Blue-bearded Helmetcrest

Expedition

12 days / 12 nights

A black and white photo of a hummingbird perched on a branch

Off the Beaten Track: Adventure in Search of the Blue-bearded Helmetcrest.

The tour begins from: Santa Marta.

Location: SIerra Nevada de Santa Marta  (Magdalena).

In 1946, the blue-bearded helmetcrest (Oxypogon cyanolaemus), a stunning hummingbird with a brilliant blue beard, was collected on the high páramo of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta by explorer Melbourne Armstrong Carriker, Jr. For nearly seven decades, this bird disappeared and was presumed extinct. However, in 2015, Carlos Julio Rojas captured remarkable photos of a living specimen, marking its rediscovery after 69 years. The Sierra Nevada's isolated páramo landscapes, with their harsh climate and sparse vegetation, became the final refuge of this rare species.


Endemic to Colombia, the blue-bearded helmetcrest thrives among frailejones and glacial lakes, where few dare to venture. Despite its remarkable comeback, the bird faces dire threats from habitat loss and climate change. With an estimated population of fewer than 50 individuals, it remains critically endangered. Nonetheless, sightings of young birds provide hope for its continued survival amid conservation efforts.


The Helmetcrest hummingbirds, with their striking crests and unique beards, represent nature's resilience in high-altitude páramo ecosystems. Colombia is home to three of the four species: the Green-bearded Helmetcrest (Oxypogon guerinii) thrives in Sumapaz and Chingaza National Parks. At the same time, the Buffy Helmetcrest (Oxypogon stuebelii) inhabits the rugged landscapes of Los Nevados del Ruiz National Park. Each species is perfectly adapted to the cold, oxygen-scarce environments they inhabit. The fourth, the White-bearded Helmetcrest (Oxypogon lindenii), is found in Venezuela. These birds symbolize both beauty and fragility, highlighting the need for ongoing conservation efforts in these vital páramo regions.


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Additional information

  • Ground transportation on the stipulated routes.
  • A birdwatching guide or Photographer guide.
  • Local guides where necessary.
  • Meals are defined for each day: b- Breakfast, l- Lunch, and d- Dinner.
  • Entrance fees to the reserves.
  • Six days, 5 nights of bird photography tour.
  • Double accommodation. 
  • Pick up at Santa Marta International Airport.
  • Drop off at Santa Marta International Airport
  • Accompany to take every picture as needed

  • International flights.
  • Domestic flights.
  • Nights before or nights after the tour.
  • Meals not stipulated.
  • Wire Transfer extra costs are 0,5% per transaction.
  • Laundry.
  • Alcohol Beverages.
  • Insurance.
  • Other expenses are not specified.
  • Tips.

  • Bring Binoculars
  • Photography equipment
  • External memory for downloading pictures at night.
  • Computer to process at night.
  • Be prepared for rain and sun: waterproof rain jacket and quick-drying clothing.
  • Bring a camera protector.
  • Bring silica gel to store the equipment at night and avoid humidity.
  • Sunscreen, hat, or cap.
  • Waterproof trekking boots or rubber boots.
  • VERY IMPORTANT: insect repellent

LOGISTICS COULD CHANGE FOR MANY REASONS AS FOLLOWS:

a. Bird activity.


b. For the decision of the travellers.


c. Security issued. Healthy issue. Road Issue.


e. Other no specify.


The travellers have to accept any of these changes. If the shift carries extra costs, they assume them. The price is budgeted before the change.


Retorno does not provide equipment rental or loan service; each person must bring their cameras, lenses, batteries, memories and computer to carry out the activity in the best conditions. Retorno is not responsible for the loss, deterioration, or theft of photographic equipment or accessories.


RETORNO does not guarantee any species of birds or photography of them; nature is unpredictable.


RETORNO works hard to have the best logistics and protocols for safety during your visit to COLOMBIA BIRD PARADISE.