, and where the vibrant Guyanese Cock-of-the-Rock draws us into an ancient history. On the first day, in the soft light of dawn, we spotted our first male Cock-of-the-Rock, bathing and illuminated by a golden light, his brilliant orange plumage shining against the green of the forest. Only Andrea’s camera was on, poised to photograph such a bird. We exchanged whispers of awe. It was one of the many moments that took our breath away. The picture comes in her account. It is a marvelous picture. Birds: Black capped Donacobius #blackcappeddonacobius #birds #birds_captures #birds_nature #birdphotographer #birdphotographyworld @leica_camera @leicanature @leicacameramx #leicasl3 #colombia

The Emblematic Green Jay is a vibrant and intelligent bird of the Colombian Andes, thrives in humid montane and cloud forests between 1,200 and 2,800 meters above sea level. Known for its striking green, blue, and yellow plumage, it is highly social, often seen in small, noisy groups of up to ten individuals. These jays display complex communication and occasionally engage in cooperative breeding, with group members helping to raise the young. Their omnivorous diet includes insects, fruits, seeds, small vertebrates, and even bird eggs, making them important both as seed dispersers and insect controllers. Active foragers, they explore different forest layers, showing curiosity and intelligence typical of the corvid family. Nesting usually occurs during the dry season, with cup-shaped nests hidden in dense vegetation. While not currently endangered, the Green Jay depends on intact forest habitats, making it a valuable indicator species for conservation and ecological health in Andean ecosystems. Emblematic Birds Tour #greenjay #greenjays #jays #birds #birds_captures #birds_4you #birdsnature #leicaphoto #leica #leicasl3 #leicacamera #leicaphotography #colombia

The two tanagers may appear quite similar at first glance, but they are actually distinct species. One key difference between them is the shape of their bills. Additionally, the Hepatic Tanager is larger and more robust. Males of this species boast vibrant red plumage with a subtle dusty wash on their upperparts and sides, setting them apart from the other tangers. 1. Summer Tanager 2. Hepatic Tanager #summertanager #hepatictanager #tanager #tanagersofinstagram #birds #bird #colombia #birdphotography #birdphototours #birdwatchingphotography

RETORNO Pantanal - Brasil. In nine days, we are discovering the biggest wildlife cat in America: the Jaguar. Our main goal is to create great masterpieces for printing. More info: write me on my WhatsApp, see in th Bio. #jaguar #pantanal #pantanalmatogrossense #jaguars #brasil #wildlifephotography #mammals #phototour

⸻ Something incredible is happening in Colombia 🇨🇴 — we’ve become the most beautiful destination in the world to photograph birds! Nowhere else can you photograph as many species in so few days. Why? Because Colombia is the most bird-diverse country on Earth, and its reserves are working hard to offer the best spots for you and your camera. Bird: Little Cuckoo Shot with: #LeicaSL3 + 100-400mm lens Location: Antioquia Tour: Emblematic Birds #BirdPhotography #BirdingColombia #LittleCuckoo #ColombiaBirding #NaturePhotography #WildlifeLovers #RetornoBirding #leicacameramx #leicacamera #leicanature #birds #bird #birdphotographersofinstagram #birdphotographyworld #birdwatchingphotography #birds_adored #colombia

Something that has always captivated me is the eyes of birds, and one of my favorites is, without a doubt, the eye of the Crested Oropendola. Its deep blue and its different hues are breathtaking. Photography made with the powerful Leica SL3. #leicasl3 #leica #leicaphotography #leicaphoto #leicagram #birds #bird #birdphototours #birdphotographersofinstagram #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography

Golden-plumed Parakeets. They are among the many targets in our bird photography tours. Check out the Emblematic Birds Tour on our page. #goldenplumedparakeet #parakeet #parakeetlovers #parakeet #birds #birds #colombia #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography

RETORNO Photo Tours. Tanagers in Colombia 🇨🇴 1. Blue-necked Tanager 2. Bay-headed Tanager 3. Crimson-backed Tanager 4. Created Ant-Tanager (Endemic) 5. Black and Gold Tanager (Endemic) 6. Turquoise Tanager 7. Multicolored Tanager, Male (Endemic) 8. Multicolored Tanager, Female (Endemic) 9. Red capped Cardinal 10. Black cheeked Mountain Tanager (Endemic) Let me know if you already have them all. If not, let me help you. #tanagers #birds #birds_captures #birds_4you #birdsonearth #wildwildbirder #birdphototours #birdsphotography #birdseyeview #birdslife #birdswatching #colombia

Great Kiskadee, creating a simple bird into a Emblematic Bird. Our Porpouse in the photo tours, is not only chek a emblematic Bird, its exposure as never do. Emblematic Bird photo Tour www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #birds #birdingphotography #bird #birdphototours #birdphotographersofinstagram #birdphotographyworld #birdphotographer #birdphotographyindia

Breeding season. Colombia, as a tropical country, can have two or three breeding seasons per year for various species. During our tours, we frequently photograph chicks and their mothers feeding their young, and occasionally we have the opportunity to photograph these scenes in the nests as well. Specie: Tropical Mockingbird Tour: Emblematic Birds #tropicalmockingbird #birds #bird #wildwildbirder #birdsphotography #breeding #nest #photography📷 #photographer #birdwatchingphotography

White-bearded Manakin. Tour: Emblematic Birds Colombia www.retornoPhotoTours.com #whitebeardedmanakin #manacusmanacus #manakin #birdwatchingphotography #birdphototours #birds_captures #birdphotographersofinstagram #birdphotographer #colombia

The price of the couple of the year goes to Red-headed Barbet, some of the most good looking birds and photogenic birds of the world. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #leicaphotography #leica #leicacameramx #leicagram #leicacamera #leicacamerausa #leicasl3 #redheadedbarbet #barbetsofinstagram #bird #birds_captures #birdphotography #birds_nature #birdwatchingphotography #colombia

As a bird photographer, in addition to an excellent camera, Leica optics are part of my equipment and are essential for observing the details of the birds that I want to immortalize 📸. Scarlet-fronted Parakeet #colombia #leica #leicaoptics #leicacamera #leicaphoto #leicaphotography #optics #binocular #binoculars #birdwatchingphotography #colombia

The Striolated Manakin is an absolute sweetheart among manakins. Taking this photo wasn’t easy; it took me about 30 minutes. It could have been worse, but it didn’t take longer because the spot I chose to take was a lek with more than 15 individuals, which made the task easier. This bird is possible in the Emblematic photo tour; I have two spots in a standard tour for November 2025. Photo with Leica Camera and lens 100-400. #leicacameramx #leicanature #leicasl3 #leicaphoto #striolatedmanakin #manakin #birds #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #colombia

I am so happy to promote new places with unique birds, such as the White-mantled Barbet (Endemic); I have been working with this new reserve for more than one year ago, trying to put it on the map not only for photographers besides other birdwatching or bird photography companies, Colombia continues to become as the best place to bird photography tours of the world, not only because we have more birds than another country besides we count with wonderful people behind the reserves. #leicacameramx #leicasl3 #birdphototours #birdphotographersofinstagram #whitemantledbarbet #barbetsofinstagram #birds #birdphotography #birdphotographer @leicacameramx

During my last bird photography expedition with @colibri_dreamer through the mountains of Antioquia, the little cuckoo showed me everything he had. Before copulating, I captured his moment of display in a photo. I took that photo with a Leica SL3 and a 100-400 lens. #leicacameramx #littlecuckoo #birds #birds_captures #birds_nature #colombia #photographytour #retornobirding #leicasl3

The Masked Trogon is one of those birds that is very calm. After you find it, it will show off for minutes before disappearing, giving you many opportunities to photograph it. During our photography tours, we have ample opportunities to capture with our lens. Tour: Emblematic Birds #maskedtrogon #trogons #birdsonearth #photographylovers #colombia

Toucan Barbet in Colombia 🇨🇴 is a must in our Bird Photography Tours. #toucanbarbet #toucan #colombia🇨🇴

Three mammals that appear in front of our lenses during bird photography tours are always a great moment that we can’t waste. 1. Ocelot 2. Crab-eating Fox 3. Capuchin Monkey #ocelote #tigrillolanudo #ocelot #crabeatingfox #zorro #caouchinmonkeysofinstagram #monkeys #colombia #colombia🇨🇴 #colômbia

Sometimes we have to walk to achieve some birds, like the Golden-headed Quetzal. I am a photographer of birds; observing is not my pleasure. For that reason, when I walk, I am going with high certainty to catch the species I am looking for with my camera, like the Golden-headed Quetzal. Tours: Retorno Photo Tours #goldenheadedquetzal #quetzal #birds #birdsonearth #colombia🇨🇴 #photographer #birdphotography #birdphototours

The Green Jay (#cyanocoraxyncas) might be among the most fascinating birds to capture on camera, especially with its striking yellow eye and blue crest. A great aspect of photographing green jays is the abundance of opportunities, as they typically reside in small groups of 5-6 for improved foraging, protection from predators, and social learning. These small groups enable them to locate food more effectively, remain safe, and reinforce social connections, which are crucial for survival and successful breeding. For that reason, they gather in locations for your benefit. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #greenjay #greenjays #cyanocoraxyncas #birds #jays #phototours #birdsphotography #birdwatchingphotography #photographer #colombia🇨🇴

Andean Potoo, Colombia East Andes, during a Hummingbird expedition. www.retornophototours.com #andeanpotoo #potoo #potooftheday #birds #birds_captures #birdsofinstagram #phototravel ours

The Rainbow Hummingbird 🌈 is one of the most desired hummingbirds for Bird Photographers in Colombia 🇨🇴, but this little guy is not as easy as you think. As a guide, it is essential to understand this hummingbird’s behaviour to guide your team in achieving a wonderful photograph of it, in addition to knowing where it is. #rainbowbeardedthornbill #rainbowbearded #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbirds #hummingbirdspk #birdphotography #birdphotographersofinstagram #birdphotographer #birdphotographersofindia #birdphototours #colombia🇨🇴

I still can't believe what I felt when the sword-bellied hummingbird perched on my finger and looked at me. It was such a special moment - this incredible bird is what sparked my love for bird photography 11 years ago. Even now, it amazes me that a hummingbird exists with a bill longer than its own body!! Thanks to @glopezespina for taking me this wonderful picture. Special moment during the last photo tour in Colombia. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #swordbilledhummingbird #hummingbirdsofinstagram #humingbird #colombia #birdphotography #birdphotographyuk #birdphoto

The Scrub Tanager (NE) is relatively common in Colombia and Ecuador. You will have multiple opportunities to photograph them on our tours. #scrubtanager #birds #birdsonearth #nearendemicspecie #colombia #phototour

Are you seeing an angry hummingbird? I present to you the Buff-winged Starfrontlet, one of my favourite hummingbirds. It is quite elusive for photographing. During the photo tours, you can learn techniques for capturing really good pictures of these hummingbirds—it's a challenge that is worth the effort. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #retrnophototourscolombia #buffywingedstarfrontlet #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbird #hummingbirdworldtour #hummingbirdsphotography

Silver-throated Tanager. This tanager fascinated me 10 years ago when I photographed this species for the first time. #silverthroatedtanager #tanagers #tanagersofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #birds_nature #birdphotography #colombia🇨🇴

Hooded Mountain Tanager junior very scare. #hoodedmountaintanager #tanagers #tanagersofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #birds #birdphotography #birdphototours

Retorno Photo Tours Fiery-throated Hummingbird www.retornophototours.com #fierythroatedhummingbird #hummingbirds #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Colombia has nearly 175 hummingbirds, the most biodiverse country in the world. If you are a hummingbird addict, Colombia is the right place to photograph some of them. 1. Green-bearded Hemmetcrest (E) 2. Butterfly Coquette 3. Glowing Puffleg 4. Golden-bellied Starfrontlet (E) 5. Gorgeted Woodstar (NE) 6. Great Sapphirewing 7. (violet) Crowned Woodnymph 8. Brown Inca 9. Red-bellied Emerald (NE) 10. (Green) Crowned Woodnymph 11. White-booted Racket-tailed 12. Glowing Puffleg 13. White-booted Racket-tailed 14. Mountain Velvetbreast 15. White-vented Plumeleteer 16. Lazuline Sabrewing 17. Violet-fronted Brilliant 18. Violet-tailed Sylph 19. White-tailed Starfronlet (E) 20. Purple-bibbed Whitetip www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #hummingbirds #hummingbird #hummingbird_spot #hummingbird_moments #hummingbirdphotography #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbirdfeeder

Red-ruffed Fruitcrow (Pyroderus scutatus) Family: Cotingidae Size: 33–38 cm (13–15 in) Weight: 220–280 g (7.8–9.9 oz) Wingspan: Approx. 50 cm (19.6 in) Lifespan: Estimated 10–15 years The Red-ruffed Fruitcrow is a striking, large passerine with a deep black body and a vivid orange-red throat and chest. It has a robust build, strong legs, and a slightly curved beak adapted for feeding on fruit. Males and females are similar in appearance, though males tend to have a more intense coloration. This species inhabits humid montane forests from Colombia to Argentina, typically between 800 and 2,500 meters (2,600–8,200 ft) in elevation. It prefers dense, mossy forests with abundant fruit-bearing trees. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com colombia #redruffedfruitcrow #continga #birds #birds_adored #birds_captures #birdstagram #birdsonearth #birdsphotography

The Red-headed Barbet is a recurring bird on our tours. He is good-looking, but he is sometimes difficult to expose as he deserves. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #birdphotography #birdphototours #birds #birdlovers

The Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus aequatorialis), a subspecies of this spectacular bird. Unlike its close relatives, this subspecies is distinguished by its striking bright orange plumage, contrasting beautifully with its black wings and tail. Found primarily in the cloud forests of Ecuador, southern Colombia, and northern Peru, this bird is famous for its elaborate courtship displays at communal gathering sites known as leks. At these leks, males engage in dramatic displays, bobbing, bowing, and calling in an effort to attract females. The intensity of their performances, combined with their vibrant coloration, makes them one of the most sought-after species among bird photographers and nature enthusiasts. At Retorno Photo Tours, we offer exclusive access to one of the best-documented leks of this subspecies, providing a unique opportunity to capture breathtaking images of these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Join us for an unforgettable bird photography experience, where you’ll not only witness the Andean Cock-of-the-rock in action but also immerse yourself in the incredible biodiversity of Colombia’s cloud forests. 📸 Book your tour today and experience the magic of bird photography with Retorno Photo Tours! 🌿🐦#birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotographer #birdingphotography #colombia #birdphototours #birdsofinstagram

Yellow-headed Caracara, amazing an common raptor during our bird photography tours in Colombia. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #retornophototours #colombia #yellowheadedcaracara #raptors #raptorsofinstagram

During our last photo tour, I took @glopez to discover a one-of-a-kind bilaterally gynandromorphic green honeycreeper with blue (male) on the right and green (female) on the left. The bicolored bird is a rare example of what's known as bilateral gynandromorphy, a phenomenon in which one side of an organism exhibits male characteristics while the other exhibits female characteristics. In birds, the cause is believed to be an error during egg meiosis (cell division) followed by double fertilization by two separate sperm. This is only the second recorded example of bilateral gynandromorphy in a Green Honeycreeper (Chlorophanes spiza), the previous report dating back to 1914. And in that case, it was blue on the left and green on the right. Say A paper on the research was recently published in the Journal of Field Ornithology. #greenhoneycreeper #gynandromorphism #birdphotography #birdsofinstagram #gynandromorph #colombianbirds #birdphotographer @new.atlas

Emblematic Andean Motmot. During our last private and exclusive photo tour with my friend @glopezespina we had some opportunities to photograph this beauty. www.retornophototours.com #andeanmotmot #andeanmotmotsofinstagram #motmot #colombia

Are you a Hummingbird addict? Hummingbirds from Colombia 🇨🇴 www.retornophototours.com 1. Long-tailed Sylph 2. White-tipped Sicklebill 3. Purple-throated Woodstar 4. Purple-bibbed Whitetip 5. Empress Brilliant 6. Buffy Helmetcrest (Endemic) 7. Tourmaline Sunangel 8. Blue-throated Starfrontlet (NE) 9. White-tailed Starfrontlet (Endemic) 10. White-bellied Woodstar 11. Purple-backed Thornbill 12. Western Emerald 13. Bronze-tailed Thornbill 14. Glowing Puffleg 15. Speckled Hummingbird 16. Velvet Purple Coronet 17. Tolima Blossomcrown 18. Sparkling Violetear 19. Green-fronted Lancebill 20. Fawn-breasted Brilliant

The most common hummingbird in Colombia is the Sparkling Violetear. This larger species can be aggressive towards other hummingbirds, yet it can also display a charming demeanour at times. www.retornophototours.com #sparklingvioletear #colibricoruscans #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram #colombia🇨🇴 #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Colombia has suffered for decades from wildlife trafficking. Here, I bring you a picture of a yellow-crowned Amazon, another species usually purchased by buyers from Europe and Asia. This is a tribute to those people who fight every day to save species and protect them from this crime. Her name is Pacha, and she became alone after her partner was eaten by a predator. #yellowcrownedamazon #parrot #parrotlover #savetheplanet #savetheearth

Happy Valentine’s Day! Wishing you love, joy, and beautiful moments with those who make your heart soar. 💕🌿✨ Golden-plumed Parakeet www.retornophototours.com #goldenplumedparakeet #leptosittacabranickii #parakeet #parakeetlove #parakeetlovers #parakeetsofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #colombia🇨🇴 #birdphotography #birdphotographer

The Green-fronted Lancebill (Doryfera ludovicae), a true jewel of the Andean cloud forests, graced us with its presence during our emblematic bird photography tour. With its long, needle-like bill and shimmering green plumage, this unique hummingbird is perfectly adapted to feed on deep tubular flowers. Often found near streams and waterfalls, it perches motionless, offering rare yet breathtaking photo opportunities. Playing a crucial role in pollination, the Green-fronted Lancebill symbolizes the delicate balance of its high-altitude habitat. www.retornophototours.com #greenfrontedlancebill #doryferaludovicae #hummingbirds #hummingbird_spot #hummingbird #hummingbirdsofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #colombia

After some time without photographing this stunning Gray-breasted Mountain Toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), I can truly say — beauty like this is impossible to resist. Tour: Emblematic Birds #graybreastedmountaintoucan #toucan #colombia🇨🇴 #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #naturephotography #andeanbirds #mountaintoucan

Black-collared Jay during our Retorno Bird Photo Tour. #blackcollaredjay #colombia🇨🇴 #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #tours

BEHIND the scene: Emblematic Photo tour Colombia with @glopezespina. Doing 2 of 5 things I really like the most (doing Bird photography with profesional photographers and sharing Especially Coffee from @housecoffee.ca) Tour: Emblematic Birds Colombia 🇨🇴 Coffee: from @housecoffee.ca #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #cockoftherock #birdphotographer #colombia #birdphototours #coffeeandbirds #phototours

A female of Andean Cock-of-the-Rock values plus 10 males—if you don’t believe me, you have to hear how crazy the males become after seeing a Female. Furthermore, if you have the female wet, you have to multiply by two. So, in total, this bird is valued at 20 the most beautiful birds. Tour: Emblematic Birds of Colombia. A beautiful photo tour with my friend Gilberto Lopez @glopezespina a incredible artist, discover his gallery in his bio. #andeancockoftherock #cockoftherock #gallitoderoca #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdart #birdfreaks

During the Emblematic Birds Tour with @glopezespina, we were absolutely thrilled to capture The Crested Ant-Tanager (Endemic), a truly enchanting moment that took us by surprise and was a wonderful gift from nature. #crestedanttanager #anttanagers #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdtours #birdwatchingphotography #birdphoto

Seeing the Oilbird, also known as the “bird of the caverns,” was an experience I will never forget. I cried like a child, overwhelmed by the beauty and mystery of this incredible species. Watching them in pairs, around 20 birds in a small colony, was magical yet bittersweet. Their presence reminded me of how fragile nature is, constantly threatened by human activities. The name “Oilbird” comes from the bird’s historical use by Indigenous communities and early settlers who extracted oil from its chicks. These young birds develop thick layers of fat as they grow, allowing people to render the fat into oil, which was used for cooking and lighting lamps — similar to whale oil. The Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) is the only nocturnal, fruit-eating bird in the world, known for its unique ability to navigate in complete darkness using echolocation, much like bats. Despite its past exploitation, it now symbolizes nature’s resilience and importance in biodiversity conservation. #tour: Emblematic Birds #oilbird #birdsofthewild #natureconservation #protectwildlife #oilbirdmystery #fragilenature #birdphotigraphy #biodiversitymatters #naturenistalgia #preserveourplanet #wildlifewonders

Collared Aracari showing his assassin tool. Notice his hook. #collaredaracari #toucan #toucansofinstagram #birds #birds_captures #colombia #phototoursdirectory #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Every day, new reserves are born in Colombia, and RETORNO is at the forefront of exploring these pristine locations. We not only identify unique species but also help organize the quality of their habitats and provide crucial advice for sustainable and profitable business practices. Here, you can photograph four species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Among them are the Sooty Ant-Tanager (endemic) and the Black-bellied Wren. @laposadadelnyctibius Tour: Emblematic Birds. #sootyanttanager #blackbelliedwren #birdphotography #birds #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #colombia🇨🇴

Barbets are remarkable birds that never fail to capture my attention. This time, the Emblematic Spot-crowned proudly poses for me in front of my lens. It's not an easy bird to photograph, but I relish the challenge of capturing its intricate details. Tour: Emblematic Birds #spotcrownedbarbet #barbets #birdphotographer #birdphototours #colombia

Crossing the central Andes to the Western Andes gives us many opportunities to see different toucans and toucanets in the Emblematic Birds Photo Tour. Contact us and organize your Photo trip to the most biodiverse country in the world. Tour: Emblematic Birds. #southernemeraldtoucanet #toucanet #toucans #toucansofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours

Some days, you are looking for birds like the Black Chestnut Eagle, but nature has something different for you, like a Golden-headed Quetzal. That's the way. Today, I recommend visiting @birdingfomeque as soon as possible. It is a beautiful place to photograph this species in its nest. Tour: Dazzling Birds #goldenheadedquetzal #quetzal #nestingbirds #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdphotographer #colombiatravel

In a few days, I will embark on an exciting new photo expedition across the breathtaking Colombian Andes. This journey, which I have aptly named Emblematic Birds, aims to showcase the beauty of majestic birds such as the Rufous Motmot. Be sure to follow @glopezspina for a glimpse into his extraordinary photography. Tours: Emblematic Birds #rufousmotmot #motmot #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotographer #birphotography #birdphototours #colombiatravel #birdsofinstagram #birds_captures

It's totally calm this Green Thorntail female pose for my lens in the last photo tour through the emblematic Andes. #greenthorntail #femaleempowerment #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram #colômbia #phototours #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #tours

Are you thinking to much…. Retorno Birding Colombia 🇨🇴 #Plushcap #birdingphotography #birdwatching #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours #birdingcolombia #birdsofinstagram

Taking the lunch for a fiancée. Plushcap. Tour: Emblematic birds. #plushcap #birds #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdingphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #colombiatravel

Witness the stunning sight of the Black and Gold Tanager (Endemic) revealed during a gentle rain shower. Tour: Emblematic birds photo tour #blackandgoldtanager #tanager #tanagers #birds #birdsphotographer #birdsphotigraphy #birdwatchingphotography #birdphoto #colombiatravel

There is no doubt that some birds possess stunning beauty, while others simply cannot compare. Red headed Barbet. Tour: Emblematic Birds photo tour. #redheadedbarbet #barbetsofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotography #birding_lounge #colombia🇨🇴

Some years ago, The Turquoise Tanager was tricky to photograph, but right now, Colombia has a wonderful reserve that puts this bird in front of you. Every day, new initiatives from locals are born and facilitate difficult birds. In this way, Colombia continues to become the first destination for photographers around the world, not only because our country is fantastic in Culture, food and people manners, but because in a photo Tour, you can do more birds than in another country. I am waiting for you. Tour: iconic Birds Photo Tour #turquoisetanager #tanagers #tanagersofinstagram #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdingphotography #phototour #colômbia

Pale-bellid Tapaculo, Endemic. It is a rare and difficult bird to photograph and acts like a mouse, scurrying around on or near the ground within the montane forests and scrubby areas from around 2,000 to 3,300 m. Bird Photo Tour, Colombia 🇨🇴 #palebelliedtapaculo #tapaculo #endemic #birdsofinstagram #phototour #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography

Every hummingbird has a singular power. Without a doubt, the Longuemare’s Sunangel power is the glittering violet, one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. Is it? Tour: Hummingbirds of Colombia 🇨🇴 #longuemaressunangel #hummingbirds #hummingbird #colombianhummingbirds #birdsphoto #phototours #colombia

Masked Trogon, some of these birds that are so good-looking and chill. Tour: Harpy Eagle Photo Tour. Season: July - September. #maskedtrogon #trogon #birdsofinstagram #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdsofcolombia #birdingcolombia #phototours

The Multicolored Tanager, an endemic treasure, captivates with its breathtaking colors. If you're a photographer capturing this stunning bird for the first time, ensure your camera is set up perfectly. The beauty of this moment deserves your utmost attention; otherwise, you may miss the chance to immortalize its brilliance in your photos. Tour: Emblematic Birds #multicoloredtanager #tanagers #birdscolombia #birdphotographer #birdingphotography #birdsofinstagram #phototours

Portrait of a wonder of Colombia 🇨🇴 The emblematic 👉Crescent 🌙 faced Antpitta during our last photo tour into the Andes Mountains.

Endemic, the Grayish Piculet is taking food for his growing family. #grayishpiculet #piculet #woodpecker #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdingphotography

Portrait: Fawn-breasted Brilliant showing his rose bowtie. Tour: Emblematic Birds. #fawnbreastedbrilliant #hummingbird #colombianbirds #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Make sure to check out the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, home to a wide variety of colorful birds, including the striking Blue-naped Chlorophonia. Tour: Colourful Birds Season: December to February. #bluenapedchlorophonia #clorophoniasofinstagram #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdersofcolor #birdsphotographer #birdingtours #birdphotographytours

A common bird, but difficult to photograph; why? Always on the ground, between branches and behind leaves. Here, it gave me a chance after many attempts, and I managed to capture it with my lens. These birds sometimes pass without attention because photographers always spend their time photographing Toucan Barbets, Glistering Green Tanagers, or Spot Crown Barbets during the Emblematic Birds Tour. I understand. Tour: Emblematic Birds #tricoloredbrushfinch #brushfinch #colombianbirds #birdsofcolombia #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography

When you think of toucans, you have to think of the most emblematic Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, a king of the high mountains of the Colombian Andes. Tour: Emblematic Birds #blackbilledmountaintoucan #toucans #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotographer #birdphototours #colômbia

Black-and-White Owl during daylight is an excellent opportunity to catch up and photograph. #blackandwhiteowl #owls #owl #owllover #birds #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography

It is very satisfying to photograph the Scaled Antpitta when it is eating its succulent worms. Tour: Emblematic Birds #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #colombia #birdphototours #birdphotographer #scaledantpitta

Emblematic Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, one of the most looking birds in our tours. Colombia has the best spots for bird photography of this bird. Tour: Emblematic Birds. #andeancockoftherock #birds #cockoftherock #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphoto #colombian_birds

Cock of the Rock 🎸 One of the most good-looking birds for your lens. Tour Emblematic Birds #cockoftherock #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours #birdingcolombia

Imagine a movie created by birds, where the Crimson-masked Tanager would undoubtedly be cast as the villain, the killer, the evil character. Sometimes, showing a bird demands time of preparation; on this occasion, accessing this bird in a perch requires perseverance and determination. I have to thank Diego Rocha, a local guide who worked hard to get it. Tour: Iconic Birds #crimsonmaskedtanager #tanager #birdsphotography #birdingphotography #birdstagram #phototour #colombia🇨🇴

During our last photo tour, we didn’t expect to do a photograph of the Ornate Hawk-Eagle; but an unfortunate moment, when the eagle tried to hunt the rescued Yellow-crowned Parrot of Javier, gave us the opportunity to catch up with our cameras one of the most beautiful and emblematic eagles of Colombia. That was not easy, finding the correct angle took a while; @emilv_photography and I climbed a mountain to have the perfect perspective in front of this magnificent bird. The effort was worth it. #ornatehawkeagle #eagles #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphotography #colombia🇨🇴 #phototour

During our last Photo Tour through the Colombian Andes, we had the most incredible opportunity to photograph the Ocelot, an emblematic wild cat 50 cm in size; his colour and patterns impressed me with how beautiful he can be. Tour: Emblematic Birds #ocelot #ocelote #wildcats #wildlifephotography #wildlife #wildnature #birdingphotography #birdphotography #colombia🇨🇴

One of the most beautiful birds of the Andes is the Emblematic Multicolored Tanager. I love sharing with you how my lenses capture and immortalize her beauty. Emblematic Photo Tour #multicoloredtanager #endemictanagers #birdingphotographer #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdingdaily #birds_captures #colombia

It is not just a Spinetail; it is the emblematic White-browed Spinetail perched. Tour: Emblematic Birds #whitebrowedspinetail #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotography #colombianbirds #birdsofinstagram #colombiabirds #birdingtours

I am so happy doing one of the five things I most like: Bird Photography; on this occasion, the Emblematic Birds Photo tour with @emilv_photography and his wonderful Wife, an expedition with specific targets, all of them symbolic and exciting like White-mantled Barbet (endemic) and unique. Tour: Emblematic Birds #whitemantledbarbet #birdingphotography #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #birdscolombia #colombiabirding #colombiatravel

The iconic red-capped cardinal was a delightful surprise during our recent bird photography tour in southern Colombia. This bird left me completely thrilled as it showcased its stunning beauty. Just look at those striking orange eyes—aren't they amazing? Tour: Iconic Birds #redcappedcardinal #cardinals #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdphotographer #colombia #birdingcolombia

I present to you the Hooded Antpitta, the smallest Antpitta in Colombia and possibly the world. It is a total beauty. You could photograph it during our photo tour to the south of Colombia. Tour: Iconic Birds photo tour. Location: Huila - Cauca and Putumayo. #hoodedantpitta #antpittas #antpittasofcolombia #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdsonearth #birdsphotography #birdphototours #colombia

Sometimes, the Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl give us total happiness. Tour: Iconic Birds. #ferruginouspygmyowl #owl #owls #owlsoftheday #owllovers #colombiabirding #birdwatchingphotography #birdwatching #birdphotography

During the past photo tour, one of the most desirable birds was The Iconic Deep-blue Flowerpiercer. It was not an easy bird, but all the effort was gratifying. Tour: Iconic Birds #deepblueflowerpiercer #phototour #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotographer #birdingphotography #colombia

White-eared Jacamar. One of the beauties of Putumayo. Photo Tour: Iconic Birds Colombia 🇨🇴 #whiteearedjacamar #photographer #birdphotography #photographylover #naturephotography #photooftheday hotographer

Después de más de 10 días en el photo tour "Iconic Birds" por el sur de Colombia, quiero agradecer a tres mujeres increíbles. Su energía y profesionalismo hicieron de esta experiencia algo único. Las jornadas de 12 horas diarias, fueron intensas, pero cada momento valió la pena. Tuvimos la oportunidad de avistar y capturar aves raras e icónicas que todos querrían tener en su colección. Les comparto una de las tantas joyitas del viaje, Wire-crested Thorntail, o también llamado cola de Lira (𝘋𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘪) @el.cielo.fotografia @pandionshouse @cprazzini @vickymeissner09 @abo_avesbogota #discosurapopelairii #wirecrestedthorntail #iconicbirds #birdscolombia #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdingtours

One of the most desirable parakeets in Colombia 🇨🇴 is the Iconic Maroon-tailed Parakeet (Huila Parakeet). During of the iconic birds photo tour with Retorno Birding, we had the opportunity to photograph a whole family feeding. A magic moment one time in a life. #maroontailedparakeet #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdphototours #birdphotographer #colombia #parakeet #parakeets

The Crimson-backed Tanager is a highlight; our next expedition begins soon to the south. It will be a spectacle tour that explores Huila, Putumayo, and Cauca, a stunning tour that lets us photograph amazing birds, as I mentioned. Tour: Iconic Birds #crimsonbackedtanager #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdwatchersofinstagram #phototours

If I were to compile a list of 100 birds to see in my lifetime, the Ocellated Antbird would definitely be near the top. Tour: Choco Biogeografico. Colombia Soon, the new web page, www.retornobirding.com, #retonornobirding #ocellatedantbird #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphotographersofindia

Don't forget to keep this in mind: The stunning Ruby Topaz Hummingbird is a key highlight of the Emblematic Birds Photo Tour. #rubytopaz #rubytopazhummingbird #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbirdsofcolombia #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography