Sierra Nevada Nature Reserve
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Difficulty
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Duration
3 days
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Highlights
A sunset over the Caribbean from 2500 metres, with a view of snow-capped peaks in the other direction. A nature-lover's dream, spend 3 days in this bird conservatory and nature reserve.
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Start Time: 9am (flexible)
Guide: Private, bilingual
Meals: All included (Day 1 - lunch and dinner; Day 2 - three meals; Day 3 - breakfast and lunch)
Welcome to paradise! Here, several endangered species (especially of birds and amphibians) are being protected. Take daily nature walks and enjoy the unbelievable views - snow-capped peaks in one direction and the ocean in the other - the only place in the world where that is possible. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is considered the crown jewel of Colombian birding. 19 endemic species inhabit the mountain and all of them can be found in the Reserve that protects 1800 acres of subtropical and montain forest.
In addition, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is the only place in the world where snow-capped mountain peaks descend directly into the sea, making this privately-owned nature reserve absolutely one of a kind.
The 2-3 hour trip from Santa Marta is an experience in and of itself, as you go from the hot sun and beaches, through a coffee-growing village, and into the cool, fresh mountain air. Nearly half of the drive is actually within the reserve, making it a very scenic route.
Upon your arrival, enjoy a homemade lunch and your first guided nature walk (in the order of your preference). You will have your own English or Spanish speaking guide during your stay. Many of the guides are bioligists, and all of them have extensive knowledge of the innumberable species of flora and fauna you will see.
In the evening, you can watch a breath-taking sunset, as the sun goes down over the Caribbean ocean about 2500 metres (8125 ft) below (in my personal opinion, it is worth making the trip just to see this sunset!). There is a common room with a large balcony in the main cabin, where you can enjoy the pub and the view. Many birds come right up to the balcony, including several species of hummingbirds.
On day 2, you can take another guided nature walk according to your preference. On day 3, there will be a short walk in the morning before departure for Santa Marta.
Maximum capacity in the lodges is 22 people and there are no other accommodation options in the reserve, so you are guaranteed peace and quiet and a true escape - there is no one else there (except for the birds, of course!). The lodge itself is quite comfortable, with nice beds, private bathrooms with hot water, electricity, and (some) cell phone service. Rooms for two people have a double bed and private balcony, or rooms for 3+ people have bunk beds and/or double beds.
The reserve has 2 newly-discovered species that are yet to be scientifically defined, including the the Santa Marta Screech Owl. There are also toucans, parakeets, and quetzals. Don't forget to watch the skies for Scaly-naped Parrots and several raptors: Andean Condor, Black-and-chestnut Eagle, and Semicollared Hawk. The list of species goes on and on, and whether you are a bird-watching nut or a novice, you will not be disappointed with your experience in the Sierra Nevada nature reserve.
Though the reserve is focused on birds, they are also protecting several endangered or at-risk amphibians and have initiated reforestation projects in order to maintain these animals' habitats. You might also hear howling monkeys!
Not only is this guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience; you will be supporting the nature reserve and helping to fund their important research and maintanence of these marvelous habitats and the animals that live there.
We recommend combining this tour with another tour in Santa Marta. See other tours and activities in Santa Marta by clicking on the icons below.
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Restrictions
N/A
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Destinations 
+1 (954) 903-0898 
+44 (020) 8144-7559 
+55 (11) 3711-3786
+57 (314) 682-7235