When Is the Best Time to Go Birding in Colombia?

The Gold-ringed Tanager is an endemic species to Colombia's Western Andes, a must-see for most birdwatchers who visit the area.

Colombia holds the title of the most bird-rich country on Earth, with nearly 2,000 species — including over 80 found nowhere else. It’s no surprise that one of the most common questions travelers ask is:

“When is the best time to go birding in Colombia?”

The truth? Colombia is a year-round birding paradise. But depending on whether you want to maximize photography opportunities, target rare endemics, or catch migration, certain times of the year will fit your plans better than others.

Q: When is the best time to visit Colombia for birding?

The short answer: the dry seasons — December through March and July through September.

These months bring clearer skies, less rain, and easier travel conditions, which means better chances of hiking into reserves, more reliable feeders, and less worry about protecting your gear.

In contrast to bluebird days, cloudier weather is often better for birding since the cooler air keeps birds active and visible for longer. Even in Colombia’s dry season, you can expect cloud cover and misty mornings in the highlands, with occasional rain showers still passing through—though they’re less frequent and shorter than in the wetter months.

Mid-day during Dry Season pictured atop Los Nevados National Natural Park in January- located in the Central Andes.

Q: Is Colombia good for birding year-round?

Yes — unlike temperate countries, Colombia’s birdlife doesn’t vanish in winter. Resident species, including many dazzling endemics like the Multicolored Tanager or Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, can be seen any time of year.

Different regions shine at different times:

• Andes: Lively all year; easiest in the dry months (Dec–Mar, Jul–Sep).

• Chocó (Pacific rainforest): Year-round birding; very wet most months with a relatively drier Jul–Sep window.

• Amazon (Leticia region): Good all year; best access Jul–Sep (lower water, fewer storms).

• Santa Marta Mountains: Driest Dec–Apr—prime season for Santa Marta endemics.

Birding at Montezuma Rainforest in the Western Andes will almost certainly involve rain- no matter the time of year- as this spot is one of the wettest land-locked places on Earth. There are 7 shelters (like this one pictured above) along the 8.7 mile dirt road to take refuge.

Kirt celebrating the sun after a light rain shower at the top of Montezuma Road located on the western slope of the Western Andes mountain range within Tatamá National Natural Park (situated near the border with Chocó).

Q: When is bird migration season in Colombia?

Twice a year, Colombia becomes a corridor for migrating species:

• March–May

• September–November

  
  

During these windows you’ll see North American warblers, raptors, and shorebirds moving through — a perfect bonus to the country’s already staggering resident bird list.

Swainson's Hawk is one of many North American migratory birds that passes through Colombia's wildlife corridors.

Q: Which season is best for bird photography?

A cinnamon flycatcher spotted in January after a light rain in the Chocó cloud forest.

The dry seasons win again here: trails are accessible, light is more predictable, and your camera equipment stays safer.

That said, Colombia’s cloud forests — in the Andes and Chocó — provide soft, diffused light that can make for spectacular images even in rainy months. Hummingbird feeders and fruit stations are reliable year-round and especially active right after rains.

While sunny skies may seem ideal, bird activity often peaks on cloudy or misty days. Cooler, overcast conditions keep birds active longer into the morning and afternoon, while soft light makes colors pop beautifully in photos. In contrast, on hot, bright days many species retreat to the shade or become less visible during midday.

Hummingbird feeder station on a misty, overcast afternoon at Bosque de Niebla Birding & Nature in the KM18 region. Even on cloudy days, the light is so soft and diffused that it actually creates beautiful, even lighting for photography.

A Saffron-crowned Tanager captured in the soft, diffused light of Colombia’s Western Andes cloud forest — one of the country’s premier birding hotspots.

Q: So, when should I plan my birding trip to Colombia?

It depends on your goals:

• First-time birder or photographer: Pick the dry season (Dec–Mar or Jul–Sep).

• Migrants fan: Travel in Mar–May or Sep–Nov.

• Endemic hunter: Any time of year, just choose the right region.

Waiting for some action in a private photo blind on a typical dry season morning amongst the cloud forest in the KM18 region.

Final Thoughts

There isn’t a bad time to bird in Colombia — the real question is what you want to see. Whether it’s photographing hummingbirds in the Andes, chasing endemics in the Chocó, or exploring the vast Amazon, Colombia delivers unforgettable birding year-round.

One last tip: no matter when you come, pack for wet weather. A rainjacket and wide brimmed hat will go far. You’re birding in a RAINforest after all — a surprise shower (or two) is part of the adventure!

Ready to plan your next birding photo trip? Explore our Cali Bird Photography Tour or reach out — we’d love to help you choose the perfect time for your birding journey in Colombia!

RApid FAQ summary:

Best Time for Birding in Colombia

Q: When is the best time to visit Colombia for birding?

The best time is during the dry seasons, December–March and July–September, when trails are easier to access and conditions are ideal for bird photography.

Q: Is Colombia good for birding year-round?

Yes — Colombia’s birds don’t migrate away in winter. You can see spectacular species, including many endemics, in every season.

Q: When is bird migration in Colombia?

Migration occurs mainly in March–May and September–November, when warblers, raptors, and shorebirds pass through.

Q: Which region is best at which time?

• Andes (Cali / KM18 / Doña Dora): Best December–March and July–September — drier, clearer trails, more predictable light.

• Chocó (Pacific rainforest): Year-round birding; heaviest rain most months, with a relatively drier window July–September.

• Amazon (Leticia region): Best July–September for accessibility (lower water, fewer storms), though birding is good all year.

• Santa Marta Mountains: December–April is the driest period and the prime season for endemics.